November in Nagano is a month of shifting beauty. The fiery autumn colors linger through the first half of the month in city temples, mountain trails, and castle towns, while the second half begins to hint at the coming of winter. Clear skies, cool mountain air, and the contrast of autumn leaves with fresh snow at higher elevations make November one of the most photogenic months in the region. Seasonal food traditions, from warming hot pots and roasted chestnuts to late harvest apples and sake, add to the appeal, making it a rewarding time to visit.
This guide brings together everything you need to know about Nagano in November — from foliage and cultural highlights at Zenkoji, Togakushi, and Matsumoto, to practical travel advice and tour recommendations. Joining a guided tour remains one of the best ways to enjoy the region without worrying about transportation or logistics, leaving you free to focus on the seasonal food, landscapes, and experiences that define Nagano in November.
Weather in Nagano in November
November weather in Nagano is cool and crisp, with a distinct transition from autumn to early winter. The vivid foliage of late October gradually descends into the city and valleys during the first half of the month, while higher elevations such as Shiga Kogen and the Northern Alps often see their first real snowfalls.
- Average daytime temperature: 5°C to 13°C (41°F to 55°F)
- Nighttime temperature: -2°C to 5°C (28°F to 41°F)
- Conditions: Clear skies dominate, though frost is common in mornings, and snow is possible in the mountains by mid- to late November.
- Clothing: Warm layers are essential. A coat, scarf, and gloves will be useful, especially in the mornings and evenings. Sturdy shoes or boots are recommended for walking temple grounds and colder mountain trails.
- Precipitation: Relatively low, though occasional rain or early snow showers occur in higher regions.
- Daylight hours: Around 10 hours per day, with noticeably earlier sunsets.
The combination of autumn foliage, crisp mountain air, and early snow makes November an atmospheric time to explore both city sites like Zenkoji Temple and outdoor destinations such as Togakushi, Matsumoto, and Kamikochi or the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route (until they both close for winter in mid-November).
Festivals & Events in November
Ebisu-ko Fireworks Festival 2025
Every year on November 23, Nagano City comes alive with the dazzling Ebisu-ko Fireworks Festival (えびす講煙火大会), one of Japan’s most spectacular autumn celebrations. As night falls, more than 15,000 fireworks burst over the city, painting the crisp November sky in radiant colors. The display is choreographed to music and enhanced by seasonal festivities, with a modern twist in the form of an opening drone show that sets the stage for an unforgettable evening.
- When: November 23, starting around 6:00 pm
- Where: Along the Sai River in Nagano City
- Highlights: An awe-inspiring spectacle of light and sound; fireworks reflecting brilliantly over the river; rows of food stalls offering festive flavors and warming seasonal treats.
- Getting there: From Nagano Station, it’s about a 20-minute walk or short bus ride south to the Sai River viewing area.
Recommended
[NOV 23 ONLY] 1-Day Tour: Ebisu-ko Fireworks Festival & Snow Monkeys
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow Monkey
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Nagano City
Shinshu Mushikura Festival 2025
Going into its 19th installment this year, the Shinshu Mushikura Festival (信州むしくらまつり) is a lively autumn event held in the Nakajo district of Nagano City, celebrating the season’s beauty at the foot of Mt. Mushikura. The festival features stage performances by local schools and community groups, traditional folk arts, taiko drumming, and guest appearances. Visitors can enjoy a craft market, regional foods including local specialty obukko noodles, and the vibrant colors of the surrounding mountain scenery. For those who really want to experience a down-to-earth local festival, this is the one for you!
- When: Early November (last year’s festival was November 3, 10:00 am–2:30 pm)
- Where: Michi-no-Eki Nakajo Furusato Square, Nakajo district, Nagano City
- Highlights: Stage shows blending traditional and modern performances; locally made crafts and produce; seasonal dishes and food stalls; a friendly community atmosphere against the backdrop of autumn foliage.
- Getting there: A free shuttle bus runs from the Chikuma City Hall and former city office to the venue. For drivers, limited parking is available at designated lots near Nakajō.
