Japan in November 2025: Weather & Autumn Leaves Season Guide

Japan in November is highlighted by the peak fall foliage season, paired with mild and dry weather outdoors for your best autumn leaves viewing - whether in Kyoto or Tokyo, even a casual shot can capture the breathtaking fall colors. Here we share an ultimate November guide for your autumn trip to Japan, from the weather to the top things to do, and tips to enjoy the best time in Japan.

Japan's Weather in November

The deep autumn in November is one of the best times to visit Japan, especially for fall foliage viewing throughout this serpentine island. Japan's weather in November features dry, mild weather and cool, crisp air, with pleasant temperatures ranging from 9 to 17℃ (48 to 63℉) in the first half, while a quick drop occurs during the nighttime.

• Northern Japan in November encounters its early snow season in Hokkaido. Cities in northern Tohoku, like Aomori and Morioka, also receive their first snow, with cooler daytime temperatures hovering at 5℃ (41℉), then dropping to 0℃ (32℉) after sunset.
• While Central Japan in November still enjoys its warm weather and clear skies. Temperatures in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka can range from 10 to 18℃ (50 to 64℉), comfortable enough for a fall foliage hike with T-shirts, and about 5℃ (41℉) during nighttime.
• Southern Japan in November is much warmer for the outdoors. Kyushu cities, including Fukuoka and Kumamoto, remain above 18℃ (64℉) with plenty of sunshine. And the further south Okinawa island can reach 25°C (77℉) for some beach fun.

Japan Weather Map in November

Best Places to Visit in Japan in November

Tokyo

November in Tokyo brings brisk weather and stunning autumn views. This metropolis contains a great juxtaposition of traditional gardens and parks to begin your leisurely fall foliage viewing, from Meiji Jingu Gaien's golden ginkgo avenue to Rikugien Garden's lakeside reflections.

Meiji Shrine also bustles with the Autumn Grand Festival in early November, with traditional dance and horseback archery performances. With more days to stay in Tokyo, just take advantage of the pleasant weather to hike Mt.Takao, a popular Tokyo day trip option.

Fall Foliage in Japan

Kyoto

Looking for the best places to see Japan's autumn leaves in November? Head directly to Kyoto. Kyoto's fall colors against the outline of quaint shrines and temples give a delightful insight into Japan's traditions and history.

Historical temples like Kiyomizu-Dera and Rurikoin Temple are ideal settings to walk into the surrounding gorgeous leaf sights, while the water fortune at Kifune Shrine with floating leaves is also popular. Slow down your pace here, rest at local tea houses with dango, wagashi, and more seasonal treats.

Nikko

Another best place to visit in Japan in November is Nikko, an ideal day trip destination from Tokyo (about a 2-hour train ride) with a well-balanced nature and culture. Picture the unique scenery of color-changing trees along the majestic Ryuzu Waterfall and Yudaki Waterfall, as well as an authentic blanket of reddish and golden color that the Senjogahara Marshland's grass offers. For something special, try a one-night stay around Chuzenji and join the morning meditation with monks.

Mt. Fuji

With fewer clouds and haze, the clear skies of November bring better visibility of Mt. Fuji around the Fuji Five Lakes. Lake Kawaguchi, bustling with its month-long fall foliage festival along the Momiji Corridor, provides one of the best places to capture this sacred mountain. Hike the Arakurayama Sengen Park for your postphoto shot against the Chureito Pagoda, or board the Kachi Kachi Ropeway for a panoramic view of the snow peak and flickering lakes.

What to Do in Japan in November

Japan's Fall Foliage Viewing

There are many excellent places for autumn leaves viewing when traveling to Japan in November. From a romantic boat down the river around Arashiyama in Kyoto, to Tokyo's Yoyogi Park with a different perspective on the idyllic colors of the foliage, check this article below for your ideal fall foliage viewing spots in Japan.

Relax in Hot Springs

Bathing in an onsen (hot springs) is a heart-shaking way to ward off the cold and tiredness in November. Japan is home to lots of hot spring resorts that you can choose from, from a tiny steamy tub to all-inclusive outdoor baths.

It is wonderful to try a bath in iron-rich waters against a backdrop of stunning reddish maple trees and then slurp mouth-watering wagyu beef in Beppu. You can overlook the incredible bay views while relaxing in an unusual saltwater onsen in Atami. Or you can seek out theme onsens with wine baths, tea baths, and yuzu lemon baths, in Hakone, where you're rewarded by scenic Mt. Fuji views.

Enjoy a Scenery Hike

Taking a leisurely hike is another top thing to do in Japan in November, a magical way to bathe yourself in ancient history amid picture-perfect, serene, fiery maple trees and ginkgo.

