November is one of the best months to experience Osaka. The air is crisp and comfortable, the city streets are bathed in autumn colours, and the cultural calendar brings lively festivals, illuminations, and seasonal events. From historic temples to bustling markets, Osaka in November offers both natural beauty and urban energy.
Whether you’re strolling along tree-lined boulevards, enjoying seasonal foods, or joining a festival, November in Osaka captures the perfect balance of culture, colour, and city life. This guide brings together what you should expect in Osaka in November — from weather and autumn colours to festival highlights, lodging suggestions, and tips for making the most of your visit.
Weather in November
November brings mild, dry, and comfortable conditions:
- Average daytime temperature: 13–18°C (mid-50s to low-60s °F)
- Evenings / early mornings: 7–10°C (mid-40s °F)
- Rainfall: Light; mostly clear, making for ideal sightseeing
Layered clothing is recommended. Comfortable shoes are essential for exploring both the city streets and nearby natural areas like Minoh Falls or Osaka Castle Park.
Festivals & Events in November
Calendar of Events
| Date | Festival | Location | Notes |
| November 3 | Minoh Falls Autumn Festival | Minoh Park | Celebrate the autumn foliage with scenic forest walks, seasonal snacks, and local cultural activities. |
| Nov 15 – Dec 1 | Osaka Castle Park Illuminations | Osaka Castle | Evening illumination of autumn-coloured trees around the castle grounds |
| Nov 1 – 30 | Chrysanthemum Festival & Shichigosan | Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine | Showcases thousands of blooming chrysanthemums, while Shichigosan honours children aged three, five, and seven |
While many festivals are held throughout the month, three stand out as particularly special for visitors:
Minoh Falls Autumn Festival
Just 30 minutes from central Osaka, Minoh Falls transforms into a kaleidoscope of red, orange, and gold every November. The Minoh Autumn Festival celebrates this natural spectacle with local performances, food stalls, and the seasonal delicacy momiji tempura — maple leaves deep-fried in a light batter. The path to the waterfall winds through forested hills lined with temples and teahouses, making it one of the Kansai region’s most picturesque autumn walks. While weekends draw crowds, visiting early in the day or on weekdays offers a peaceful, almost meditative experience surrounded by nature’s colours.
Osaka Castle Park Illuminations
As the leaves around Osaka Castle reach their peak in mid- to late November, the park begins its annual nighttime illumination. Spotlights bathe the castle walls and moats in soft gold, while the surrounding ginkgo and maple trees glow vividly in the crisp evening air. The illuminated paths invite visitors to stroll beneath the trees, with plenty of photo opportunities and seasonal food stalls nearby. For the best experience, visit just after sunset and circle the Nishinomaru Garden area, where reflections of the castle shimmer beautifully on the water — a calm, romantic contrast to Osaka’s energetic downtown.
Chrysanthemum Festival & Shichigosan at Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine
Throughout November, Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine — one of Osaka’s oldest and most culturally significant shrines — becomes a celebration of both nature and family. The Chrysanthemum Festival decorates the shrine precincts with stunning floral displays, each arrangement meticulously crafted in tribute to the imperial flower of Japan. Around the same time, the Shichigosan Festival brings families dressed in colourful kimono to pray for the health and happiness of their children aged three, five, and seven. Together, these overlapping events capture the essence of autumn in Japan — beauty, renewal, and gratitude expressed through tradition and community spirit.
Autumn Highlights in November
Osaka’s parks, riverbanks, and temple grounds come alive with autumn colour. Key spots include:
- Osaka Castle Park: Vibrant maples surrounding the iconic castle tower.
- Minoh Falls: Just outside the city, a scenic hike with spectacular foliage.
- Shitennoji Temple & Sumiyoshi Taisha: Historical sites framed by autumn trees.
- Nakanoshima Park & Osaka City Hall: Urban autumn views along rivers and boulevards.
Evening illuminations accentuate the season, especially in city districts like Namba, Umeda, and Dotonbori. Check out the Osaka Glico Man in Dotonbori for that iconic photo.
Featured Tours in November
Minoh Falls & Katsuoji Temple Day Trip
October is one of the most scenic times to explore Osaka’s northern outskirts. The air is crisp, the first autumn leaves begin to colour the trees, and the serene paths to Minoh Falls and Katsuoji Temple feel especially peaceful. This tour combines natural beauty with spiritual heritage, perfect for visitors seeking a quiet retreat from the city.
Highlights:
- Walk the forest trail to Minoh Falls, enjoying the autumn hues of the surrounding maple and ginkgo trees.
- Explore Katsuoji Temple, famous for its thousands of “daruma” dolls, which are believed to bring luck and success.
- Experience the tranquil countryside and picturesque landscapes just outside Osaka city.
Osaka City Cultural & Culinary Tour
October is the perfect month to immerse yourself in Osaka’s vibrant urban culture. The temperatures are comfortable for walking, and the city streets are alive with seasonal events and festivals. This tour combines history, culinary experiences, and iconic city landmarks for a full day of exploration.
Highlights:
- Visit Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks, surrounded by early autumn foliage in the castle park.
- Explore Shitennoji Temple, a historic site that reflects Osaka’s religious heritage.
- Sample seasonal delights at Kuromon Market, from fresh seafood to local snacks.
- Try your hand at traditional arts with the Ukiyo-e experience, creating your own Japanese prints.
- End the day in Dotonbori, taking in the neon lights and iconic Glico Man sign, a perfect snapshot of Osaka’s energetic nightlife.
More Ways to Visit Osaka
Alongside our guided tours, we also offer Private Charters in Osaka. 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 - Popular spots like Osaka Castle Park or Minoh Falls get crowded around midday. Using a guided tour ensures reserved transport and priority info.
- What to Wear – Layers are your friend. November can be chilly in the morning and evening but warm during the day. 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 want fewer crowds, avoid the exact festival dates, or do central spots early in the morning. Also early November before leaf color starts is less busy.
- Accommodation - Book in advance for festivals. Staying in areas outside central Osaka (e.g. Sakai, Minoh, Kishiwada) can give quieter evenings and earlier access to natural sites.
Where to Stay in November
Osaka offers a variety of accommodations suited for all budgets, and November is a busy season due to autumn tourism:
- Umeda / Kita District: Ideal for shopping, transport hubs, and nightlife. Easy access to Osaka Castle and city attractions.
- Namba / Dotonbori: Central, lively, perfect for food lovers and evening strolls.
- Tennoji / Shin-Osaka: Convenient for transport to day trips such as Minoh Falls or Kyoto.
- Osaka Bay / Universal Studios Area: Family-friendly, close to attractions and seasonal events.
Book early to secure your preferred location and room type.
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 Osaka page.
Plan Your November Visit
November in Osaka offers a blend of vibrant city life, seasonal foliage, and unique cultural experiences. From illuminated castle gardens to autumn hikes and lively markets, the city is alive with colour and energy. Align your tours with festival dates and seasonal highlights for the smoothest, most rewarding visit.
Guided tours can help navigate transport, provide local insight, and ensure you experience Osaka’s autumn at its best.
