Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto in November

Brilliant colour, busiest streets

The short answer

November is one of the weakest months in Kyoto.

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.

5.5/10 overall9–18°CHigh crowds$$$$$
Weather8.5/10
Crowds1.5/10
Prices$$$$$
Events8.5/10

November in detail

What November actually feels like

Weather
9–18°C
Brilliant colour, busiest streets
Crowds
High
High
Prices
$$$$$
$$$$$

+Spectacular scenery

–Heaviest crowds and highest prices of the year

My tip for November

Choose lesser-known temples in Takao or Ohara for colour with fewer people.

  • Autumn foliage
  • Evening illuminations

How November compares

Against the other eleven months

11th of 12 overall in Kyoto, 3rd for weather, 12th for space, 12th for value. The emptiest month is February; the best value is February.

See all twelve months for Kyoto

Not set on November?

Months I'd choose over November

Still going to Kyoto in November?

Book early and plan around the busiest hours — heaviest crowds and highest prices of the year

Find hotels in Kyoto

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