Kyoto Weather in October

Season: Autumn
In short:
1. The weather of Kyoto in October is favorably cool and not so rainy, perfect for outdoor sightseeing.
2. Late month sees increasing tourists, so it’s vital to make reservations early.

Take Photos on Kiyomizu Stage

Comfortable Temperature for Outings

October is one of the most comfortable months in Kyoto, as the climate is pleasantly cool in general.

In the first half of October, the daily highest temperatures are mainly between 20 and 28°C (68 and 82°F), quite favorable for traveling. Even at night, the temperature is still mild and in the range from 18 to 20°C (64 to 68°F), so people can enjoy their night tours in cozy physical sensation.

In the second half of October, the temperature slightly decreases and the weather becomes a little cooler, but it is still suitable for outdoor activities. The highest temperatures can be around 20°C (68°F) for most days, but may decrease to about 15°C (59°F) in the last few days. As for the lowest temperature, it mainly fluctuates between 10 to 20°C (50 to 68°F), and may drop to 9°C (48°F) in late October. Therefore, it’s necessary to add clothes at night to keep warm.

Fushimi Inari Taisha in Sunny Weather

Moderate Rainfall

Kyoto doesn’t really get too much rainfall in October, and its precipitation totals about 144 mm. Throughout the month, rainy days averagely amount to about 10, and sunny days show up frequently. What should be noticed is that on a precipitation day, although the intensity of rainfall is usually not very high, rain can come down throughout the entire daytime, and people thus have to hold umbrellas all the time during outdoor sightseeing.

End of the Typhoon Season

October is the end of Kyoto’s typhoon season. On the one hand, the probability of typhoons striking this city is relatively low this month. On the other hand, even if a typhoon occurs, its impact won’t be quite great. Even if the city receives heavy rain in the morning due to the action of a typhoon, the intensity of rain may get lower after noon.

Sunrise, Sunset, & Daytime

Sunrise: 05:51-06:17

Sunset: 17:40-17:03

Daytime: from about 12 to 11 hours

In October, daytime of Kyoto is shorter gradually, and the sun sets earlier and earlier. In late this month, it even gets dark around 17:00. It’s true that you can start to enjoy night views earlier, but at the same time, the available daytime for sightseeing is not that enough. Therefore, you’re suggested to get up earlier and arrange your itinerary reasonably so as to visit more attractions that you are interested in during your trip.

Can I See Autumn Leaves in Kyoto in October?

Yes, but only a few. Although the autumn foliage of Kyoto hasn’t begun in October, you can still find that some maple tree leaves start to turn red on the last few days of this month. For example, in late October, maple trees in the Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Eikando Temple are in green, yellow, and red hues together.

Reasons to Visit Kyoto in October

1. The climate of Kyoto in October is neither too hot nor too cold, ideal for making a trip around the city.
2. Many festival activities are held in this month, so that you can know more about this historical city.
3. The tourist numbers of Kyoto in October are not very large, except in late October, when the city begins to have autumn leaves. Besides, the number at that time will be much lower than that in the peak red foliage season in November, meaning that you can still have a quieter and cheaper trip.

Recommended Clothes for Visiting Kyoto in October

In early-to-mid October: It’s enough to wear a long-sleeved shirt and thin long pants during this period. You can further pack a thin jacket into your luggage for slightly cooler early morning and evening.

In late October: In view of the cooler climate, it’s suitable to bring a long-sleeved shirt and a knitted jacket as tops, and jeans / long casual pants as your bottom. Additionally, a trench / leather coat helps to block winds on some windy days, and long johns are useful in keeping warm on days experiencing temperature drops.

Shoes: Non-slippery sneakers are probably the best option, which are comfortable and safe even on rainy days.

Note: Raingear is necessary in October with 10 rainy days on average.

Special Activities in Kyoto in October

1. Jidai Matsuri Festival on October 22

This festival is famous for its large-scale procession composed of participants in costumes in styles of various Japanese historical periods. The great parade starts from the Kyoto Imperial Palace and ends at the Heian Shrine.

Jidai Matsuri Procession in Heian Shrine

2. Moon-viewing Festival in Yasaka Shrine

As the moon reaches its prime in October per year, people give performances under the dance pavilion in Yasaka Shrine. While you are enjoying the wonderful music and dance, you can further view rows of lighted lanterns under the eave and also the bright full moon in the dark sky.

Lit Lanterns in Yasaka Shrine at Night

3. All-month-long Arashiyama Bamboo Light Show at Night

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in Autumn

The bamboo forest in the Arashiyama Scenic Spot is absolutely a must-go spot in Kyoto, and in the evening of October, it becomes more attractive by virtue of warm yellow lights. In addition, hollow balls woven from bamboo strips are illuminated, creating a tranquil and cozy atmosphere.

4. Kurama Fire Festival

On October 22, this lively festival is celebrated at night, and people in traditional dress parade with burning torches in their hands. As you watch this procession by the road, you’ll be overwhelmed by the vibe around.

Travel Tips in Kyoto in October, 2026

1. To gain a better travel experience, especially in the more crowded late month, it’s suggested to visit popular attractions in less crowded periods: early morning, late afternoon, and evening. In particular, ancient blocks such as Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka and the Gion District are quite serene between 05:00-07:00.

2. Keep a close eye on the weather forecast both before and during your trip, since there may still be typhoons in Kyoto in October.

3. October with cool temperature is a good time to experience wearing a kimono.