This is Tokyo in November – A Tapestry of Culture and Autumn Hues in Kagurazaka
- Shinya Yamada
- 19 hours ago
- 6 min read
The Season Between Autumn Maturity and the Beginning of Winter
According to Japan’s traditional calendar of 24 Sekki 72 Kō (24 solar terms and 72 microseasons), Rittō—the “Beginning of Winter”—falls on November 7 in 2025. In other words, November marks the start of winter in theory. However, due to recent climate changes, it is now generally considered part of autumn in Tokyo.
This is the season of “Autumn for the Appetite,” “Autumn for Culture,” “Autumn for Reading,” and “Autumn for Sports.”It is the most pleasant time of year to savor life with all five senses. Tokyo in November is when nature, art, and cuisine harmonize to create the most beautiful travel experience of the year.
While October attracts the largest number of international visitors to Japan, November offers a calmer atmosphere and often more reasonable airfares and hotel rates.
According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, the average temperature in Tokyo in November is 13.6°C (56.5°F), and the average humidity is 65.2% (based on 2010–2024 data). The air is crisp and clear, the rainfall is low, and it’s the perfect climate for enjoying autumn leaves and cultural experiences.
Source: Japan Meteorological Agency
The Season of Autumn Leaves: Tokyo Painted in Fall Colors
In Tokyo, the foliage season begins in November. According to the Japan Weather Association, the autumn leaves in Ueno Park are expected to be at their best from mid-November to early December 2025. City trees and gardens glow with golden ginkgo leaves and vibrant red and orange maple leaves.
One distinctive feature of Tokyo’s scenery is the abundance of ginkgo trees (ichō). This is not only for beauty—it’s practical. Ginkgo trees are fire-resistant, as their thick, moisture-rich leaves prevent flames from spreading. During the Edo period, they were often planted in hiyokechi (firebreak spaces) to protect towns from fire. After the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923, many cases were recorded in which ginkgo trees stopped the spread of fire, leading to their widespread adoption as city trees throughout Tokyo.
Famous autumn foliage spots include Koishikawa Korakuen Garden, Rikugien Garden, Shinjuku Gyoen, Inogashira Park, and the Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum.
“Momiji” (autumn leaves) has become a word known worldwide, and many travelers visit Japan in this season to witness its breathtaking colors. But what makes Japanese autumn leaves so beautiful?
Experts often refer to the three conditions for stunning autumn colors:
Plenty of sunlight
Sufficient humidity
A significant difference between day and night temperatures
Japan’s humid climate and rich variety of deciduous trees make these conditions ideal. The iroha-momiji (Japanese maple) is especially beloved for its deep crimson hue, creating the vivid autumn landscapes unique to Japan.
In short, Tokyo's November autumn leaves are not just colorful—they’re deeply tied to Japanese history and environmental harmony.
Weather for Tokyo in November: The Best Season for Comfortable Travel
Average high: 17.7°C
Average low: 10.0°C
Average humidity: 65.2%
Monthly rainfall: 91 mm
Sunshine rate: 51.2%
(All based on averages from 2010–2024)
The rainfall drops to less than half of October’s level (229 mm), and sunshine hours exceed 50% for the first time since February. With mild temperatures and low precipitation, travelers can explore the city under clear skies without worrying about rain.
Source: Japan Meteorological Agency
During the day, a long-sleeved shirt or light coat is sufficient, but mornings and evenings can be cool, so a light down jacket or scarf is recommended . Simply put, the weather in Tokyo in November offers ideal conditions for sightseeing and photography alike.
Traditional Culture and Seasonal Events in November
Shichi-Go-San (The Seven-Five-Three Festival)
Held around November 15, this traditional event celebrates the growth of children aged 3, 5, and 7. Its origins date back to the Heian period (794–1185), when three court rituals were held to pray for a child’s safe development at each milestone age. Back then, due to poor sanitation and limited medical care, many children did not survive early childhood, so turning seven meant being recognized as a full person.
By the Edo period, this custom had spread among samurai and merchant families and had become the modern Shichi-Go-San. At Akagi Shrine in Kagurazaka, you can see families in traditional kimonos visiting for blessings—a charming sight that captures the essence of Japan. However, visitors should be respectful and avoid photographing private family ceremonies without permission.
Autumn Cuisine: The Taste of the Season
November is full of seasonal delicacies—chestnuts, matsutake mushrooms, gingko nuts, persimmons, and sweet potatoes. Restaurants and izakaya in Tokyo begin offering warm dishes like oden (hot pot) and seasonal kaiseki courses. In Kagurazaka’s traditional ryotei, you can enjoy refined multi-course meals using the best ingredients of autumn.
The Arts of Autumn
Noh, gagaku (court music), traditional Japanese instruments, and art exhibitions all flourish during this season. For culture lovers, Tokyo in November is truly the perfect time to experience Japan’s refined artistic heritage.
