Japan in November is an exciting time. The Land Of The Rising Sun transforms into a country filled with vibrant festivals, cultural celebrations and breathtaking experiences. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you on a journey through some of the most captivating events that will make your November trip to Japan unforgettable. From the fiery spectacle of fire-walking in Hiroshima to the party vibes of Ishikagi Island, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Fire-Walking Ceremony at Daiganji Temple
Date: November 3
Location: Hiroshima
One of the most remarkable events in November is the Fire-Walking Ceremony at Daiganji Temple, situated on the scenic island of Itsukushima/Miyajima. During this festival, brave priests and members of the public walk briskly across searing hot coals with bare feet, showcasing their unwavering faith and determination.
The ceremonies generally kick off around 1 p.m and the awe-inspiring fire-walking takes place an hour or two later. To ensure you don’t miss a moment, we recommend arriving early, as schedules may change on the day.
If you’re considering participating in this extraordinary ritual, be prepared for a truly unique experience. However, it’s essential to be aware that injuries are not unheard of, so exercise caution and respect for the sacred tradition.
How to Get There
Daiganji Temple is conveniently located just a short walk from Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima island. You can easily reach the island with a short boat trip from Hiroshima.
Additional Date
In case you can’t make it on November 3, don’t worry. There’s another chance to witness this incredible tradition. Daishōin Temple on Miyajima hosts a similar fire-walking ceremony on November 13. This event is part of a wider Buddhist celebration involving purification, chanting and shooting arrows.
Utsunomiya Gyoza Festival
Date: November 2 – November 3
Location: Tochigi
For the food enthusiasts, the Utsunomiya Gyoza Festival in Tochigi prefecture is a must-visit. Utsunomiya is renowned for its gyoza, the delicious dumplings of Chinese origin that have become a staple in Japanese ramen restaurants.
The festival takes place at Utsunomiya Park in the heart of the city. Here, various stalls offer plates of three delectable dumplings for a mere ¥200 (£1) that are fried, steamed or boiled. It’s an excellent opportunity to savour this mouthwatering Japanese specialty in a lively and festive atmosphere. You can find more about Gyoza here.
The festival truly is a staple of incredible Japanese events in November.
Karatsu Kunchi Festival
Date: November 2 – November 4
Location: Saga
One of the oldest celebrations in Saga Prefecture, the Karatsu Kunchi Festival is worth a try. It’s focused around the Karatsu Shrine, a shrine with 400 years of religious and philosophical history. And with the festival being free and happening all over the city, you can take your time when coming to the shrine.
The main attraction of the festival is the hikiyama floats that are pulled through the streets.
How to Get There
The easiest way to get to Karatsu is by train. From Saga Station, travel for an hour on the JR line to Karatsu Station.
Tokushima Yokai Festival
Date: November 17
Location: Tokushima
Located in the sleepy town of Miyoshi, the Yokai Festival is all about the monsters of Japanese folklore. The festival happens at the Kamimyo Elementary School, with the building and whole town transformed by colourful costumes that celebrate and respect creatures like oni, kappa, tengu and more.
Plus, there are local delicacies to try while you immerse yourself in an aspect of Japanese culture that is as weird as it is wonderful.
How to Get There
Although Miyoshi is more remote compared to other places in our guide, it’s still worth making the trip. You can travel from Marugame City in Kagawa Prefecture via the JR Dosan Line and get off at Obake station in one hour.
From there, you’ll need to take a bus or taxi to the school.
Suginami Festa
Date: November 9 – November 10
Location: Tokyo
Suginami Festa is one of Tokyo’s biggest food and drink events of the year. It kicks off in Suginami Kuritsu Momoi Harappa Park from 10 am and welcomes guests to hundreds of food stalls to try.
Food includes big ramen bowls, takoyaki (octopus balls), taiyaki (fish cookies), kamaboko (fried fish cakes) and so much more.
And it’s not just food you can look forward to at Suginami Festa. There’s entertainment from all over the world, from live music to sports demonstrations. If you’re planning on being in Tokyo in November, you should definitely add this festival to your itinerary.
How to Get There
There are many transport links around Momoi Harappa Park such as Ogikubo and Nishi-Ogikubo stations to the north.
Ishigaki Island Festival
Date: November 2 – November 3
Location: Okinawa
If you’re looking for a diverse cultural experience, the Ishigaki Island Festival on the island of Ishigaki in Okinawa is an event you shouldn’t miss. This local festival offers a wide range of performances and attractions to captivate your senses.
Among the many exciting events are bench press challenges, stage performances and live music. The festival typically culminates in a spectacular fireworks display on the second day, lighting up the evening sky with a kaleidoscope of colours.
teamLab: A Forest Where Gods Live – GC
Date: July 12 – November 4
Location: Saga
Step into a world of digital art and natural beauty at teamLab: A Forest Where Gods Live – GC in Takeo Onsen, Kyūshū. This unique exhibition invites visitors to explore Mifuneyama Rakuen Park, where ancient trees, hidden caves and winding paths meet a stunning array of digital art, including colourful projections and illuminations.
