What October feels like in Kyoto
October is mid-autumn in Kyoto. Daytime temperatures are mild — neither cold nor hot for walking around. Evenings bring a clear drop in temperature, and nights stay mild. Moist air is typical, yet it seldom feels heavy at this time of year.
Rain in Kyoto in October
Showers are a regular feature, arriving about one day in 3. When rain comes it is heavy, about 16.5 mm (0.6 in) per wet day, often in short, strong bursts. That is heavier than Kyoto's usual 12.6 mm per rainy day across the year.
Daylight and sunshine in October
On 15 October the sun rises at about 6:02 am and sets around 5:23 pm local time, giving 11 h 22 min of daylight. Evenings are drawing in — 1 h 5 min less daylight than mid-September. The sun is out for roughly 70% of those daylight hours, so there are plenty of bright spells.
How October compares to the rest of the year
October is the 6th warmest month of the year in Kyoto. Afternoons run 6°C (10.8°F) cooler than in September, with 29 mm less rain. November is cooler again. The next month's average high: 16°C (60.8°F).
Who October suits
- Sightseeing: a good fit — the weather rarely gets in the way of a city walk.
- Parks & outdoor: a good fit — good conditions for sitting outside.
- Hiking: a good fit — mild temperatures for trails.
Tips for visiting Kyoto in October
Versatile Layers
Pack pieces you can take off by noon and put back on at dusk.
Rain Protection
A compact umbrella and a light waterproof jacket.
Sunglasses
Bright days make sunglasses worth packing.
Quick questions
How warm is Kyoto in October?
Afternoons average 21.7°C (71.1°F) and nights about 13.5°C (56.3°F) — mild by most people's standards. It is the 6th warmest month of the year.
Does it rain a lot in Kyoto in October?
Quite a lot — 165 mm spread over about 10 days.
What should I wear in Kyoto in October?
Pack versatile layers, rain protection and sunglasses. Add a layer for after dark.
Is October or November better for visiting Kyoto?
October, narrowly: it ranks #1 of 12 among Kyoto's months, against #2 for the other. November is cooler and has fewer rainy days.