How to Plan Your Japan Trip Around November Festivals
November is one of the most rewarding times to experience Japan. The sources describe it as the apex of the autumn season, characterized by crisp, mild weather and a packed calendar of cultural, traditional, and culinary festivals, all set against the spectacular backdrop of momijigari (autumn foliage).
However, maximizing this travel requires smart planning. Here is your guide to navigating the essential logistics and must-see events to build a flawless November itinerary.
November’s festivals generally fall into three key categories, which you can use to structure your travel:
| Theme | Key Events/Locations | Dates |
|---|---|---|
| Autumn Foliage (Momijigari) | Kawaguchiko Momiji Festival (Mt. Fuji) | Nov 1–30 |
| Rikugien Garden Illumination (Tokyo) | Nov 28–Dec 9 | |
| Minoh Falls Autumn Festival (Osaka) | Nov 3 | |
| Traditional & Family Culture | Meiji Shrine Autumn Festival (Tokyo) | Nov 1–3 |
| Shichi-Go-San (Nationwide Family Rite) | Around Nov 15 | |
| Tori-no-Ichi Festival (Prosperity) | Nov 5, 17, 29 (Tokyo) | |
| Food & Harvest (Shokuyoku no Aki) | SAKANA & JAPAN FESTIVAL (Tokyo) | Nov 28–30 |
| Kanda Curry Grand Prix (Tokyo) | Nov 1–2 | |
| Uonumarche (Niigata, Rice Harvest) | Nov 8 |
Practical Planning Essentials
The high concentration of tourists drawn by the autumn colors necessitates careful logistical preparation.
Accommodation and Crowds
November is a busy tourism season, with popular spots like Kyoto drawing large crowds. The sources strongly advise travelers to secure hotels and seats early, especially if your itinerary involves major foliage sites or festivals. Also, be aware that the two national holidays, Culture Day (November 3rd) and Labor Thanksgiving Day (November 23rd), can limit business activity and contribute to crowd surges.
Weather and Layered Clothing
November is characterized by mild, dry, and comfortable daytime conditions in central areas like Tokyo and Osaka ($13-20^{\circ}C$). However, mornings and evenings are noticeably chilly ($7-10^{\circ}C$).
- Layering is highly recommended. While heavy coats are generally too much for the day, a light jacket, thin hoodie, or sweater is essential for cooler periods.
- Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are a must, especially for exploring natural areas like Minoh Falls and extensive temple grounds.
Money and Payment
For outdoor festivals, food stalls, and smaller vendors, you must carry cash, as these typically do not accept credit cards or mobile payments. Always ensure you have enough local currency for festival purchases and treats like momiji tempura.
Recommended Itinerary Strategy
To maximize your momijigari experience, plan your trip to follow the color shift:
- Start North/Early: Consider visiting northern cities like Sapporo early in the month (Nov 1–10) for the Chrysanthemum Festival, as Hokkaido experiences colder weather and earlier leaf changes.
- Middle Focus (Tokyo & Mt. Fuji): Spend the middle of the month enjoying Tokyo’s events (like the Meiji Shrine Festival and Tori-no-Ichi) and use it as a base for day trips. The Kawaguchiko Momiji Festival near Mt. Fuji runs all month, offering flexibility.
- End South/Illuminations (Osaka & Kyoto): Conclude your trip in the Kansai region. You can catch the Osaka Castle Park Illuminations and the grand finale of the foliage season in Kyoto (late November), often featuring special night illuminations.
By planning around these regional shifts and securing your logistics early, you can enjoy the full cultural depth and stunning visual beauty that Japan offers during its spectacular autumn zenith.
