For many, November is the very best month to visit Japan. The autumn foliage reaches its glorious peak in the lowland cities, Kyoto's temple gardens turn fiery red, the weather stays crisp and clear, and evening illuminations light up the maples. Here are the best places to visit in Japan in November.
November is cool, dry and often beautifully clear — comfortable for sightseeing by day, with a definite chill in the mornings and evenings. It is one of the most reliable months for fine weather.
Bring a warm layer for the evenings, especially later in the month as winter approaches, but expect plenty of bright, sunny days ideal for exploring.
%3Aformat(webp)%2Fhubspot_blogs%2F164582387633-JAPBlogimagesMassiva1.jpg&w=1920&q=75)
November is when the autumn colours (koyo) reach their spectacular peak in the lowland cities. Kyoto is the star: temples such as Tofuku-ji, Eikan-do and Arashiyama are legendary for their blazing maples, especially reflected in temple ponds.
Tokyo turns gold and red too — the ginkgo avenue at Meiji Jingu Gaien is a highlight — as do Nikko, Nara and countless gardens. Many hold evening illuminations that light the maples dramatically after dark.
%3Aformat(webp)%2Fhubspot_blogs%2F164582387633-JAPBlogimagesMassiva1.png&w=1920&q=75)
For peak November foliage, head to:
Book Kyoto accommodation well ahead — it is deservedly popular this month.
%3Aformat(webp)%2Ftravel_report_photo%2F82453%2F51028576-dfd6-428e-80e3-709e21c55d35-1725608850126.jpg&w=1920&q=75)
November brings gentle traditions. Shichi-go-san (15 November) sees families dress their young children in traditional attire to visit shrines and celebrate their growth — a charming sight.
As the foliage fades late in the month, the first winter illuminations begin to appear in the cities, bridging beautifully into the festive season. Autumn's harvest food, from chestnuts to matsutake mushrooms, is also at its finest.
%3Aformat(webp)%2Fheader_media%2F7ab18752-c778-4f70-8baa-25544cba2a19-hotel-clad-gotemba-building.png&w=1920&q=75)
Our pick of places for November:
With glorious colour and comfortable weather, November is hard to beat.
There is no easier way to experience Japan in November than with us. On our small-group trips we handle the trains, the reservations and the timing, and travel with a guide who knows exactly where to be this month — timing Kyoto’s temple gardens at the very peak of their colour. Browse our Japan trips below and let us build your November adventure.
Select Date Range
Contact us
We’d love to hear from you. Please fill out this form.
All fields marked with (*) are mandatory.