In September, in Japan, summer’s still clinging on, autumn’s peeking through, and the weather’s having a bit of a moment. You’ll get sticky days, the odd typhoon tantrum (especially down south), and some dramatic rainstorms that come and go. But it’s also quieter, greener, and more gentle on your budget. Sure, it’s not peak sakura season, but if you’ve got a poncho, flexible plans, and don’t mind rolling the weather dice, Japan can surprise you.

It all depends on how you like to travel. Love fewer crowds, misty gardens and random festival snacks? September could be your sweet spot. It’s cooler than August (just), but still humid, with a decent chance of rain and the odd typhoon throwing shade, especially down south.

Up north, things start to mellow. Hokkaido even begins to peek through with autumn colours. Cities like Tokyo and Kyoto are calmer, with harvest festivals, sumo action and early leaf peeping if you're lucky. Just pack a brolly, watch the forecast, and embrace the unpredictability.

It’s shoulder season, so your wallet might just breathe a sigh of relief. Once the school holidays wind down, so do prices. Flights dip, hotels chuck in deals, and there’s more room to move (and bargain).

Domestic travel slows, so tourist hotspots chill out, especially midweek. Just watch out for Respect for the Aged Day: a public holiday in mid-September that can spike prices and pack trains.

Overall? It’s a good-value time to visit, but not the cheapest time of the year. While it may not budget backpacker cheap, but way friendlier than the cherry blossom or autumn leaves season.

It’s still a bit sweaty, especially early on. Average temps range from a mild 18°C up north to a steamy 30°C down south. Humidity hangs around like an awkward third wheel, but starts easing later in the month.

Rain? Yep — especially thanks to lingering typhoons near coastal spots like Okinawa and Kyushu. You’ll likely see quick but dramatic downpours that vanish as fast as they hit.

If you’re chasing cooler air and misty mornings, Hokkaido’s your best friend. Autumn’s already whispering up there. Everywhere else? Pack layers, a brolly, and let the forecast guide your days.

Being in the northern hemisphere, Japan’s leaves start changing in September as autumn sets in. It creates a brilliant backdrop to photos of temples and mountain passes.