Japan Weather in November 2025: Plan Now for Peak Autumn Colors

Comfortable weather and stunning autumn foliage make November one of the best months to visit most of Japan.

The weather is mild and dry, with temperatures ranging from 45°F to 64°F (7°C to 18°C). November marks the transition from autumn to winter.

Autumn is the best time to see maple leaves in Japan. Kyoto, Tokyo, and the Mount Fuji area are great spots to enjoy the fall colors. It is peak travel season, so prices are higher and early booking is recommended.

Below, you'll find information on average temperatures, rainfall, and travel tips for November in Japan.

Japan's Weather and Climate in November

In Japan, November is generally clear with little rain, though Hokkaido may experience its first snowfall.

As winter approaches, the country begins to cool. By mid-November, daytime temperatures significantly decrease to 41-50°F (5-10°C), and nighttime temperatures can drop below 32°F (0°C). The northern region is colder than the south.

In central Japan, including Tokyo and Osaka, daytime temperatures are cool, ranging from 50-64°F (10-18°C). Nighttime temperatures can drop to around 41°F (5°C).

In southern such as Okinawa, the weather is warm with sunny days with temperatures around 77°F (25°C). It is still suitable for swimming in the sea.

Is November a Good Time to Visit in Japan?

November is a fantastic time to visit Japan, offering comfortable weather and stunning fall foliage. However, it's also the peak travel season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds, especially in popular areas.

The autumn foliage season reaches its peak in late November, with vibrant colors widespread across the country. To secure the best deals and accommodations, it's recommended to book your trip at least six months in advance.

While the autumn leaves season is busy, it's still far less crowded than the cherry blossom season (late March to May).

If you're looking to avoid the busiest times, early to mid-November is ideal, as hotel and flight prices are generally lower during this period.

For the most spectacular views, late November is the best time to visit Kyoto and Tokyo, while in southern Hokkaido (such as Sapporo and Hakodate), the foliage can last until mid-November.

Tokyo and Central Japan: Best Place for Autumn Foliage

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, visit Tokyo, Mt. Fuji, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Nara around mid-November. The visibility at Mt. Fuji is excellent in November, making it even more beautiful against the backdrop of the colorful leaves.

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 >>>

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 64–75°F (18–24°C).

The waters around Okinawa are still suitable for snorkeling and diving. During the day, the water temperature is about 72°F (22°C). If you're planning to swim, consider wearing a wetsuit to ward off the chill.

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!

Hokkaido and Northern Japan: Early Skiing

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.

November in Hokkaido is the off-season, with fewer international tourists, making hotels very affordable.

At the beginning of November, cities like Sapporo and Otaru still have their autumn leaves, while nearby mountains are capped with snow. This creates a beautiful contrast of fall and winter.

Good places to see the leaves include Hokkaido University's Ginkgo Avenue, Goryokaku Park, Nakajima Park, and Hakodate.

By mid-November, the fall colors fade. Late in the month, Sapporo's ski resorts open. You could also enjoy snow views at Daisetsuzan National Park, ride cable cars to see frost-covered trees, and relax in hot springs. 

For a full winter experience, check out this 14-Day Japan Highlights and Skiing in Hokkaido.

7 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.

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 traveling 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.

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)...

Make your stay even more memorable with our 9-Day Japan Highlights Tour Including Hakone Leisure.

3. Nara: Encounter Roaming Deer Under Autumn Trees

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.

Suggested reading: 10 Days in Japan: Top 5 Itineraries for a Family/Couple>>>

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.

6.Hokkaido - Early Skiing

November in Hokkaido is the off-peak season, with fewer tourists. This time of year offers beautiful autumn leaves, snowy landscapes, relaxing hot springs and enjoy skiing in the late month.

By late November, ski resorts in the Sapporo area open, allowing visitors to enjoy skiing. Resorts like Sapporo-Teine and Sapporo-Kokusai welcome guests during this period. While the snow quality and depth may not be as good as in January and February, skiing is less crowded than during the peak season. Prices are at least 30% lower.

After skiing, you could also enjoy snow scenery at Daisetsuzan National Park, ride cable cars to see frost-covered trees, and relax in hot springs.

In early November，you could also enjoy snow views with autumn leaves cities like Sapporo and Otaru. Good places to see the leaves include Hokkaido University's Ginkgo Avenue, Goryokaku Park, Nakajima Park, and Hakodate.

7. Fukuoka: Sumo Wrestling Tournament

Fukuoka holds a sumo tournament every November. Many new wrestlers compete for the first time. You could experience the lively atmosphere and see spectators waving small cheering flags. After the tournament, you could indulge in local specialty, sumo hot pot, and explore Fukuoka's local delicacies such as Hakata ramen, mentaiko (spicy cod roe), and motsunabe (beef or pork offal hot pot).

To learn more about experiencing sumo in Japan, visit our Sumo Wrestling in Japan.

How to Wear 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.

Monthly Weather and Travel Information for Japan

Learn about the weather in Japan for 12 months and find out the best places to visit each month.

Exploring Japan with Japan Highlights

At Japan Highlights, we have created over 10,000+ big trips for insightful travelers, mostly for families and couples. We will be happy to personalize your private Japan tour that offers you an unforgettable Japan Autumn!

Get inspiration from the below hands-on itineraries. All of them could be customized to your interests/schedule within 24 hours!

• 9-Day Japan Highlights Tour (Tokyo-Hokane-Kyoto)
• 11-Day Traditional Japan Tour( Osaka-Hiroshima- Kyoto-Tokyo)
• 2-Week Japan Private Family Vacation
• 17-Day Japan Summer Family Vacation