In September, Okinawa still feels like summer. While visitors can enjoy summer activities such as swimming in the ocean and pools, there are also many traditional and community-specific events that allow visitors to experience not only sightseeing but also Okinawan culture.
This article provides a comprehensive guide to enjoying a trip to Okinawa in September, including weather, attire, seasonal foods, event information, and even price trends for airline tickets and hotels.
Check out the information you need to know before your trip and plan a fulfilling trip to Okinawa!
Climate and Clothing in Okinawa in September
Temperature and weather characteristics
| – | Okinawa (prefecture) | Tokyo |
|---|---|---|
| average temperature | 27.6°C | 23.5°C |
| maximum temperature | 31°C to 32°C | 27°C to 28°C |
| minimum temperature | Approx. 25℃ approx. | 20°C to 21°C |
| average rainfall | 275.2mm | 209.9mm |
| sunrise time | Around 6:09 | Around 5:26 |
| sunset time | Around 18:49 | Around 17:44 |
September in Okinawa is still hot and humid, with daytime temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F).
The average temperature is about 28°C (82°F), with high humidity and many days of midsummer.
However, mornings and evenings will increasingly feel a little cooler.
September is also typhoon season, especially from mid to late September, when the weather can be changeable and sudden squalls and strong winds can occur.
Climate Point
- Daytime temperatures can reach 30°C or higher: summer attire is still the rule.
- Typhoon season: Check the weather forecast frequently and be prepared for sudden weather changes.
- Humid and muggy: the key is to take advantage of the cool mornings and evenings.
Points of Dress
- Basically, summer clothes are acceptable: T-shirts, shorts, dresses, and other breathable clothing are best.
- Bring lightweight long sleeves: useful for regulating temperature indoors in air-conditioned rooms or at night.
- Don’t forget rain protection: bring a folding umbrella, raincoat, and waterproof outerwear.
How to choose a car rental without making mistakes! Thorough explanation!
Car Rental
Be careful with cheap rental cars…
A rental car is essential to fully enjoy sightseeing in Okinawa. However, there are several points to consider when choosing a rental car company.
Tips for enjoying Okinawa in September
Enjoy summer activities
In Okinawa in September, you can still enjoy swimming in the ocean and swimming pools.
Because the peak tourist season has passed, even popular spots can be relatively relaxing.
Marine activities such as snorkeling and diving are especially popular during this season. Enjoy the remaining summer to the fullest at beaches and resort hotel pools.
How to spend your time when a typhoon approaches
September is also a time of frequent typhoons, so the weather is often unpredictable.
If you cannot go out to the ocean or marine activities are restricted, we recommend enjoying indoor experience menus or traditional Okinawan culture.
For example, visitors can experience Ryukyu glass making, shisa painting, and live performances of traditional Okinawan music.
Enjoy traditional Okinawan events
In September, traditional Okinawan events such as eisa festivals and big tug of war are held in various locations.
Many of these events are open to tourists and offer a rare opportunity to experience Okinawan culture with the locals.
In particular, the large-scale eisa festivals held in Naha and Okinawa City are not to be missed.
Feel the local vibrancy and experience Okinawan traditions.
Typhoons in September
September is typhoon season and the possibility of typhoons approaching Okinawa increases.
In the event of a typhoon, the basic rule is to stay indoors and refrain from going outside.
Therefore, it is important to choose the right accommodations. Choose a hotel with an indoor pool, spa, and entertainment facilities so you can enjoy yourself regardless of the weather.
In addition, choosing a tour with typhoon insurance for your trip will give you peace of mind in case of an emergency.
The table below summarizes the number of times Okinawa has been approached by and directly hit by typhoons in August over the past five years.
| fiscal year (usu. April 1 to March 31) | Number of typhoons approaching | Number of typhoon strikes |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 3 | 1 |
| 2020 | 2 | 0 |
| 2021 | 4 | 2 |
| 2022 | 3 | 1 |
| 2023 | 3 | 2 |
- Number of typhoon approaches: Number of times a typhoon approached within 300 km of the main island of Okinawa.
- Number of direct hits by typhoons: Number of times a typhoon made direct landfall or was very close to the main island of Okinawa.
This chart shows the number of typhoons approaching the Okinawa region from 2010 to 2023.
mean value
Based on the last five years of data, the average for August is as follows
- Average number of typhoons approaching: 3
- Average number of typhoon strikes: 1.2
It is important to check the latest weather forecast before traveling and to schedule your trip taking into account the impact of typhoons.
Impact of Typhoon
When a typhoon approaches, strong winds, torrential rains, and waves can cause flight and ferry cancellations and the closure of tourist attractions. Particular attention should be paid as access to remote islands may be restricted.
