As the leaves transform into stunning colors of red and gold, November in Kyoto brings a magical atmosphere that invites exploration. View the scenic maple leaves in the garden of some of the best temples in Kyoto, try out the seasonal food that is the freshest in Kyoto, and embrace traditional Japanese cultural experiences. Trust me when I say that there’s no shortage of things to do. Here are some highlights to make your November trip to Kyoto unforgettable.
Light up festival view at Eikando – Photo Credit: Eikando Official Website
Eikando Momiji Light-up Festival
First up on your autumn adventure is Momiji viewing, if you ask me this is quite the quintessential Kyoto experience. Momiji, literally translating to “Red Leaves”, are maple leaves in Autumn. Known for its stunning gardens, temples, and shrines, Kyoto is a prime location for viewing the multicolored trees that populate the Kyoto landscape for the months of fall. Not to mention, the city’s rich history and well-preserved landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for nature’s colorful art show. And did you know there is a festival at Eikando where the maple leaves are lit up and you get to see the leaves glow in front of your eyes? Eikando has long been recognized as a famous spot for autumn leaves. Its beauty is so renowned that it is referenced in the Kokin Wakashu (Collection of Ancient and Modern Poems) as the one and only “Momiji of Eikando.” During the light-up festival, 3,000 trees surrounding the temple grounds will be lit up by perfectly placed light that accentuates the beauty created by this time of year. The illuminated autumn leaves around the Hojo Pond are particularly breathtaking. So grab your camera or even just your phone and enjoy nature’s colorful art show at Eikando.
Date: November 11, 2024 to December 1, 2024
Location: 48 Eikando-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto
Entry Fee: 700 Yen
Website: Eikando Official Website
Autumn Chestnut Ice Cream at Hayashi Mansyodo in Kyoto – Photo Credit: Hayashi Mansyodo Official Website
Try Chestnut Ice-cream at the Hundred-years-old Kyoto Shop
When November rolls around, it’s time to indulge in what the locals would call, “shokuyoku no aki (食欲の秋)”, or the appetite of autumn. This season is famous for its delicious seasonal food, and you can’t visit Kyoto without trying some of the local favorites. Just like how you might connect Autumn with pumpkin spice, Japanese people connect Autumn with foods made with kuri (chestnuts). During Autumn, Hayashi Mansyodo starts selling their famous chestnut ice cream. This rich frosty treat comes with two layers, one being the sweet chestnut paste and the other vanilla. The fragrant paste and fresh cream create a richly flavored ice cream that fills your mouth with the aroma of this beloved seasonal nut. While the mildly sweet vanilla ice cream enhances the gentle sweetness of the dish as a whole. Enjoy the cold, smooth taste of Hayashi Mansyodo’s sweet chestnuts.
Date: Entire November, while stock lasts
Location: 3 Otabimiyamotocho, Shijo-dori Teramachi Higashi-iru , Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto
Website: Hayashi Mansyodo Official Website
Thinking of trying all sorts of delicacies in Kyoto? Check out our Food Tours in Kyoto to give you a sense of taste adventure in Kyoto!
Sagano Train during Momiji lights up at night. – Photo Credit: Sagano Sightseeing Train Official Website
Sagano Autumn Sightseeing Train
For those who love a good scenic ride, hop aboard the Sagano Sightseeing Train this November! This train journey takes you through the breathtaking Arashiyama countryside, where you can enjoy the stunning views of the Hozu River and the surrounding mountains. Since it’s Autumn, at various locations along the nighttime journey, lighting devices are installed to illuminate the vivid autumn leaves that color the valley along the river, creating an almost magical scenery. The train’s large windows allow for unobstructed views, so get ready to take many photos, or just simply sit back and enjoy the ride. Bookings can be made a month prior, so now is the best time to reserve a spot. It’s a perfect and laid-back way to appreciate the beauty of Kyoto’s autumn landscape!
Date: Light-up period from October 12 to December 29, 2024. Every day from 4:30 pm.
Location: Light-up stations operate between Torokko Arashiyama Station and Torokko Kameoka Station.
