What is the weather like in Hokkaido in October? Curious if October is perfect for a Hokkaido trip? October is usually sunny and crisp during the day, which is one of the best times to see Hokkaido's autumn foliage.
Our article offers an in-depth look at Hokkaido weather in October, including temperature, precipitation, and average sunshine. Choose the clothes you should pack, destinations, and must-do things in Hokkaido.
Overview of Hokkaido Weather in October
Crisp Days & Chilly Nights
The average temperature in Hokkaido in October is 11°C (52°F). It has an average daily high of 16°C (61°F). The temperature would drop rapidly from mild to cold, at a nighttime temperature of 6°C (43°F). It becomes cold during the days, and you can feel a significant temperature difference between day and night. With cold weather at night, frost sometimes appears.
You could enjoy fine weather in Hokkaido with an average sunshine of about 5 hours. There is sufficient sunlight, but it is not as sunny as in the summer. Hokkaido in October experiences a few rains, with a rainfall of 115 mm. It rains about 15 days on average.
Seasonal Transitions
In October, Hokkaido's fall is in full swing. Vibrant autumn colors of orange, red, and brown spread throughout the entire Hokkaido Island. Bright and crisp fall days make the Hokkaido autumn tour very delightful. By the end of October, Hokkaido will make the transition to early winter.
In mountainous areas, like Daisetsuzan National Park, you can expect early snowfall and a diverse landscape in late October. Kaleidoscopic hues and snow-covered peaks create a stunning contrast.
Because of the migratory patterns, autumn is a good time to observe wildlife activity. The Sarobetsu Plain is a coastal plain and vast marshland for migrating birds stop halfway.
Regional Variations
In the colder northern Hokkaido and mountainous areas, you can enjoy peak autumn colors in the first half of October. In southern areas of Hokkaido, like Sapporo and Hakodate, the temperatures will drop a little later. And the autumn leaf season appears in Hokkaido in mid to late October.
Average Rainfall and Temperature of Hokkaido in October
City Minimum Temperature Maximum Temperature Rainfall
Sapporo 7°C (43°F) 16°C (61°F) 100mm
Asahikawa 4°C (39°F) 15°C (59°F) 129mm
Wakkanai 9°C (48°F) 15°C (59°F) 110mm
Hakodate 11°C (52°F) 16°C (61°F) 114mm
Furano 4°C (39°F) 14°C (57°F) 128mm
Kushiro 9°C (48°F) 15°C (59°F) 117mm
Niseko 6°C (43°F) 15°C (59°F) 111mm
What to Do in Hokkaido in October
Hokkaido is fully in its autumn season in October, with more sunny days and less rainfall. Colorful autumn leaves in Hokkaido are a must-see sight.
Best Places for Fall Foliage
One of the best places to visit in Hokkaido in October for amazing autumn leaves is Daisetsuzan National Park. The fall season comes earlier in Daisetsuzan National Park than in other places. From early to mid-October, you will be marveled at the beauty of red, orange, yellow, and green colors interspersed at different altitudes. You can take a hiking tour to see autumn colors, waterfalls, wild hot springs, etc. There's even snow at the peak of the mountains.
If you plan a trip to Furano and Biei in October, you can visit Mount Tokachi (Tokachi-dake). The mountain is covered by vivid autumn colors. The flowers are still in full bloom with a decoration of autumn leaves. Another thing to do in Furano is to visit a local winery for wine tasting. In early October, you can see striking blue water with brilliant autumn leaves in Shirogane Blue Pond.
At Hokkaido University, the 380-meter Gingko tree tunnel is a great place to see yellow fallen leaves. At Akan Lake, there is colorful fall foliage and mountains reflected beautifully in the clear lake.
Onsen & Hiking Combos
Noboribetsu Hell Valley is where you can see volcanic wonders with the smell of sulfur. When you stroll through the attractive hiking trails, you will see the autumn color at its peak. A perfect trip to Noboribetsu should include hot springs or onsen in your itinerary. Cooler weather is a good time to take in healing onsen water. You can enjoy the surrounding natural beauty at the same time.
