November brings a shift from autumn’s vivid flourish to a more subdued, quieter atmosphere along the Nakasendo. The brilliant fall foliage, at its peak early in the month, begins to fade and be replaced by bare branches, frosty dawns, and the ever-present history of the post-towns. As the days shorten and daylight fades earlier, visitors who come in early November still get to experience many of the trail’s charms before winter fully settles. Whether walking independently or with a guide, you’ll find a pleasant hike through the Japanese countryside and many well preserved and cozy post towns.
This page brings together all of our best tips and ideas on how to enjoy the Nakasendo in November, whether that be walking between post-towns such as Magome and Tsumago, exploring the charming streets of Narai-juku, or taking in the autumn colors along the trail itself. For visitors looking to make the most of their journey, consider joining one of our guided tours of the Nakasendō—led by friendly and knowledgeable guides who will ensure you enjoy an unforgettable day steeped in history and natural beauty.
Weather in November
Daytime temperatures along the Nakasendo in early November tend to range from 10-18 °C (50-64 °F), although higher elevations and shaded forest paths can feel markedly colder. Nights and early mornings dip near freezing, often between 0-5 °C (32-41 °F). Rainfall probability remains moderate, and occasional light snow or frost may appear in the more exposed or mountainous sections. As autumn ends, visibility can be excellent, especially on clear days, though mist or low clouds occasionally drift through the valleys.
What to Expect:
- Crisp, chilly mornings and evenings; layering is essential.
- Shorter daylight hours — plan your walks accordingly.
- Paths may be damp or slippery from fallen leaves and early frost.
- More tranquillity: fewer crowds, quieter post-towns, a more reflective pace.
Seasonal Highlights in November
From Autumn to Winter Hues
Though the peak of fall color has passed, early November still holds traces of golden beech and late larch leaves, especially in mid-elevation forests. As foliage wanes, the landscape transforms into soft browns, silvers of frost, and the haunting silhouettes of bare trees against cold skies.
Post-Towns Take on a Serene Character
Magome, Tsumago, and Narai-juku feel more intimate in November. With fewer day-trippers, the wooden streets, old inns, and teahouses exude a quiet charm. In Tsumago especially, wander after sunrise or before dusk when the lanterns glow and the hush is most pronounced, offering a strong sense of stepping back in time.
Frosty Mornings & Leaf-Covered Trails
Walking the forested trail between Magome and Tsumago becomes an experience of texture: crunchy leaves underfoot, frost lining moss and rock, and the soft morning haze rising alongside the trail. For photographic moments, early November offers scenes where light and shadow play through the trees without the distraction of dense foliage.
Featured Tours in November
1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Hiking the Historic Nakasendo Trail
Step into the past and experience life in rural Japan as you hike the Nakasendo trail from Tsumago-juku to Magome-juku. This scenic section of the Nakasendo trail is brimming with lush forests, crystal-clear streams, and remote mountain villages—which have remained relatively untouched by the modern world. Your experienced, English-speaking guide will lead you through the historic post town of Tsumago, along the 8 km Nakasendo trail, past waterfalls and wildlife, and into the stunning post town of Magome. Shop for handmade crafts and sample local fare.
Highlights
- Enjoy a guided stroll through the peaceful, well-preserved townscapes of Tsumago and Magome
- Hike the Nakasendo Trail for 8 km from Tsumago to Magome
- Sample regional specialties or shop for handcrafted souvenirs in the quaint town of Magome
- Take in panoramic countryside views as you travel on our comfortable tour bus to and from the Nakasendo trail.
Popular
1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Hiking the Historic Nakasendo Trail
- Spots:
- NagoyaKiso Valley
- Pick-up:
- Nagoya
- Drop-off:
- Nagoya
1-Day Tour from Nagano and Matsumoto: Step into the Past on the Nakasendo
Stray a little further from Matsumoto and stretch your legs on the Nakasendo trail with this fun day trip. Offering pickup from Matsumoto Station, our bus will take you to the town of Tsumago from where you will have an 8km hike through beautiful autumn scenery with your guide, ending in the town of Magome.
Highlights
- Convenient pickup from Matsumoto Station
- Learn about Old Japan in Magome and Tsumago
- Hike through autumn forests on the Nakasendo
Recommended
1-Day Tour from Nagano and Matsumoto: Step into the Past on the Nakasendo
- Spots:
- NaganoMatsumotoKiso Valley
- Pick-up:
- Nagano CityMatsumoto
- Drop-off:
- Nagano CityMatsumoto
1-Day Tour from Nagano and Matsumoto: Experience Matsumoto Castle and Narai-juku
Are you interested in seeing Japan as it used to be during the time of the Samurai? Then this is the tour for you! With a climb to the top of Matsumoto Castle in the morning, and an afternoon in Narai-juku, Japan's longest preserved post town, you will have the chance to see Japan as it once was - and see fall colors in Matsumoto and the Kiso Valley!
