Hokkaido is truly a good place to visit in Japan. In different seasons, the weather in Hokkaido will affect your travel experience. Compared to other parts of Japan, autumn comes earlier in Hokkaido. Although it has a large temperature difference between day and night, the daytime temperature is still pleasant.
Hokkaido's September is an off-season with fewer crowds and lower prices after the summer vacations and before the peak period for viewing autumn leaves.
In this article, you will find more information on Hokkaido weather to plan your Hokkaido September itinerary. You will learn about temperature change, what to wear, and the best places to visit in Hokkaido in September.
Overview of Hokkaido Weather in September
Transition from Summer to Autumn
September is the beginning of autumn in Hokkaido. The average temperature is 17°C (62°F). The average daily high is 22°F (72°F) while the average low is 14°F (57°F). From the beginning to the end of September, the Hokkaido climate has sharp temperature shifts from 22°C (72°F) to 13°C (55°F).
It is the rainiest month of autumn with a rainfall of about 143mm. It rains for almost half of the month. But the rain is usually a short shower, which is good for travelers. The rainfall has a large difference in different areas. There are 13 hours of daylight on average.
September is one of the peak seasons of typhoons, bringing heavy rainfall. Hokkaido is rarely hit by typhoons.
Regional Variations
Hokkaido weather in September varies depending on the altitude and region. In coastal areas (Sapporo, Hakodate, Kushiro), the weather is relatively warm. Inland and mountainous regions (Daisetsuzan area) have relatively colder temperatures.
Average Rainfall and Temperature of Hokkaido in September
Hokkaido weather varies in different cities. Here is detailed weather information in several cities for reference.
City Minimum Temperature Maximum Temperature Rainfall
Sapporo 14°C (57°F) 22°C (72°F) 158mm
Asahikawa 12°C (54°F) 22°C (72°F) 155mm
Hakodate 18°C (64°F) 22°C (72°F) 195mm
Wakkanai 15°C (59°F) 21°C (70°F) 130mm
Shiretoko 16°C (61°F) 18°C (64°F) 129mm
What to Do in Hokkaido in September
September is Hokkaido's prime early fall season for autumn leaves viewing, harvesting food, and nature exploration. Hokkaido weather in September features mild or cool days with long hours of sunlight for plenty of outdoor adventures. In high-altitude Hokkaido attractions in September, you can appreciate epic autumn scenery. Here are recommended things to do in Hokkaido in September.
Autumn Foliage & Hiking
Autumn in the Daisetsuzan area comes early. If you want to see Japan's earliest autumn foliage, a tour to Daisetsuzan National Park should be on your Hokkaido September itinerary. In mid and late September, vibrant fall colors start and spread in this mountainous park.
It is a great time to hike along the Mount Asahidake hiking trail. With a ride on the ropeways, you can get a bird‘s eye view of spectacular nature and brilliant colors. Sounkyo Gorge allows you to appreciate forested cliffs, beautiful waterfalls, and hot spring baths.
Noboribetsu is a famous onsen resort in Japan. In Noboribetsu Hell Valley, situated above the town, you can enjoy the best boiling sulfuric hot spring water and the iconic volcanic landscape of your life. Find out eleven demon statues scattered in the town as a family activity. The best way is to stay overnight at a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) with hot spring baths.
Around the Shiretoko Five Lakes, you can explore the picturesque wooden elevated boardwalk with beautiful views of the lakes, primary forest, and surrounding mountains. Consider visiting Onuma Quasi-National Park with three stunning lakes, Mt. Komagatake, and various bird species.
September is a good time for gorgeous autumn flowers in Biei's Shikisai-no-Oka. You can feast your eyes on the spectacular views from a hot-air balloon or Shikisai Norokko tractor bus.
Coastal & Lake Adventures
Shiretoko Peninsula is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is famous for its brown bear habitat and unspoiled natural views. Embark on a Salmon Run-up watching tour to see schools of salmon swim back to the rivers where they were born for spawning.
Lake Shikotsu, near Lake Toya, is known for its distinctive blue color and rich activities, such as canoeing, kayaking, sightseeing-boating, stand-up paddle boarding, and camping. On the shore of the lake, there are many hot spring hotels.
For local food tasting, you can visit Hakodate Morning Market and enjoy seasonal seafood, like salmon roe, sweet shrimps, crabs, scallops, etc.
