November is a month of transition in Takayama and the surrounding Hida region. The first half of the month showcases the last of the autumn colours, while by the end of November the air turns crisp and the mountains begin to show their first signs of winter. It’s a quieter time than October’s festival season, but still one of the most rewarding months to explore Takayama’s Old Town, visit nearby hot spring towns, and enjoy the scenery from Shinhotaka Ropeway.
This page brings together everything happening in November: the weather, seasonal highlights, festivals and events, recommended tours, and practical tips for planning your visit.
Weather in November
November is cool and refreshing in Takayama, with daytime highs averaging 10–14°C and nights often dropping to 0–5°C. Early in the month is comfortable for sightseeing, but by late November you’ll want a warm jacket, scarf, and gloves for evenings in the Old Town or morning market visits.
Rain is occasional but usually light, and skies are often clear, making it a good month for photography. In the higher mountains, including Norikura and Kamikochi, snow can begin to fall from mid-November, signalling the end of the autumn season and the start of winter.
Seasonal Highlights in November
November in Takayama and the wider Hida region is all about atmosphere and seasonal beauty. Early in the month, the city glows with autumn colours, while by late November the mountains begin to turn white with their first dusting of snow. It’s also the season for warming foods, outdoor hot springs, and quiet strolls through historic towns.
Autumn Colours
The first half of November is peak season for autumn leaves in Takayama City and nearby spots like the Higashiyama Walking Course and Shiroyama Park. Gujo Hachiman Castle is another standout, framed by vivid foliage well into mid-month. By late November, the colours fade in the city but remain in valleys, while the peaks of the Northern Alps glisten with early snow.
Takayama Morning Markets
Takayama’s morning markets are a year-round attraction, but November makes them special. Apples, persimmons, and mushrooms appear in abundance, alongside local crafts and miso products. A morning visit, with steam rising from hot snacks in the crisp air, is one of the most memorable seasonal experiences.
Hot Springs
As evenings turn colder, November becomes one of the best months to visit hot spring towns such as Gero Onsen and Okuhida Onsen. Bathing outdoors, surrounded by autumn scenery or the first snowflakes, captures the essence of the season.
Shinhotaka Ropeway
Operating year-round, Shinhotaka Ropeway offers sweeping views of the Northern Alps. November is unique: lower slopes still hold patches of autumn colour, while the peaks above are already dusted in snow. On clear days, the contrast makes for some of the most dramatic views of the year.
Featured Tours in November
1-Day Tour from Takayama: Explore Scenic Old Japan in Takayama & Shirakawa-go
November is an excellent month to combine Takayama’s historic streets with Shirakawa-go’s World Heritage farmhouses. Early in the month you’ll enjoy vivid autumn colours, while later visits bring a calmer pace and snow-dusted mountain backdrops.
Highlights:
- Stroll Takayama’s Old Town and morning markets.
- Explore Shirakawa-go’s gassho-zukuri farmhouses.
- Take in sweeping views from the Shirakawa-go lookout point.
Best Selling
1-Day Tour from Takayama: Explore Scenic Old Japan in Takayama and Shirakawa-go
- Spots:
- TakayamaShirakawago
- Pick-up:
- Takayama
- Drop-off:
- TakayamaKanazawa
Seasonal 1-Day Tour from Takayama: Alpine Splendor – Shinhotaka Ropeway & Kamikochi
Running until mid-November, this tour is your last chance of the year to visit Kamikochi before it closes for winter. Combined with the Shinhotaka Ropeway, you’ll experience both autumn colours and early snow-capped peaks.
Highlights:
- Ride the Shinhotaka Ropeway for panoramic mountain views.
- Walk along the rivers and bridges of Kamikochi.
- See the transition from autumn to winter in one day.
1-Day Tour from Takayama: Unveiling the Charm of Gero Onsen
As the weather cools, November is one of the best months to visit Gero Onsen — ranked among Japan’s top three hot spring towns. This tour takes you to its most scenic baths and cultural highlights, with time to relax in the steaming waters surrounded by autumn colours.
Highlights:
- Explore the charm of Gero Onsen, one of Japan’s most famous hot spring towns.
- Enjoy seasonal foods and autumn scenery.
- Relax in the comfort of pre-arranged transport from Takayama.
1-Day Tour from Takayama: Gujo Hachiman – History, Traditions and Crafts
Gujo is especially atmospheric in November, when autumn colours surround its castle and traditional streets. This tour highlights Gujo’s cultural traditions, including its crafts, waterways, and local food culture, all at a calmer pace after the busy summer season.
Highlights:
- Visit Gujo Hachiman Castle framed by autumn foliage.
- Explore the historic streets and waterways of Gujo.
- Discover the town’s craft traditions and local flavours.
More Ways to Visit Takayama
Alongside our guided tours, we also offer charters and other travel options to Takayama. 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 Takayama and surrounding region.
Travel Tips for November
- Dress in Layers - November days are cool but evenings can be very cold, especially toward the end of the month. Bring a warm jacket, scarf, and gloves to stay comfortable when exploring Takayama’s Old Town at night or visiting morning markets.
- Expect Fewer Crowds - After the busy October festival season, November is calmer, making it easier to enjoy attractions like the Old Town, morning markets, and hot springs. Weekends still draw visitors, especially in the first half of the month when autumn colours peak.
- Plan Around Closures - Popular alpine destinations like Kamikochi close around mid-November as winter sets in. If you want to include them in your trip, plan to visit early in the month.
- Transport - Bus schedules shift in November as the autumn season ends. Seats can still sell out, especially for Shirakawa-go routes. Joining a guided tour ensures your transport is arranged in advance, saving time and stress.
Where to Stay in November
Takayama City
The best base if you want to explore the Old Town, morning markets, and cultural attractions on foot. Staying in the city keeps you close to dining and transport, making it convenient for day trips to Shirakawa-go or nearby towns.
Gero Onsen & Okuhida Onsen
As the weather cools, hot spring towns become especially appealing. Gero Onsen is one of Japan’s most famous, while Okuhida Onsen offers rustic outdoor baths with views of the Northern Alps.
Hida-Furukawa
A quieter base just a short ride from Takayama, Hida-Furukawa is perfect for travellers who want a more traditional, small-town atmosphere without being far from the main attractions.
Gujo
Surrounded by autumn foliage into mid-November, Gujo Hachiman is a good choice if you want to combine Takayama with castle-town charm and riverside scenery.
Wherever you decide to stay, November is a rewarding month for the Hida region. With autumn colours peaking early and cooler evenings setting in, it’s best to make arrangements in advance to secure your preferred accommodation.
Plan Your November Visit
November in Takayama is about atmosphere rather than major events. The month begins with brilliant autumn colours and ends with crisp air and the first snow on the surrounding mountains. It’s a calmer time after the festival crowds, making it ideal for slow exploration, photography, and relaxing in hot springs.
From wandering Takayama’s Old Town and visiting the morning markets to soaking in Gero Onsen or taking in alpine views from Shinhotaka Ropeway, November offers a balance of beauty and tranquillity across the Hida region.
With bus schedules shifting and alpine destinations closing mid-month, planning ahead is important. Booking a guided tour is the easiest way to secure transport and make the most of your time without worrying about connections or sold-out seats.