11月 · Japan Travel Guide
Japan in November: Weather, Events & Best Hotels
Temperature
8–18°C (46–64°F)
Crowds
Very High
Weather in Japan in November
Temperature
8–18°C (46–64°F)
Conditions
Cool and crisp with spectacular autumn colors. Dry and clear with low humidity. Cold at night.
What to Wear
Medium jacket or sweater, comfortable walking shoes. Layer up for cold mornings and evenings.
Crowd Level
Very High
Hotel Prices
Near-peak prices, especially for Kyoto and Nikko. Peak weekend foliage (late November) rivals April cherry blossom prices. Book 4–6 months ahead.
Events & Festivals in November
- 🎌
Peak autumn foliage (紅葉ピーク) — Kyoto (Nov 15–30), Tokyo (Nov 20–Dec 5), Nikko (Nov 1–15)
- 🎌
Shichi-Go-San (七五三) — November 15, children aged 3, 5, and 7 visit shrines in traditional dress
- 🎌
Tofukuji Temple Night Illumination (Kyoto) — late November, stunning maple forest lit at night
- 🎌
Arashiyama Hanatouro (嵐山花灯路) — early December (preparations in November), bamboo lanterns
- 🎌
New rice (新米) season — celebrate fresh harvest sake and rice dishes
Travel Highlights
- Tofukuji and Eikando temples in Kyoto — Japan's most iconic autumn foliage spots
- Nikko autumn colors — crimson maples surrounding Toshogu Shrine
- Tokyo autumn leaves at Shinjuku Gyoen, Rikugien Garden, and Koishikawa Botanical Garden
- Shichi-Go-San at Meiji Jingu — children in stunning kimono with parents
Book Hotels for November in Japan
Compare hotels in Kyoto with dates pre-set for November travel. Free cancellation on most bookings.
Dates pre-set: 2026-11-15 → 2026-11-22 · Kyoto