October is arguably Tokyo's best month with comfortable temperatures, clear skies, and the first hints of autumn color. Tourist crowds are manageable and the city is alive with cultural events and seasonal cuisine.
Weather & Climate
October brings ideal sightseeing weather with highs of 23°C and lows around 15°C. Rainfall decreases from September, though occasional showers are possible.
Events & Festivals
Chrysanthemum Festivals
Elaborate chrysanthemum displays appear at shrines including Meiji Jingu and Yasukuni throughout the month.
Halloween in Shibuya
Tokyo's massive Halloween street party in late October draws hundreds of thousands of costumed revelers.
Oeshiki Festival
A dramatic lantern procession at Ikegami Honmonji temple in mid-October with 3,000 participants.
Top Things to Do
Early Autumn Colors
Ginkgo trees begin turning gold along Meiji Jingu Gaien's famous tree-lined avenue.
Perfect Day Trips
Visit Mount Takao or Nikko for early autumn colors with comfortable hiking weather.
Seasonal Cuisine
October brings matsutake mushrooms, sanma (pacific saury), and chestnut desserts to restaurants.
Tsukiji Outer Market
Autumn seafood season brings the best tuna, oysters, and seasonal fish to the market.
What to Pack
- Light jacket or blazer
- Layers for warm days and cool evenings
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Light scarf
- Sunglasses
- Camera for autumn colors
Where to Stay
Shinjuku Granbell Hotel
📍 Shinjuku
$120-200 /night
MIMARU Tokyo Ueno
📍 Ueno
$80-150 /night
The Gate Hotel Asakusa
📍 Asakusa
$150-250 /night
Read Our Complete Guide
For a comprehensive overview of Tokyo, check out our full travel guide.
Tokyo Full Guide →Frequently Asked Questions
Is October good for visiting Tokyo?
October is widely considered one of the best months — perfect weather, manageable crowds, reasonable prices, and the beginning of autumn colors.
Will I see autumn leaves in October?
Full autumn colors typically peak in November, but ginkgo trees start turning gold in late October, especially along Icho Namiki avenue.
How should I prepare for Halloween?
Shibuya's Halloween celebration on Oct 31 draws huge crowds. If participating, plan your costume. If avoiding crowds, steer clear of Shibuya Center-gai that evening.