As the temperatures gently cool and festival season reaches its peak, the city of Nagoya and its surrounding areas offer a vibrant blend of traditional events, natural beauty, and seasonal food. Whether you’re admiring early autumn leaves, sipping local sake made from freshly harvested rice, or watching a parade of samurai march through downtown Nagoya, October is one of the most rewarding times to visit the region.
Weather in October
October weather in Nagoya gradually becomes more mild and pleasant, making it one of the best months for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Early in the month, daytime highs can reach 25°C, gradually dropping to around 20°C by the end of the month. Evenings can be cooler, occasionally dipping below 16°C, so packing a light jacket or layered clothing is recommended.
Rainfall decreases as the month progresses, and clear skies are common, perfect for attending festivals or exploring gardens and parks. If you're planning trips to higher elevations like Kamikochi, Takayama, or Mt. Gozaisho, expect cooler temperatures and prepare accordingly.
Seasonal Highlights in October
Early Autumn Colors
While Nagoya itself is still mostly green in early October, nearby mountain areas offer some spectacular foliage:
- Kamikochi (October): Nestled in the heart of the Japanese Alps, Kamikochi is a must-visit for nature lovers. This breathtaking highland valley, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush forests, transforms into a vibrant canvas of reds, oranges, and yellows each autumn. The crisp mountain air and serene landscapes make it an ideal spot for hiking.
- Mt. Gozaisho (Mid to Late October): The autumn leaves begin changing at the summit of Mt. Gozaisho (1,212 meters), gradually descending to the Yunoyama Onsen resort below. A ropeway and sightseeing lift provide panoramic views of the red and orange slopes — perfect for a crisp nature walk and a warm meal with a view.
- Shirakawago (Mid to Late October): In October, the persimmon trees in Shirakawa-go begin to bear fruit, especially around historic properties like the Wada Residence. From mid-October, the foliage in and around Shirakawa-go transforms into vibrant shades of red and yellow. And as the harvest season nears its end, the village celebrates the joy of the harvest with the Doburoku Festival. This traditional event features prayers for family safety and peace in the mountain village and is known for its lively and unusual character.
Fall Flowers
October marks peak bloom for cosmos, dahlias, and autumn roses in two of Japan’s most celebrated flower parks, Nabana no Sato and Bokka no Sato.
- Dahlia Festival at Nabana no Sato (Oct–Nov): Featuring over 200 varieties, including giant blooms admired by dahlia lovers across Japan.
- Kochia Carpet at Bokka no Sato (Late Sept–Mid Oct): The neatly aligned kochia turn bright red creating a stunning view framing the chapel.
Festivals & Events in October
Aichi Autumn Sake Festival
- October 3 (Saturday) and 4 (Sunday), 2026
- Hisaya Odori Park, Edion Hisaya Plaza (Nagoya City, Naka Ward)
- 11:00-20:30
The event brings together 27 sake breweries from across Aichi Prefecture, offering visitors the chance to sample local sake alongside live music and food. The event is organized by the Aichi Sake Brewers Association and ZIP-FM.
Ise Festival
- October 10 (Saturday) and 11 (Sunday), 2026
- 09:40～21:00
- Around Iseshi Station
A massive two-day celebration with parades, performances, and over 140 booths. Experience local culture, crafts, and food in one of Japan’s most sacred towns.
Recommended Tour: Snow Monkey Resort's 1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Ise’s Sacred Shrines and Captivating Coastlines provides you with the chance to marvel at the natural beauty of the Ise region and refresh your body and soul with spiritual experiences and delicious cuisine as you are led by an experienced, English-speaking guide from Nagoya on this full-day tour.
Seki Zenkoji Invitational Knife Show
- October 10 (Saturday), 10:00–16:00 & October 11 (Sunday), 10:00–15:00
- Seki Zenkoji Temple
Meet top Japanese knife makers, attend demonstrations, and pick up handcrafted blades. The event also includes raffles, exclusive goshuin stamps, and food stalls.
Recommended Tour: Embark on a captivating tour from Nagoya to explore the oldest castle in Japan, a National Treasure teahouse, a "city of swords," and the charms of Central Japan on Snow Monkey Resort's Private Tour from Nagoya: Samurai Swords and Japan's Oldest Castle.
Learn about the craftsmanship involved in creating a samurai sword, meet a bladesmith and learn how to properly sharpen a kitchen knife, and stroll along the streets of Inuyama where you can indulge a wide array of street food under the shadow of Japan's oldest original castle.
Kiyosu Castle Nobunaga Festival
- October 11 (Sunday), 2026
- 9:00–16:30
- Kiyosu Castle
The event features a Sengoku-period-style procession beginning with a traditional matchlock-gun performance, along with samurai and warrior groups, entertainment, food, and family-friendly activities. The event is held together with the Kiyosu Industrial Festival.
Cormorant fishing on the Nagara River in Gifu
- Concludes October 15th (Thursday), 2026
Witness a 1,300-year-old fishing tradition under torchlight. Watch master fishermen in traditional garb use trained cormorants to catch sweetfish.
