As summer heat fades and autumn season approaches, September offers a wonderful time to visit Tokyo. From traditional festivals to modern events, there are many things to see and experience across Tokyo this month. Whether you’re visiting Tokyo for the first time or returning to discover more, September presents a perfect blend of lingering summer warmth and early autumn charm. This guide will highlight the top places to visit, best events, and unique experiences that make Tokyo one of the best places to visit in September. From the towering Tokyo Tower to tranquil parks, bustling neighborhoods to cultural celebrations, you’ll find plenty to fill your days in Tokyo.
While you may miss the famed cherry blossoms of spring, September offers its own seasonal beauty with autumn fireworks, harvest moon viewing, and the beginning of fall foliage in some areas. Join us as we explore the many facets of Tokyo in September, from traditional festivals to cutting-edge attractions, helping you plan an unforgettable trip to Japan’s captivating capital.
Our pick of the best hotels in Tokyo in September 🏩
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba
- ✨ 5-Star: Imperial Hotel Tokyo
- 🏨 4-Star: Daiwa Roynet Hotel Nishi-Shinjuku PREMIER
- 🛏️ 3-Star: WPU Shinjuku
- 💸 Cheap: Kawasaki King Skyfront Tokyu REI Hotel
- 🏢 Apartment: Villa Fontaine Premier Haneda Airport
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Toyoko Inn Tokyo Asakusa Kuramae No.2
- 🏩 For Couples: Guest House Wagokoro
🌦️ 1. Weather in Tokyo during September
| Weather Aspect | September in Tokyo |
|---|---|
| Average High Temperature | 26.8°C (80.2°F) |
| Average Low Temperature | 21.3°C (70.3°F) |
| Rainfall | 181-233 mm |
| Rainy Days | 18-19 days |
| Humidity | 74% |
| Sunshine Hours | 128 hours |
| Sea Temperature | 25.7°C (78.3°F) |
| UV Index | 7 (High) |
- It’s one of the warmest months, but temperatures start declining towards the end.
- It’s also one of the wettest months, with frequent rainfall.
- Humidity remains high, making it feel warmer than the actual temperature.
- Typhoon season is still in effect, potentially causing heavy rainfall and strong winds.
- Despite the rain, there are still a fair number of sunny hours.
- The sea is warm enough for swimming and water activities.
- UV index is high, so sun protection is necessary when outdoors
🗼 2. 10 Best Things to do in Tokyo in September
🗻 Mt Fuji and Hakone 1-Day Bus Tour return by Bullet Train (Shinkansen): Embark on a full-day adventure to the iconic Mt. Fuji and the serene Hakone area, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views, a relaxing lake cruise, and a thrilling ride back to Tokyo on the bullet train. This well-organized tour is perfect for those looking to experience Japan’s natural beauty and modern engineering marvels in a single day. Book Now
🏎️ Official Street Go-Kart Tour – Tokyo Bay Shop: Experience the thrill of driving a go-kart through the streets of Tokyo, dressed up as your favorite character from popular video games and anime. This unique and exciting tour is a must-do for adventurous travelers and pop culture enthusiasts alike, offering a memorable way to explore the city’s vibrant streets and iconic landmarks. Book Now
🍸 Tokyo Bar Hopping Tour in Shinjuku: Explore the hidden bars in food alleys: Discover the hidden gems of Tokyo’s vibrant nightlife scene on this guided bar hopping tour through Shinjuku’s famous food alleys. With the help of a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll visit three unique bars, sample delicious drinks and snacks, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of one of Tokyo’s most exciting districts. Book Now
🚶♂️ Tokyo Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide: Customize your perfect day in Tokyo with the help of a knowledgeable national licensed guide, who will tailor the itinerary to your interests and preferences. Visit iconic landmarks, explore hidden neighborhoods, and immerse yourself in the city’s rich culture and history on this fully personalized walking tour. Book Now
🎎 Tokyo Asakusa Rickshaw Tour: Step back in time and explore the historic Asakusa district in style on a traditional Japanese rickshaw. Your knowledgeable driver will guide you through the area’s narrow streets and fascinating sites, providing insights into the local culture and history along the way. Book Now
🍣 The Most Popular Sushi Making Experience. Cooking Class in Tokyo.: Learn the art of making delicious sushi from a skilled instructor in this hands-on cooking class in the heart of Tokyo. You’ll master the techniques for creating both rolled and nigiri sushi, and enjoy the fruits of your labor at the end of the class. This experience is perfect for food lovers and anyone interested in Japanese culinary traditions. Book Now
🏞️ Private Sightseeing to Mt Fuji and Hakone guide: Embark on a private, customizable tour of the stunning Mt. Fuji and Hakone area, accompanied by a knowledgeable guide. This intimate experience allows you to explore the region’s natural wonders, cultural landmarks, and scenic views at your own pace, with the added convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. Book Now
