Osaka edges it in November. Kyoto averages 8–17°C with high crowds; Osaka 10–18°C with very high crowds.
By Daan · Last reviewed October 2026
Kyoto and Osaka
The verdict for November
Brilliant colour, busiest streets
+Spectacular scenery
–Heaviest crowds and highest prices of the year
Autumn leaves peak in the second half of the month and the city is at its most beautiful and its most crowded. Popular temples sometimes require reservations or have long queues. Hotels sell out well in advance.
Autumn foliage arrives
+Autumn foliage peaks mid-to-late month — Minoh’s maple trail is spectacular.
–Second price and crowd spike of the year; book ahead.
Autumn foliage peaks mid-to-late month — Minoh’s maple trail is spectacular.
Scores and crowd levels are my own judgement; temperatures are monthly averages. Higher scores are better: quieter, cheaper and more pleasant.
Another month