Wakayama Weather in September

Season: Autumn
Quick Look: still hot; rainy and relatively humid; typhoon peak period; fewer tourists

Still Hot

In September, the heat of summer still lingers in Wakayama, with its average temperature in the range of 22-28℃ (71.6-82.4℉). In the beginning and middle of the month, the daily maximum easily reaches 30-34℃ (86-93℉); towards the end of the month, it drops by around 4 degrees Celsius (39.2 degrees Fahrenheit), but exceeds 30℃ (86℉) in a few days. Meanwhile, there is a relatively large diurnal temperature variation of 7-9℃ (44.6-48.2℉), when the daily minimum often fluctuates between 18℃ (64.4℉) and 26℃ (78.8℉). 

Rich Rainfall & Relatively High Humidity

This month is the second rainiest one of the year with the average precipitation of 195 mm (7.7 in) over 16 rainy days. According to recent years’ weather data, light rain is most frequent, and it tends to last less than half a day but occur several times throughout a day. Sometimes, it might rain heavily in late September, coupled with slightly dropping temperatures. And the likelihood of rain is higher in the early morning.

Influenced by abundant rainfall in September, Wakayama’s weather features a relative high humidity of 73%. Lots of hot days during early through mid-September make you often feel muggy and sticky, but as the end of the month approaches, the climate becomes more comfortable.

The Peak Period of Typhoons

September in Wakayama is highly susceptible to typhoons, with an average of 1.1 typhoons approaching and 1 typhoon making landfall. Apart from torrential rainfall and strong winds, they may also cause flight and train service cancellations, the temporary closure of attractions, and mountain disasters like mudslides and flash floods - finally disrupting your travel plan significantly. 

 Warm suggestions:
1. Check the local weather forecast before coming here, and adjust your itinerary accordingly. 
2. For your trip to Wakayama in September 2026, choose a hotel with various hot springs or indoor entertainment facilities, so you can kill the time when encountering a typhoon during your stay.

Perhaps Last Chance for Water Activities

Seawater temperature here is around 25-28℃ (77-82.4℉). Early to mid-September with hot temperatures is still a comfortable period for water activities, but by late September, people of weak constitution may feel a tad chilly in the sea.

Daylength & Sunshine Hours

Sunrise Time: 5:33 - 5:53
Sunset Time: 17:44 - 18:26
Daylength: 12 hours 53 minutes - 11 hours 51 minutes
Sunshine Hours: around 8.5 hours per day

There are sufficient sunshine hours and intense sunlight with the UV index of 8-9, so sun-protective items, including sunglasses, sun hats and sunscreen, are needed, particularly by the sea. 

Sun viewing is a must-do itinerary for many travelers. If you cannot get up early to catch the sunrise, why not opt for the sunset instead? Aside from some popular spots - Engetsu Island and Shirahama Beach, the top of Kimiidera Temple is also an ideal place: the whole sky glowing in fiery red and golden hues provides a breathtaking backdrop for the tall buildings illuminated by neon signs.

Pros and Cons of Visiting Wakayama in September

 Pros:
1. By September, after Japan’s summer holidays, the number of domestic tourists reduce greatly, especially at famous attractions. For instance, Shirahama Beach receives around 30 to 40 percent of its peak visitor flow, so you can easily find an empty spot and enjoy a more relaxing atmosphere.
2. This month brings a comfortable mix of sunny and overcast weather. On sunny periods, lush natural landscapes and ancient monuments look even more striking under the blue sky and abundant light.

 Cons:
1. Because of rainfall and typhoons, it’s not a favorable time for outdoor sightseeing, let alone hiking in the mountains.
2. Without a variety of grand events, Wakayama may lose much of its charm for some travelers.

What to Wear in Wakayama in September

 Outfit: To adapt to Wakayama’s climate in September, summer clothes in breathable fabric are the best, such as cotton or linen short-sleeved shirts, chiffon dresses, and chambray pants or beach shorts. If you are sensitive to temperature changes, it’s better to bring along a light long-sleeved layer. For footwear, choose comfy walking shoes and sandals, considering a large expanse of scenic spots.

 Others: 
1. Pack a parasol for both strong sunshine and rain.
2. Swimming gear: swimsuits, googles and towels.

Travel Suggestions & Tips

1. After rain, the ground is wet everywhere, so don’t risk climbing the seaside steep cliffs just to find a good photo site. Otherwise, uneven and slippery rocks may make you slip or even fall into the sea.
2. For those planning to visit Bandoko Garden, please set off early although September enjoys relatively long daylength. Its shuttle service has infrequent round-trip schedules, so miss one means a long wait.

Wakayama Weather by Month