September in Japan ushers in the beginning of autumn, with cooler temperatures, clear skies, and vibrant seasonal festivals. According to Odynovo Tours, this transitional month offers a comfortable climate with temperatures ranging between 20 to 29 degrees Celsius, making it an appealing time for outdoor adventures, city strolls, and attending colorful harvest celebrations. Hokkaido, in particular, stands out for early autumn foliage, while cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto host festivals such as the Owara Kaze-no-Bon in Toyama and the Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri in Osaka, drawing visitors into the heart of Japanese tradition and vibrant street life.

Travelers should remain alert to weather irregularities during September, as the tail end of typhoon season brings the highest likelihood of storms affecting coastal areas. The official guide from the Japan National Tourism Organization recommends building flexibility into itineraries in case a typhoon impacts travel plans. Even though these storms can disrupt train and flight schedules, most events and daily life resume quickly afterward. To enhance safety, it’s advised to keep abreast of local news and heed any advisories issued by authorities or lodgings.

Regarding overall safety, Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection and several global rankings continue to rate Japan among the safest places for international travelers in 2025. The US State Department has maintained Japan at a Level 1 advisory, the lowest risk category, indicating travelers need only maintain normal precautions. Crime levels are strikingly low, even in major urban centers like Tokyo and Osaka, but travelers are urged to remain cautious in entertainment districts and watch for petty theft. If there’s ever a need for help, small police stations called koban can be found citywide.

Natural disasters such as earthquakes, volcanic activity, and tsunamis, while rare, are inherent risks due to Japan’s geography. Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection urges listeners to learn basic emergency procedures, such as locating earthquake evacuation points and staying informed through official channels and hotel guidance. The Japan National Tourism Organization emphasizes that most emergencies are minor; however, having travel insurance can offer added security and ease should travel disruptions or incidents occur.

For those driving, remember Japan’s roads follow left-side traffic, and city streets can be both dense and narrow. Renting a car may require a sticker indicating foreign driver status, which helps locals accommodate visitors more courteously on the road.

From a cultural perspective, listeners are encouraged to respect Japanese etiquette: avoid eating or drinking while walking, use navigation tools for public transportation, and refrain from sudden stops on busy sidewalks. Adhering to these customs enhances both personal safety and the travel experience.

In summary, Japan is welcoming travelers with vibrant festivals, gorgeous landscapes, and world-leading safety. The main precaution for September is to remain mindful of unpredictable weather, particularly typhoons, and to learn basic emergency protocols for natural disasters. Otherwise, the country’s strong infrastructure and emphasis on public security ensure visitors can enjoy Japan’s autumn charm with confidence.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI