Things to do
in November
2025
Written by
Angus Miyaji
Things to know about NOVEMBER 2025
November is one of the best months to visit the countryside near Tokyo. The weather is typically crisp, clear, and stable, with plenty of sunny days and very low humidity. This month is also the peak of the autumn foliage season, know as (kōyō, 紅葉) in Japanese. Countryside landscapes in the mountains and valleys of Tochigi, Gunma, Ibaraki, and Saitama come alive with a spectacular display. Why not come to enjoy the fiery reds, brilliant oranges, and golden yellows that create a breathtaking scenery?
What to wear in NOVEMBER
Dressing in layers is the best strategy for November, as temperatures can differ significantly between the bright, sunny daytime and the cold evenings. Make sure to pack warm items like sweaters, fleeces, and long-sleeved shirts. A warm jacket (down or insulated is perfect), hat, gloves, and scarf are essential for trips to mountainous areas like the northern parts of Gunma and Tochigi or evenings out. Comfortable walking shoes are also a must for enjoying the autumn scenery.
Holidays & Crowds in NOVEMBER
November in Japan has two national holiday weekends in 2025: the 1st to 3rd of November (Culture Day weekend) and the 22nd to 24th of November (Labor Thanksgiving Day). The weekends and especially the ‘Three-day weekends’ can be very busy at famous autumn foliage spots. Popular locations such as Nikko, Nagatoro, Shima Onsen, and Ikaho Onsen will experience significant crowds and traffic. For a more peaceful experience, I highly recommend visiting these key sights either very early in the morning or on a weekday!
Recommended Activity in NOVEMBER
If you are in Japan in November, make sure to visit mountains or forests where you can enjoy the magical experience of viewing autumn colors. It’s the perfect time for scenic hikes and drives to spots, such assuch as Nikko, Nagatoro, Shima Onsen, Ikaho Onsen, Nasu-Shiobara, and Nasu. The crisp, cool weather also makes it one of the best times for relaxing in a mountain onsen surrounded by fall colors.
November is also a time for craft and culture. Art followers may want to visit the “Mashiko Pottery Fair” in Mashiko (Tochigi) during the first week. Towards the end of the month, don’t miss the start of the winter illuminations, with the “Flower Fantasy” at Ashikaga Flower Park (Tochigi) being a world-class highlight.
News for MAY 2025
Japan’s Ministry of Transport has officially recognized the “North Kanto Flower Corridor” under its Garden Tourism registration system. This exciting initiative connects 12 beautiful gardens across Tochigi, Gunma, and Ibaraki prefectures, such as Ashikaga Flower Park and Hitachi Seaside Park aiming to boost regional tourism by showcasing their unique floral attractions.
Events & Festivals in November
This is a biannual event
This is a biannual event
from Tokyo
Recommend things to do in November
Pottery Shop TOKO
Kimono Rental COCON NIKKO
Nikko Natural Science Museum
NAOC
Kanuma Kaboku Center
Maenikko Brewery
shiobara viva
Edo Wonderland
Kitrip Nikko
Ashikaga Flower Park
Hitachi Seaside Park
Ride Experience
Wakayama Farm
Shoai Samurai
Places to stay in November
Akasawa Onsen Ryokan
Kanahan (Ryokan)
Kinugawa Park Hotels
Nikko Kanaya Hotel