Seasonal Highlights in November
Autumn Colors & First Snow
November in Nagano offers one of the most striking seasonal contrasts of the year. In the first half of the month, autumn colors still glow brightly in many areas, particularly around Zenkoji Temple, Obuse, and Matsushiro. As the month progresses, the colors gradually fade from the valleys and city, but they give way to another seasonal beauty, which is the first snow on the mountains. By mid to late November, higher elevations such as Shiga Kogen and the Northern Alps are often capped in white, creating a stunning backdrop to the temples, towns, and orchards below. This natural transition from autumn to winter makes November an especially atmospheric month to explore Nagano.
End of the Harvest & Winter Warmth
November also marks the final wave of harvest flavors and the beginning of warming winter cuisine. Apples remain abundant in Nagano’s orchards and markets, appearing in everything from juices and pies to seasonal sweets. Mushrooms, pumpkins, and persimmons also fill local stores and roadside stands, bringing a rustic flavor to the region’s cooking. As temperatures drop, hot pot (nabe) dishes become increasingly popular, often served with local vegetables and mountain mushrooms in traditional inns and restaurants. Oyaki dumplings continue to shift with the season, featuring hearty fillings like pumpkin or mushroom, while sake breweries begin pressing new batches, offering visitors the chance to taste freshly brewed sake. Together, these flavors reflect both the lingering richness of autumn and the cozy warmth of the winter to come.
Featured Tours in November
We offer many tours to best suit the shifting seasons of November in Nagano by going to the destinations that take advantage of the nice weather and great views that you cannot see when the winter fully develops.
Snow Monkeys & The Ebisu-ko Fireworks Festival / November 23rd Only
Recommended
[NOV 23 ONLY] 1-Day Tour: Ebisu-ko Fireworks Festival & Snow Monkeys
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow Monkey
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Nagano City
Available only on November 23rd, this special tour offers the perfect chance to experience Nagano’s crisp late-autumn air illuminated by thousands of fireworks. Begin the day with a visit to the Snow Monkey Park, where your guides will share insights into the unique natural history of the region while you observe the famous hot spring-bathing macaques. After the monkey encounter, enjoy a delicious lunch before being transported to the fireworks venue. Your guides handle ticketing and navigation through the crowds, ensuring a smooth and relaxing experience. End the day marveling at nearly two hours of spectacular fireworks at Japan’s largest autumn fireworks festival. Be sure to dress warmly for a cozy evening under the night sky.
Highlights:
- Observe the iconic snow monkeys at Kanbayashi Onsen with expert guidance.
- Enjoy a tasty lunch before heading to the fireworks festival.
- Witness one of the latest Japanese fireworks festival; nearly two hours of breathtaking fireworks lighting up Nagano’s late-autumn sky.
1-Day Tour from Nagano and Matsumoto: Step into the Past 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
Experience the charm of Japan’s historic post towns and mountain trails this November on the legendary Nakasendo. Begin your journey in Tsumago, a beautifully preserved Edo-period town where rustic wooden houses are framed by the last of the autumn colors, creating a timeless atmosphere. From there, enjoy an 8-kilometer walk along the Nakasendo Trail, passing through quiet forests, cobblestone paths, and the refreshing spray of Odaki and Medaki waterfalls. Walking this trail can normally work up a sweat, but this is not the case in November's cooler atmosphere! As you continue toward Magome, the sloping town opens to sweeping views across the Kiso Valley, where the late-autumn scenery is often contrasted by the first snows on the distant peaks. After your rewarding hike, spend time exploring Magome’s lively streets, sampling seasonal treats, and browsing local crafts before returning to Matsumoto and Nagano.
Highlights:
- Stroll through the atmospheric streets of Tsumago, one of Japan’s best-preserved post towns.
- Walk the 8-kilometer Nakasendo Trail through forests, waterfalls, and original Edo-era cobblestone roads.
- Arrive in Magome, with its sloped main street, waterwheels, and views stretching toward snow-dusted mountains.
- Experience the quieter, late-autumn beauty of the Kiso Valley with fewer crowds and crisp mountain air.
Tateyama-Kurobe Tour: Walking on the 'Roof of Japan'
[Summer/Autumn only] Tateyama-Kurobe Tour: Walking on the 'Roof of Japan'
- Spots:
- NaganoAlpine Route
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Nagano City
November is the last chance of the year to experience the Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route, and by this time the landscape has fully transformed into a winter wonderland. High in the Northern Japanese Alps, heavy snow blankets the mountains, meadows, and ponds, creating a breathtaking contrast with the crisp blue skies above. Far from the autumn colors of October, November offers visitors the unique opportunity to walk among deep snow, feel the true onset of winter, and enjoy the dramatic beauty of Japan’s “Roof of Japan” before the route closes until spring.