Kagurazaka: Serenity and Tradition in the Heart of Tokyo
Located in Shinjuku Ward, Kagurazaka is a historic kagai (geisha district) of Edo. Even today, cobblestone alleys, wooden facades, and long-standing ryotei (traditional restaurants) preserve the elegant atmosphere of the past. When autumn leaves paint these alleys red and gold, the harmony between nature and culture is breathtaking.
Events in Tokyo in November — Highlights in Kagurazaka
Geisha and Traditional Performing Arts
November 1 – “The Ozashiki Experience” (part of Kagurazaka Machi Tobi Festa)
A popular introductory event featuring geisha dance, shamisen, and ozashiki asobi (parlor games).
November 14–15 – “Mizuho-kai” 3rd Performance (Hosted by the Tokyo Kagurazaka Geisha Association)
An exceptional performance by a young geisha, showcasing the continuity of this living art form.
Yarai Noh Theater Performances
November 1 – “Classics Day” Special Performance: Adachigahara (Shirado)”
A beginner-friendly Noh program with commentary.
November 3 – Open Theater Tour
A rare opportunity to see behind the scenes, including costumes and masks.
November 9 – November Regular Performance
Reflecting the quiet spirit of autumn through classic Noh plays.
Local Festivals and Markets
November 22–23 – “Dōn to Fukui in Kagurazaka: Echizen & Wakasa Festival”
Held along Kagurazaka Street, at Akagi Shrine, and at Zenkoku-ji Temple, this event showcases the crafts and cuisine of Fukui Prefecture.
Historically, Kagurazaka Street was built by the 3rd Shogun Tokugawa Iemitsu as a route connecting Edo Castle to the residence of Sakai Tadakatsu, the Tairō (chief minister) of the Wakasa Obama Domain—creating a deep cultural link between Tokyo and Fukui that continues today.
November 30 – “Akagi Marche” (Akagi Shrine Grounds)
A craft market where local artisans display handmade goods. Surrounded by autumn leaves, visitors can browse pottery, accessories, and sweets in a calm, festive atmosphere.
Traditional Cultural Experiences in Kagurazaka (Things to Do in Tokyo in November)
Enjoy the elegant world of Tokyo’s living geisha culture. Watch refined dance performances while sipping sake in a serene ryotei setting—an unforgettable experience found only in Kagurazaka.
Noh Experiences
At Yarai Noh Theater and nearby temples, visitors can experience the profound world of traditional Japanese performing arts and the aesthetic of Yūgen—the beauty found in subtlety and silence.
Tea Ceremony and Autumn Wagashi
Taste seasonal sweets made from chestnuts, sweet potatoes, or persimmons, paired with matcha. At Baikatei’s annex “Fufumian”, Japan’s top wagashi artisan, Mr. Takeshi Inoue, a certified Tokyo Meister, personally teaches wagashi making.
Traditional Crafts: Ukiyo-e, Kumihimo, and Dyeing
Meet master artisans one-on-one in tranquil workshops. This “Artistic Autumn” experience reveals the depth and elegance of Japan’s handcraft heritage.
Recommended Autumn Walks Around Kagurazaka
Akagi Shrine – Beautiful in fall, especially during Shichi-Go-San celebrations
Kagurazaka Street & Stone-Paved Alleys – Historic slopes lined with cafes and boutiques
Zenkoku-ji (Bishamon-ten Temple) – Vibrant orange halls against colorful foliage
Denchu-ji Temple – A peaceful Zen atmosphere away from crowds
Canal Café (Sotobori Street) – Stunning reflections of autumn leaves on the water, framed by passing yellow Sobu and orange Chuo Line trains
This route is ideal for travelers searching for “where to go in Tokyo in November” and seeking calm yet culturally rich destinations.
Travel Tips: What to Wear and Expect
Clothing: Light coat during the day, jacket or scarf at night
Weather: Low rainfall and a sunshine rate of 51.2%
Rainy Days: Only about eight per month—perfect for outdoor exploration
Booking: Reserve cultural experiences early, especially on weekends
Language: Private tours and English-guided programs available via EDO KAGURA
Conclusion – Tokyo in November: A Season Where Serenity Meets Art
Autumn leaves, traditional performances, and seasonal flavors—Tokyo in November is filled with the essence of Japanese culture. Step away from the crowds and discover the quiet side of Tokyo, where art and nature harmonize.
Kagurazaka, with its cobblestone charm and living traditions, embodies this spirit perfectly. For those seeking authentic traditional cultural experiences in the heart of Tokyo, this is the season—and the place—to find them.
Book Each Experience
How to Access Kagurazaka
The Kagurazaka area is conveniently located within 30 minutes from any major station in Tokyo. This is because Kagurazaka is situated in the heart of Tokyo, at the center of the Yamanote Line. Please come and visit this convenient and charming Kagurazaka.
Comments