You can hike along the leaf-layered trails with locals on Mount Takao and Mount Odake near Tokyo. Capture colorful forests and vibrant wildlife while seeking out some scattered temples and waterfalls along the Kumano Kodo. And try the trails of the Shikoku pilgrimage, ticking off some of the 88 Buddhist temples on the island for your immersive hike.

Go Deep into Japanese Culture

Japan in November is alive with colorful traditional activities, offering a great opportunity to taste local, unique customs up close.

Grand sumo tournaments can be found in Fukuoka, while family visitors can participate in a local children's rite called Shichi-go-san on November 15, watching kids in their tiny kimonos and click a camera to capture this rewarding moment.

Besides, step inside a traditional machiya (tea house) to feel the harmony, purity, and tranquility of the tea ceremony and flower arrangement. Listen to the sound of boiling water, cut a branch and flower, and arrange them in a proper position.

Japan's Events & Festivals in November

Gion Odori, Kyoto

• Date: November 1 to 10, 2025

Gion Odori is an annual public celebration held at Gion Kaikan in Kyoto. It will last for ten days in early November. During Gion Odori, you can see a large-scale traditional Japanese dance and music performed by an entire cast of 30 maiko and geiko dressed in beautiful kimonos, while savoring a nice sip of tea.

Karatsu Kunchi Festival, Saga

• Date: November 2 to 4, 2025

Karatsu Kunchi is one of the time-honored festivals held around Karatsu Shrine in Saga, which boasts a long history of over 400 years. It is characteristic of the procession of giant festival floats, locally called "Hikiyama." You can take a look at these artworks that are lacquered in brilliant gold, designed for fish, lions, dragons, and other divine animals processing through the streets and finally across the sand at Nishinohama Beach.

Fire Walking Ceremony, Hiroshima

• Date: November 3, 2025

The Fire Walking Ceremony is annually celebrated in front of the Daiganji Temple on the island of Miyajima. Starts at 2 pm, you can have a special taste of Buddhist chanting and purification, and join in shooting arrows during the first half. Then catch a breathtaking fire walking ceremony in bare feet, which is believed to ward off misfortune and bring prosperity.

Crowds & Costs

Like the cherry blossom season in spring, Japan seems a lot hopping in November when autumn leaves are attractive at their peak. Accommodation and transport cost more during the November trip to Japan, and major tourist cities like Tokyo and Kyoto can expect large crowds who seek autumn leisure.

Compared to other autumn months, November is a much busier time than September and October. Arranging your weekday journey is a good try, or head to the Tohoku and Kyushu regions to avoid the crowds. However, always book accommodation, flights, and train tickets in advance.

Autumn in Japan

Japan Travel Tips in November

Make an Early Sightseeing

November sees the color changing of "Momiji" and "Koyo" in Japan, which attracts large numbers of tourists from near and far. Some popular tourist spots near are full of tourists. There may be lots of traffic on the roads, so go on your travels between those destinations as early as possible to avoid the crowds on the way.

Wear More Layers in the Early Morning

Although central Japan experiences cool temperatures generally in November, it is likely to be cold early in the morning and late in the evening, with temperatures dropping to around 10℃. So it is advisable to wear more layers of clothing if you plan to go out at these times.

Book in Advance

Despite the fewer crowds than in cherry blossom season, November is also a busy time when numerous visitors come to capture fall foliage. So there may be a shortage of accommodation in most places this month. If possible, the optimal preparation is to make a reservation at least 6 months in advance, especially for hot tourist attractions like Higashima, Kiyomizu Temple, and Todaiji Temple.

Respect Local Japanese Customs

November is also alive with many forms of festivals and ceremonies across Japan. Many of them relate closely to local customs and culture, which matter in a local's life. It is respectful to observe every place's traditions and customs as a participant.

Planning Foliage Tours? Check These Japan November Itineraries

Tokyo, Mt. Fuji, and Nikko Discovery

A 5-day itinerary to appreciate the autumn impression of Tokyo and the attractions around. Start in Tokyo to visit its shrines and temples, with a nice glimpse into the local fish market and tea ceremony. See the enchanting autumn Mt. Fuji and lake views. Last, basking in Nikko's long history.

Luxury Vacation with Taketomi

Your 14-day journey starts in Tokyo. Besides a visit to Meiji Shrine and Senso-Ji Temple, you can also learn a cooking class or flower arrangement here. Then don't forget the characteristic shrines and temples, and try sake tasting in Kyoto. Take a morning flight to Taketomi Island and enjoy your luxurious beach vacation while exploring the villages. Finally, returned to Osaka for a final city rest.