Things to do
in October 2026
Nearby Tokyo
Written by
Angus Miyaji
Things to Know
Events & Festivals
Things to Do
Places to Stay
Things to know about OCTOBER 2025
October awakens the senses in the countryside near Tokyo. The oppressive humidity of summer finally breaks, replaced by a refreshing coolness in the air under bright, sunny skies. It’s a month of beautiful transitions, kicking off the bountiful autumn harvest and the moment the mountainsides transform into galleries of red and gold. While the occasional autumn rain (akisame) is possible, the weather is generally perfect for being outdoors.
What to wear in OCTOBER
Layering is your best strategy in October. Days can be pleasantly mild, suitable for a long-sleeved shirt or a light sweater, but mornings and evenings turn chilly. A versatile fleece, trench coat, or light jacket is a must. A warmer jacket is advisable if you’re heading to mountainous areas like Nikko or the onsen towns of Gunma, which are colder. Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Given the chance of autumn rain, packing a light-waterproof jacket or folding umbrella is smart.
Holidays & Crowds in OCTOBER
October’s pleasant weather attracts many domestic visitors, especially on weekends, to see the start of the autumn colors. Be mindful of the public holiday for Sports Day, which creates a three-day weekend from October 10th (Sat) to 12th (Mon), 2026. Popular mountain destinations will be the busiest during this period. For a more peaceful experience, visit famous foliage spots on weekdays. Despite the increase in visitors, the region remains a relaxing alternative to the major tourist centers.
Recommended Activity in OCTOBER
October offers a perfect mix of autumn sights, festivals, and food. See the season’s first brilliant foliage high in the mountains of Nikko and Gunma, or witness the unique crimson kochia hills at Ibaraki’s Hitachi Seaside Park. The region hosts spectacular cultural events, including the Kanuma Autumn Festival and Nikko’s grand samurai procession. Finally, make sure to savor the harvest season by enjoying seasonal delicacies like local chestnuts and sweet potatoes.
News for MAY 2025
Japan’s Ministry of Transport has officially recognized the “North Kanto Flower Corridor” under its Garden Tourism registration system. This exciting initiative connects 12 beautiful gardens across Tochigi, Gunma, and Ibaraki prefectures, such as Ashikaga Flower Park and Hitachi Seaside Park aiming to boost regional tourism by showcasing their unique floral attractions.
Events & Festivals in October
16th, 17th & 18th October
Utsunomiya Japan Cup Cycle Road Race
2026:
16th, 17th & 18th October
Japanese Name: 宇都宮ジャパンカップ
Visit Utsunomiya city to watch the Japan Cup Cycle Road Race where the world’s top riders come to compete.
3rd to 12th October
Kinugawa Tsukiakari Hana Kairou (Wagasa umbrellas light-up event)
2026:
3rd to 12th October
Japanese Name: 月あかり花回廊
Visit Tsukiakari Hana Kairou (Moonlight Flower Gallery). A fantastic illumination of Japanese traditional Wagasa umbrellas.
End of September to Mid November
10th October (Sat)
Kounosu Fireworks
2026:
10th October (Sat)
50min
from Tokyo
from Tokyo
Japanese Name: こうのす花火大会
Come see the spectacular 'world record' holding fireworks at Kounosu Fireworks!
Early to mid October (peak from Oct 10th to 20th )
Kochia (summer cypress) season at Hitachi Seaside Park
2026:
Early to mid October (peak from Oct 10th to 20th )
Japanese Name: コキアの季節
Enjoy walking through fiery red Kochia (summer cypress) plants during October near Tokyo.
17th (Sat) to 18th (Sun) October
Kawagoe Festival (UNESCO Registered)
2026:
17th (Sat) to 18th (Sun) October
Japanese Name: 川越まつり
Visit the Kawagoe Festival and travel back to the Edo period Japan. Registered by UNESCO.
October 31st (Sat) to 3rd (Tues) November
Mashiko Pottery Fair in Autumn
2026:
October 31st (Sat) to 3rd (Tues) November
Japanese Name: 益子秋の陶器市
Visit the largest 'Craft & Pottery Fair' held in Japan near Tokyo in November.
