Japan, Asia
Hokkaido in October
Autumn color moves down to Jozankei and Sapporo. Some mountain roads and lodges start closing late in the month.
The straight answer
October is a good month to visit Hokkaido. Autumn color moves down to Jozankei and Sapporo. Some mountain roads and lodges start closing late in the month.
- Weather
- Cool, highs near 60F (16C), first snow on the peaks
- Crowds
- 3 of 5
- Prices
- 3 of 5
What October is like in Hokkaido
October is cool, with highs near 60F (16C). Autumn color moves down from the peaks to Jozankei and Sapporo. The first snow dusts the mountains. Late in the month, some mountain roads and lodges start closing. Crowds are moderate and prices fair. Nights get chilly, which makes onsen towns especially inviting. Early in the month you can still reach the high country before the first real snow.
It suits leaf peepers and onsen lovers. Plan early in the month if you want mountain access. For snow, wait until December or January.
Make the most of October
What is especially good about Hokkaido this month.
Fall color at Jozankei
The hot spring town near Sapporo is surrounded by bright leaves in October.
First snow on the peaks
White peaks above red and gold valleys make for great views.
Warm onsen evenings
Cool nights are perfect for a soak at Noboribetsu or Jozankei.
What to pack for October
- A warm jacket
- Layers
- Waterproof shoes
- A hat and gloves for the mountains
Our timing tip
Check closing dates for mountain roads and lodges, since many shut in late October.
Book Hokkaido for October.
Sponsored links to Expedia and Vrbo. We may earn a commission; it never changes a verdict.
- Hotels for October
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in HokkaidoOpens a hotel search for Hokkaido in October, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in HokkaidoWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in HokkaidoTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Hokkaido for October. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in October
Autumn color
Mid September on Daisetsuzan to late October in Sapporo
The earliest fall foliage in Japan, starting on the high peaks.
Things to do in Hokkaido
Sapporo Snow Festival
Giant snow and ice sculptures in Odori Park and Susukino for about a week in early February. Book lodging months ahead.
Niseko and the ski resorts
Niseko is the most international; Furano, Rusutsu, and Kiroro are often quieter. January and February are the powder months.
Furano and Biei lavender
The fields peak in mid to late July. Go early morning to beat tour buses at Farm Tomita and the Blue Pond.
Otaru
Canal town with glassworks and sushi, 30 to 40 minutes from Sapporo. Magical during the Snow Light Path festival in February.
Shiretoko Peninsula
Five Lakes walk and bear-watching boat cruises in summer; drift ice walks in February and early March.
Asahiyama Zoo
Famous for its winter penguin walk and animal viewing design. A great family stop in Asahikawa.
Beat the crowds
- If you want the Snow Festival, book Sapporo hotels three to six months out, or stay in Otaru and commute.
- Ski in early to mid January or March for good snow with fewer people and lower rates than Christmas, Lunar New Year, and February.
- At Farm Tomita and the Blue Pond, arrive before 8am in July. By 10am the tour buses are in.
- Avoid Obon week in mid August for rental cars and lodging, and book summer rental cars early; they sell out.
Know before you go
- Shiretoko Pass (the road across the peninsula) and many mountain roads close in winter, usually from roughly early November to late April.
- Many summer attractions, ropeways, and lodges in national parks close from about November to April; check any specific site.
- Ski resorts generally open in late November or December and close between late March and early May depending on the resort and snow.
- Heavy snowstorms can cancel flights at New Chitose and shut roads and trains for a day. Build a buffer day into any winter itinerary.
Hokkaido in October, quick answers
Is October a good time to visit Hokkaido?
October is a good month to visit Hokkaido. Autumn color moves down to Jozankei and Sapporo. Some mountain roads and lodges start closing late in the month.
What is the weather like in Hokkaido in October?
Cool, highs near 60F (16C), first snow on the peaks.
Is Hokkaido crowded in October?
Crowds in Hokkaido are moderate in October; timed bookings still help at the biggest sights.
What is happening in Hokkaido in October?
Autumn color (mid september on daisetsuzan to late october in sapporo).
Keep planning Hokkaido.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in October
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