September marks the beginning of Kyoto's transition from summer to autumn. Although the first half of the month can still be warm and humid, cooler mornings and evenings gradually return, making it one of the most comfortable times to explore the city. Temple gardens remain lush and green, mountain trails become inviting once again, and traditional seasonal events celebrate the changing of the seasons.
For many travellers, September offers the best of both worlds—pleasant weather, fewer crowds than peak autumn, and plenty of opportunities to experience Kyoto's temples, gardens, forests, and surrounding mountains before the autumn leaves arrive.
Weather in September
September brings a welcome break from Kyoto's intense summer heat. While afternoons can still feel warm, the humidity gradually decreases and evenings become noticeably cooler.
Average daytime temperature: 26–30°C (79–86°F)
Evenings / early mornings: 20–23°C (68–73°F)
Rainfall: Occasional showers and the possibility of late-season typhoons.
Light clothing is still suitable during the day, while a light sweater or jacket is useful in the evenings. Comfortable walking shoes, a reusable water bottle, and a compact umbrella are recommended for exploring Kyoto throughout the month.
Festivals & Events in September
Calendar of Events
| Date (Approx.) | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Throughout September | Kawadoko Riverside Dining | Kibune |
| Mid-September (Harvest Moon varies annually) | Tsukimi (Moon Viewing) Events | Daikaku-ji, Shimogamo Shrine & other temples |
| September 14–15 | Seiryu-e (Blue Dragon Procession) | Kiyomizu-dera |
| September 15 | Iwashimizu Hachimangu Annual Festival | Yawata |
| Around September 22–24 | Autumn Equinox (Higan) | Temples throughout Kyoto |
| Late September | Kyoto International Manga Anime Fair (KYOMAF) | Miyakomesse |
Event dates and details may vary year to year. Please check official sources for the most up-to-date information.
Seasonal Highlights in September
Hiking Season Returns
As temperatures begin to cool, September is one of the best months to explore Kyoto's surrounding mountains. Forest trails become much more comfortable than during midsummer, making this an excellent time for hikes through Kurama, Kibune, Daimonji, and Arashiyama.
If you're looking to experience Kyoto beyond its famous temples, September offers ideal conditions for outdoor adventures.
Kawadoko Dining in Kibune
September is one of the final opportunities to experience Kawadoko, Kyoto's famous riverside dining tradition. Restaurants in Kibune build wooden platforms directly above the cool mountain stream, allowing guests to enjoy seasonal Kyoto cuisine surrounded by cedar forests and flowing water.
Combined with a visit to nearby Kifune Shrine or a hike from Kurama, it remains one of Kyoto's most memorable seasonal experiences.
Tsukimi — The Harvest Moon
September is traditionally associated with Tsukimi, Japan's moon-viewing festival. Temples and gardens decorate their grounds with pampas grass, seasonal flowers, and tsukimi dango (moon-viewing rice dumplings) while celebrating the beauty of the autumn full moon.
Although quieter than Kyoto's major festivals, Tsukimi offers visitors a peaceful glimpse into one of Japan's oldest seasonal traditions.
Kyoto Before the Autumn Crowds
Many experienced travellers consider September one of Kyoto's hidden gems. Temple gardens remain beautifully green, popular attractions are generally less crowded than in October and November, and the city enjoys a relaxed atmosphere before the autumn foliage season begins.
If you're planning a later trip, be sure to read our Autumn Leaves in Kyoto guide to discover the city's best viewing locations.
Featured Tours in September
Sacred Peaks and Ancient Paths: The Kurama to Kibune Mountain Walk
As Kyoto begins to cool after summer, September is one of the finest months to explore the cedar forests connecting Kurama and Kibune. Hike ancient mountain trails, discover the spiritual atmosphere of Kurama-dera Temple, visit Kifune Shrine, and finish the day with the option of enjoying Kibune's famous riverside kawadoko dining before the season comes to an end.
Highlights:
- Escape the city and enjoy Kyoto's cooler mountain scenery.
- Hike the beautiful forest trail between Kurama and Kibune.
- Visit Kurama-dera Temple and Kifune Shrine.
- Experience Kibune's famous riverside dining terraces.
Lake Biwa, Chikubu Island and Hikone Castle: Sacred Island and Samurai Legacy
September's comfortable temperatures make it an excellent time to discover the landscapes beyond Kyoto. Cruise across Japan's largest lake to sacred Chikubu Island before exploring Hikone Castle, one of Japan's few original surviving castles.
Highlights:
- Cruise across Lake Biwa, Japan's largest freshwater lake
- Visit Chikubu Island, home to Hogon-ji Temple and Tsukubusuma Shrine
- Explore Hikone Castle, one of Japan's few original surviving castles
- Enjoy spectacular lake, mountain, and castle views throughout the day
Sacred Stone and Flowing Silk: Arashiyama Temples, Bamboo Forests, and Maiko River Cruise
Sacred Stone and Flowing Silk: Arashiyama Temples, Bamboo Forests and Maiko River Cruise
September is one of the best times to experience Arashiyama. Comfortable temperatures make walking through the Bamboo Forest and hidden temple paths especially enjoyable, while Kohaku's stories bring Kyoto's geisha traditions to life during an unforgettable private river cruise.
Highlights:
- Stroll through Arashiyama’s iconic Bamboo Forest
- Visit Atago Nenbutsu-ji and Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, hidden temples filled with hundreds of smiling stone figures.
