Nara Weather in November

Entering November, the weather of Nara features gradually dropping temperatures, and you can expect a cool first half of the month and a somewhat cold second half. Nara doesn’t rain much this month and is relatively sunny. What’s more, it is the peak time of red leaves, one of the reasons why November is one of the best times to travel in Nara.

Temperature

In November, the temperature in Nara shows a steady downward trend. At the beginning of the month, temperatures are generally around 12-20 degrees Celsius (54-68 degrees Fahrenheit), offering a cool and comfortable overall feel. Occasionally, daytime highs may reach nearly 25°C (77°F), though this is rare. By mid-month, temperatures range roughly from 10 to 18°C (50-64°F). You might feel a bit cold during outdoor activities, especially in the mornings and evenings, or on cloudy and rainy days. By month’s end, temperatures drop to around 8-15°C (46-59°F), a relatively cold range signaling winter’s approach. At this time, you are recommended to wear thicker clothing like wool coats for warmth even during the daytime.

Lovely Fall Foliage View

Rainfall

Rain does not occur frequently in Nara in November, and there are only about 7 rainy days on average. The average total rainfall this month is around 78 mm, less than half the level of that in a month of the rainy season. So, you can expect many rainless days if you plan to visit Nara in November. More importantly, even if you encounter rain during your trip, it will likely be light showers or brief downpours that won’t significantly impact your sightseeing. Heavy rain or thunderstorms are uncommon this month.

The average humidity is 66%, which will make you feel comfortable together with the relatively mild temperatures this month.

Sunny November

Daylight Hours / Sunshine Hours

From the beginning to the end of the month, as sunrise time gradually shifts from 06:16 to 06:44 and sunset time advances from 17:03 to 16:45, the available daylight hours for sightseeing gradually shorten from nearly 11 hours to 10 hours. Therefore, if you wish to visit as many attractions as possible, it’s advisable to have a more compact itinerary. Of course, if you prefer a more relaxed and leisurely pace or don’t wish to rise too early, you can extend your stay accordingly.

Another important point to note is that starting this month, some attractions begin shortening their opening hours to accommodate the shorter daylight period. For example, the Great Buddha Hall at Todaiji Temple adjusts its opening hours from 07:30-17:30 to 08:00-17:00.

Despite the shorter daylight hours, this month still enjoys an average of over 4 hours of sunshine per day, thanks to the prevalence of clear skies and stable weather.

What to Wear when Visiting Nara in November 2026

For the first half month: For the tops, you are recommended to wear three layers to cope with the large temperature differences between day and night. For instance, you can wear long-sleeved T-shirts, knitwear, plus trench coats; or long-sleeved T-shirts, shirts, plus windbreakers. During early morning and evening, these outfits can keep you warm; while during the warmer daytime, you can take off the jackets. For the bottoms, you can choose thick and warm jeans and sweatpants.

For the second half month: To cope with the relatively cold climate of Nara at that time, you need to wear thicker clothes. Specifically, you can wear hoodies or thin sweaters as the inner layers and wool coats or 3-in-1 jackets as the outer layers. During the midday hours, you still have chances to take off the coats. As for the bottoms, you are advised to add long johns inside the thick sweatpants.

Shoes: Sneakers and hiking shoes or boots are suitable choices, but remember to choose thicker ones.

Special recommendations: Kimono, Japanese traditional clothing, is quite recommended to wear in November. You can take pictures in it with beautiful red leaves and traditional Japanese architecture.

Autumn Leaves Viewing in Nara in November

Typically, the peak viewing period for autumn leaves in Nara begins in mid-to-late November. Want to know the specific time? You can refer to Japan Fall Foliage Forecast in 2026. Undoubtedly, the city’s best spot for admiring autumn views is the 660-hectare (1,483 acres) Nara Park, where vibrant maple and ginkgo leaves blend with ancient architecture and herds of deer to create a stunning tableau. Specifically:

Nara Autumn View

Cute Deer and Colorful Leaves

1. Within the park, sites like Todaiji Temple, Kofukuji Temple, Gangoji Temple, and Tademori Hachiman Shrine offer opportunities to capture traditional Japanese architecture together with autumn foliage.
2. At Kasuga Taisha Shrine, you can see the stone lanterns lining the approach path beautifully complemented by the red leaves.
3. At Mountain Wakakusa, you can sit on the golden grassy slopes to feed the deer and admire the autumn leaves. In addition, you can enjoy panoramic autumn views of the city.
4. If Japanese gardens interest you, Isuien Garden is a must-visit. In November, autumn leaves reflect in the pond, perfectly complementing the pavilions and towers.

If you are only available in early November but eager to see expansive autumn foliage, head to Mountain Yoshino. Located not far from Nara, its peak viewing period typically arrives earlier than Nara city because of its higher altitude.

Red Leaves in Nara

Other Highlights of Nara in November

1. Manyo Gagaku Performance Festival

This festival passes and promotes Japan’s oldest court art form - Gagaku. On the day of the event, you can enjoy traditional Gagaku and dance performances, with performers dressed in Nara period court attire.

2. The Shosoin Exhibition

This special exhibition, running from October 25 until around November 10 every year in Nara National Museum, will showcase numerous rare historical artifacts of Nara’s oldest temple, Todaiji Temple.

Crowds of Nara in November

In early November, visitor numbers in Nara increase slightly as the weather is pleasant and the colorful autumn foliage begins to appear. However, crowds generally remain manageable at this time. By middle to late November, as vibrant red leaves gradually enter their peak viewing season, Nara’s attractions - especially those renowned for their stunning autumn foliage - become crowded with tourists. Compared with the first half of the month, hotel rates and airfare also rise significantly.

Crowded Nara in November

Tips for Visiting Nara in November

1. As mentioned above, Nara sees a large influx of tourists in late November. If you want to ensure you can book a satisfactory hotel at a relatively affordable price, it’s best to make your reservation as early as possible. If you prefer visiting quieter attractions, plan your itinerary for weekdays and start your daily activities early.
2. Tickets for the Shosoin Exhibition require advance reservation.