November is one of the most magical months to visit Kyoto. The city reaches its autumn climax: the maples and ginkgos burst into vibrant reds, golds, and oranges; the air becomes crisp and clear; and temples, shrines, and gardens take on a new warmth under autumn light. Meanwhile, cultural and seasonal events, nightly illuminations, and harvest flavours make November a particularly rich time to explore.
This guide brings together what you should expect in Kyoto in November — from weather and autumn colours to festival highlights, lodging suggestions, and tips for making the most of your visit. With the right timing and tour planning, November offers scenes and experiences you’ll remember for a lifetime.
Weather in November
November marks the true beginning of autumn’s chill.
- Average daytime temperature: 14–17°C (mid-50s to low-60s °F)
- Evenings / early mornings: 5–8°C (low-40s °F)
- Rainfall: Light, making for many clear, photo-perfect days.
Layers are key — mornings can be cold, afternoons mild, and nights crisp. Bring a jacket or coat and comfortable walking shoes for hilly temple paths and long strolls through the city.
Festivals & Events in November
Calendar of Events
While there are many festivals and events happening in Kyoto in November, here are three popular festivals we think you should try to attend.
Gion Odori
Held annually in early November at Gion Kaikan, the Gion Odori is Kyoto’s signature autumn geisha dance performance by Gion Higashi. The dances are elegant, precise, and steeped in tradition, reflecting centuries of Kyoto’s performing arts heritage. Attending offers a rare glimpse into the refined world of geiko and maiko, with costumes, music, and movement all harmonizing to create a serene and culturally immersive experience. Though the theatre setting is intimate, advance booking is essential, as seats fill quickly during this celebrated seasonal event.
Kanikakuni Sai
The Kanikakuni Sai, held on November 8 along the Shirakawa Canal in Gion, commemorates the poet Yoshii Isamu (1886–1960), a lover of the “floating world” of geisha. Maiko and geiko gather at a small commemorative stone to offer flowers and prayers. The event is a highly photogenic opportunity to witness Kyoto’s living traditions, with the backdrop of autumn colours and historic canal streets. Visitors should expect crowds, particularly photographers hoping to capture the grace of Kyoto’s geisha culture in natural light.
Kiyomizu-dera Night Illuminations
From late November through early December, Kiyomizu-dera Temple comes alive after dark with stunning autumn illuminations. The temple grounds, normally bathed in soft daylight, are transformed into a glowing tapestry of red, orange, and gold leaves. Strolling along the paths, visitors can enjoy both the architecture and the foliage in a serene, magical atmosphere. This event offers a unique opportunity for photography and reflection, but evenings can become crowded, so arriving early is recommended for the best views and tranquil experience.
Autumn Colours & Peak Viewing Spots
November is peak season for “kōyō” (autumn leaf-viewing) in Kyoto.
Kyoto’s autumn foliage season usually peaks from mid- to late November, depending on temperature. The transformation begins in the hills of Takao, Kurama, and Ohara, then spreads through Higashiyama, Arashiyama, and the city’s temples.
Top viewing spots:
- Tōfuku-ji Temple: Famous for its fiery red maples and the view from Tsūtenkyō Bridge.
- Kiyomizu-dera & Higashiyama District: Classic Kyoto scenes, especially during night illuminations.
- Arashiyama: Forested hills reflected in the Katsura River — best in late November.
- Eikandō & Nanzen-ji: Elegant temples with perfectly framed maple gardens.
- Takao & Kibune: Earlier colour change, quiet mountain atmosphere.
Many temples hold special evening light-ups in November. The most photogenic include Kiyomizu-dera, Eikandō, Kodai-ji, and Shōren-in.
For more information check out our 10 Best Places to See Autumn Leaves In Kyoto page.
Featured Tours in November
Sacred Peaks and Ancient Paths: The Kurama-Kibune Hiking Experience
October is one of the best times of year to journey into the sacred mountains of northern Kyoto. The air is cool and refreshing, the first autumn colours begin to paint the cedar forests, and the spiritual path between Kurama and Kibune feels especially alive. This hike combines natural beauty, centuries-old temple traditions, and the quiet charm of two mountain villages linked by an ancient pilgrimage trail.
Highlights:
- Walk the forested temple path from Kurama-dera to Kibune Shrine, following in the footsteps of monks and pilgrims.
- Experience the mystical atmosphere of towering cedar trees touched with the first reds and golds of autumn.
- Enjoy the tranquil riverside setting of Kibune, famous for its shrines and seasonal cuisine.