Highlights
- Enter Matsumoto Castle and climb to the top floor
- Enjoy fall colors in the Kiso Valley from the bus window on your drive to Narai-juku
- Stroll the Nakasendo in Narai-juku, home to over 600 preserved houses
Recommended
1-Day Tour from Nagano and Matsumoto: Experience Matsumoto Castle and Narai-juku
- Spots:
- NaganoMatsumotoKiso Valley
- Pick-up:
- Nagano CityMatsumoto
- Drop-off:
- Nagano CityMatsumoto
Rural Japan in Magome & the Kiso Valley Private Tour
Escape to the mountains and enjoy a refreshing getaway through Japan’s picturesque Kiso Valley as you tour historic villages and embrace local traditions on this day trip from Nagoya. Stroll down the streets of Magome-juku a post town on the Nakasendo trail, learn Japanese calligraphy in a historic temple, and dine on a wide array of dishes at a farm-to-table buffet. Relax and recharge in the charming countryside villages of Central Japan as you are led by an experienced, English-speaking guide from Nagoya on this full-day tour.
Highlights
- Glimpse into the lives of Edo-era merchants and families in the Nakasendo post-town of Magome.
- Learn calligraphy from a monk in a historic temple along the Nakasendo trail.
- Enjoy a buffet lunch at a farm-to-table restaurant and shochu distillery.
New Tour
[START FROM NAGOYA] Rural Japan in Magome & the Kiso Valley Private Tour
- Spots:
- NagoyaKiso Valley
- Pick-up:
- Nagoya
- Drop-off:
- Nagoya
Local News & Travel Updates
Accommodation
In early November, ryokan, minshuku, and traditional inns in Magome, Tsumago, and Narai-juku are still welcoming guests. Staying overnight offers a warm meal, a futon laid out on tatami floors, and the quiet charm of wooden streets lit by lanterns once day-trippers leave. Toward the end of the month, however, many inns begin to close for winter, so availability drops quickly. It’s a good idea to book well in advance if you plan to visit in early November. If accommodations in the post-towns aren’t available, nearby bases like Kiso-Fukushima, Matsumoto, or Nakatsugawa offer more options and easier access later in the season.
Transport
Trains to main access points such as Nakatsugawa, Kiso-Fukushima, and Shiojiri run year-round, but the buses that connect to Magome and Tsumago become less frequent in November. Last departures are often earlier in the day, especially on weekdays, so checking the schedule ahead of time is important. If you arrive late in the afternoon, taking a taxi from the nearest station is a reliable backup. Renting a car is another convenient option, though drivers should be cautious of frosty or slick roads in the mornings.
Trail Conditions
Most trails are still walkable in early November, but fallen leaves can make paths slippery, particularly in shaded forest sections. Frost in the mornings can add to the challenge, so good hiking shoes with grip are essential. Light rain and the season’s first dustings of snow are also possible, making a waterproof jacket and warm layers a smart choice. Days are short, with the sun setting around 4:30–5:00 PM, so it’s best to start hikes early and carry a headlamp just in case. With a little preparation, the trails remain highly enjoyable—offering quiet scenery, crisp air, and far fewer crowds than in peak autumn.
Where to Stay in November
Magome-juku & Tsumago-juku – Staying overnight in these post-towns offers the most immersive experience of the Nakasendō. Traditional ryokan and minshuku provide tatami rooms, futon bedding, and hearty meals made with local ingredients. Autumn evenings in these mountain hamlets are especially atmospheric, with lantern-lit streets and quiet surroundings once the day-trippers leave. Early booking is essential, as the limited number of lodgings fills quickly in November.
Narai-juku / Kiso-Fukushima – Narai-juku is ideal for those wanting to soak up the historic ambiance of the longest post-town on the trail, while Kiso-Fukushima serves as a practical base for exploring multiple sections of the valley. Kiso-Fukushima offers a wider range of accommodation types, from traditional inns with onsen baths to modern hotels, as well as more dining and shopping options. This makes it convenient for travelers seeking both cultural immersion and comfort.
Matsumoto or Nagoya City – For those who prefer urban amenities or are making shorter day trips onto the trail, Matsumoto and Nagoya are excellent bases. Matsumoto offers the charm of a smaller castle town with easy access to the Kiso Valley, while Nagoya, as a major transport hub, provides abundant hotels, restaurants, and direct train links to trail entry points such as Nakatsugawa and Kiso-Fukushima.
Plan Your November Visit
November marks the quiet close of the Nakasendo’s walking season. The vivid colors of October fade into frosty mornings, bare trees, and a more reflective atmosphere in the post-towns. While the weather is colder and daylight shorter, the stillness of the trail in November offers a different kind of reward—one of solitude, history, and calm. Whether on a guided tour or exploring independently, it’s a chance to experience the path in a more intimate way before winter arrives.
If you’re visiting this November, consider one of our seasonal tours to make the most of your time in the Kiso Valley and Matsumoto, with the comfort of expert guidance and local knowledge.