🤝 Tokyo: Explore the City with a Local: Discover Tokyo through the eyes of a passionate local host, who will create a personalized itinerary based on your interests and preferences. This unique experience offers a chance to explore the city’s hidden gems, learn about its culture and history, and make meaningful connections with a local resident. Book Now
🤼 Tokyo Sumo Wrestling Tournament: Witness the power, skill, and tradition of Japan’s national sport at a live sumo wrestling tournament in Tokyo. This unforgettable experience includes reserved seats at the Kokugikan Arena, where you’ll watch the wrestlers compete in intense matches and immerse yourself in the fascinating world of sumo. Book Now
🚗 1-Day Private Mt. Fuji Tour (Charter) English-Speaking Driver: Embark on a private, full-day tour of the majestic Mt. Fuji, tailored to your preferences and accompanied by an English-speaking driver. This exclusive experience allows you to explore the region’s stunning natural beauty, visit iconic landmarks, and enjoy the convenience of a private vehicle and personalized attention throughout the day. Book Now
🎆 3. September Festivals and Best Events in Tokyo
🎉 Fukuro Matsuri in Ikebukuro: If you’re traveling to Tokyo in September and looking for a lively event, head to Ikebukuro for the Fukuro Matsuri. This annual festival, held in the heart of the city, features a parade of mikoshi (portable shrines) carried through the streets, accompanied by traditional music and dance performances. It’s a chance to see and experience the beauty of Japanese culture up close. The festival also includes food stalls selling delicious street food like yakisoba and takoyaki, so come hungry!
🍁 Kichijoji Autumn Festival: The Kichijoji Autumn Festival, held at the Musashino Hachimangu shrine, is a must-visit place in Tokyo for September. The festival features a variety of performances, including taiko drumming, shishimai lion dance, and ohayashi music, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Japan. You can also browse the many food and craft stalls, selling everything from grilled squid to handmade pottery. Don’t miss the chance to try some freshly grilled dango (sweet rice dumplings) from one of the food stalls – they’re a delicious treat!
🏮 Shinagawa Shukuba Festival: Step back in time at the Shinagawa Shukuba Festival, which recreates the atmosphere of an Edo-period post town. The festival, held in mid-September, features a parade of people dressed in traditional costumes, as well as demonstrations of traditional crafts like woodblock printing and indigo dyeing. You can also enjoy performances of traditional music and dance, and sample Edo-period cuisine from the food stalls. It’s a unique opportunity to see what life was like in Tokyo hundreds of years ago.
🌺 Tahiti Festival: For a taste of the South Pacific in the heart of Tokyo, check out the Tahiti Festival at Yoyogi Park. This annual event, held in early September, celebrates Tahitian culture with performances of traditional dance, music, and drumming. You can also browse the stalls selling Tahitian handicrafts, clothing, and food. The festival attracts a diverse crowd from across Japan and beyond, making it a great place to meet new people and experience a different culture.
🎮 Tokyo Game Show: If you’re a fan of video games, you won’t want to miss the Tokyo Game Show, held at the Makuhari Messe convention center in mid-September. This massive event showcases the latest and greatest in gaming technology, with exhibits from major game developers and publishers from around the world. You can try out new games, attend panels and presentations, and even cosplay as your favorite game characters. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in the future of gaming.
🌸 Viewing cosmos flowers at Showa Kinen Park: If you’re looking for a beautiful outdoor experience, head to Showa Kinen Park in September to see the stunning cosmos flowers in bloom. The park, located in the western part of Tokyo, offers breathtaking views of the city skyline and is a popular spot for picnics and relaxation. The cosmos flowers, which come in shades of pink, white, and purple, create a sea of color that’s perfect for photos. Visit on a weekday to avoid the weekend crowds and enjoy the beauty of nature in the heart of the city.
🍂 Early autumn foliage viewing spots: While the peak of autumn foliage season is in November, September offers a sneak peek of the changing colors. Some of the best spots for early autumn leaves include:
- Rikugien Garden: This beautiful Edo-period garden, located in the north of Tokyo, features a central pond surrounded by maple trees that start to turn red in September. It’s a great place to enjoy the beauty of autumn while learning about Japanese history and culture.
- Hibiya Park: Located in the heart of Tokyo, Hibiya Park’s ginkgo trees begin to show hints of yellow in late September. It’s a popular spot for office workers to take a break and enjoy the changing seasons.
- Inokashira Park: This park in Kichijoji is known for its stunning autumn colors, with maples and ginkgos lining the pond and pathways. It’s a great place to spend a day outdoors, enjoying the beautiful views of Tokyo’s natural scenery.