October is a popular time in Shikotsu-Toya National Park. The trees and mountains around the lakes are dyed vibrant autumn colors. You can explore several hot spring resorts here, such as Jozankei Hot Spring, Hoheikyo Hot Spring, Marukoma Hot Spring, and more. Hiking on Mount Yotei offers breathtaking views of the volcanic peaks, dense forests, and wildlife. There is a 20-minute fireworks display at Lake Toya (from 20:45 to 21:05) during the whole month of October.
Seasonal Activities & Festivals
The salmon run-up tour is a unique experience in Shiretoko. Every autumn, salmon strive to swim upstream to the river where they were born. You will have a real close-up of the salmon run and spawning in the river.
You can consider a canoeing adventure at Akan Lake. Try paddling on your own. Delight in the leisure of rowing through tranquil waters.
In Hokkaido's autumn food festivals, you will have chances to sample the incredible flavors of Hokkaido. The Sapporo Fall Festival at Odori Park may still be going on in early October. The dates are not fixed from year to year. In 2025, the Sapporo Fall Festival would not end until October 4.
Another autumn festival worth visiting is the Autumn Festa in Tokachigawa from late October to late November. You can taste various local cuisines and make jack-o-lanterns by yourself.
If you'd like to explore other seasons, check this article for the best time to visit Hokkaido.
Travel Tips for Visiting Hokkaido in October
Packing Essentials
Hokkaido October weather is quite cool with clear skies, and even cold. The temperature difference between day and night is large.
It is advisable to take thermal layers, such as long-sleeved shirts, a thick cardigan, a hooded jacket, jeans, etc. Layers allow you to put on and take off easily. It's essential to have padded jackets to keep warm. Comfortable hiking shoes are good. Waterproof ones are an ideal pick on rainy days.
Vivid fall leaves are perfect for photography. You can keep your camera ready to capture stunning autumn scenery.
Even though it's not raining much, you can take a folding umbrella with you in case of occasional rain or sleet.
Transportation Advice
Hokkaido is vast. Renting a car is the most flexible way to explore Hokkaido. If you are not short on time, you can travel in cities by regional buses. Hi Five Trip offers tailor-made tours with seamless transfer between Hokkaido attractions and cities.
A JR Pass offers unlimited intercity rides throughout Japan by train. If you only plan to visit Hokkaido, purchasing a regional JR Hokkaido Rail Pass is a good choice. If you are a train enthusiast, there are seasonal sightseeing trains for you to enjoy the stunning leaves in autumn.
Crowds Tips
Compared to summer months, you won't encounter many crowds when you visit Hokkaido in October. In popular attractions, there may still be a large number of visitors. Planning and booking in advance are necessary to avoid inconvenience.
There are some less-crowded autumn leaves viewing spots, such as Daisetsuzan National Park and Shiretoko Goko Lakes.
FAQs on Hokkaido Weather in October
1. Is October a good time to visit Hokkaido?
Yes. Hokkaido weather in October is not very cold. Cool weather allows you to hike in the mountains to appreciate the autumn leaves.
2. Is there snow in Hokkaido in October?
In some mountainous areas or in late October, the earliest first snow may be observed.
3. Are tourist spots crowded in October?
October in Hokkaido has far fewer crowds than the peak winter and summer months.
4. What should I wear in Hokkaido during October?
It is cooler in October, so you should wear warm layers, such as a jacket, sweater, jeans, and even a cotton coat.
5. What is the best time for Hokkaido foliage photography?
The peak autumn foliage typically appears from late September to mid-October in Hokkaido.
Enjoy Your Japan Trip with Hi Five Trip
Hokkaido's fall is one of the most beautiful seasons of the year with colorful autumn leaves, delicious food, relaxing hot springs, and interesting outdoor activities. It would be a great choice to take Hokkaido into account in your Japan tour itineraries. For a further Hokkaido tour package, contact Hi Five Trip.
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