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11月 · Japan Travel Guide

Japan in November

Temperature

8–18°C (46–64°F)

Crowds

Very High

What to Wear

Medium jacket or sweater

✈ Plan Your November Japan Trip

Weather in Japan in November

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Temperature

8–18°C (46–64°F)

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Conditions

Cool and crisp with spectacular autumn colors. Dry and clear with low humidity. Cold at night.

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What to Wear

Medium jacket or sweater, comfortable walking shoes. Layer up for cold mornings and evenings.

Tokyo

8–18°C

Rain: Low

Kyoto

7–17°C

Rain: Low

Osaka

8–18°C

Rain: Low

Crowd Level

Very High

Kyoto's peak autumn foliage is extraordinary but extremely crowded — weekday visits and early arrivals are essential

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.

Top Events in November

Nov 15–30 · Kyoto, Tokyo, Nikko

Peak Autumn Foliage (Koyo)

Japan's most spectacular season — Tofukuji and Eikando in Kyoto ablaze with vivid red and gold; Tokyo's Shinjuku Gyoen and Rikugien equally stunning

Nov 15 · Nationwide

Shichi-Go-San

Children aged 3, 5, and 7 visit shrines in elaborate kimono to pray for health — heartwarming, beautifully photogenic, and deeply traditional

Late November · Kyoto

Tofukuji Night Illumination

Japan's most famous maple forest lit dramatically at night — an extraordinary autumn experience that sells out tickets in advance

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Local Tip

Tofuku-ji and Arashiyama peak Nov 15–25 — visit on weekdays only and arrive before 9am; weekend afternoon queues can exceed 2 hours

What to Pack for November

Medium jacket or warm sweater for 8–18°C weatherLayers for cold mornings (can drop to 5°C) and warmer afternoonsComfortable walking shoes for long sightseeing daysSmall umbrella (November is mostly dry but showers occur)Camera with extra battery — you will want to photograph everything

Book Hotels for November in Japan

Compare hotels in Kyoto with dates pre-set for November travel. Free cancellation on most bookings.

Expedia Agoda

Dates pre-set: 2026-11-15 → 2026-11-22 · Kyoto

Recommended Itineraries for November

Japan Autumn Foliage 7days →Japan Koyo Guide 7days →Japan November Itinerary →

Frequently Asked Questions

When is peak autumn foliage in Kyoto in November 2026?+

Kyoto's koyo peak is typically November 15–30, with Tofukuji and Eikando reaching their most vivid colors around November 20–25. Exact timing varies by a week based on autumn temperatures.

Is November as crowded as April cherry blossom season?+

Yes — popular foliage spots in Kyoto like Eikando and Tofukuji can rival April crowds. Weekends are especially packed. Visit on weekdays, arrive before 9am, and consider lesser-known spots like Jojakko-ji and Komyo-ji in Arashiyama.

What is Shichi-Go-San in Japan?+

Shichi-Go-San (7-5-3) on November 15 is a traditional celebration where children aged 7, 5, and 3 visit shrines dressed in elaborate kimono. Meiji Jingu and Nikko Toshogu are particularly beautiful on this day.

Where is the best autumn foliage in Japan in November?+

Top November foliage spots: Tofukuji and Eikando (Kyoto), Rikugien Garden (Tokyo), Nikko Toshogu (early November), Shinjuku Gyoen (Tokyo), Korankei (Aichi), and the Japanese Alps for mountain foliage.

Is November a good time to visit Tokyo?+

Yes — November is excellent for Tokyo. The city turns golden and red from mid-November with ginkgo trees lining Jingu Gaien and maples in Shinjuku Gyoen. Temperatures are comfortable (10–18°C) and crowds are moderate until peak foliage weekends.