The JTB Group (formerly Japanese Tourist Board) projects more than 33 million people will visit Japan this year, up 131% since last year.
Japan is hot right now, and not just because of rising temperatures. For the first time since COVID restrictions were suspended, foreign travel to the Land of the Rising Sun is expected to eclipse the numbers from 2019.
Many tourists flock to Japan in spring to witness the breathtaking cherry blossoms. The Japan National Tourism Organization reports that 11 million had already visited by the end of April.
True food and adventure enthusiasts, however, know that September is the month to visit Japan. Visiting at the end of summer offers a unique experience with fewer crowds, allowing visitors to explore Japan at their own pace. Cooler end-of-summer temperatures enable travelers to take in food stalls and markets without the heat and humidity, and fall harvests make for great culinary dishes.
Why Is September So Great?
Crowds reach their peak levels during the spring months. July and August are busy but can be hot, humid, and rainy. Winters are perfect for those seeking a ski or snow getaway.
September, however, is the Goldilocks month. Food lovers can wander the streets and visit the hundreds of top restaurants and food markets with fewer crowds. Best of all, September is a time of year when the weather is typically ideal — not too hot or cold.
Foodies Love Japan in September
September is also the mushroom month. Fresh and delicious matsutake mushrooms, or “pine mushrooms,” are prized among Japan’s dozens of varieties. The fungi are famous for their aromatic odor and flavor. Much of Japan’s cuisine features fungi, and autumn is the best time to sample them.
Many of Japan’s best mushroom dishes are better suited to the cooler fall weather. During this time, visitors can enjoy sitting on restaurant patios and outdoor food stalls in the more relaxed evenings. The fantastic hot pots, delicious Teppanyaki, and steaming Udon or Ramen dishes all come to life in the temperate September weather.
Tourists have many choices for great food options all over Japan; visitors can find food beyond Tokyo, Yokohama, or other popular cities. For example, places like Fukuoka are renowned for their street food. The well-known Fukuoka food stalls attract the attention of foodies worldwide.
Even though it is only the sixth-largest city by population, Fukuoka has more open-air food stalls than the rest of the country combined. These food stalls are known as yatais, and they are a perfect place to try dishes like steaming hot Beef Udon or Niku Udon.
Japan Times calls Fukuoka a youthful, lively city whose bustling late-night food markets come alive and draw visitors in.
Autumn Also Means Beautiful Trees
For those planning a trip to Tokyo Disneyland, a fall visit means fewer people to contend with and moderate temperatures while taking in autumn-themed events. Fall travelers interested in the great outdoors can hike Japan’s famous scenic trails, as autumn weather is suited to seeing Japan’s parks and forests.
Nature outings are excellent fall activities regardless of fitness or skill level. Even the crowning glory of Japan’s mountains — the 3,776-meter-high Mount Fuji — is still accessible to climbers in September.
Springtime is not the only time to see Mother Nature’s glorious trees changing. In fall, the maple trees found throughout Japan change color. From greens to yellows and dark reds, the stunning changes transform the parks and wild spaces, sprinkling vibrant colors across Japan’s landscape.
Booking Early Usually Means Better Deals
September airfare to Japan is cheaper outside of the peak season. But those hoping to visit the country this fall should start booking flights soon.
Experts urge travelers to book flights sooner rather than later. Purchase tickets 21 to 60 days ahead of planned travel days. On average, booking flights well in advance saves travelers 15% on their flights. The low odds of snagging last-minute deals are not worth the risk.
Voyagers interested in a trip to Japan in September should book a flight in May or June.
September in Japan?
September is a great month to visit Japan, from the markets to the food stalls and mountains to the parks. Autumn is a time that lets visitors explore this very diverse country with favorable weather, fewer crowds, and better airfare prices.
