Tokyo in November is a captivating blend of autumnal beauty and cultural richness. The city transforms with the changing seasons, as parks and gardens showcase stunning red and golden leaves. Visitors can savor seasonal delicacies, attend cultural festivals, and bask in the glow of citywide illuminations. With comfortable weather and fewer tourists, it’s an ideal time to explore Tokyo’s diverse attractions and immerse yourself in its unique charm. From breathtaking firework competitions and vibrant street dance events to the tranquil beauty of chrysanthemum exhibitions, Tokyo offers something unforgettable for every type of traveler.
Roses in full bloom – Photo Credit: Official Website
Autumn Rose Festival
While Tokyo is often celebrated for its autumn leaves, the Autumn Rose Festival at Kyu-Furukawa Gardens offers another side of autumn beauty—roses in full bloom. Explore the meticulously maintained gardens filled with vibrant roses in shades of pink, red, and white. The gardens provide a serene escape from the bustling city, and during the festival, you can experience seasonal displays and learn about the various varieties of roses on show.
Admission: ¥150
Date: October 5th – November 8th, 2024
Location: Kyu-Furukawa Gardens
Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Website: Autumn Rose Festival
Event Poster – Photo Credit: Official Website
Mt. Takao Autumn Leaves Festival
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and soak in the autumn beauty at the Mt. Takao Autumn Leaves Festival. The surrounding mountains burst with hues of red, orange, and yellow, offering breathtaking views. The festival itself includes cultural performances, food stalls, and traditional music, providing the perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion. A visit to Mt. Takao is a perfect way to reconnect with nature and experience Japan’s spectacular autumn landscapes.
Admission: Free
Date: October 26th – December 8th, 2024
Location: Mount Takao
Website: Mt. Takao Autumn Leaves Festival
Large yellow head of Japanese chrysanthemum flower – Photo Credit: EQRoy
Tokyo Metropolitan Tourism Chrysanthemum Exhibition
Join in on celebrating the beauty of Japan’s imperial flower at the Tokyo Metropolitan Tourism Chrysanthemum Exhibition. Held in the scenic Hibiya Park, this event showcases a stunning array of chrysanthemums — arranged in both traditional and contemporary styles. Wander through the exhibition and marvel at the meticulous arrangements that reflect the artistry and skill of Japanese horticulture. It’s a peaceful, beautiful way to enjoy one of Japan’s symbolic flowers.
Admission: Free
Date: November 1st – 10th, 2024
Location: Hibiya Park
Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Meiji Jingu shrine – Photo Credit: Meiji Jingu Website
Meiji Jingū Shrine Yabusame
Step back in time and witness a captivating demonstration of Japan’s samurai heritage at the Meiji Jingū Shrine Yabusame event. Yabusame is the traditional art of horseback archery, in which riders shoot arrows at targets while galloping on horseback. This rare event, set against the tranquil and spiritual backdrop of the Meiji Jingū Shrine, is a mesmerizing way to experience Japanese culture firsthand. You won’t want to miss this stunning blend of skill, tradition, and history.
Admission: Free
Date: November 3rd, 2024
Location: Meiji Jingū Shrine
Time: 1:00 PM
Website: Meiji Jingū Shrine Yabusame
Tori no Ichi held in November – Photo Credit: Princess_Anmitsu
Tori-no-Ichi Fair
Tori-no-Ichi Fair is a centuries-old festival that embodies the spirit of prosperity and good fortune. Held on the “days of the rooster” in November, this fair features the sale of vibrant ornamental rakes called “kumade,” symbolizing the wish to “rake in” good fortune for the year ahead. The festival is alive with lively chants, beautiful decorations, and a bustling marketplace that offers everything from traditional food to souvenirs. This cultural experience is not just about shopping — it’s about feeling the pulse of Tokyo’s history and community.
Admission: Free
Date: November 5th, 2024
Location: Various locations Ōkunitama Shrine, Hanazono Shrine, Otori Shrine
Time: 6:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Website: Fuchu Tourism Official Instagram
Official Poster – Photo Credit: Art Week Tokyo
Art Week Tokyo
Art Week Tokyo (AWT) is a dynamic celebration of contemporary art that attracts enthusiasts and collectors from all over the globe. With exhibitions taking place at various venues across Tokyo, including major museums and galleries, this event provides an in-depth look at the city’s vibrant art scene. Immerse yourself in curated exhibitions, interactive installations, video screenings, and insightful talks. Whether you’re an art aficionado or a casual observer, AWT offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the boundless creativity in Tokyo’s art community.
Admission: Free
Date: November 7th – 10th
Location: Various venues, including Mori Art Museum, Tokyo Museum of Contemporary Art, Artizon Museum, The National Art Center Tokyo
Website: Art Week Tokyo
Official Poster – Photo Credit: Cheese Festa
Cheese Festa 2024
Calling all cheese lovers! The Cheese Festa 2024 is back in Tokyo, bringing with it an incredible assortment of cheeses from around the world. This annual festival allows visitors to sample a wide variety of cheeses and cheese-based dishes, with everything from artisan creations to crowd-pleasing favorites. Participate in cheese tastings, cooking demonstrations, and even cheese competitions. It’s an unmissable experience for anyone with a love for this creamy delicacy — be sure to RSVP early to secure your spot!
