With crisp autumn air, vibrant fall foliage across most of the country, and fewer typhoons or crowds compared to October, November is, in our opinion, one of the best months to visit Japan.
Weather in November
November sees temperatures drop steadily, especially in northern and mountainous regions. It’s generally dry, cool, and ideal for sightseeing. Autumn foliage reaches its peak in many popular spots.
| Region | Early November Avg High | Late November Avg Low |
| Tokyo | 19°C | 9°C |
| Kyoto | 18°C | 7°C |
| Osaka | 19°C | 8°C |
| Nagoya | 19°C | 9°C |
| Nagano | 15°C | 3°C |
| Takayama | 14°C | 2°C |
| Kanazawa | 17°C | 8°C |
| Hiroshima | 19°C | 9°C |
| Sapporo | 9°C | 0°C |
What to Pack: Layers, a warm jacket for mornings and evenings, and waterproof shoes in case of early snow in northern areas like Takayama or Sapporo.
Seasonal Highlights in November
Autumn Colors
- Kyoto (Mid–Late November): Red maples light up temple grounds and riversides.
- Tokyo (Mid–Late November): We recommend checking out garden illuminations and forest hikes just outside the city.
- Nikko (Early November): The historic area near Toshogu Shrine glows with golden ginkgo and crimson leaves.
- Miyajima Island (Mid-November): Momijidani (Maple Valley) is one of Japan’s top foliage spots.
- Kanazawa / Kenrokuen Garden (Mid–Late November): Famed garden views with seasonal color and historic charm.
Holidays and Events
- Shichi-Go-San (Nov 15): Traditional festival celebrating children aged 3, 5, and 7. See families in kimono at shrines across the country.
- Autumn Illumination Events: Gardens and temples are lit up for night-time foliage viewing in cities like Kyoto, Nagoya, and Kanazawa.
Featured Tours in November
1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Korankei Gorge & Fox Shrines—A Photographer's Paradise / All Year Round
Experience the natural beauty and captivating scenery of Japan on this unforgettable one-day tour, perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Travel to the iconic Toyokawa Inari Shrine and capture the serene beauty of its one thousand stone foxes. Marvel at the natural beauty of Korankei Gorge, one of Japan’s top spots for autumn foliage, where the vibrant colors of over 4,000 maple trees reflect off the tranquil waters. Explore Sanshu Asuke Yashiki Village, a picturesque open-air museum, where rural charms and traditional crafts await.
This tour is not only a photographer’s dream, taking you to some of Nagoya’s most photogenic spots, but also offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and timeless beauty.
HALF DAY WALKING TOUR: TAKAYAMA HIDDEN GEMS & TEMPLE WALK / all year round
Uncover the rich history and hidden beauty of Takayama with our Half-Day Walking Tour: Takayama’s Hidden Gems & Temple Walk. This immersive journey takes you through centuries-old streets, serene temple grounds, and scenic landscapes, offering a deeper appreciation of the city’s heritage. Begin at the Takayama City Museum, where you’ll learn about the samurai governance and merchant culture that shaped Takayama. Follow the historic Higashiyama Walking Course, a tranquil route lined with temples, shrines, and Shiroyama Park, once home to Takayama Castle. Conclude in the charming Old Town, where traditional wooden buildings, artisan shops, and sake breweries invite further exploration at your own pace. Ready to step back in time and experience Takayama’s enduring legacy? Book your walking tour today!
1-Day Tour from Nagano and Matsumoto: Experience Matsumoto Castle and Narai-juku / all year round
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
This engaging one-day tour takes you to Matsumoto Castle – one of the few remaining original castles in Japan and a registered National Treasure – before heading to the beautifully preserved, 1-km long post town known as Narai-juku, located on the Nakasendo road. Led by a locally-based guide and including direct transport to Narai-juku from Matsumoto and Nagano, this tour captures the essence of Old Japan at two of its best preserved historical sites.
November Festivals & Events by City/Region
Tokyo
- Tokyo Chrysanthemum Exhibition (Meiji Shrine, Until Nov 23): Intricate displays of Japan’s national flower.
- Rikugien Garden Autumn Light-up (Mid–Late Nov): One of Tokyo’s most romantic autumn events.
- Mount Takao Maple Festival (All Month): Nature hikes and festival food just an hour from the city.
Kyoto
- Tofuku-ji & Eikando Temple Foliage (Mid–Late Nov): Stunning views and evening light-ups.
- Arashiyama Momiji Festival (Mid Nov): Boat processions and cultural performances along the river.
