November is one of the best months to go to Japan, for the pleasing weather with not much rain. It is perfect to see spectacular views of fall foliage around the country in November, too. However, it may not be cost-effective with expensive prices.

It gets cooler and cooler throughout Japan in November. Although the highest temperature could reach 17°C (62.6°F) or so at noon, the low temperature would drop below 10°C (50°F). Hokkaido in its north is much colder, as the high temperature won’t be more than 10°C (50°F) averagely. On the contrary, Okinawa in the south of Japan is an exception. It’s still warm in Okinawa, with an average low temperature of about 21°C (69.8°F).

Long shirt plus a jacket is proper for the Japan weather in November. You can wear in layers, which is convenient to add the tops, to adapt to the decreased temperature. The later, the lower the temperature and the thicker clothes should be put on. By the end of November, you can wear a set of clothes including a backing shirt, thick hoodie or sweater, windbreaker/woolen overcoat/lightweight down jacket and thick sweatpants, in most regions.

As there would be the first snow in Hokkaido in November, thick winter clothes will not be wrong. Thermal underwear, gloves, woolen hat, thick socks and slip-resistant shoes can also be packed up.

1. Momijigari – Fall Foliage Viewing

Fall foliage viewing is absolutely the essential event in November. You can see the colorful autumn leaves in most places of Japan. Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and the surroundings of Mt. Fuji are all popular destinations in this month. Especially, Kyoto blazes with historical vibe as well as the leaves falling down.

2. Fukuoka Sumo Championships

The last national sumo tournament of Japan is held in Fukuoka Kokusai Center, Fukuoka in Kyushu every year. During the two weeks in the middle of November, there are many excellent wrestling matches. In 2025, you can watch the competitions there during November 9-23th.

Color-changing Leaves in Kyoto

Hot Air Balloon, Saga

3. Saga Hot Air Balloon Contest

Saga Hot Air Balloon Festival is also welcomed for fliers and tourists. During the first several days of November, hundreds of hot air balloons would be launched into the sky for a competition. A variety of balloons, in the shape of lovely animals and popular cartoon characters, would also be released. It’s kid-friendly, providing an experience in the hot air balloon for kids as well. It’s noted that, it’s a match that tourists can watch on spot, but not a hot air balloon ride service.

1. Tokyo: Asakusa Torinoichi Fair

In Tokyo, Asakusa Torinoichi Fair is a highlight in November. To pray for good luck and booming business, lively Asakusa Torinoichi Fair is held at Juzaisan Chokokuji Temple and Otorisama - Otori-Jinja Shrine in Asakusa, at night. Kumade rakes, the mascot to draw good fortune, are on sales, while hundreds of food stalls gather there. According to their ancient calendar, there would be two or three Torinoichi Fairs in November. 

Asakusa Fair

In addition, some special illuminations in every winter start in November, making the city romantic with breathtakingly beautiful lights. Roppongi, Marunouchi Naka-Dori Ave. to Tokyo Station, etc. are highly praised for the “fiery” trees.

2. Hakone & Nikko

Hakone and Nikko are well-known hot spring towns in central Japan, nearby Tokyo. Deep autumn is just the time to have an onsen bath, and the scenery is also charming. Hakone is very close to Mt. Fuji, where you can catch the images of the iconic summit and dazzling leaves together. Back by mountains, Nikko is also picturesque in autumn.

Lake Ashi in Hakone