🎃 Visiting Tokyo Disneyland for early Halloween celebrations: While Halloween is celebrated throughout October, Tokyo Disneyland starts its spooky festivities in early September. The park, located just outside of Tokyo, is decked out in Halloween decorations, and special events like the “Spooky Boo!” parade and haunted attractions are not to be missed. It’s a great place to visit with kids or anyone who loves a good scare. Don’t forget to try the seasonal Halloween-themed snacks and drinks – they’re a delicious way to get into the spirit of the season!
🍜 4. Food and Dining Experiences in September
🍂 Seasonal Specialties: If you’re planning to visit Tokyo in September 2024, you’re in for a treat! This time of the year is perfect for trying some of the city’s seasonal specialties. One of the biggest draws is sanma, or Pacific saury, a type of fish that’s at its peak in the autumn months. You can find it grilled or served as sashimi at many restaurants across Tokyo, and it’s a must-try for any seafood lover. Another seasonal delight is matsutake, a type of mushroom prized for its delicate flavor and aroma. Look for it in dishes like matsutake gohan (rice cooked with matsutake) or matsutake dobin mushi (a savory custard with matsutake) during your trip to Japan.
🍽️ Recommended Restaurants: Tokyo is known for its incredible food scene, and there’s no shortage of amazing restaurants to choose from. Here are a few of my top picks for your trip to Tokyo in September 2024:
- Sushi Saito: This Michelin-starred sushi restaurant is one of the best in the city. The omakase course is pricey but worth it for the incredible quality and freshness of the fish.
- Kanda Yabu Soba: If you’re in the mood for soba noodles, head to this historic restaurant in the Kanda neighborhood. They’ve been serving up handmade soba noodles since 1880, and it’s a must-visit for any noodle lover.
- Maisen: This tonkatsu (breaded and fried pork cutlet) restaurant in Omotesando is a Tokyo institution. The juicy, crispy tonkatsu is some of the best you’ll ever have, and it’s a sight to see the chefs preparing it right in front of you.
🍳 Food Markets: No trip to Tokyo is complete without a visit to one of the city’s famous food markets. The Toyosu Fish Market, which replaced the historic Tsukiji Fish Market, is one of the biggest in the world and a must-see for any food lover. You can watch the early morning tuna auction, sample fresh sushi, and browse the many stalls selling everything from seafood to kitchen supplies. Another great market to check out is the Ameyoko Market in Ueno, where you can find a wide variety of foods, from fresh seafood to traditional Japanese sweets.
🍹 Taste of Tokyo: If you’re looking to sample a wide variety of Tokyo’s culinary offerings in one place, be sure to check out the Taste of Tokyo event held in Odaiba. This outdoor food festival features stalls from some of Tokyo’s most popular restaurants, as well as live music and entertainment. It’s a great way to try a little bit of everything and enjoy the pleasant September weather. Just be sure to come hungry and wear stretchy pants, as you’ll want to sample as much as possible!
🍻 Hibiya Oktoberfest: For a taste of Germany in the heart of Tokyo, head to Hibiya Park for the Hibiya Oktoberfest. This annual event features authentic German beer, food, and music, as well as traditional Bavarian costumes and decorations. It’s a fun and lively atmosphere, and a great way to spend a September evening. Plus, admission to the event is free, so you can enjoy the festive atmosphere without breaking the bank. Just be sure to bring your love of beer and your best lederhosen!
