Tokyo in September Travel Guide: Climate Tips and How to Make the Most of Weekdays

What Is Tokyo Like in September?

September in Tokyo is a month where summer and autumn overlap. In the first half of the month, temperatures can still reach close to 30°C (86°F), with humidity making it feel even hotter. Toward the end of September, cooler days gradually appear, but overall, you should expect the weather to remain on the warmer side.

It’s also the peak of typhoon season. For travelers, this means there is a higher risk of flight or train delays, and sometimes attractions may close due to safety concerns. Families staying longer should be prepared for flexible plans and not expect everything to go exactly as scheduled.

Weather and What to Wear

Light summer clothing (T-shirts, shorts) is usually fine. Bring a light jacket or cardigan for cooler evenings later in the month.

Hats, water bottles, and a change of clothes for kids. Don’t forget foldable umbrellas or raincoats—rain showers and typhoons are common.

Humidity can make it feel hotter than it is, so be sure to take measures against heat exhaustion.

The Big Advantage of September: Fewer Crowds on Weekdays

Once Japan’s summer vacation ends, local children go back to school in early September. This means that on weekdays, major attractions are noticeably less crowded.

• Theme parks like Tokyo Disneyland & DisneySea or interactive exhibitions like teamLab Planets are best visited on weekdays.
• On weekends, choose places that don’t involve long lines, such as parks or outdoor walks.
• Hotel rates also tend to drop compared to August, making weekday stays more affordable.

Choosing Spots by Day of the Week

• Tokyo Disneyland & DisneySea
• teamLab Planets Tokyo
• Ueno Zoo, Sumida Aquarium, Sunshine Aquarium

• The East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, Yoyogi Park, Showa Kinen Park
• Odaiba area (large shopping malls and wide outdoor spaces absorb crowds well, even on weekends)

Asakusa’s Nakamise Street and Sensoji Temple are best visited on weekday mornings. The area is always crowded, but weekends are especially packed. Families with strollers may find it difficult to move around on weekends, so visiting early on a weekday is highly recommended.

How to Handle Typhoon Season

One of the biggest challenges of traveling to Tokyo in September is the typhoon season. When a typhoon approaches, it can bring strong winds and heavy rain that make going outside dangerous. Public transportation such as flights and Shinkansen trains may be delayed or canceled, and major attractions like theme parks and museums may temporarily close.

During such times, it’s best not to force yourself to go out. 

Instead, consider:

many family-friendly hotels offer playrooms or kid-friendly activities

Japanese convenience stores are lifesavers, offering affordable and kid-friendly options from bento to snacks

The key is to ride it out safely. Once the weather clears, you can return to your sightseeing plans. Flexibility is essential for making your September trip comfortable and enjoyable.

Summary

Tokyo in September is still hot, but compared to the busy summer vacation period, it’s actually a great time for families to visit. Weekdays are far less crowded, and accommodations are more affordable. The only real challenge is the risk of typhoons, which is why flexible planning is so important.

If you prepare for the heat and have backup indoor plans for rainy days, September can be one of the most rewarding months for a family trip to Tokyo—where you can enjoy both the last moments of summer and the first hints of autumn.

Keep Planning: Related Family Guides

Looking for weekday-friendly ideas and reliable backups for rainy or typhoon days? These will help you round out your September itinerary:

• Rainy-day plan: Top 5 Rainy Day Spots in Tokyo for Families with Kids
• Easy weekend hub in the bay area: From the Bay to the Gundam — Everything in One Place! Family Guide to Odaiba, Tokyo: Things to Do
• Stay cool & energized: Must-Try Japanese Summer Foods for Families Visiting Japan

Tip: Bookmark the rainy-day guide as your typhoon backup. Flexibility is your superpower in September.