Eng 
日本語 
Japan is a beautiful country to visit any time of year, but November is a particularly special time to go. The weather is starting to cool down, but it’s not yet too cold, and the autumn leaves are in full bloom. This is the perfect time to visit the Land of the Rising Sun, with its colorful foliage, serene landscapes, and various cultural experiences. In this blog, we’ll take you through some of the most enchanting activities and destinations to explore in Japan during November.
A Quick Jump To…
- Admire The Stunning Fall Foliage
- Attend The Meiji Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Festival
- Experience The Art Of Momijigari
- Watch The Sumo Grand Tournament In Fukuoka
- Savor Seasonal Cuisine
- Attend Autumn Festivals
- Explore Hokkaido’s Winter Wonderland
- Soak In An Onsen
- Take A Japanese Language Class
- FAQ
Admire the Stunning Fall Foliage
One of the best things to do in Japan in November is leaf-peeping, or Kōyō (紅葉). The autumn leaves change color in late October and peak in November. Some of the best places to see autumn leaves in Japan include Arashiyama Bamboo Forest in Kyoto, Mount Takao in Tokyo, and Lake Kawaguchiko in Yamanashi Prefecture.
Attend the Meiji Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Festival
The Meiji Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Festival is held in Meiji Jingu Gaien Park in Tokyo in late November. The park is lined with ginkgo trees, which turn a beautiful yellow color in the fall. The festival features food stalls, live music, and other activities.
Experience the Art of Momijigari
Momijigari is the Japanese leaf-peeping tradition, celebrated in November. Take a stroll through one of Japan’s many maple-filled parks, temples, or shrines, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the season.
Here are the places that we love!
- Sounkyo 層雲峡
- Jozankei Onsen 定山渓温泉
- Onuma Quasi-National Park 大沼国定公園
- Oirase Stream 奥入瀬渓流
- Goshiki-numa Lakes 五色沼湖沼群
Watch the Sumo Grand Tournament in Fukuoka
The Sumo Grand Tournament, or Fukuoka Basho, is held in Fukuoka in November. Sumo is Japan’s national sport, and the tournament is a great opportunity to see it live. Tickets can be hard to come by, so booking them in advance is best.
Savor Seasonal Cuisine
Japanese cuisine is celebrated for its seasonality, and November offers a delightful array of seasonal dishes. For example, sample kuri-gohan (chestnut rice), matsutake mushrooms, and sanma (Pacific saury) to taste Japan’s autumn flavors.
Attend Autumn Festivals
November hosts a variety of festivals throughout Japan.
Here is a list of events:
- Shichi-Go-San Festival: Held on November 15th, celebrates the growth of children and is marked by the traditional dressing up of kids in kimono.
- Asakusa Tori no Ichi Festival: Held at Sensoji Temple in Tokyo in late November, where people can buy rakes, which are said to bring good luck.
- Bunkyo Chrysanthemum Festival: Held annually in early November at the Yushima Tenjin Shrine in Bunkyo, Tokyo.
- Tokyo International Film Festival: Held in Tokyo, Japan, showcasing global cinematic masterpieces.
Explore Hokkaido’s Winter Wonderland
If you’re seeking an early start to the winter season, head to Hokkaido. In November, you can experience the first snowfall in cities like Sapporo and enjoy winter sports, hot springs, and ice sculpture festivals.
Here are the places that we love!
Soak in an Onsen
The cooler weather in November makes it a perfect time to visit Japan’s famous hot springs or onsens. Beppu, Hakone, and Kusatsu are renowned for their relaxing and therapeutic natural baths.
Here are the places that we love!
- Takegawara Onsen 竹瓦温泉
- Shibaseki Onsen 柴石温泉
- Tenzan Onsen 天山温泉
- Hakone Yuryo Onsen 箱根湯寮温泉
- Sainokawara Open-Air Bath 西の河原温泉
Take A Japanese Language Class (with Coto *whispering*)
If you want to get the most out of your trip to Japan, take a Japanese language class (with Coto :D) before you go. Learning even a few basic phrases will make it much easier to communicate with the locals.
Coto Academy offers a range of courses, online or offline, from JLPT to Cultural Experience courses. If you want to try taiko, tea ceremony, or even calligraphy, don’t forget to check out our website!
Conclusion
Japan is a beautiful country with so much to offer, and November is a great time to visit. Whether exploring the historical city of Kyoto, soaking in an onsen, or attending a vibrant autumn festival, you will surely make unforgettable memories in this enchanting country during this colorful season. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience Japan’s beauty in its full glory in November!
You Might Be Wondering…
What lesser-known destinations in Japan are great to visit in November for autumn foliage viewing?
Lesser-known destinations for autumn foliage viewing in Japan in November include the Nakasendo Trail in the Kiso Valley and the Shikoku Island, the Iya Valley.
Can you provide some tips for securing tickets to the Sumo Grand Tournament in Fukuoka, given their high demand in November?
To secure tickets for the Sumo Grand Tournament in Fukuoka, booking well in advance is advisable. Options include official sumo ticket vendors, authorized resellers, or travel agencies specializing in sumo packages.
In Hokkaido, what other activities can visitors enjoy besides winter sports and ice sculpture festivals in November?
In Hokkaido, outside winter sports and ice sculpture festivals, visitors can enjoy snowshoeing, ice fishing, and wildlife viewing in national parks. Exploring local food markets and relaxing in hot springs are also popular options.
What are some recommended onsen resorts in Japan for a scenic experience in November?
Some recommended onsen resorts in Japan for a scenic experience in November include Kinosaki Onsen in Hyogo, Nyuto Onsen in Akita, and Ginzan Onsen in Yamagata, each offering a unique atmosphere and natural beauty.
