November in Toyama Prefecture is a time of transition, offering a unique blend of late autumn beauty and the first whispers of winter. The vibrant colors of November give way to a more subtle and profound landscape. The air, now carrying a distinct chill, deepens the sense of tranquility as the region prepares for the coming snows. From the last flashes of fiery foliage to the dramatic, snow-dusted peaks of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, November presents a striking contrast that is both serene and spectacular. It's a month when visitors can experience the changing of the seasons firsthand, capturing the quiet elegance of Toyama's natural scenery.
Weather in November
November in Toyama marks the shift to cooler, more winter-like weather, which is perfect for a visit. Temperatures vary greatly depending on whether you're at the coast or in the mountains. In the plains, daytime temperatures are mild, usually between 10-14°C, while nights get cold, dropping to 5-8°C.
In the higher mountain regions like the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, winter arrives early. Expect much colder conditions, with daytime temperatures often hovering around 0°C. At night, temperatures regularly fall well below freezing, and snowfall is common. This makes packing layers crucial. You'll want to be ready for the milder weather in the lowlands and the significantly colder, snowy conditions of the mountains.
Seasonal Highlights in November
Toyama Castle Park
The historic grounds of Toyama Castle Park take on a unique charm in November. The vibrant autumn leaves bring an added warmth to the landscape, contrasting beautifully with the castle's restored exterior and moat. Strolling the grounds in the crisp air, visitors can enjoy the fall scenery while also exploring nearby attractions like the Toyama Glass Art Museum. In other parts of the city, such as the Fugan Canal Kansui Park, the trees along the water's edge also show off brilliant colors, providing a different perspective on Toyama's urban landscape in the fall.
Vibrant Autumn Colors
November in Toyama marks the final stage of the autumn foliage season, with a beautiful blend of deep, rich colors and the first touches of winter.
In the higher elevations of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, the brilliant reds and yellows of October have already given way to the first snows. The scenery transforms dramatically, offering a stunning contrast of white peaks against the last remnants of fall colors in the mid-elevation valleys. The route is in its last month of operation before closing for winter, making it a unique and serene time to visit.
Closer to the city, the Kurobe Gorge Railway is at the peak of its autumn season from mid-October to mid-November. A ride through this deep gorge offers a spectacular view as the valleys glow with a breathtaking mosaic of scarlet and gold.
In Gokayama, the traditional thatched-roof farmhouses are beautifully framed by the surrounding mountains, which still hold onto their autumnal splendor. The scene is both timeless and serene, providing a perfect backdrop for photographers and travelers seeking quiet beauty.
Hot Onsen for the Chilly Weather
With the air turning crisp, there’s nothing better than relaxing in an open-air hot spring while surrounded by autumn leaves. Unazuki Onsen, the starting point for the Kurobe Gorge Railway, is particularly popular in November, offering scenic outdoor baths where you can unwind after a day of exploring. Beyond the Kurobe area, you can also find other excellent options. Tateyama Kogen Hotel at the Murodo Plateau on the Alpine Route has an indoor bath with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Additionally, in the southern part of the prefecture, Shogawa Onsen offers relaxing riverside baths amidst the beautiful autumn scenery of the Shogawa River.
Featured Tours in November
[Summer/Fall Only] From Kanazawa: Shomyo Falls, Light Alpine Hikes and Tateyama Mountain's Majesty
November marks the end of the season for exploring the Tateyama Mountains, offering a final opportunity to experience the dramatic transition from autumn to winter. This tour, which begins in Kanazawa, takes you to the highest peaks of the Alpine Route, where you'll find a striking landscape of lingering fall foliage and the first blankets of snow. It's a journey that combines breathtaking natural scenery with the unique sight of Japan's tallest waterfall. Please note, this tour operates until November 3, after which the Alpine Route's operational hours and available transport options are limited before its full winter closure.
Highlights:
- Hike to the majestic Shomyo Falls, Japan's tallest waterfall.
- Enjoy a light hike and picnic lunch in the serene Midagahara Wetlands.
- Explore the high-altitude trails and snow around Murodo and the beautiful Mikurigaike Pond.
[Summer/Fall Only] From Kanazawa: Shomyo Falls, Light Alpine Hikes and Tateyama Mountain's Majesty
- Spots:
- KanazawaAlpine Route
- Pick-up:
- Kanazawa
- Drop-off:
- Kanazawa
1 Day Tour from Kanazawa: Beautiful Amaharashi, A Big Buddha and the Shogawa Valley River Cruise
November is an excellent month for exploring the Amaharashi Coast and the historic city of Takaoka. As the fall colors in the mountains come to a close, a different kind of beauty emerges along the coast. The cooler weather and the crisp, clear air often create dramatic, cloud-filled backdrops for the iconic views of the Amaharashi Coast, where the sea and mountains meet. This tour beautifully combines stunning coastal scenery with the rich cultural heritage of Takaoka. It's a perfect time to experience the region's serene, late-autumn atmosphere and the rich history of the city.
