Updated November 5, 2024
Autumn in general is a beautiful time to be in Japan, but November in particular epitomizes what people think of when they think of autumn. November in Japan is the key time when the fall foliage is at its peak. Much of Japan, especially the mainland of Japan, are transformed with hues of gold and red with the fall foliage. In fact, November is the recommended time to go travel when people ask to go during peak foliage season.
Weather
The weather in Japan during the month of November is chillier with averages in the mid to high 50s. Compared to the rainier previous months, November does see more clear skies, which makes for an idyllic looking scenery as you explore various parts of Japan. Of course, it's important to keep in mind the different regions of Japan and how that can affect the temperature of places as well. Hokkaido and other parts of the northernmost part of Honshu Japan tend to be a lot colder with winter weather coming in.
Fall Foliage
As mentioned earlier, what November is really known for is the fall foliage. There are many places you can go all throughout Japan to observe the color change of the leaves including many of the famous Japanese gardens. Just like with the weather, some parts of Japan experience the turning of the leaves much sooner (as soon as October), and some a bit later. Sightseeing around various temples and shrines in Japan is a must as the fall foliage surrounding many of these places make for an amazing view.
Autumn-leaf “hunting”
Cherry blossom viewing is called hanami (“flower viewing”), but autumn leaf viewing is called Koyo-gari (“autumn leaf hunting”).
It is said that aristocrats who did not like hunting compared the appreciation of nature to hunting, but this is not certain.
Another theory is that initially, people enjoyed gathering autumn leaves but eventually changed to just gazing at them.
Tori no ichi
Tori no Ichi means "Rooster Market," and is an auspicious festival held every November on the two or three Days of the Rooster.
The most distinguished feature is Kumade, a rake. It is meant to "rake in good fortune," and when decorated with Otafuku, Irifune, and other ornaments, it creates a lively atmosphere that brings happiness.
Food In November
In November, one of the tastiest foods is ankou, or anglerfish.
It is generally referred to as "fugu (blow fish) nabe in the west and ankou nabe in the east" and is widely eaten in eastern Japan as a typical winter nabe dish, especially in Ibaraki Prefecture and Iwaki City, Fukushima Prefecture, where it is served at many restaurants.
Find out more Delicious Fall Food Staples of Japan
Winter Illumination
Although technically not winter yet, the famous winter illuminations can be seen as early as late-November. For those who plan on traveling later in November,
Festivals/Events
As with many months throughout the year, there are no shortage of events and festivals happening throughout the month of November. Some more notable ones include Ebisu-san Matsuri happening in Hiroshima and Ohitaki Festival in Kyoto.
Find out about Shichi-Go-San Festival