Tokyo in November: Festivals, Food, and Fall Colours

November in Tokyo is arguably the most rewarding time to visit Japan’s capital. The weather is mild and crisp. Meanwhile, the autumn scenery is spectacular. In addition, the calendar overflows with traditional, culinary, and competitive events. It’s the season of momijigari (autumn leaf viewing) and Shokuyoku no Aki (the season of appetite). Here is a guide to the major events, along with the city’s autumn highlights for 2026. 

November in Tokyo: Traditional Festivals and Ceremonies

Tokyo honours its history and traditions throughout November. Vibrant, large-scale events offer a glimpse into Japanese culture and spiritual life.

The Imperial Commemoration: Meiji Shrine Autumn Festival

This grand festival runs from 1–3 November 2026. It coincides with Culture Day (3 November), which commemorates Emperor Meiji’s birthday. Highlights include rare demonstrations of ancient martial arts and traditional performing arts, such as:

• • Yabusame: Archery performed on horseback, a Shinto ritual that conveys both power and Japanese beauty.

• • Noh and Biwa: Traditional dance drama and performances on the biwa, a Japanese string instrument.

Worshipping Prosperity: Tori-no-Ichi Festival

This bustling festival takes place on specific “Rooster days” in November. Visitors pray for business prosperity and good fortune. In 2026, the main days are 7 and 19 November.

• • Kumade charms: The main feature is the sale of decorated bamboo rakes (kumade). People believe they “rake in good fortune.”

• • Locations: The festival transforms areas like Ootori Shrine in Asakusa and Hanazono Shrine in Shinjuku. The latter is famous for its 900 illuminated Japanese lanterns.

November in Tokyo: A Golden Palette of Autumn Foliage

Festivals like the Rikugien Illumination focus on delicate red maples. However, Tokyo also celebrates its spectacular golden ginkgo trees (ichō).

Night-time Foliage: Rikugien Garden Illumination

This historic garden offers a structured, serene way to enjoy momijigari. It holds night illuminations during the peak period, typically from late November to early December 2026. The lighting creates a mystical scene. The delicate autumn leaves and the traditional Japanese garden reflect beautifully in the central pond.

Golden Spectacle: Hachioji Ginkgo Festival

In western Tokyo, the Hachioji festival (21–22 November 2026) celebrates the transformation of 770 ginkgo trees. Along a four-kilometre street, they turn into a “beautiful golden, fantastical world.” This community-rooted event is highly interactive. It features parades and a unique walking rally. In the rally, visitors collect stamps on a wooden pass certificate (Tsuko-tegata).

Mountain Panorama: Mount Takao

Mount Takao lies about an hour from Shinjuku. It remains a renowned spot for a grand panorama of autumn colours. The Mount Takao Autumn Leaves Festival typically features concerts and dance performances on weekends throughout the season.

November in Tokyo: The Season of Appetite

Tokyo turns into a battleground for culinary perfection in November. As a result, the city hosts multiple major food competitions and feasts.

Seafood and Spectacle: SAKANA & JAPAN FESTIVAL

This festival runs from late November 2026 in Hibiya Park. It is one of Japan’s largest seafood events. More than 50 food stalls offer gourmet regional specialities and seafood bowls, such as ikura don. The spectacular tuna dismantling shows are a highlight.

Competitive Eating: Curry and Ramen

• • Kanda Curry Grand Prix Championship (31 October–1 November): This event takes place in the “holy land of curry.” Popular vote decides the year’s ultimate curry champion.

• • Japan Local Ramen Championship (26–30 November): This event in Shinjuku pits the top ten ramen varieties from all 47 prefectures against each other. Visitors can sample Japan’s best noodles in one place.

Why Spend November in Tokyo?

November in Tokyo 2026 blends spiritual rituals, magnificent natural scenery, and dedicated gourmet competitions. In short, it offers a rewarding and diverse experience for every traveller.