- Shichi-Go-San Visits at Yasaka Shrine: Watch traditional family celebrations on Nov 15.
Osaka
- Midosuji Illumination (Late Nov–Dec): The city's main avenue lights up in elegant holiday displays.
- Expo ’25 Countdown Events: Public exhibitions and pre-launch showcases.
- Sumiyoshi Shrine Autumn Festival: Folk performances and seasonal rituals.
Nagoya
- Korankei Gorge Maple Festival (Nov 1 – 30): Nighttime illumination of the ~3000 maple trees in the valley color Mt. Iimori in shades of gold from sundown to 9PM. And on the weekends, 1,000 bamboo lanterns line the pathway to Kojakuji Temple.
- Tokugawa Garden Autumn Leaf Festival (Nov 14 – Dec 14): Enjoy the beauty of autumn leaves at Tokugawa Garden. During the festival, the lights will be turned on from around 4pm every day the garden is open. On weekends during the festival, a special outdoor market selling sweets and other local goods will be open.
- Niiname-sai Sake Festival at Ise Jingu (Nov 23): Niiname-sai is an annual event at Ise Grand Shine involving offering newly harvested grain to the gods, giving thanks for the blessings, and praying for the peace of the nation and the prosperity of its people. To celebrate the Niiname-sai, on November 23rd, Okage Yokocho will hold a sake festival displaying this year's new sake for visitors to sample and purchase.
Hiroshima
- Momiji-dani Autumn Festival (Miyajima): Celebrating peak foliage at one of Japan’s sacred sites.
- Hiroshima Sake Festival (Select Breweries): Tastings and brewery tours highlighting regional flavors.
- Peace Memorial Park Autumn Cleanup & Ceremonies: Community events held in honor of peace and remembrance.
Kanazawa
- Ishikawa Food Festival (first full weekend of November): This festival is a perfect time to visit the city for all the foodies out there! Ishikawa Shikou Memorial Park fills with stalls and tents showcasing all of the wonderful food sold across the prefecture. From local delicacies to the region's best restaurants, you can eat your fill here!
- Kanazawa Cosplay Festival (23rd November): This grassroots anime and manga convention is only in its fourth year, but has made leaps in growth for each of its previous outings. While it may not be a reason to specifically visit the city yet, it would be a great way to spend a cool afternoon in the park by Shiinoki Guest House!
Takayama
- Autumn Craft Days at Hida Folk Village: Seasonal workshops and traditional food tasting.
- Shirakawa-go Autumn Glow (Early Nov): Last chance to see fall colors in the UNESCO-listed gassho-zukuri village.
Nagano
- Obuse Autumn Walks: Chestnut desserts, ukiyo-e museums, and foliage around temple paths.
- Togakushi Shrine Trail (Early Nov): Mystical forest walks surrounded by golden leaves.
- Nozawa Onsen Fire Festival Previews: Preparations begin for the dramatic winter event in January.
Sapporo
- White Illumination Begins (Late Nov): Hokkaido’s winter season starts with glowing displays in Odori Park.
- Early Snow in Mountains: Ski resorts begin opening depending on snowfall.
- Jozankei Onsen Light-up: Hot spring escapes with colorful trees and early snow contrast.
Travel Tips & Local News
- Foliage Crowds: Book train tickets and hotels early in major spots like Kyoto, Nikko, and Miyajima.
- Evening Events: Bring warm clothing for night illuminations and temple visits.
- Ski Season Watch: Resorts like Niseko or Hakuba may open late November if snow arrives early.
- Seasonal Closures: Some alpine trails (e.g., Kamikochi) close early in the month due to weather.
Plan Your November Visit
November brings peak autumn colors to the southern and low-laying areas of Japan, and the first frosts of winter in the mountains and northern regions. The crowds tend to disappear as the month progresses, making it a perfect time to travel for those looking to see Japan’s iconic red maples without the crowds.
Tips for Planning:
- Wear layers and prepare for chilly nights, especially in the mountains.
- Don’t miss seasonal foods like oden, roasted chestnuts, and autumn kaiseki.
- Join evening illumination events for a magical perspective on fall foliage.
Ready to experience Japan in November 2025?
With Snow Monkey Resorts, you can create a fully personalized, multi-day Japan itinerary by connecting our one-day tours—giving you ultimate flexibility, convenience, and expert local guidance every step of the way.
Learn how to create your one-of-a-kind itinerary or check out our recommended itineraries and start planning your November trip to Japan today.
