Do you plan on coming to Japan in November next year?

November is a great month to visit this beautiful country especially because of the many autumn festivals.

Many festivals during this month are centered around the marvelous sceneries that bring to spotlight the autumn foliage.

Today, I will be sharing with you five things to see and do during this month in Japan:

1. Enjoy an idyllic view of the autumn leaves in Japan

As I mentioned above, the autumn leaves viewing is a must if coming to Japan during November. There are many festivals and spots where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery given by the autumn foliage.

A few of my recommendations for November are:

• Rikugien in Tokyo, where you can also get lost in a traditional and spectacular Japanese garden and even see the illuminations at night when it’s the peak of the season.
• Lake Kawaguchi in Yamanashi. For those who love Mt.Fuji, you’ll be thrilled to know that you can have the autumn leaves and Fuji-san in the same frame. If you are in Yamanashi during this season, don’t forget to also try out the many delicious foods at the Kawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Matsuri (Festival).
• Seiryu-Ji Tokugen-in Temple in Shiga

Another place I recommend going in November is the Seiryu-Ji Tokugen-in Temple for a tranquil atmosphere and healing time with a gorgeous view surrounding the temple, the zen garden, and its surroundings.

2. Go to the Gotochi Nabe Festival

Gotochi Nabe Festival takes place during November, for around three days (27-29th November) in Tokyo, Hibiya.

The Japanese term “nabe”(鍋) refers to a hot pot dish, while Gotochi means regional. During the Gotochi Nabe Matsuri, you will be able to enjoy various hot pot dishes, local and regional foods, warm yourself up and also try out tasty Japanese specialties while having a relaxing time in Hibiya Park.

3. Have a Zen time while strolling around a Japanese garden

Japanese gardens are a popular place to visit any time during the year. However, during November, many have light-up events, and you can also enjoy the autumn foliage while spending a relaxing day or evening.

4. Go to the Namaste India Festival

The Namaste India Festival takes place on the 28th and 29th of November in Yoyogi Park.  For those who love being surrounded by music, good food, and a festive atmosphere, this is the perfect event to try out this month.

5. Try out the Autumn Dishes and seasonal sweets

Autumn in Japan is one of my favorites. Not only because of the astonishing sceneries but also because of the seasonal ingredients and delicious foods available only during this time.

In November, you can try out so many autumn flavors that use seasonal ingredients, and I recommend going to a sweets buffet, too.

You will be surprised to discover a large variety of desserts, made with seasonal ingredients that will also remind you of autumn through the many details incorporated in the design. The creativity of each dessert, high-quality, and refined taste will make it worth it.

The same goes for food and beverages, so don’t miss it out if you plan on visiting Japan during November.

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These are my top five things to do and see in Japan during this month. There are so many other things to discover and many more activities during this time of the year, so don’t forget to check it out.

Unfortunately, due to the Covid-19, many events and festivals got canceled this year, but hopefully, by the next November, things will gradually get back to normal.