Highlights:
- Ascend to Murodo (2,450 m) via trolley buses, ropeways, and cable cars, with panoramic views of snow-covered peaks and valleys.
- Experience the thrill of walking through heavy snow at Japan’s alpine heights, a rare chance in November before winter sports begin elsewhere.
- Marvel at the Kurobe Dam set against a dramatic backdrop of white slopes and early-winter scenery, blending human engineering with the power of nature.
1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys, Zenkoji Temple & Sake in Nagano
Best Selling
1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys, Zenkoji Temple & Sake in Nagano
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow MonkeyHakuba
- Pick-up:
- Nagano CityHakuba
- Drop-off:
- Nagano CityHakuba
Experience Nagano in November, when crisp mountain air and clear skies mark the transition from autumn to winter. Begin your day at Zenkoji Temple, where the historic wooden halls glow in the cool light of late autumn, framed by the last of the season’s foliage. While in the temple district, enjoy a guided sake tasting that introduces you to seasonal brews and the rich brewing traditions of Nagano. From there, travel to Kanbayashi Onsen to observe the famous snow monkeys, now spending more time in their hot spring as temperatures drop. While the valley remains largely free of snow in November, the surrounding peaks are already capped in white, offering a striking contrast to the forested landscape below.
Highlights:
- Explore Zenkoji Temple in the refreshing atmosphere of late autumn.
- Sample local sake near Zenkoji, learning about Nagano’s rich brewing traditions.
- Watch snow monkeys soaking in their hot spring as the weather grows colder.
- Take in views of surrounding snow-capped peaks contrasting with the forested valley.
We can also offer a private version of this tour that also visits the famous town of Obuse, with the ability to customize some of the experience to best match your expectations. You can see this below:
Recommended
[START FROM NAGANO CITY] Private Snow Monkey Tour
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow Monkey
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Nagano CityHakubaNozawa OnsenShiga KogenMadaraoMyoko
1-Day Tour from Nagano and Matsumoto: Kamikochi & Matsumoto Castle
Popular
1-Day Tour from Nagano and Matsumoto: Kamikochi & Matsumoto Castle
- Spots:
- NaganoMatsumotoKamikochi
- Pick-up:
- Nagano CityMatsumoto
- Drop-off:
- Nagano CityMatsumoto
Available only in the first half of November, this tour offers a final chance to explore Kamikochi before it closes for the winter. The day begins with a visit to Matsumoto Castle, where the last flashes of autumn color linger around the iconic black-and-white walls. From there, continue into the Northern Alps to Kamikochi, where the mountains are now heavily blanketed in snow, rising in stark contrast above the clear valley trails. Though winter has already arrived in the peaks, the paths along the Azusa River remain walkable, allowing visitors to experience the rare combination of snowy alpine scenery and late-autumn charm in the valley. Reflections of white peaks and golden larches ripple across the waters of Taisho Pond, creating a breathtaking scene unique to this time of year.
Highlights:
- Visit Matsumoto Castle surrounded by the final traces of autumn foliage.
- Walk Kamikochi’s clear valley trails while towering mountains are fully covered in snow.
- Capture stunning reflections of snowy peaks and golden forests on Taisho Pond.
- Experience Kamikochi’s rare November beauty before the valley closes for winter.
Half-Day Zenkoji Tour with Tea Experience w/optional Shukubo Temple Stay
Experience the charm of Nagano this November, when crisp mountain air and the city’s final autumn colors create a serene atmosphere at Zenkoji Temple. This half-day tour immerses you in the spiritual and cultural heart of the city, guiding you through the historic temple grounds and offering a traditional tea ceremony experience paired with seasonal flavors. Wander the nearby streets and markets to enjoy local crafts and seasonal treats, capturing the quiet beauty of Nagano as it prepares for winter.
Highlights:
- Explore the historic Zenkoji Temple grounds, framed by the last of the autumn foliage and crisp November air.
- Participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, experiencing the warmth and hospitality of Nagano in late autumn.
- Stroll the streets and markets near the temple, enjoying seasonal treats and local crafts in a quieter, early-winter setting.