Mid October to Mid November
Autumn colors in Shiobara Onsen
2026:
Mid October to Mid November
Japanese Name: 塩原温泉の紅葉
Visit autumn Shiobara Onsen to enjoy views of the beautiful mountains, rivers, valleys, and waterfalls. And don't forget the hot springs!
10th (Sat) & 11th (Sun) October
Kanuma Autumn Festival (UNESCO Registered)
2026:
10th (Sat) & 11th (Sun) October
Japanese Name: 鹿沼秋まつり
Visit the exciting UNESCO-registered Kanuma Autumn Festival held every October. The famous “Buttsuke clashes” are not to be missed! (Kanuma City / 鹿沼市）
October 2nd (Fri) – October 4th (Sun)
MotoGP Japanese Grand Prix - Motegi
2026:
October 2nd (Fri) – October 4th (Sun)
Japanese Name: MotoGP 日本グランプリ
Feel the adrenaline of the MotoGP Japanese Grand Prix! From 340km/h racing action to family-friendly fun at Motegi, here is everything international fans need to know. (Motegi Town / 茂木町)
Recommend things to do in October
MAIBIYORI
Looking for a truly unique cultural experience? Enjoy MAIBIYORI’s Nihon Buyo (Japanese Traditional Dancing) in stunning locations across Nikko & Utsunomiya. Learn from an experienced master after dressing in a fine kimono and becoming an elegant Japanese princess.
Mashiko Tours
Seeking a deeper connection to Japanese crafts? Mashiko Tours offers exclusive pottery tours and outdoor cycling through artisan landscapes. You can even enjoy hands-on cooking classes using local ingredients. Come find the creative spirit that makes this ceramic village so special.
Iwafune Explosion Experience
Try a truly explosive adventure with the Iwafune Explosion Experience. Step into a live-action movie scene where the ground shakes and explosives go off! It is a fun way to create unforgettable memories and capture stunning photos like a Japanese hero character.
Mobility Resort Motegi
Watch world-class racing at Mobility Resort Motegi. As Japan’s only host for global motorcycle championships MotoGP™, this thrill-filled destination offers elite motorsport action alongside lush nature. Families can enjoy exciting attractions, cozy glamping, and a full-service hotel for the ultimate getaway.
Nikko Natural Science Museum
Visit Nikko Natural Science Museum, conveniently located near Lake Chuzenji, to discover the fascinating natural wonders and rich history of Oku-Nikko through engaging exhibits.
NAOC
Come cycle with us in the Nikko World Heritage area, and experience history and culture, meet locals, and see rice fields. In winter, we have exciting snow bike rides in Oku-Nikko!
Kanuma Kaboku Center
Visit Kanuma Kaboku Center to explore bonsai and rare plants, join Kokedama workshops, and shop for Japanese gardening tools and ornaments. Don’t miss the Kokedama ice cream dessert!
Maenikko Brewery
Maenikko Brewery is one of the few sake breweries in Japan that offer guests an authentic hands-on sake brewing experience.
shiobara viva
Escape the city bustle into Shiobara’s pristine nature with Ann-chan, a dynamic guide who’s explored 30+ countries! Her signature ‘Yuru-Walk’ perfectly blends authentic countryside farming, therapeutic hot springs, and deep local culture for an unforgettable, real-Japan adventure.
Edo Wonderland
Come time travel to Samurai roaming Edo-period Japan!
You can transform into a ninja, samurai, or townsperson for an immersive experience, or enjoy the day as a time traveler visiting Edo.
Kitrip Nikko
Join Rieko on one of Kitrip Nikko’s tours through Nikko’s outdoors to have a truly local experience. Unique tours include incense making to harvesting Ice from frozen lakes. See website for more.
Hitachi Seaside Park
Visit Hitachi Seaside Park to see the colorful flowers throughout the seasons, such as nemophila in spring and kochia in autumn. In addition, there are a variety of attractions for kids such as an athletic field in the woods, and a BBQ plaza.
