Best Things to Do in Tokyo in November 2023: Fall Colors, Festivals, Illuminations & More

November Occasions at Theme Parks and Widespread Locations

Disney Christmas at Tokyo Disney Resort® (Maihama)

Tokyo Disney Resort® will as soon as once more be internet hosting the particular occasion ‘Disney Christmas’ this 12 months.

At Tokyo Disneyland®, a heartwarming story that includes Disney characters celebrating Christmas will probably be staged within the parade known as ‘Disney Christmas Tales’ (as soon as day by day, roughly 45 minutes lengthy). As you enter the World Bazaar, you’ll be greeted by a towering Christmas tree, standing at about 15 meters in top, adorned with the Fortieth-anniversary brand.

Over at Tokyo DisneySea®, Mickey Mouse and Disney mates will greet you in Christmas apparel with Christmas music at Mediterranean Harbor in ‘Disney Christmas Greeting’ (1-2 occasions day by day, roughly quarter-hour every efficiency). The Christmas season is the time when the park sees essentially the most guests, so come and benefit from the romantic and heartwarming environment.

Occasion Particulars
・Venue: Tokyo Disney Resort
・Dates: November 8, 2023 – December 25, 2023
・Hours: Fluctuate by date, please discuss with the official web site
・Admission: Fluctuate by date, please discuss with the official web site
・Closed: Open daily through the occasion
・Cellphone Quantity: 0570-00-8632 (Navigation Dial)

Autumn Foliage Pageant & Occasions

Mount Takao Autumn Leaves Pageant (Mt. Takao)

A well-liked autumn vacation spot, Mount Takao is well accessible inside an hour from the middle of Tokyo and is acknowledged for internet hosting one of many largest numbers of hikers globally.

Regardless of its mountainous terrain, you possibly can effortlessly attain its summit whereas having fun with a hiking-like expertise utilizing the cable automotive. Significantly through the mid-November to early December interval, when the autumn foliage is in its full splendor, the mountain attracts a mess of vacationers desperate to revel within the vibrant fall colours.

The Mount Takao Autumn Leaves Pageant, held through the peak autumn leaf season, showcases charming performances by college students from universities and vocational colleges in Hachioji Metropolis at Kiyotaki Station Sq.. Right here, the monks of Mt. Takao’s Yakuo-in Temple will conduct a prayer ceremony to make sure the protected and profitable conduct of the Mount Takao Autumn Leaves Pageant.

Occasion Particulars
・ Occasion Dates: October 28, 2023 – December 3, 2023
・ Occasion Hours: Fluctuate by day and particular occasions
・ Admission: Free
・ Closed: Open daily through the occasion
・ Cellphone Quantity: 042-649-2827

Autumn Leaves Pageant & Night time Stroll 2023 (Tachikawa Metropolis)

The Autumn Foliage Pageant takes place on the Showa Memorial Park, situated between the cities of Tachikawa and Akishima in Tokyo.

Showa Memorial Park has quite a few spots to view the autumn foliage, with essentially the most well-known being the Katarai Icho Namiki (or Katarai Ginkgo Avenue) and Canal Icho Namiki (or Canal Ginkgo Avenue). The Katarai Ginkgo Avenue stretches for 300 meters and supplies a deep tunnel of autumn leaves. The Canal Ginkgo Avenue affords a spectacular view of the ginkgo timber reflecting on the floor of the water. Throughout the peak season, each avenues are coated with yellow fallen leaves, giving guests the sensation of strolling on a yellow carpet.

Moreover, from November 3-26, the Autumn Night time Stroll occasion will probably be held, the place the Katarai Ginkgo Avenue timber and the Japanese backyard will probably be lit up within the night. You may as well go to the Backyard Night time Café, the place you possibly can cook dinner and eat your personal bacon and marshmallows, or the Lakeside Restaurant, which can promote Mont Blanc cupcakes and different treats to accompany your autumn leaf peeping.

Occasion Particulars
・ Venue: Showa Memorial Park
・ Occasion Dates: November 3-26, 2023
・ Occasion Hours: Fluctuate by day and particular occasions
・ Admission: Adults 450 yen, further 1,300 yen for viewing the Japanese backyard illumination (1,100 yen when bought on-line)
・ Closed: Open daily through the occasion

Takahata-Fudoson Maple Pageant (Hino Metropolis)

(Photograph: PIXTA)

The Takahata-Fudoson Maple Pageant takes place at Takahata-Fudoson, a separate head temple of the Chisan College of Shingon Buddhism, situated in Takahata, Hino Metropolis, Tokyo. The temple grounds are dwelling to about 1,350 giant Japanese maples and yellow maples, which create a shocking show of golden and pink colours throughout autumn. At night time, the temple is fantastically lit, and the five-story pagoda and the timber with their autumn leaves stand out vividly within the darkness.

On November 22 and 23, from 5-8 PM*, the Takahata Momiji Lantern Pageant will probably be held with as many as 2,200 lanterns arrange on the paths round the best way to Takahata Fudoson, making a incredible environment. (*Cancelled in case of rain.)

Different occasions through the Momiji Pageant embrace the Gozare-ichi vintage market (Takahata Fudo Vintage Truthful) and the Hanazuka Kuyo (memorial service in a mound of flowers) to precise gratitude for flowers and luxury the spirits of flowers.

Occasion Particulars
・ Occasion Dates: November 18-30, 2023
・ Occasion Hours: Fluctuate by occasion and day
・ Admission: Free
・ Closed: Open daily through the occasion
・ Cellphone Quantity: 042-591-0032

Rikugien Gardens Autumn Illuminations 2023 (Hon-komagome)

Situated in Bunkyo Ward, Rikugien is a historic Japanese backyard referred to as a strolling-style, hill-and-pond backyard designated as a Particular Place of Scenic Magnificence by the Japanese authorities.