Half-Day Zenkoji Tour with Tea Ceremony
- Spots:
- Nagano
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Nagano City
If you would like to upgrade your experience to stay on the grounds of Zenkoji Temple itself, it would be a one-of-a-kind opportunity to stay in a "shukubo" temple lodging for the night after the tour by booking the following tour option:
Tea Ceremony and Zenkoji Experience Tour with 'Shukubo' Temple Lodging Stay
- Spots:
- Nagano
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Nagano City
Tips for Visiting & Travel in November
Getting Around: Public transportation is generally reliable, but some seasonal routes—such as buses to Kamikochi—end by mid-November. Check schedules in advance, and consider taxis or guided tours for remote areas. Nagano City itself is compact and walkable.
What to Wear: Layered clothing is essential. Bring a warm coat, scarf, and gloves, especially for mornings, evenings, and mountain areas. Waterproof shoes are recommended for trails and temple grounds. Sunglasses are useful on sunny days with snowy peaks.
Photography: Early November highlights peak autumn foliage, while late November offers dramatic contrasts of first snow on mountains, temples, and shrines. Sunrise and sunset provide especially striking lighting for landscapes.
Timing Your Visit: The first half of November is ideal for autumn colors, while the latter half brings early winter scenery and events like the Ebisu-ko Fireworks Festival. Weekdays and mornings are quieter at popular sites.
Additional Tips:
- Accommodation: Book early for popular areas like Kanbayashi Onsen or Zenkoji shukubo, even in off-peak season.
- Festivals & Seasonal Flavors: Enjoy harvest fruits like apples, persimmons, and chestnuts, as well as local markets, fire festivals, and sake tastings.
- Mountain Safety: Higher elevations may have snow and slippery trails—dress warmly and carry water and snacks.
Where to Stay in November
November is a rewarding month to spend a night in Nagano City or nearby areas. Staying overnight lets you experience the city’s quieter streets, crisp mountain air, and the last autumn colors before winter sets in, or early winter scenery with snow-capped peaks in surrounding mountains.
Western Hotels in Nagano – Central Nagano offers a variety of hotels with modern amenities, convenient for visiting Zenkoji Temple, city markets, and restaurants. Staying in the city allows easy access to tours and transport to nearby attractions.
Temple Lodging at Zenkoji Temple – For a unique cultural experience, spend the night in a shukubo, a temple lodging where you can participate in morning prayers, meditation, and traditional vegetarian meals (shojin ryori). A shukubo stay in Zenkoji, Togakushi, or Matsushiro offers a serene, spiritual atmosphere, complemented by crisp November air and early winter scenery.
New Tour
2-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys, Samurai Experience & Zenkoji 'Shukubo' Stay
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow Monkey
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Nagano City
Kanbayashi Onsen – Another excellent option is the onsen resorts around Kanbayashi near the snow monkeys. Although this is farther away from Nagano City, accommodations here book out fast in October due to the density of the fall foliage and quality of onsen and amenities they provide
Wherever you choose to stay, November is less crowded than October, but popular areas still require advance booking. Spending the night enhances your experience of Nagano’s seasonal beauty, cultural offerings, and early winter landscapes.
Plan Your November Visit
November is a remarkable time to experience Nagano City and its surrounding regions. Early in the month, autumn colors linger at Zenkoji Temple, along Togakushi’s cedar avenue, and in the orchards of Obuse, creating a stunning seasonal backdrop. By late November, snow begins to dust mountain peaks and temples, offering a striking contrast between lingering fall colors and early winter landscapes. Seasonal events, such as the Ebisu-ko Fireworks Festival and local harvest markets, highlight Nagano’s food and cultural traditions.
Planning ahead will help you make the most of your trip. Consider staying overnight in Nagano City to enjoy quieter streets and temple grounds, or experience the serene spirituality of a shukubo temple lodging. Onsen towns like Kanbayashi provide a relaxing base, with scenic views of snow-capped mountains. Guided tours remain a convenient way to travel between highlights, allowing you to focus on the scenery, seasonal flavors, and cultural heritage that make Nagano in November unforgettable.
If you’re planning a trip to Nagano this November and would like assistance with accommodations, tours, or travel planning, our team is here to help. Whether you want to join a guided tour, book a stay at a traditional inn, or simply get advice on the best way to experience the season, use the inquiry button at the bottom of the page. We’ll help you create a trip that maximizes the beauty and experiences of Nagano in November.