For more information on typhoons in Okinawa, please check here for a detailed list of measures and actions to take.
Major Events in Okinawa in September
Uruma City Eisa Festival
- Date: Saturday , August 31 and Sunday, September 1, 2024
- Venue: Road in front of Uruma City Hall, Yonagusuku Park Athletic Field, Uruma City
- Special features: A variety of performances, from traditional to modern eisa, can be enjoyed in a single day.
Seaport Chatan Carnival
- Date: Saturday , September 28 and Sunday, September 29, 2024
- Venue: Chatan Park Sunset Beach (Chatan Town)
- Special features: Eisa performance by the local youth association and fireworks display on the water, which will add color to the summer night in Chatan.
Ginowan Hagoromo Festival
- Date: Saturday , September 28 and Sunday, September 29, 2024
- Venue: Multipurpose Plaza, Ginowan City Seaside Park
- Characteristics: A representative event of Ginowan City, featuring traditional performing arts and music.
Recommended Activities in September
Snorkeling and diving
September, when the water temperature is warmer, is ideal for snorkeling and diving.
You can enjoy the beautiful sea of the Kerama Islands, designated as a national park, and the “Blue Cave” in Onna Village.
trekking
Trekking tours are popular in the northern part of Okinawa’s main island and Iriomote Island.
Trekking is an activity that allows you to fully enjoy tropical nature and experience the charms of Okinawa in a different way from the ocean.
Indoor Activities
On typhoon or rainy days, we recommend experience programs that can be enjoyed indoors, such as Ryukyu glass making and Shisa painting.
You can feel Okinawan culture and take home a handmade souvenir.
September Seasonal Fruits in Okinawa
guava
Guava, a typical tropical fruit, is in season in September.
Rich in vitamin C, it can be enjoyed as juice or jam. Recently, it is also attracting attention as a “super food” and is popular among those who are concerned about beauty and health.
shekwasha
Shikwasa, a citrus fruit popular in northern Okinawa, is also in season in September.
Its refreshing acidity and abundant vitamin C will refresh your body after a long day in the heat.
Things to keep in mind in Okinawa in September
Measures against ultraviolet rays
UV rays are strong even in September, so be sure to take UV protection measures such as sunscreen cream, sunglasses, and hats. Especially at the beach, you should also be careful of the reflection of light from the sand.
countermeasures against heat stroke
As the daytime heat continues, take frequent hydration and breaks to avoid heat stroke. It is also important to rest in the shade or in a cool place.
Typhoon countermeasures
Because of the typhoon season, check the weather forecast in advance and consider taking measures such as changing your plans earlier if it is likely to affect you during your trip.
Airline Ticket Prices in September
September is the end of summer and airline ticket prices begin to fluctuate.
This is the time of year when travelers need a strategy to save as much as possible on their trip. Let’s take a closer look at specific September airfare price trends and tips for saving money!
1. airline ticket price trends in September
September is the end of the summer vacation season and a time when many airlines are calming down their prices.
However, there are consecutive holidays in September, such as Respect-for-Senior-Citizens Day and Autumnal Equinox Day, and prices often rise again, especially around these holidays.
Specifically, rates are relatively high on weekdays, such as September 1-5, but drop quickly on weekends and weekdays after September 6.
In particular, Monday, September 30 is a very good day, from 16,560 yen (JAL).
2. timing of reservations and tips for saving money
Timing of reservations is the key to saving money. In particular, we recommend that you make your reservations at least one month in advance, i.e., by the end of August, in order to get the cheapest airfare for September.
In addition, you can often find even lower prices by targeting early morning or late night flights on weekdays.
For example, from Friday, September 6 to Thursday, September 12, prices remain affordable from 20,960 yen (JAL). The key is not to miss the timing of these prices.
3. use of travel packages
Travel packages that include airfare and hotels are often more economical than booking them separately.
Especially in popular tourist destinations such as Okinawa, travel agencies offer a wide variety of package plans, which in some cases can reduce not only transportation costs but also lodging costs.
In addition, package plans often include activities and sightseeing tours, which can be expected to improve the overall cost-effectiveness of the trip.
4. other ways to save money
There are many other ways to save on airfare. For example, consider the following methods
- Last-Minute Discounts and Waitlists: Last-minute discounts and waitlists are available to save money on tickets for last-minute departures. These options are especially recommended for travelers with flexible schedules.
- Use credit card points: Using credit card points to book airline tickets is also an effective way to book flights. Use this wisely, especially if you are using a card that earns miles.
