Nakajima Park is a 24-hectare urban oasis in the heart of Sapporo, Hokkaido, offering a tranquil escape and glimpse of the city’s cultural heritage. From mid to late October its tree-lined walkways burst into colour, inviting visitors to linger a little longer and breathe in the crisp autumn air. 
Hi ,

 

Welcome to the September and October edition of the Japan Travel News Updates. 


As summer gently fades, Japan enters a season of transition - where warm days linger and the first hints of autumn colour begin to brush the landscape. 


In the northernmost prefecture of Hokkaido, the foliage starts turning as early as September, especially in elevated areas like Daisetsuzan National Park. From there, the colours sweep southward, typically peaking in cities like Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto around mid to late November. The autumn leaves forecast for 2025 is yet to be released, but last year's guide offers a useful reference for planning ahead. 


October brings some of the country’s most comfortable weather, making it an ideal time to explore the outdoors. Whether you’re hiking coastal trails, taking part in time-honoured celebrations or discovering the vibrant contemporary art scene, autumn offers a rich tapestry of experiences waiting to be explored. 

Explore the real-life locations behind Shōgun and beyond  

 

From the dramatic battlegrounds of Sekigahara to the tranquil shores of the Izu Peninsula, discover the real-life locations that inspired James Clavell’s Shōgun and other beloved novels set in Japan. Bookmark these destinations for a walk through the pages of history and fiction. 

Utopia exists – and you can visit it in a day from Tokyo 


Just 2 hours by limited express train from Tokyo, Ubara Utopia in Chiba Prefecture lives up to its name with dramatic sea cliffs, cavernous coves and sweeping coastal views. This easy 2.3km loop trail begins near Ubara Station, making it a perfect day-trip escape into nature.

See sakura bloom amid autumn colours in Aichi this November 

 

Experience the beauty of two seasons in one day. This guided bus tour takes you from Obara’s unique shikizakura to the illuminated maples of Korankei Gorge, with a cultural stop in between – make your own washi paper and savour the flavours of locally-grown persimmons. 

Japandi style: wabi-sabi meets hygge 


Discover Japandi, a serene style blending Japanese minimalism and Scandinavian warmth. Experience this aesthetic on your next visit with a boutique stay or bring home some handcrafted homewares to infuse your space with Japandi charm. 

 

Image courtesy of TRUNK

Stamp your way through Japan’s wild side on a new nation-wide stamp rally 

 

From snow-capped peaks to sub-tropical coastlines, Japan’s 35 national parks offer breathtaking landscapes across the country. Through March 2027, collect a unique stamp at each park’s Visitor Center - each one a bold, artistic rendering of the park’s name in Japanese calligraphy. 

Hop aboard for some of Hokkaido’s best autumn views 

 

Nestled within Shikotsu-Toya National Park, the Jozankei area transforms into a tapestry of red, gold and amber each October. Some offer tranquil experiences like a relaxing footbath or a stop at the cultural centre to learn about the traditions of the Ainu people, while others focus on panoramic viewpoints.  

Festivals to discover this autumn  


Japan’s calendar is filled with festivals year-round, and autumn is no exception. Here are some ideas worth adding to your travel plans this September and October.

Photograph provided by Kishiwada City

Upcoming art events across Japan 

This coming autumn is full of art festivals, from contemporary installations on the islands scattered across the islands of the Seto Inland Sea, to exhibitions nestled within traditional houses in a beautifully preserved merchant town. 
Image credit: Makoto Egashira, IV Blanket Full of Roses IV 

Sanrio Puroland to hold final ‘Miracle Gift Parade’ on 17 November 2025 

 

‘Miracle Gift Parade’ is a vibrant show starring Hello Kitty and beloved Sanrio characters, combining dazzling lights, dynamic acrobatics and a heartwarming story of kindness and friendship. Don’t miss the chance to experience the magic before it takes its final bow later this year. 

HOTEL de DOCTOR 24 service 

 

HOTEL de DOCTOR 24 is a new online medical service designed specifically for international visitors. Connect with a qualified doctor 24/7 from the comfort of your hotel room, with professional medical interpreters available in English and 21 other languages.

Congratulations to J.Healy, the winner of our Osaka and Beyond Competition 2025, and thank you for everyone who entered.  
Useful resources

Osaka World Expo 2025

 

The World Expo will be held from 13 April to 13 October in Osaka. Don't miss out on your chance to witness the latest  technology, world knowledge and sharing of ideas with leading global specialists!  See the official website for more information.

 

The Expo 2025 Official Experiential Travel Guides site also offers a wide range of activities and tours across Japan that connect to the expo’s theme of 'Designing future society for our lives'.

JNTO Sydney Office services 

 

If you have any Japan travel questions, please contact us using our enquiry form. Our self-service brochure room is open Monday to Friday* from 10am-4pm (AEST). You can also find a wide selection of digital brochures online

 

* Please note we are closed on some Japanese public holidays. See the latest list here

Visit Japan Web 
 
Complete the immigration and customs forms on Visit Japan Web prior to your departure to streamline your entry into Japan. There are two forms: immigration (the digital equivalent of a disembarkation card) and customs.  

Monthly event calendar 

 

Find out what festivals and events will be on during your visit. The monthly calendars are released around the middle of the month and cover events across the whole country. 

Japan Visitor Hotline
 
Open 24 hours, 365 days a year.

Call for tourist information, if you need assistance in case of emergencies (accidents or sickness) or for support during natural disasters.

Ph: +81 (0)50-3816-2787

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