The exhibit runs during the evening hours, creating a magical atmosphere that perfectly complements the park’s natural charm. The opening times vary based on the season, so be sure to check the schedule before your visit.
If you hold a teamLab Exhibition & Daytime “Rakan Bath” Combo Ticket, you’ll have the opportunity to view some of the indoor artworks from 11 a.m. Make the most of your visit by exploring the Excavated Path Leading to the Ancient Sacred Tree.
Tickets
You can purchase tickets online or on the day of your visit. Prices range from ¥1,200 (£6) for adults during weekdays (excluding holidays and August 14–16) to ¥1,600 (£8) during other times. Children aged five and younger can enter for free.
For a more comprehensive experience, consider combination tickets starting at ¥5,200. (£26) These tickets include admission to the exhibition, access to the Daytime “Rakan Bath,” and a complimentary drink at EN TEA HOUSE Otoro.
How to Get There
The closest station to Mifuneyama Rakuen Park is Takeo Onsen. You can reach this station by taking the West Kyūshū Shinkansen. From there, it’s just an 8-minute bus or taxi ride to the park.
Gion Odori
Date: November 1 – November 10
Location: Kyoto
Experience the elegance and grace of Kyoto’s Gion Odori, a cultural festival featuring performances by geiko (geisha) and maiko (apprentice geisha) from the Gion Higashi district. This event takes place in the autumn, as the vibrant foliage of Kyoto adds to the enchanting atmosphere.
Gion Odori is held at Gion Kaikan, near Yasaka Shrine, and has a history dating back to 1894. It’s one of Kyoto’s longest-running shows and offers a rare opportunity to witness the captivating performances of maiko and geiko up close.
Bear in mind that the temperature in Kyoto in November is chilly and crisp, so be sure to wrap up warm when watching the geisha.
Gion Odori 2024
Every spring and autumn, Kyoto’s hanamachi (geisha districts) come to life with public dance performances, making it an affordable and respectful way to witness these iconic performing artists.
Mt. Fuji Marathon
Date: November 24
Location: Yamanashi
The Mount Fuji (Mt. Fuji) Marathon offers a unique opportunity to witness one of the world’s most famous mountains against the backdrop of a Japanese autumn. Mount Fuji has captured the imagination of people all over Japan, from great artists like Hokusai and Hiroshige, to influential politicians who’ve been instrumental in crowning Fuji a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This event allows you to experience the natural beauty of Japan while participating in an exciting sports event. You’ll also have stunning views of the entire country. Climb high enough and you may be able to see Tokyo in the crisp November weather and other Japanese cities covered in snow.
How to Enter
Entry for the Mt. Fuji Marathon usually opens early in June and closes on September 30. Entry fees range from ¥10,000 (£50) to ¥25,000 (£126), a small price to pay for the experience of a lifetime. Finish the race and earn a medal shaped like the iconic Mt. Fuji.
Course
The marathon begins and ends at the Funatsu Parking Lot near Kawaguchiko Station. Moreover the route takes you on a loop around the two major lakes in the area, Lake Kawaguchiko and Lake Saiko. Therefore be prepared for one challenging steep incline just before you descend into the Lake Saiko area.
How to Get There
Getting to Kawaguchiko from Tokyo is relatively straightforward. Moreover you can find detailed information on transportation options in our article. The key considerations are your budget and where you’d like to stay during this incredible event in Japan in November.
Fukuoka November Grand Sumo Tournament
Date: November 10 – November 24
Location: Fukuoka
Finally November brings the Fukuoka November Grand Sumo Tournament, marking the final of Japan’s six annual Sumo Tournaments, known as honbasho. Therefore this is a rare chance to witness the traditional sport up close and personal.
The sumo rankings are released a few weeks before the event. It’s a thrilling experience to be a part of the atmosphere during the tense final matches of the day. Moreover Sumo matches take place throughout the day, allowing you to grab a meal and return for more exciting battles.
If you’re out and about in Fukuoka, you might even see some of the wrestlers walking on the street. It’s rumoured many of the wrestlers are locals at the various bathhouses throughout the city.
Tickets
The tickets come in various categories, including arena seats, Class S seating and Class A seating. Prices start from ¥3,500 (£17) for arena seats, while Class S seating includes a guide from 2:30 pm and costs ¥16,902. (£85) Meanwhile Class A seating, which includes a guide, is priced at ¥19,000. (£95)
Moreover seating options range from box seating in tatami areas (seating four people) starting at around ¥40,000 (£200) to arena seats, which begin at ¥3,500. (£17) Therefore the most crowded times are typically on weekends and towards the end of the tournament.
If you’re not in Fukuoka during a tournament, there are still ways to witness sumo action in Tokyo, Japan in November.
November in Japan truly is a month of cultural exploration, breathtaking nature, and exhilarating sports. Whether you choose to witness the mesmerising fire-walking ceremony in Hiroshima, indulge in mouthwatering gyoza at the Utsunomiya Gyoza Festival, or enjoy the digital art and natural beauty at teamLab in Kyūshū, there’s no shortage of unforgettable experiences waiting for you.
Join Our Newsletter
Sign up for the latest news & offers