🗾 5. Day Trips from Tokyo
🌸 Enjoy your first trip to Tokyo: All the must-sees full tour: If you’re visiting Tokyo for the first time in 2024, this full-day tour is the perfect way to see all the city’s must-see attractions. From the bustling streets of Shibuya to the serene beauty of the Tokyo Imperial Palace, you’ll get a taste of everything Tokyo has to offer. With an experienced guide leading the way, you’ll learn about the city’s rich history and culture while taking in stunning views of Tokyo’s skyline. Book Now
🍣 Food Tour at the Tsukiji Fish Market: Foodies won’t want to miss this tour of the famous Tsukiji Fish Market, known for its fresh seafood and lively atmosphere. You’ll get to sample a variety of delicious dishes, from sushi to grilled seafood skewers, while learning about the market’s history and importance to Tokyo’s culinary scene. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll navigate the market’s maze-like alleys and discover hidden gems along the way. Book Now
🍂 Kamakura and Enoshima One Day Bus Tour: Escape the heat and humidity of Tokyo with a day trip to the coastal towns of Kamakura and Enoshima. This bus tour takes you to some of the area’s most beautiful temples and shrines, including the famous Great Buddha of Kamakura. You’ll also have the chance to visit the picturesque island of Enoshima, known for its stunning views of Mount Fuji and its delicious seafood. With the pleasant weather in September, this tour is the perfect way to explore the beauty of Japan outside of Tokyo. Book Now
❄️ Seasonal Snow Monkey Day Trip including Shabu Shabu or Sukiyaki Lunch: If you’re visiting Tokyo in the colder months, this day trip to see the famous snow monkeys of Jigokudani is a must-do. You’ll get to observe these fascinating creatures up close as they soak in the hot springs, and enjoy a delicious lunch of either shabu shabu or sukiyaki. With the stunning winter scenery of the Japanese Alps as a backdrop, this tour is a unique and memorable experience. Book Now
🚗 Full-Day Tokyo Private Tour by Car/Van (English-speaking driver): For a more personalized experience of Tokyo, consider this private tour by car or van. With an English-speaking driver at your disposal, you can customize your itinerary to suit your interests, whether that’s exploring the city’s parks and gardens or visiting its many museums and galleries. You’ll have the flexibility to spend as much or as little time as you like at each stop, and the convenience of being picked up and dropped off at your hotel. Book Now
🍁 Experience Old and Nostalgic Tokyo: Yanaka Walking Tour: Step back in time with this walking tour of Yanaka, one of Tokyo’s most charming and historic neighborhoods. You’ll wander through narrow streets lined with traditional houses and shops, visit ancient temples and shrines, and sample local specialties like rice crackers and green tea. With the autumn colors in full bloom in September, this tour is a beautiful way to experience a different side of Tokyo. Book Now
6. 💡 Travel Tips for September in Tokyo
🚆 Transportation Advice: Tokyo’s public transportation system is one of the best in the world, with an extensive network of trains and subways that can get you just about anywhere in the city. I recommend getting a Suica or Pasmo card, which are rechargeable smart cards that you can use on most trains and buses in the Tokyo metropolitan area. They’re super convenient and will save you time and hassle when navigating the city.
🏨 Accommodation Recommendations: Tokyo has no shortage of hotels to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly capsule hotels to luxurious five-star properties. Some of my favorite areas to stay in include:
- Shinjuku: This bustling neighborhood is home to the world’s busiest train station, as well as countless restaurants, bars, and shops. It’s a great base for exploring the city.
- Ginza: If you’re looking for a more upscale experience, Ginza is the place to be. This glitzy neighborhood is known for its high-end shopping and dining, as well as its beautiful architecture.
- Asakusa: For a more traditional Japanese experience, consider staying in Asakusa. This historic neighborhood is home to the famous Sensoji Temple and offers a glimpse into old Tokyo.
💰 Money-Saving Tips: One of the best ways to save on transportation is to get a Tokyo Metropolitan District Pass, which allows unlimited rides on all Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway lines for a set period of time. You can also save money on attractions by purchasing a Tokyo Museum Grutto Pass, which gives you discounted or free admission to over 90 museums and galleries in the city.
🎉 2024 Events: If you’re planning to visit Tokyo in 2024, keep an eye out for special events and festivals happening throughout the year. The city will be hosting the Summer Olympics, which is sure to bring even more excitement and energy to an already vibrant destination.
🙏 Cultural Etiquette: Japan is known for its polite and respectful culture, and there are a few things you should be aware of to avoid any faux pas. For example, it’s considered rude to eat or drink while walking, and you should always remove your shoes when entering someone’s home or certain restaurants. It’s also important to be mindful of your volume when speaking in public, as loud voices can be seen as disruptive.
☀️ Weather in September: The average temperature in Tokyo in September is around 23°C (73°F), with low humidity and plenty of sunshine. It’s the perfect weather for exploring the city’s many parks and gardens, such as Shinjuku Gyoen or Ueno Park. Just be sure to pack a light jacket or sweater for the cooler evenings.
🍁 Autumn Foliage: If you’re visiting Tokyo in late September, you might be lucky enough to catch the beginning of the autumn foliage season. The leaves start to change color in the mountains surrounding the city, creating a beautiful backdrop for your trip.
FAQs About Visit Tokyo in September, Autumn ❔
Is September a good time for Tokyo?
September can be a good time to visit Tokyo, but it has pros and cons. The weather is still warm and there are fewer crowds than peak seasons, but it can be humid and there’s a risk of typhoons.
Is Tokyo rainy in September?
Yes, September can be quite rainy in Tokyo. It’s considered one of the wetter months and is sometimes called a “second rainy season” due to typhoon activity.
What to wear in Tokyo in September?
Light, breathable clothing like t-shirts and shorts is recommended. Bring an umbrella rather than a raincoat due to humidity. Consider quick-drying fabrics and comfortable walking shoes.
Is Tokyo better in September or October?
October is generally considered better than September for visiting Tokyo. October has milder temperatures, less humidity, and a lower chance of rain. It’s also the start of autumn colors and has pleasant weather for outdoor activities.
