Tokyo in November 2026

Dates worth knowing

The best of November

1. The ginkgo avenue at Meiji Jingu Gaien. Two rows of ginkgo trees turn bright gold, usually from mid-November into early December, and a ginkgo festival with food stalls runs alongside. Check the official dates before you go, and go on a weekday morning if you can.
2. Autumn leaves in the big gardens. Shinjuku Gyoen, Rikugien and Koishikawa Korakuen turn red and orange later in the month, and some gardens open in the evening with lights.
3. The chrysanthemum exhibition at Shinjuku Gyoen. Held in the first half of November. Quietly impressive.
4. The first winter lights. Many of Tokyo's illuminations switch on during November. A walk under the lights with a warm drink is an easy evening plan.
5. Hot food season. Oden from the konbini, roasted sweet potatoes, nabe with friends. November is when Tokyo food gets cosy.