- Enjoy a private Hozu River boat ride with Kohaku, a former maiko, as your cultural guide.
Small Group
Sacred Stone and Flowing Silk: Arashiyama Temples, Bamboo Forests, and Maiko River Cruise
Hidden Secrets of Fushimi Inari: Bamboo Paths and Sake Village
With cooler weather returning, September is an ideal month to explore the peaceful forest trails of Fushimi Inari before visiting Kyoto's historic sake district. If you're interested in Kyoto's brewing heritage, be sure to explore our Top 10 Sake Breweries to Visit in Kansai.
Highlights:
- Learn about traditional sake brewing.
- Explore quieter sections of Fushimi Inari.
- Walk hidden bamboo paths and forest shrines.
- Discover Kyoto's historic sake district.
Kyoto Above the Crowds: The Daimonji Mountain Walk
September's cooler mornings make this one of the best months to climb Mount Daimonji. Beginning at Nanzen-ji and finishing near Ginkaku-ji, this hike rewards visitors with panoramic views and a peaceful side of Kyoto that many tourists never discover.
Highlights:
- Experience Kyoto beyond the guidebooks.
- Hike Mount Daimonji.
- Enjoy panoramic views across Kyoto.
- Visit Nanzen-ji and Ginkaku-ji.
- See the suirokaku aqueduct
More Ways to Visit Kyoto
Alongside our guided tours, we also offer Private Charters in Kyoto. 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 September
- Early September can still be hot, so carry water and dress in light layers.
- Keep a compact umbrella handy for occasional showers or late-season typhoons.
- September is one of the best months for hiking around Kyoto.
- Reserve kawadoko restaurants in Kibune well in advance, especially on weekends.
- Towards the end of the month, evenings become noticeably cooler.
Where to Stay in September
September is an excellent time to stay throughout Kyoto before the busy autumn season begins.
Kyoto Station
Best for convenience and easy transport access
Kiyomizu Gojo and Gion Area
Perfect for traditional atmosphere and historic streets
Sanjo Station area
Ideal for dining, shopping, and nightlife access
Arashiyama Station Area
Great for nature, river scenery, and quieter stays
Wherever you choose to stay, August is a great, but hot time of year to visit Kyoto. For more guidance, see our Where to Stay In Kyoto and Nara page.
Plan Your September Visit
September offers a wonderful balance between Kyoto's vibrant summer and spectacular autumn. Comfortable weather, peaceful temples, mountain hiking, riverside dining, and seasonal traditions create an ideal time to experience the city before the busiest travel season begins.
Whether you're walking ancient forest trails, enjoying Kyoto cuisine beside a mountain stream, or discovering centuries-old festivals beneath the Harvest Moon, September reveals a quieter and deeply rewarding side of Japan's cultural capital.
Join one of our guided tours to discover Kyoto beyond the guidebooks and experience the history, culture, and seasonal beauty that make this city unforgettable.
Planning Your Kyoto Trip?
If you’re still shaping your itinerary, start with our 7-Day Kansai Japan Highlights Itinerary, which combines Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara into a balanced first visit. For inspiration and practical tips, see our 40 Things to Do in Kyoto, Nara, and Osaka, including seasonal ideas and neighborhood recommendations.
Looking to go deeper? Our Best Tours in Kyoto page highlights cultural experiences that go beyond the usual sights. If you’re deciding where to base yourself, our guide on staying in Osaka or Kyoto breaks down the pros and cons of each.
More Kyoto Travel Guides
Discover Kyoto's rich cultural traditions with our Essential Guide to Geisha in Kyoto, or learn how to enjoy one of the city's finest culinary experiences with our Guide to Making Restaurant Reservations in Kyoto.
Planning a seasonal visit? Explore our guides to Cherry Blossoms in Kyoto for the best hanami spots, or discover the top places to enjoy Autumn Leaves in Kyoto as temples, gardens, and mountain valleys burst into vibrant autumn colours.
Interested in local flavours? Visit our Top 10 Sake Breweries to Visit in Kansai, or unwind after a day of sightseeing with our Tattoo-Friendly Onsen & Sento Guide in Kyoto. If you're looking for even more inspiration, don't miss our Things to Do in Kyoto guide, featuring the city's top attractions, hidden gems, and unforgettable cultural experiences.
Explore Kyoto Throughout the Year
If you're still deciding when to visit, explore our Best Time to Visit Kyoto: Month-by-Month Guide for a complete overview of Kyoto throughout the year.
Planning around cherry blossom season? See Kyoto in March and Kyoto in April for bloom forecasts, spring festivals, and the city's most famous sakura spots.
Interested in summer festivals and outdoor adventures? Explore Kyoto in July and Kyoto in August to experience Gion Matsuri, Obon traditions, riverside dining in Kibune, and mountain escapes.
For comfortable weather and fewer crowds, consider Kyoto in May, Kyoto in June, and Kyoto in September, when gardens, hiking trails, and seasonal festivals can be enjoyed at a more relaxed pace.
Visiting for the autumn leaves? Don't miss Kyoto in October and Kyoto in November, when temples, gardens, and mountain landscapes are transformed by brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold.
Prefer a quieter side of Kyoto? Kyoto in December, Kyoto in January, and Kyoto in February offer peaceful temple visits, winter illuminations, plum blossoms, and a slower pace that's perfect for experiencing the city away from the busiest tourist seasons.