Admission: Free (RSVP may be required)
Date: November 10th – 11th
Location: EBiS303
Website: Cheese Festa
Official Poster – Photo Credit: Design Festa
Design Festa Vol. 60: Fall Edition
Design Festa is a mecca for art lovers, offering an eclectic and fascinating mix of artistic expressions, from traditional crafts to avant-garde digital installations. Design Festa Vol. 60 will be held at the iconic Tokyo Big Sight, showcasing the talents of thousands of artists. The diversity of the artworks on display, ranging from paintings, sculptures, and performances to fashion and even culinary art, ensures that there’s something for everyone. This event is a fantastic opportunity to support up-and-coming artists and explore cutting-edge creative work in one vibrant, bustling space.
Admission: ¥1,000
Date: November 16th – 17th
Location: Tokyo Big Sight
Website: Design Festa
Official Poster – Photo Credit: Tokyo Harvest Festival
Tokyo Harvest Festival
Savor the best of Japanese agricultural heritage at the Tokyo Harvest Festival. Held at the Tokyo International Forum, this festival celebrates the rich diversity of Japanese agriculture and food culture. Indulge in a wide variety of fresh produce, local delicacies, and dishes featuring seasonal ingredients. The festival also offers hands-on workshops, cooking demonstrations, and cultural performances, giving visitors an immersive and educational experience that highlights the connection between food and culture in Japan.
Admission: Free
Date: November 16th – 17th
Location: Tokyo International Forum
Website: Tokyo Harvest Festival
Official Poster – Photo Credit: Street Dance Week
Shibuya Street Dance Week
Shibuya Street Dance Week (SSDW) transforms the lively neighborhood of Shibuya into a celebration of street dance and hip-hop culture. Get ready to witness electrifying dance battles, amazing group performances, and lively lessons open to participants of all skill levels. It’s an excellent chance to get your groove on, connect with dancers from around the world, and dive into Tokyo’s urban culture. Whether you’re an experienced dancer or just love to watch, SSDW promises a high-energy day full of fun, movement, and connection.
Admission: Free
Date: November 23rd
Location: Yoyogi Park Events Square
Website: Shibuya Street Dance Week
Doburoku Festival – Photo Credit: 365 Focus Photography
Doburoku Festival
Visit Koami Shrine for the Doburoku Festival, an event that centers around unrefined sake, known as doburoku. This traditional celebration provides an authentic taste of Japan’s cultural past, as visitors can sample the special brew and take part in various rituals. This unique festival provides a sense of community and offers an opportunity to learn about the history and craftsmanship that goes into brewing this traditional drink.
Admission: Free
Date: November 28th, 2024
Location: Koami Jinja
Time: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Website: Koami Shrine
Illumination in Tokyo at Shinjuku – Photo Credit: Patryk Kosmider
Tokyo Illuminations
November marks the beginning of the enchanting winter illumination season in Tokyo, where the city comes alive with sparkling lights and captivating displays, transforming the urban landscape into a radiant wonderland. Here are some of the must-see illuminations that will add an extra touch of magic to your Tokyo experience this winter:
Marunouchi Illumination
Dates: November 16, 2024 to February 18, 2025
Location: Marunouchi area
Shinjuku Winter Illumination
Dates: November 17, 2024 to February 14, 2025
Location: Shinjuku Southern Terrace
Tokyo Dome City Winter Illumination
Dates: November 21, 2024 to February 29, 2025
Location: Tokyo Dome City
Tokyo Mega Illumination
Dates: November 2, 2024 to January 12, 2025
Location: Oi Racecourse
Roppongi Hills Christmas
Dates: November 7 to December 25, 2024
Location: Roppongi Hills
Ebisu Garden Place Illumination
Dates: November 11, 2024 to January 8, 2025
Location: Ebisu Garden Place
Tokyo Skytree Dream Christmas
Dates: November 15 to December 25, 2024
Location: Tokyo Skytree Town
Marunouchi Illumination
Dates: November 16, 2024 to February 18, 2025
Location: Marunouchi area
Shinjuku Winter Illumination
Dates: November 17, 2024 to February 14, 2025
Location: Shinjuku Southern Terrace
Tokyo Dome City Winter Illumination
Dates: November 21, 2024 to February 29, 2025
Location: Tokyo Dome City
Meguro River Minna no Illumination
Dates: November 10, 2024 to January 8, 2025
Location: Meguro River
Omotesandō Illuminations
Dates: November 30, 2024 to January 5, 2025 (tentative)
Location: Omotesandō Street
Hibiya Magic Time Illumination
Dates: Mid-November to late February (specific dates TBA)
Location: Hibiya Park
Tokyo in November offers a captivating blend of vibrant festivals, artistic exhibitions, natural beauty, and mesmerizing illuminations that create an enchanting atmosphere. The city transforms into a radiant spectacle with countless cultural activities and stunning visual displays that bring out its unique charm. Whether you’re an art lover seeking cutting-edge exhibitions, a foodie looking to indulge in seasonal specialties, a nature enthusiast eager to witness the beauty of autumn, or simply someone searching for an immersive cultural experience, Tokyo has something special in store for you this month. Take the opportunity to explore its diverse attractions, participate in festive events, and marvel at the beauty that only Tokyo in November can offer. Mark your calendar, plan your itinerary, and make the most of your unforgettable visit, there’s truly something magical for everyone in this dynamic city!
Feature photo credit: Daniel Louis Jean
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