Highlights:
- Capture photos of the Amaharashi Coast, where the sea, mountains, and trees meet.
- See the famous Takaoka Big Buddha and the traditional streets of the city.
- Take a river cruise through the scenic Shogawa Valley.
More Ways to Visit Toyama
Beyond our guided tours, we provide private charters and flexible travel options to Toyama. These are an excellent choice for travelers who prefer a personalized itinerary or the comfort of a private vehicle. Charters are ideal for families, couples, or groups who want to experience the best of Toyama and the surrounding region with complete convenience and freedom.
COMING SOON!
Local News & Travel Updates
- Crowds & Travel Tips - November in Toyama marks the final stage of the autumn foliage season, offering a quieter yet equally beautiful experience. While the vibrant colors have peaked in the higher mountains, a final burst of gold and red can still be seen in the lower valleys. The Kurobe Gorge Railway is particularly stunning in November, providing a scenic ride through the remaining autumn hues before it closes for the season. Although generally less crowded than in October, it's still a popular time for visitors, so it's a good idea to book accommodations and transportation ahead of time to ensure a smooth trip.
- Transport Updates - November offers a quieter time to explore Toyama's stunning scenery, but transportation still requires some planning. The Kurobe Gorge Railway continues to operate through the late autumn season, while the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route is in its final weeks of operation before closing for the winter. By booking a tour with us, you can avoid the hassle of securing seats on these routes, allowing you to fully enjoy the spectacular blend of late-autumn colors and early-winter snow without any transport worries.
- Onsen Towns in Season - November is an excellent time to visit Toyama's hot spring resorts, offering a tranquil and refreshing experience as the weather turns cool. Many ryokan, including those in the well-known Unazuki Onsen, offer a serene escape with open-air baths where you can soak in the warm waters while surrounded by the last of the autumn colors and the first signs of winter. The secluded hot springs along the Kurobe Gorge Railway, like Kuronagi Onsen and the rustic Kanetsuri riverside bath, are particularly magical in November before the railway closes for the season. Other great options include the scenic riverside baths at Shogawa Onsen, which provides a peaceful retreat, and the unique Omaki Onsen, which is only accessible by boat, making for an unforgettable journey to a secluded haven.
Where to Stay in November
November is a wonderful month to visit Toyama and the Hokuriku region, as the landscapes transition from vibrant autumn to the peaceful onset of winter. To make the most of your trip, it's key to choose the perfect base for your stay. The area offers a variety of accommodations, from ryokan nestled in the mountains for a chance to witness the last of the fall foliage, to tranquil retreats in a hot spring town, or a stay in a city with a rich history and lively cultural atmosphere. By planning ahead, you can select a location that aligns with the unique experiences each area offers, ensuring a memorable November getaway.
- Toyama City – Toyama is great base for exploring the city's urban attractions, while also having convenient access to the stunning autumn foliage of the surrounding mountains and coastal areas.
- Unazuki Onsen – Staying in Unazuki Onsen in November is perfect for travelers who want to immerse themselves in the region's famous autumn colors while enjoying a relaxing hot spring experience right at the start of the Kurobe Gorge Railway.
- Takaoka – An excellent choice for those interested in exploring the city's rich history and traditional crafts, while also being well-positioned to visit the nearby Amaharashi Coast
- Gokayama – Ideal for those seeking a tranquil and traditional experience, as you can see the World Heritage gassho-zukuri farmhouses beautifully framed by vibrant autumn foliage.
Wherever you choose to stay, autumn is one of the busiest times of year, so it’s best to make arrangements well in advance. For more guidance, see our Best Places to Stay in Toyama.
Plan Your November Visit to Hokuriku
November in Toyama and the Hokuriku region is when nature and culture truly shine, offering a rich mix of culture, flavor, and landscapes. In Kanazawa, the elegant Kenrokuen Garden and the historic teahouse districts are transformed with vibrant fall colors, while in Fukui, the majestic Eiheiji Temple is framed by ancient trees that create a spectacular display of autumn hues. With so much to see and large numbers of visitors expected, planning ahead is the key to making the most of your trip—whether that means securing accommodation early or joining a guided tour to take the hassle out of transport and reservations.