Website: Sagano Sightseeing Train Official Website
Photo Credit: Toei Kyoto Studio Park Official Website
Yokai Matsuri at Toei Kyoto Studio Park
Hey, October may be over but are you still feeling the urge to join in on that chilly, spooky season spirit? Fear not, as the Yokai Matsuri (Monster’s Festival) at Toei Kyoto Studio Park is keeping the creeps alive all the way into November! This festival celebrates Japan’s fascinating folklore of Yokai, featuring all sorts of mythical creatures and ghosts. Participate in “The Night Parade of One Hundred Demons,” a procession of countless traditional Japanese creatures that are said to walk among us again this one night! It’s here that you will get to experience all the different monsters for yourself, and you can even dress up and join the parade! It’s a fantastic opportunity to dive into Japanese culture while having a little spooky fun.
Date: Until December 8, 2024
Location: 10 Uzumasa Higashihachiokacho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto-shi
Tickets and Website: Toei Kyoto Studio Park Official Website
Photo Credit: Gion Higashi Official Website
Gion Maiko Dance: Grace and Tradition
No visit to Kyoto is complete without witnessing the grace of the traditional Gion Maiko Dance. The Gion Higashi district is renowned for its traditions and rich history. Here, you can catch a glimpse of the exquisite performances by maiko, the apprentice geisha, who showcase their skills in dance and music.
During November in the Gion Higashi District, there is a special performance where you can experience this traditional Japanese culture. You can see a performance featuring an original script that includes a medley and dances performed by the local Maiko. This event is unique among the five geisha districts in Kyoto, as it is the only dance performance held in autumn, making it a cherished tradition that attracts many domestic and international visitors.
Date: November 1, 2024, to November 10, 2024, with two shows per day.
Location: Gion Kaikan Theatre, 323 Gionmachi Kitagawa, Higashiyama-ku, Kyōto-shi
Tickets and Website: Gion Higashi Official Website.
Photo Credit: Kyoto Tourism Official Website
Ohitaki Fire Matsuri at Kifune Shrine
Witness the annual tradition of the Ohitaki Fire Matsuri at Kifune Shrine, a festival held every 7th of November to cleanse the impurities and defilement of the earth. This ancient event features the lighting of large bonfires, creating a mesmerizing display of flickering flames against the night sky. Visitors can participate in the traditional ritual of writing their wishes on wooden plaques/sticks, which are then cast into the flames as a symbolic offering. It’s an unforgettable experience that combines spirituality with the warmth and wishes of the community. Plus, the magical atmosphere surrounded by the fiery glow is perfect for capturing those memorable photos in Kyoto!
Date: November 7, 2024 from 11AM
Location: 180, Kurama kibunecho, Sakyo-ku Kyoto-shi , Kyoto, 601-1112
Official Website: https://kifunejinja.jp
Photo Credit: Le Marche Official Facebook Page
Le Marche: A French-Style Sunday Market
If you’re looking for a unique way to spend a Sunday in November, head to the Institut Français Kansai in Hyakumanben, where they host Le Marche once a month on Sundays. This vibrant market is reminiscent of a French market, filled with fresh vegetables and fruits arranged in a rainbow of colors. The garden and terrace come alive with the theme of “Food Meets Art,” offering not just organic seasonal produce but also carefully selected gourmet ingredients and crafts. While enjoying delightful live performances by local artists, you can savor freshly made crêpes and chat with friends on the terrace of Le Café. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a leisurely Sunday, complete with the charm and flavor of France right in the heart of Kyoto!
Date: November 10, 2024, from 10 AM to 4 PM
Location: 8 Izumidono-cho, Yoshida, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8301
Official Website: Institut Francais
Photo Credit: Kitano Tenmangu Shrine Official Website
Tenjin-san Market: A Treasure Trove at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine
On the 25th of November, Kyoto will have its Tenjin-san flea market held at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine. With as many as 1,000 stalls lining the shrine and surrounding areas, this market is a treasure trove of second-hand kimonos, antiques, pottery, and unique curiosities. You can easily spend hours browsing through the various local shops, all while enjoying delicious snacks from various food stalls selling fresh fruits and vegetables. This market is not only a fantastic shopping experience but also a great reason to visit one of Kyoto’s most beloved shrines.
Date: November 25, 2024
Location: Bakurocho, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto
Official Website: https://kitanotenmangu.or.jp
With November approaching, there are things to do for everyone, be it scenic views, delicious foods, or just embracing the Japanese tradition. In addition, the weather in Kyoto for this month is so comfortable that you won’t regret going out all the time, whether you are walking or renting a bicycle, it is simply enjoyable everywhere. So be sure to cherish the perfect weather and check out all these fantastic seasonal things you can do in Kyoto to make your trip unforgettable!
Feature photo credit: AXP Photography
