What to Wear in Japan in September: Outfit Ideas

Figuring out what to wear in Japan in September can feel a little confusing. The month sits right between late summer heat and the start of autumn, so you’ll get warm days, cooler nights, and the occasional typhoon rolling through. One minute you’re wiping off sweat in Tokyo, the next you’re pulling on a cardigan in Kyoto.

That’s exactly why I love this season. The weather keeps you on your toes, and the scenery slowly shifts toward autumn.

In this travel guide, I’ll share what Japan’s September weather really feels like, Japan September outfit ideas that actually work, and a few simple tips so you’ll know exactly how to dress for your trip.

What Japan’s weather is like in September

September really feels like two seasons in one.

• Early September still has that summer heat. In Tokyo and Kyoto, afternoons often hit 28–30°C (82–86°F) with plenty of humidity. Down south, like in Kyushu or Okinawa, it’s even hotter. And yes, you might catch a rainy day since typhoon season is still around.
• Late September feels much closer to autumn. Daytime temperatures dip into the low 20s°C (mid-70s°F), and evenings get cooler. In northern Japan, like Hokkaido, you’ll feel the chill even more, with nights sometimes dropping below 15°C (59°F).

What does that mean for you? Choose light, breathable clothes for daytime and a jacket or cardigan for when the sun goes down.

What to wear in Japan in September

The trick to dressing in Japan this month is simple: build your outfits around layers. Here’s how I’d do it:

Base layer: I like starting with something breathable like a cotton tee or a lightweight blouse. For evenings out, you can swap to a long-sleeved shirt or thin knit.

Mid layer: Cardigans, thin sweaters, or even a hoodie work well. They’re easy to peel off when it’s hot and just as easy to throw on once the temperature drops.

Outer layer: For early September, a light denim or bomber jacket is plenty. By the second half of the month, I’d go with a trench coat, light quilted jacket, or a rainproof shell in case of typhoons.

Accessories: A scarf or stole doesn’t take much space but comes in handy in the evenings. And don’t forget a compact umbrella. You’ll thank yourself when sudden rain hits.

Footwear for Japan in September

Comfortable shoes are non-negotiable here. You’ll be walking a lot, whether it’s temple steps in Kyoto or busy city streets in Tokyo.

• Sneakers or walking shoes: I always go for cushioned sneakers with good grip. Wet leaves and rain can make paths slippery.
• Light ankle boots: Great for late September when it’s cooler, plus they work well with both jeans and dresses.
• Slip-ons or shoes you can take off easily: Many temples, traditional restaurants, and ryokans ask you to remove your shoes, so you’ll want something easy to slide on and off.

What to wear in Japan in September

Your outfits will change a little depending on what you’re doing:

• City exploring: Stick with light tops, jeans, or skirts you can move in. A cardigan in your bag is smart for the evenings.
• Temple visits: Go for modest, comfortable clothes since you’ll be walking a lot and often removing shoes. I’d bring socks without holes.
• Nature walks or hikes: If you’re heading into the mountains or countryside, pack quick-dry layers, a rain jacket, and proper walking shoes. Trails can be muddy after rain.
• Evenings out: Japanese cities can feel stylish at night, so I like to swap sneakers for ankle boots and throw on a nicer top or jacket.

What not to wear in September

A few things will just make your trip harder:

• Heavy coats: You won’t need them yet, unless you’re traveling to northern Hokkaido.
• Thick sweaters: Save these for November. You’ll just overheat in the daytime.
• Shoes without grip: Autumn rains and temple steps don’t mix with slippery soles.

Extra tips for dressing in Japan in September

A few quick tricks I’ve picked up over the years:

• Pack clothes you can mix and match easily. Neutral and earthy tones look great in photos with the changing leaves.
• Air conditioning is strong indoors, so you might want a light jacket even when it’s hot outside.
• A foldable umbrella is essential. It rains more than you expect.
• If you sweat easily, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen will save you.

Before you go

September is one of those in-between months in Japan. You’ll get summer warmth, hints of autumn, and plenty of excuses to play with layers.

If you’re planning beyond September, you might also want to read my guide to what to wear in Japan in autumn for the full season breakdown.

And if you’re curious about traditional stays, my post on what to wear at a ryokan covers yukata and slippers so you’ll know what to expect.