Ride Experience
Experience our incredible cycling tours, tailor-made for everyone, from novices to seasoned cyclists. Discover the breathtaking beauty of Mother Nature as you pedal your way through awe-inspiring landscapes.
Watanabesahei Sake Brewery
Founded in 1842, Watanabesahei Sake Brewery is a traditional sake brewery in Imaichi, Nikko. They run a popular English brewery tour almost every day, and have a nice shop. Why not come to see a working sake brewery and learn how sake is made?
Tonoike Sake Brewery
Established more than 80 years ago, Tonoike Sake Brewery is a traditional Sake brewery popular with overseas visitors. Visitors can drop by or book a tasting tour.
(Open 365 days)
Shimazaki Sake Brewery
Known as the ‘Cave Brewery’, we are a family-run sake brewery that produces award-winning aged sake. Come and visit the cave on our open-days or book a special tasting tour by our brewery owner.
Wakayama Farm
Experience traditional Japan in Japan’s largest bamboo forest! Stroll through the bamboo groves, capture precious memories with photos, and enjoy a Kimono experience. Exciting bamboo-themed activities for kids too! Don’t miss the impressive view that rivals Kyoto!
Akechidaira Ropeway
Enjoy breathtaking views of Chuzenji Lake, Kegon Falls, and Mount Nantai.
Shoai Samurai
Visit Shoai Samurai for a unique, eco-friendly Japanese culture experience.
Try traditional indigo dyeing (Aizome) and support the local community. Create your masterpiece while making a positive impact!
Places to stay in October
HOTEL NEW ITAYA
Seeking comfortable lodging near Utsunomiya Station? Hotel New Itaya offers a relaxing stay in freshly renovated wooden rooms. Walk to delicious local dining spots and return to a peaceful, welcoming atmosphere suited for solo travelers, families, and groups.
UNITED GARDEN HOTEL
[Nice short-term rental] Seeking a perfect base to explore Nikko and other hidden gems in Tochigi pref? Rent this modern 3-bed room conveniently located in the heart of Utsunomiya. Experience complete privacy and relax comfortably with your group in this exclusive accommodation.
Mashikokan Hotel
Find your quiet place at Mashikokan Hotel in Mashiko Town. Unwind in a hot spring while gazing at a waterfall, rent a bicycle and explore Mashiko’s pottery culture, and enjoy delicious food made with local countryside vegetables and dishes.
Kanahan (Ryokan)
Make your stay in Japan special. Visit this family-run ryokan with a history since the Edo period. Its been carefully renovated keeping the original building and feel. Some meals on the menu were even created based on old documents from Edo-period. (Baths are all private)
Hotel Crystal Palace
A western-style affordable hotel conveniently close to Hitachi Seaside Park, Oarai, and Ajigaura, which are famous sightseeing spots near Tokyo. Also easily accessible from Mito. (The nearest station is Katsuta)
Kinugawa Park Hotels
Just minutes from Kinugawa Onsen Station. With scenic river views, delicious food and amazing hot spring baths, our hotel is great for family vacations and getaways.
Sansuikaku (Ryokan)
Indulge in luxury and Japanese tradition at a high-end Japanese inn near the Nasu Imperial Villa. Immerse in their healing hot spring with 1,400 years of history. Read more to create cherished memories and experience a heartwarming stay!
Iizukatei Hotel
Discover Japan at Iizukatei, a 200-year-old cultural heritage property turned hotel. Enjoy the beautiful architecture and spacious rooms. Rooms are well-equipped with ample amenities, a full bathtub, and cooking facilities. Meet locals, savor seasonal dishes, and relax in the Japanese countryside.
Contributor: Angus Miyaji
Founder of Nearby Tokyo and Japan World Link, Angus helps visitors discover off the beaten track destinations in the North Kanto regions (Tochigi, Gunma, Ibaraki & Saitama north of Tokyo). He regularly travels between Japan and the UK promoting tourism and Japanese sake.
