October is one of the most vibrant months to visit Osaka. The city comes alive with a blend of traditional festivals, cultural events, and the onset of autumn's cooler temperatures. Whether you're exploring historic sites or enjoying the lively atmosphere, October offers a unique experience in Osaka.
This guide brings together everything you need to know about Osaka in October — from festivals and seasonal highlights to travel tips and how to make the most of your tours. Joining a guided tour is one of the best ways to navigate busy festival days, capture autumn’s early beauty, and experience Osaka's cultural heritage with ease.
Weather in October
October in Osaka brings mild, pleasant temperatures ideal for exploring the city. Daytime highs average around 23°C (73°F), while nights can drop to 14°C (57°F), so layered clothing is best.
Rainfall is moderate, with occasional showers, and the humidity is lower than in summer, making it one of the most comfortable months to walk the streets or explore outdoor events.
Festivals & Events in October
Calendar of Events
| Date | Festival | Location | Notes |
| October 11-14 | Craft Beer Holiday | Osaka Castle Park | Outdoor craft beer festival with local and international brews. |
| October 12-13 | Kishiwada Danjiri Festival | Kishiwada (south Osaka) | Massive wooden floats pulled through streets at high speed. |
| October 25 | Yabusame Ritual | Osaka Tenmangu Shrine | Traditional horseback archery ceremony. |
While many festivals are held throughout the month, three stand out as particularly special for visitors:
Kishiwada Danjiri Festival
Held on October 12–13 in Kishiwada, this festival is one of the most thrilling in Japan. Teams pull enormous wooden floats (danjiri) through narrow streets at breakneck speeds. The combination of skill, strength, and community spirit makes this event unforgettable for anyone witnessing it for the first time.
Craft Beer Holiday
From October 11–14, Osaka Castle Park transforms into a playground for beer lovers. With dozens of breweries showcasing seasonal and international craft beers, paired with local street food, it’s a perfect way to enjoy Osaka’s culinary culture in a lively outdoor setting.
Yabusame at Osaka Tenmangu Shrine
October 25 features the traditional ritual of horseback archery. Riders in period costume gallop along the track, shooting arrows at wooden targets. This event is an extraordinary glimpse into Japan’s martial traditions and makes for striking photography and a memorable cultural experience.
Seasonal Highlights in October
Autumn Foliage
While Kyoto is renowned for its autumn colors, Osaka also offers beautiful fall foliage. Parks such as Osaka Castle Park and the Minoh Park showcase vibrant red and orange leaves, providing picturesque settings for leisurely walks and photography.
Culinary Delights
October is a great time to indulge in seasonal Japanese cuisine. Enjoy dishes featuring mushrooms, sweet potatoes, and chestnuts, which are abundant during this time. Street food stalls at festivals and local markets offer a taste of Osaka's rich culinary heritage.
Featured Tours in October
Minoh Falls & Katsuoji Temple Day Trip
October is one of the most scenic times to explore Osaka’s northern outskirts. The air is crisp, the first autumn leaves begin to colour the trees, and the serene paths to Minoh Falls and Katsuoji Temple feel especially peaceful. This tour combines natural beauty with spiritual heritage, perfect for visitors seeking a quiet retreat from the city.
Highlights:
- Walk the forest trail to Minoh Falls, enjoying the autumn hues of the surrounding maple and ginkgo trees.
- Explore Katsuoji Temple, famous for its thousands of “daruma” dolls, which are believed to bring luck and success.
- Experience the tranquil countryside and picturesque landscapes just outside Osaka city.
Osaka City Cultural & Culinary Tour
October is the perfect month to immerse yourself in Osaka’s vibrant urban culture. The temperatures are comfortable for walking, and the city streets are alive with seasonal events and festivals. This tour combines history, culinary experiences, and iconic city landmarks for a full day of exploration.
Highlights:
- Visit Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks, surrounded by early autumn foliage in the castle park.
- Explore Shitennoji Temple, a historic site that reflects Osaka’s religious heritage.
- Sample seasonal delights at Kuromon Market, from fresh seafood to local snacks.
- Try your hand at traditional arts with the Ukiyo-e experience, creating your own Japanese prints.
- End the day in Dotonbori, taking in the neon lights and iconic Glico Man sign, a perfect snapshot of Osaka’s energetic nightlife.
More Ways to Visit Osaka
Alongside our guided tours, we also offer Private Charters in Osaka. These are perfect for travellers who prefer private transport, customised itineraries, or more flexibility in planning their day. Whether you’re travelling 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.
Tips for Visiting & Travel in October
- Crowd and Transport Management - Festival days are very busy. Especially October 22 for Kishiwada Danjiri. Trains to Kishiwada get packed, viewing spots fill early. Using a guided tour ensures reserved transport and priority info.
- What to Wear – Layers are your friend. Daytime warm, evenings can get chilly. Comfortable walking shoes for temple grounds and possibly hikes.
- Photography Tips – Mornings and late afternoons offer better light for colours. For festivals, scout viewpoints early; some areas allow paid seating for better views.
- Timing Your Visit – If you want fewer crowds, avoid the exact festival dates, or do central spots early in the morning. Also early October before leaf color starts is less busy.
- Accommodation - Book in advance for festivals. Staying in areas outside central Osaka (e.g. Sakai, Minoh, Kishiwada) can give quieter evenings and earlier access to natural sites.
Where to Stay in October
October is a popular month for visitors, so choosing your base early is important.
- Central Osaka districts (Namba, Umeda, Shinsaibashi): Ideal for access to shopping, dining, nightlife, and festival areas. Staying here puts you close to major city attractions and easy public transport links.
- Northern and suburban districts (Tennoji, Minoh): Perfect for those who want quieter surroundings and proximity to nature. This area is especially convenient for day trips to Minoh Falls or Katsuoji Temple.
Wherever you choose to stay, autumn is one of the busiest times of year, so it’s best to make arrangements well in advance. For more guidance, see our Where to Stay In Osaka page.
Plan Your October Visit
October in Osaka offers a vibrant mix of culture, urban energy, and early autumn colours. From the thrilling Kishiwada Danjiri Festival and lively Craft Beer Holiday to serene walks through Minoh Falls or explorations of historic landmarks like Osaka Castle and Shitennoji Temple, there’s something to captivate both first-time visitors and seasoned travellers.
With thoughtful planning—timing tours around festival dates, balancing city streets with nature escapes—you can enjoy the best of Osaka while avoiding the busiest crowds. Guided tours provide local insights, smooth transport, and the inside track on where and when to be, letting you fully immerse yourself in the sights, flavours, and seasonal charm of the city.