Kyoto Weather in November
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Updated: March 2026
Is November a Good Time to Visit Kyoto?
November is a good time to visit Kyoto (7/10). With 7 daily sunshine hours and only 8 rain days, this month delivers genuinely reliable outdoor conditions, ranking it 11th sunniest of the year in Kyoto. Culture-focused travellers and those who prefer lighter crowds will find November a practical choice, with prices running lower than peak August without sacrificing all the good weather. Autumn Foliage Season takes place this month, adding cultural value for those planning around it. The main practical note: Kyoto's popular sites are busiest between 10am and 3pm regardless of season. Arriving at opening time or after 4pm makes a significant difference to the experience. Planning tips: accommodation is generally available without long lead times, and flight prices are typically lower than peak season. Flexible travellers will find the best deals by booking 2-4 weeks ahead. Mid-week arrivals consistently unlock lower hotel rates than weekend check-ins.
Step off the plane in Kyoto in November and the air meets you at around 16°C, crisp and clear, the kind of chill that sharpens your senses and makes the first coffee taste twice as good. By the time evening arrives and temperatures settle near 8°C, the city takes on a different character entirely. With 7 hours of daylight sun on offer, November gives you the raw material for a genuinely memorable trip.
16°C
Avg High
8°C
Avg Low
8 days
Rain Days
7h
Sunshine
65%
Humidity
Temperature in Kyoto in November
The 8°C day-night temperature range is typical for continental climates: a light jacket in the morning that you shed by midday and need again after sunset. Humidity averages 65%, which is comfortable for most visitors. On warmer days, lighter fabrics help with the mild stickiness in the afternoon. The UV index of 2 is low, meaning sun exposure is minimal concern and sunscreen is largely optional. Winds are calm at an average 14 km/h, so wind-chill is not a factor in planning your clothing. In Fahrenheit: 61°F average high, 46°F overnight low. Data sourced from Open-Meteo ERA5 climate reanalysis (1991–2020 normals).
Temperature in November
Monthly Precipitation (mm)
What to Wear in Kyoto in November
Packing for Kyoto in November means dressing for 16°C days and 8°C evenings. A mid-weight jacket over a sweater handles 16°C daytime temperatures; the combination stays comfortable all day without overheating. Evening temperatures settle at 8°C, a modest 8°C drop that a light cardigan or denim jacket covers. Comfortable walking trainers are the versatile choice for both outdoor sightseeing and indoor venues.
Local tip: Temple and religious site visits require covered shoulders and knees in most of Kyoto's heritage areas. A lightweight scarf or sarong weighs almost nothing and solves the problem instantly.
Events in Kyoto in November
Autumn Foliage Season
NatureMid-November to Early December
Kyoto's temples and gardens blaze with red, orange, and gold maple leaves. Tofukuji Temple and Eikando are famous foliage viewing spots. Evening illuminations run at select temples.
KyotoWhat to Pack for Kyoto in November
Based on 16°C average highs and 8 rainy days
- Light jacket or cardigan for cooler evenings
- Mix of short and long-sleeve layers
- Comfortable walking shoes with good arch support
- Universal travel adapter
- Small day pack for city exploration
- Reusable water bottle
Best Activities in Kyoto in November
- Explore the old town's cobblestone backstreetsMorning (9-11am)At 16°C, conditions are pleasant for unhurried exploration on foot
- Visit hilltop viewpoints for panoramic city viewsLate afternoon (4-6pm)Low sun angle creates dramatic light for photography while temperatures remain comfortable
- Bicycle rental for a half-day city circuitMid-morning startMild 16°C temperatures are ideal for extended cycling without excessive effort
- Boat tour of the river, bay, or canal networkLate morning departureComfortable weather makes open-deck boats viable without wind-chill concerns
- Afternoon in a world-class museum or galleryAfternoon (2-5pm)Pairs well with outdoor morning activities and provides a mid-day rest from sightseeing
- Coffee-house or traditional cafe culture experienceMid-morning or post-lunchA cultural ritual in this region that rewards slow appreciation regardless of weather
- Evening live music, theatre, or opera performanceEvening shows typically at 7-9pmConsistent evening temperatures make getting to and from evening venues comfortable
- Attend Autumn Foliage SeasonCheck specific event datesA once-yearly event that defines this city in this month and draws visitors from around the world
- Try the seasonal farmer's market for local produce and street foodSaturday morning markets typically 8am-1pmNovember seasonal produce is at peak availability, offering dishes not found at other times of year
Why is Kyoto mild in November?
November brings the first meaningful shift toward cooler conditions in Kyoto, as the sun angle drops and day length shortens. Temperatures averaging 16°C by day and 8°C overnight are still comfortable by most standards, but the trend is clearly downward. At 35 degrees north latitude, autumn light has a particular quality: lower in the sky and warmer in tone, it gives the city a photogenic quality quite different from summer. Evening temperatures already demand a jacket, but midday hours stay pleasant for sightseeing. Climate data: Open-Meteo ERA5 (1991–2020).
Sunshine Hours
The average number of hours per day with direct sunlight. Calculated from satellite measurements. Days with more than 7 hours of sunshine are ideal for outdoor activities. Under 3 hours means overcast conditions dominate.
UV Index
A scale from 0-11+ measuring ultraviolet radiation intensity. UV 0-2: Minimal risk. UV 3-5: Moderate -- wear sunscreen. UV 6-7: High -- hat and SPF 30+ essential. UV 8-10: Very High -- limit midday exposure. UV 11+: Extreme -- seek shade between 10am-4pm.
Rain Days
A rain day is counted when precipitation exceeds 0.1mm. This threshold captures even light drizzle. Unlike total rainfall in mm, rain days tells you how often you might need an umbrella, which is useful for planning outdoor activities.
Humidity
Relative humidity as a percentage. Below 40%: Dry -- skin and throat may feel parched. 40-60%: Comfortable -- ideal for most people. 60-80%: Sticky -- light, breathable fabrics recommended. Above 80%: Muggy -- heat feels more intense; quick-dry clothing is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions: Kyoto in November
November ranks 11th sunniest of the year in Kyoto, with an average 7 daily sunshine hours. The driest months are January, November, and December. August is the hottest month (31°C avg high); January is the coolest (8°C). From here, temperatures fall 6°C into December. Compared to last month (October: 21°C high, 10 rain days), November is cooler and drier. November is one of the least sunny months, but that often means lower prices and fewer fellow tourists.
Year-Round Climate
Plan Your Trip to Kyoto
Nearby Destinations with Similar Weather
These cities are within 500 km and experience broadly comparable weather conditions during the same calendar month, making them practical standalone alternatives or worthwhile additions to a longer regional itinerary.
Data Sources for Kyoto
Climate normals represent 30-year averages (1991-2020). Individual years may vary.