Japan Weather in November 2024: Best Autumn Month, Travel Tips

Tokyo and Central Japan: Best Place for Autumn Foliage

Admiring the autumn colors at night

In November in central Japan, you could admire the exploding autumn colors with mild and sunny weather during the day. But you'd better prepare for cold or cool late evenings and early mornings.

The favorable weather and breathtaking autumn scenery make central Japan an ideal place for outdoor activities. For the best views of fall leaves, Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Nara would not disappoint you around mid-November.

If you like hiking, don't miss the Kumano Kodo trail. You could indulge yourself in dreamy countryside views and get some off-the-beaten-path insights into Japan. Besides navigating, our experienced guides are helpful in creating deeper contact with locals. Contact us for a private hiking tour tailor-made for you!

Wanna know more about planning your Japan trip? Read about How to Plan Your Trip to Japan >>>

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Okinawa and Southern Japan: Sunny and Cool

As the wet season has gone, you could explore southern Japan with dry and warm weather of around 18–24°C (64–75°F). With cooler water temperatures, swimming and surfing is more comfortable in a wetsuit.

Besides the water activities, you could wander around the castles and streets with fewer crowds. For anniversaries or second honeymoons, take a sunset cruise and spend some private romantic hours with your partner!

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Hokkaido and Northern Japan: Winter Begins

Owing to its high latitude, winter arrives earlier in northern Japan than in central and south Japan in November.

You can experience cold weather, with average temperatures ranging from 0–10°C (32–50°F). Thus, the north's amazing hot springs are ideal cold weather getaways.

Although the temperature can drop to freezing, the best time for skiing hasn't arrived yet. You would just have a chance to see the first snowfall in November. If you're keen on winter sports, you're suggested to visit north Japan from late December.

5 Best Places to Visit in Japan in November

Autumn colors usually top the things-to-see bucket list for a November Japan trip. Kyoto and Tokyo are the best places, along with Hakone.

If you're travelling with kids, tame deer in Nara Park near Kyoto could be a highlight. For a natural hit, Nikko National Park north of Tokyo is a good place to enjoy outdoor fun.

To well discover Japan in a comfortable pace, you might need at least 2 weeks. Get some inspiration about 2-week Japan itineraries or 3-week Japan itineraries...

1. Tokyo: Admire Autumn Foliage and Winter Illumination

Without extreme heat or cold, Tokyo in November sees a blend of autumn colors and festive illuminations.

You could appreciate zen gardens or temples framed with colorful leaves. Hiking on Mt. Takao would give you even more tranquil views. Visiting these places on weekdays is helpful to avoid crowds too.

Winter illuminations start from November, when you can appreciate them without the big crowds that come when Christmas approaches.

If you're travelling with your kids, don't miss the annual Disney Christmas (from early November to late December). With fewer crowds in November, you may enjoy the festive Christmas decoration inside the Disney resort more.

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2. Hakone: View Mt. Fuji from a Ryokan Inn with Private Hot Springs

With dry and clear weather, November is one of the best times for a clear view of snow-capped Mt. Fuji from afar. Hakone is one of the best viewing places.

You could capture a postcard-perfect backdrop with colorful leaves, Mt. Fuji, and bright skies. For the most iconic views, take a mountain cableway ride or a cruise in the sunset.

For your big celebration, what could be more special than a ryokan (Japanese inn) experience? Bath in its private outdoor hot springs, overlook Mt. Fuji and taste exquisite kaiseki (traditional Japanese multi-course cuisine)...

3. Nara: Encounter Roaming Deer Under Autumn Trees

Feeding deer in Nara Park

Just 45 minutes by bullet train from Kyoto, Nara is a famous family destination in Japan. Within its calming atmosphere, you and your kids could feed and interact with freely-roaming deer in Nara Park.

History comes to life in Todai-ji temple, the oldest and largest temple in Nara. In late November, this ancient temple becomes more impressive when decorated by autumn colors.

4. Kyoto: Ancient Capital Blazing with Fall Colors

Being a dry month, Kyoto in November embodies pleasant weather and idyllic autumn foliage. Clear skies and colorful leaves offer a great backdrop for a private couple's vacation or family trip.

You could join in the leaf-viewing parties congregating from streets to iconic shrines in the day, and also have a special night trip. Taking a romantic train ride in Arashiyama will put you in amongst the scenery.

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5. Nikko: Go for Outdoor Activities

Nikko National Park is an outdoor paradise with sacred temples, breathtaking waterfalls, and forested slopes.

Unlike in Tokyo or Kyoto, autumn foliage in Nikko peaks in early November. Away from the major cities, you could enjoy the attractive scenery more peacefully.

You can wander through temples and parks strewn with colorful leaves or hike through the mountains to see the autumn colors. You could also admire its beauty from cable cars.

Costs and Crowding in November

November is considered one of the best months to visit Japan. So high costs and some crowding is inevitable in November, especially in central and south Japan. But compared with cherry blossom season (March to May), the conditions are still acceptable.

To avoid crowds, a well-organized private tour is beneficial to avoid the stress of crowds. Weekdays are also advisable for visiting the iconic attractions in November. Check the classic Japan tours or contact us to customize your own private tour! 

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What to Pack in November

In central Japan, lightweight layers like a jacket with a cardigan or sweater over a long-sleeved shirt can provide the necessary warmth during cooler days and evenings.

For northern Japan, winter clothing is necessary to keep you warm. If you go to the southern islands, summer clothing is fine.

With plenty of sunny days, don't forget your sun protection.