Sacred Peaks and Scenic Views: Mt. Hiezan, Enryakuji Temple and Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine
October is an exceptional month to explore Mount Hiei, the spiritual heart of Japanese Tendai Buddhism. Crisp mountain air and the first touches of autumn colour create a serene backdrop for discovering Enryakuji Temple, one of Kyoto’s most significant monastic complexes, and Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine, guardian of the mountain. This private tour blends panoramic views, sacred history, and seasonal beauty into a rewarding day beyond the city.
Highlights:
- Explore Enryakuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with centuries of Buddhist history.
- Visit Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine, the ancient protector of Mount Hiei, surrounded by nature in its autumn dress.
- Take in sweeping views over Kyoto, Lake Biwa, and the surrounding mountains, especially atmospheric in October.
Sacred Stone and Flowing Silk: Arashiyama Temples, Bamboo Forests, and Maiko River Cruise
November transforms Arashiyama into one of Kyoto’s most breathtaking landscapes, where autumn colours blaze across the mountains and reflect on the Katsura River. This special tour invites you to see Arashiyama through the eyes of Kohaku, a former maiko who shares her personal stories and insight into Kyoto’s traditional arts and geisha world.
The day begins with a walk through the Bamboo Forest, glowing in the soft autumn light, followed by visits to Atago Nenbutsu-ji and Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, two temples known for their whimsical stone statues and peaceful charm. You’ll then board a private Hozu River boat, drifting beneath the scarlet hills as Kohaku explains the rituals, history, and subtle beauty of maiko culture.
It’s an intimate and unforgettable journey that blends Kyoto’s seasonal splendour with its living traditions — perfect for travellers seeking both cultural depth and scenic wonder.
Highlights:
- Stroll through Arashiyama’s iconic Bamboo Forest, framed by peak autumn foliage.
- Visit Atago Nenbutsu-ji and Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, hidden temples filled with hundreds of smiling stone figures.
- Enjoy a private Hozu River boat ride with Kohaku, a former maiko, as your cultural guide.
- Experience the warmth of Kyoto’s hospitality and storytelling amid the calm of autumn nature.
More Ways to Visit Kyoto
Alongside our guided tours, we also offer Private Charters in Kyoto. These are perfect for travellers who prefer private transport, customised itineraries, or more flexibility in planning their day. Whether you’re travelling as a family, a couple, or a group, charters provide comfort and convenience while still letting you experience the best of the village and surrounding region.
Tips for Visiting & Travel in November
- Crowd and Transport Management - Arrive early at popular temples and gardens such as Tofukuji, Kiyomizu-dera, and Arashiyama to beat the crowds, especially during peak foliage timing. Use public transport wisely; buses near temples fill up fast during leaf-season. Consider guided tours to smooth logistics.
- What to Wear – Layers are your friend. Daytime warm, evenings can get chilly. Comfortable walking shoes for temple grounds and possibly hikes.
- Photography Tips – Mornings and late afternoons offer better light for colours. For festivals, scout viewpoints early; some areas allow paid seating for better views.
- Timing Your Visit – If you miss peak colour in the central or low areas, head to higher elevations or more remote temples where leaf change tends to happen earlier/slower.
- Accommodation - Book in advance for festivals. Staying in areas outside central Kyoto (e.g. Kurama, Uji, Takao) can give quieter evenings and earlier access to natural sites.
- Illumination - Check illumination schedules ahead of time—special night garden or temple light-ups are often held only on select evenings.
Where to Stay in November
Kyoto in November is one of Japan’s busiest travel periods. Rooms sell out fast, so book early.
- Central Kyoto (Gion, Higashiyama, Kawaramachi): Perfect for temple walks, night illuminations, and easy dining access.
- Northern hillsides (Kurama, Kibune, Takao): Quiet, cool, and surrounded by nature — ideal for early foliage.
- Uji or Ohara: For travelers who prefer countryside charm, tea culture, and peaceful mornings away from crowds.
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 Where to Stay In Kyoto and Nara page.
Plan Your November Visit
November in Kyoto is a feast for the senses: glowing colours, improving weather, and a rhythm of tradition and natural beauty. If you time your tour right, you can walk among illuminated temples under crimson maple branches, visit artisan market fairs, and savour seasonal flavours in less crowded moments.
With thoughtful planning—choosing when to explore, where to stay, and which events to include—you’ll experience Kyoto at one of its most photogenic, most cultural, most deeply felt moments. Guided tours can help maximize your time and insight so you focus on beauty and meaning, not maps and transport.
