JAPAN BY MONTH

Where to go in Japan in September

40 places across Japan are at their seasonal best in September. The main highlights are autumn leaves, flower fields & gardens and festivals, with the most picks in Gifu, Hokkaido and Tochigi. Timing is based on typical years — check the place page for live weather before you go.

Autumn leaves in September

Maple and ginkgo colour (koyo) moves from the mountains of Hokkaido in late September down to Kyushu in early December. See the full autumn leaves guide.

Hokkaido · 3 places

Kanto · 6 places

Chubu · 6 places

Flower fields & gardens in September

Seasonal flower parks and gardens, from plum and wisteria to hydrangea, lavender and cosmos. See the flower calendar.

Kanto · 2 places

Chubu · 1 place

Chugoku · 1 place

Kyushu & Okinawa · 1 place

Festivals in September

Seasonal festivals and events.

Chubu · 1 place

Coast, lakes & highlands in September

Beaches, lakes and highland scenery for this time of year.

Hokkaido · 1 place

Kanto · 2 places

Chubu · 5 places

Fresh greenery in September

Forests, gorges and gardens at their greenest.

Hokkaido · 1 place

Tohoku · 1 place

Kanto · 1 place

Chubu · 7 places

Gifu

Hakusan Shirakawa-go White Road

The road normally opens after the winter closure and offers fresh beech forest, waterfalls and high viewpoints. Confirm the opening date and operating hours before driving.

Jun–SepJune–September · Green mountain drive
Gifu

Nakatsugawa Yumori Park

Summer is the main period for vivid greenery, camping, fishing and water play. Use only open paths and designated activity areas.

Jun–SepJune–September · Green valley and waterfalls
Niigata

Echigo Yuzawa

Warmer months suit ropeway viewpoints, walking and cooler mountain stays.

May–SepMay–September · Green-season mountain escape
Gifu

Shirakawa-go Ogimachi

Rice fields and surrounding mountains are green through the warmer season. Check village traffic and parking guidance.

May–SepMay–September · Green village landscape
Gifu

Utsue 48 Waterfalls Prefectural Park

Green forest and active cascades define the warm season. Allow time for the inclined path and lookout.

May–SepMay–September · Moss and waterfall trail
Gifu

Okura Falls Nature Trail Park

The recommended visit season starts in early April. Spring and summer emphasize moss, forest shade and many small cascades.

Apr–SepEarly April–September · Green waterfall trail
Gifu

Rail Mountain Bike Gattan Go

Spring and summer bring green valley scenery. Online reservation is required and course starting points are different.

Apr–SepApril–September · Green rail-bike season

Kyushu & Okinawa · 1 place