Cultural Festivals
September is a time of autumn festivals and harvest events. For most of September, there is a Sapporo Autumn Fest in Odori Park featuring seasonal ingredients and Hokkaido's culinary delights. Please check the official website for the latest event period.
In early September, you can savor locally grown grapes, wine, and grape juice at the Furano Wine Grape Festival.
What to Pack for Hokkaido in September
What kind of clothes and accessories you need to pack depends on the weather in Hokkaido. Here is a suggested packing list for Hokkaido September travel.
Essential Clothing
It is going to get cold in Hokkaido in September, and the weather can be unpredictable. The temperature in Hokkaido in September can drop quickly. The September temperature difference can be quite large, with bad weather sometimes. It has a lower temperature in the north and the hills.
It is a good idea to wear warmer clothing and layered outfits so that you can keep warm and take them on and off easily. Recommended clothing items: long-sleeved shirts, cardigans, sweaters, coats, jackets, long pants, and comfortable walking shoes. For ladies who want to wear a skirt, it's warmer to wear with stockings. Waterproof shoes would be better for occasional rainy days.
Rain Gear & Accessories
Hokkaido in September also rains a lot because of the risk of typhoons, but it is less than the rainy season. Keep an eye on local weather forecasts and bring a folding umbrella with you.
You will have chances to see vibrant foliage from mid to late September, which is perfect for photography. So bring your camera to capture fall foliage.
Travel Tips for Visiting Hokkaido in September
Avoid Silver Week crowds: Silver Week is a cluster of public holidays in the middle of September, including Respect for the Aged Day and Autumnal Equinox Day. If these national holidays are close to weekends, the Japanese will take extended vacations. In 2025, Silver Week appears on September 15th and 23rd.
Book lodgings early: To ensure that you get the right accommodation and cheaper prices, it is wise to book ahead, especially during Silver Week. Besides modern hotels, you can also stay overnight at a traditional ryokan for an authentic Japanese cultural experience.
JR Pass for city-hopping: For convenient travel in Hokkaido, you can consider purchasing a Hokkaido Rail Pass, which connects most major cities and tourist attractions in Hokkaido. Book a Hokkaido trip with Hi Five Trip is a hassle-free option. You will enjoy greater freedom and flexibility.
Why September is Ideal for Hokkaido Travel
As the best time to visit Hokkaido, September has mild weather, stunning foliage colors, fewer crowds, and lower prices.
Avoid Summer Crowds and High Prices
If you have a flexible schedule, Hokkaido September travel can give you a quieter experience. The Japanese school summer holiday is from the end of July to the end of August, so Hokkaido in September is not as crowded as in summer. Besides, fewer crowds also come with reasonable costs in September.
Perfect Weather for Outdoor Adventures
For those who want to avoid the intense heat of summer, September is a great time to visit Hokkaido. It begins to cool off when September arrives, but you can still enjoy warm weather before snow arrives in October. Although September is still typhoon season in Japan, Hokkaido is very little affected. With cool weather and long sunlight duration, September is a good time to do some outdoor activities, like hiking, biking, and camping.
For more information about the weather and things to do in Hokkaido throughout the year, consider reading Hokkaido weather by month.
FAQs on Hokkaido Weather in September
1. Is September a good time to visit Hokkaido?
Yes. September offers one of the best times for a Hokkaido tour, with pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
2. What to wear in Hokkaido in September?
Layered clothing for cooler nights and warm days: long-sleeve shirts, sweaters, heavy coats, jackets, jeans, or thick pants.
3. Can I see autumn leaves in Hokkaido in September?
Yes. The Hokkaido autumn leaves begin to turn red and orange in mid-September. In the mountainous areas, like Daisetsuzan National Park, you can see early autumn leaves from mid- to late September.
4. Is September too cold for hiking?
No. September is a great time to hike in Hokkaido because it is neither too hot nor too cold. Hokkaido weather in September is cooler than in summer. You can wear layers to keep warm.
5. Can I See Lavender in September?
No. The beautiful lavender flowers are in season from late June to mid-August.
Enjoy Your Hokkaido Trip with Hi Five Trip
September is the beginning of Hokkaido autumn, a beautiful season. What awaits you are colorful fallen leaves, bountiful food, and pleasant weather. Our well-planned Hokkaido tour package will take you into this fairy-tale world of autumn.
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