Nagoya Festival
- October 17 (Saturday) and 18 (Sunday), 2026
- Hisaya Odori Park
Nagoya’s biggest festival features armored samurai parades, floats, traditional dances, and cultural performances. Includes entry to Nagoya Castle and other attractions.
For 2026, the traditional Nagoya Festival parade will not take place this year. The parade has been cancelled because its schedule overlaps with the torch relay and opening ceremony for the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Para Games. Instead, the festival will feature special programs incorporating elements of the traditional procession, as well as stages, booths, and other activities at Hisaya Odori Park.
Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Para Games
- October 18 (Sunday) – 24 (Saturday), 2026
- Nagoya and venues throughout Aichi
October 2026 is an especially significant month for Nagoya because the city hosts the 5th Asian Para Games from October 18–24.
The event brings athletes from 45 Asian countries and regions to compete across 18 sports. Competitions take place at venues throughout Nagoya and Aichi, with the Nagoya City Mizuho Park Athletics Stadium serving as the main stadium.
NAGASHIMA ZOMBIE ISLAND
- October 24 (Saturday), 25 (Sunday), 31 (Saturday), and November 1 (Sunday), 2026
- Nagashima Spa Land
As night falls, zombies overrun the amusement park in this high-energy Halloween event. Zombie Island also features “idol zombies” and a concert for more Halloween celebration.
Halloween Party at Legoland
- October 2 (Friday) – November 3 (Tuesday, national holiday), 2026
- 10:00-17:00 (Open until 6:00 PM on weekends and holidays)
- LEGOLAND® Japan Resort
A family-friendly Halloween celebration with special shows, costumed characters, themed attractions, and the two-night-only Halloween Night Party on October 25–26.
Featured Tours in October
1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Hiking the Historic Nakasendo Trail / March - December
Step into the past and experience life in rural Japan as you hike the Nakasendo trail from Tsumago-juku to Magome-juku.
This scenic section of the Nakasendo trail is brimming with lush forests, crystal-clear streams, and remote mountain villages—which have remained relatively untouched by the modern world. Your experienced guide will lead you through the historic post town of Tsumago, along the 8 km Nakasendo trail, past waterfalls and wildlife, and into the stunning post town of Magome. Shop for handmade crafts and sample local fare.
This tour will reward those who like to take the road less traveled and enjoy an adventurous experience into the heartland of Japan.
**A non-hiking option of this tour is available for individuals who are not able to hike or prefer a more leisurely pace. Please read the tour page for more information about joining this tour as a non-hiker.
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1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Hiking the Historic Nakasendo Trail
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1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Kamikochi Guided Hike in the Japanese Alps / May - mid-November
Escape the city for a day and immerse yourself in the natural splendor of the Japan Alps. Tour a vibrant flower park, a charming mountain farm, and the iconic Kamikochi region of the Chubu Sangaku National Park. Hike the well-maintained trails to Kappa-bashi—as your guide points out unique flora and fauna along the way—and capture stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
This full-day tour from Nagoya allows you to journey to the Japan Alps and experience its natural beauty to the fullest as you are led by an experienced, English-speaking guide.
1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Gujo Hachiman – Gifu's "Little Kyoto" in the Mountains
Embark on a family-friendly journey to Gujo Hachiman, a small-yet-picturesque mountain village nicknamed "Little Kyoto" where Japan’s exceptional craftsmanship and timeless traditions come alive.
Starting with a short scenic hike to Gujo-Hachiman Castle, you’ll stand where history was made, soaking in breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and town below. Wander the charming streets of this picturesque town, then partake in a truly unique creative experience at a food replica factory, crafting your own sushi platter or sweet treat. Dive into the lively world of Japanese festivals, where you’ll learn the steps of a dace from the local 24-hour dance festival that’s been celebrated for centuries. This 1-day tour from Nagoya allows you to experience the unique beauty, history, and (sometimes quirky) culture of small town Japan as you are led by an experienced, English-speaking guide.
More Ways to Visit
Alongside our guided tours, we also offer charters and other travel options to/from Nagoya. These are perfect for travelers who prefer private transport, customized itineraries, or more flexibility in planning their day. Whether you’re traveling as a family, a couple, or a group, charters provide comfort and convenience while still letting you experience the best of the village and surrounding region.
If you're looking for help planning your itinerary around Central Japan in October, be sure to check out our Best Day Trip Tours and Itineraries from Nagoya page for more information.
Plan Your October Visit
October in Nagoya is a vibrant blend of tradition, color, and celebration. From sake under the stars and parades through city streets to blooming flower fields and fiery mountain landscapes, this month offers something for every kind of traveler. Whether you're here for the Nagoya Festival, a hot spring getaway, or a family-friendly Halloween event, planning ahead is key.
Many events draw large crowds, and accommodations can fill quickly. To make the most of your visit, consider joining a guided tour that includes transport and tickets — especially for Mt. Gozaisho, Nabana no Sato, and regional festivals.
Ready to discover Nagoya in October? Explore our seasonal tours and charters to experience the best the region has to offer, from fall flavors and flowers to samurai and zombies.