- Use of Low-Cost Carriers (LCCs): Compared to major airlines, LCC flights can be significantly cheaper. Especially on short domestic flights, LCCs are a great way to save money.
Airfare in September is a mix of periods when prices are stable and when they soar. Because of consecutive holidays and events, it is important to make travel plans early and book at the cheapest times. Also, take advantage of travel packages and last-minute discounts to save even more money!
Hotel Market in September
September is a time when the peak summer vacation season has passed and hotel rates are gradually calming down.
However, travelers should plan ahead to make reservations, as prices can rise again in conjunction with holidays and local events.
Here is a detailed explanation of hotel rates and tips for saving money in September!
1. hotel price trends in september
Hotel rates in September tend to start dropping at many accommodations as the peak summer season ends.
Especially in early September, it is often possible to stay at a relatively reasonable price.
However, be careful during consecutive holidays including Respect-for-Senior-Citizens Day and Autumnal Equinox Day (September 15-17 and September 21-23)! Many travelers will be on the move again during these periods, and prices will skyrocket, especially for hotels in resorts and tourist destinations.
For example, popular resort hotels in Okinawa may charge more than twice the normal rate during consecutive holidays.
Some areas also host fall festivals and local events, so early reservations are essential, especially during those times.
2. timing of reservations and tips for saving money
The key to booking a hotel at the best price is timing.
Especially in September, it is possible to stay at a very reasonable price if you avoid consecutive holidays and stay on a weekday.
Ideally, we recommend completing the reservation at least one month in advance, i.e., during August.
It is also wise to aim for weekdays during the off-season.
Weekdays are often significantly less expensive than weekends and consecutive holidays, so those with more time in their schedules can save by planning trips on weekdays.
In addition, check out the ” Early Booking Discounts ” and ” Consecutive Night Discounts ” offered on official hotel websites and travel reservation sites. By taking advantage of these discounts, you can save more money than usual.
3. use of travel booking sites
As with airline tickets, hotel reservations can also be arranged at a discount by using a travel booking site.
In particular, major reservation sites such as Expedia offer a wide variety of discounts and promotions for individual hotels.
These sites offer daily discounts and coupons, which can reduce the cost of individual reservations.
In addition, members may be able to save even more money by taking advantage of member-only discounts and point programs.
Furthermore, travel reservation sites offer a wide variety of accommodations, allowing you to choose the hotel that best suits your preferences.
For example, a wide range of choices are available, from luxury resorts to business hotels and guesthouses.
When making a reservation, check reviews and use the price comparison feature to find the best hotel.
In addition, travel reservation sites regularly offer sales and promotions, and if you book through these sites, you can often stay at a much lower price than usual.
Please check the site frequently to find the best deals!
4. other ways to save money
For further savings, consider the following
- Last-minute discounts and waitlists: If a room becomes available at the last minute, you may be able to stay at a discounted rate. One way to do this is to use the “wait-list” service, which allows you to reserve a room at a discount, especially if there is a sudden cancellation.
- Consecutive Night Discounts: Staying two or more consecutive nights may qualify for a discount on the per-night rate. If you plan to stay for an extended period of time, you may want to choose a hotel that offers a discount on consecutive nights.
- Early Booking Discounts: It is also effective to take advantage of “Early Booking Discounts,” which allow you to stay at a lower rate than the regular price if you make your reservation early. Early reservations are often advantageous, especially at popular hotels, so be sure to act quickly.
- Business hotels and guesthouses: If you are looking for a less expensive alternative to a resort hotel, business hotels and guesthouses are also an option. Reasonably priced and comfortable accommodations are increasingly available, especially in city centers and tourist areas, and are perfect for travelers who prefer a simple stay.
Hotel rates in September vary widely depending on the time of year and location. The key to keeping travel costs down is to make smart reservations for weekdays and off-season, while avoiding consecutive holidays and events.
Also, please make good use of package tours and various discounts to enjoy a more fulfilling trip!
summary
In September, Okinawa not only enjoys the afterglow of summer, but is also full of traditional events and activities.
Although this is a time of year when the weather can be unpredictable, there are plenty of spots and indoor activities that can be enjoyed even in the rain.
Make your airline and hotel reservations early and plan your trip well in advance to fully enjoy Okinawa in September.
If you want to enjoy Okinawa, get discount tickets online!
special feature article
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The main island of Okinawa has many wonderful beaches that can only be found in the tropics. We will introduce each of them in an easy-to-understand manner, from the very secluded to the well-serviced executive beaches.
Typhoon Okinawa
We have compiled a list of points to keep in mind when a typhoon approaches so that you can respond without panic before or during your trip. We hope you will find it useful.
One of the best spots for lunch in Okinawa!
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