November Events in Japan 2025

November is a fantastic time to visit Japan, as the weather is crisp and the autumn foliage is at its peak across many popular destinations.
Many festivals during this month celebrate the harvest, the changing season, and traditional Japanese culture.

Here are five highly recommended events and activities for foreign visitors in Japan in November 2025.

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Recommended November Events in Japan (2025)

1. Autumn Leaf Viewing at Kiyomizu-dera Temple (Kyoto)

　　　　　　　 　　 　

Kyoto is world-famous for its autumn leaves (kōyō), and the historic Kiyomizu-dera Temple is arguably the best place to see them.

• What it is: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the temple's magnificent wooden stage provides a stunning panoramic view of the hillsides blanketed in fiery red and gold maple trees.

• Special Feature: In November, the temple holds Night Illuminations (Yakan Tokubetsu Haikan), where the foliage and the temple grounds are dramatically lit up after sunset. The sight of the illuminated leaves is truly breathtaking and unforgettable.

• Estimated Dates: Typically runs from Late November to Early December. (e.g., Nov 22 to Dec 7 in 2025).

• Location: Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Kyoto.

 

2. Tori-no-Ichi (Rooster Market) (Tokyo)

　　　　　　　　　　　

This is a lively, traditional festival unique to November and a fantastic way to experience a piece of old Tokyo culture.

• What it is: A fair held at various shrines and temples to wish for good fortune, health, and prosperity for the coming year. The main attraction is the sale of ornate, hand-decorated bamboo rakes called Kumade, which are believed to "rake in" good luck.

• Where to Go: The most famous and atmospheric locations are the Hanazono Shrine in Shinjuku and the Chokoku-ji Temple in Asakusa.

• Estimated Dates: Held on the "Days of the Rooster" according to the Chinese zodiac. The main dates are usually in the first, middle, and late parts of November. (e.g., Nov 11-12 and Nov 23-24 in 2025).

• Location: Hanazono Shrine (Shinjuku) and Chokoku-ji Temple (Asakusa), Tokyo.

 

3. Grand Sumo Tournament (Fukuoka Basho)

　　　　　　　　　 　　

Watching a Grand Sumo Tournament live is one of the most exciting and authentic Japanese cultural experiences a visitor can have.

• What it is: The last of the six annual major sumo tournaments (Basho). For 15 days, Japan's largest wrestlers battle it out in a spectacular display of strength and ritual.

• Experience: The event is highly ritualized, offering a deep insight into Japan's ancient traditions. The atmosphere inside the arena is electric.

• Estimated Dates: Typically runs for 15 days in Mid-November. (e.g., Nov 9 to 23 in 2025).

• Location: Fukuoka Kokusai Center, Fukuoka (Kyushu region). Tickets are essential and should be booked well in advance.

 

4. Fuji-Kawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival (Near Mt. Fuji)

　　　　　　　　　　　　

For the iconic sight of autumn foliage with Japan's most famous landmark in the background, this festival is a must-see.

• What it is: A month-long festival celebrating the stunning autumn colors around Lake Kawaguchiko, one of the five lakes at the base of Mt. Fuji.

• Special Feature: The highlight is the Momiji Kairo (Maple Corridor), a path lined with over 60 maple trees. After sunset, the trees are lit up, providing a truly magical view of the autumn leaves with Mt. Fuji (weather permitting) as the backdrop.

• Estimated Dates: Throughout November (e.g., Nov 1 to 30, with nightly illuminations).

• Location: North shore of Lake Kawaguchiko, Yamanashi Prefecture.

 

5. Shichi-Go-San (Seven-Five-Three) Festival

　　　　　　　　　　　　

This is a heartwarming and deeply meaningful cultural celebration that visitors can observe at almost any major Shinto shrine across the country.

• What it is: A traditional rite of passage and festival day for young children: girls aged seven and three, and boys aged five (and sometimes three). Families visit shrines to pray for their children's continued health and growth.

• Experience: On the day, you can see beautifully dressed Japanese children in traditional kimono or hakama (traditional attire) posing for photos with their parents and receiving Chitose Ame (long, stick-shaped candy symbolizing longevity).

• Estimated Dates: Officially held on November 15th, but most families celebrate on the nearest weekend before or after the date.

• Location: Shrines nationwide, with popular locations being Meiji Jingu (Tokyo) and Heian Jingu (Kyoto).

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Disclaimer: Dates for 2025 are estimates based on historical patterns and should be confirmed closer to the travel date, as exact schedules can change.