This backyard options iconic foliage comparable to maple and ginkgo, which step by step change colours ranging from early November, reaching their peak from late November to early December. Rikugien Gardens opens for particular nighttime viewing throughout this autumn foliage season.

The illuminated backyard, enhanced by the colourful autumn colours, additionally hosts a ‘Projection onto the Warehouse Partitions’ occasion (held day by day through the interval, from 6 PM to eight:30 PM), projecting photographs onto the warehouse partitions constructed through the time of the Mitsubishi founder, the Iwasaki household. Moreover, numerous photogenic spots are arrange all through the backyard for guests to seize memorable images.

Occasion Particulars
・ Venue: Rikugi-en Backyard
・ Occasion Dates: November 22, 2023 – December 3, 2023
・ Occasion Hours: 6 PM – 8:30 PM (Final admission till 7:30 PM)
・ Admission: 1,100 yen (900 yen when bought on-line)
・ Closed: Open daily through the occasion
・ Cellphone Quantity: 042-591-0032

Hasedera Temple Autumn Shade Illumination (Kamakura)

Hasedera Temple Autumn Shade Illumination (Photograph credit score: Kamakura Metropolis Vacationer Affiliation)

Hasedera Temple in Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture, is known for its hydrangeas and hosts a particular nighttime viewing occasion yearly through the autumn foliage season. It’s the solely temple in Kamakura that’s illuminated at night time, making it a singular expertise for guests.

The temple step by step lights up from the early night through the particular nighttime viewing interval, permitting guests to witness a magical transition as night time falls. Varied components of the temple grounds are illuminated, with the Kannon Corridor bathed in a placing blue mild, which creates a powerful sight.

The illuminated maple leaves on the temple’s pond mirror within the water, creating a fascinating ‘upside-down maple’ impact. Aside from the autumn foliage illumination, the remark deck additionally supplies a shocking night time view of Hase, which is a must-see.

Occasion Particulars
・ Venue: Kamakura, Hasedera Temple
・ Occasion Dates: November 23, 2023 (Thursday, public vacation) – December 3, 2023 (Sunday)
・ Occasion Hours: From sundown to gate closure at 7:00 PM (mountain closure at 7:30 PM)
・ Admission: Adults 400 yen, Elementary faculty college students 200 yen
・ Closed: Open daily through the occasion

As well as, Hasedera Temple presents ‘Hasedera NIGHT TABLE’ this autumn from November 13-19, an occasion combining artwork, music, and delicacies. Visitors can get pleasure from Kazuyuki Ishihara’s Floral Bonsai, reside live shows within the Kannon-do corridor, backyard dinners with native specialties, and early entry to the illuminated temple grounds earlier than the autumn foliage season.

Occasion particulars & tickets: https://hasedera-nighttable.com/en/

NAKED Autumn Leaves Shinjuku Gyoen 2023 (Shinjuku)

Shinjuku Gyoen Nationwide Backyard will host a particular autumn foliage illumination occasion, organized by the artistic manufacturing firm ‘NAKED’. Round 160 airplane timber will line the paths and lightweight up with dynamic lighting results. On the sloping terrain, known as ‘Momiji-yama’, roughly 60 maple timber will probably be illuminated with lights that change from blue to pink, mimicking the colours of maple leaves. The occasion employs cutting-edge expertise, together with laser lights that simulate falling maple leaves.

NAKED additionally affords free lantern leases (one per group). As you stroll with a lantern in hand, you possibly can get pleasure from patterns of maple leaves, ginkgo, or airplane timber (obtainable in 4 colours) projected onto the bottom.

The occasion will characteristic a foods and drinks space the place guests can savor autumn-themed delicacies and drinks. Look forward to finding scorching sweets and drinks comparable to ‘floating maple leaf’ hojicha chai, amongst different tempting choices.

Occasion Particulars
・ Venue: Shinjuku Gyoen Nationwide Backyard
・ Occasion Dates: November 22, 2023 – December 3, 2023
・ Occasion Hours: 6 PM – 10 PM (Final entry at 9 PM, final foods and drinks orders at 9:30 PM, gates shut at 10 PM)
・ Admission: Tickets obtainable beginning late October
・ Closed: Open daily through the occasion
・ Cellphone Quantity: 0570-200-888 (Kyodo Data)

Illuminations in November

Jewellumination at Yomiuri Land 2023 (Inagi Metropolis)

Jewellumination is a well-liked occasion held at Yomiuri Land amusement park in western Tokyo. The occasion is curated by Mitsuko Ishii, a world-renowned lighting designer. This 12 months’s theme is “LIGHT is LOVE,” that includes the brand new colour “Earth Blue Jewellery Shade,” which symbolizes love for the Earth. It blends deep shades of aquamarine and sapphire representing the attractive sea with emerald tones depicting lush forests.

The occasion additionally features a fountain present with 188 fountains, a 15-meter-tall water display screen, and dazzling results utilizing lasers and flames, showcasing cutting-edge expertise.

The “Starlight Bandit Capturing Star Coaster” is without doubt one of the points of interest adorned with gorgeous illuminations, making it a must-visit for thrill-seekers and people who wish to benefit from the illuminations.

Occasion Particulars
・ Venue: Yomiuriland
・ Occasion Dates: October 19, 2023 – April 7, 2024
・ Occasion Hours: 4 PM – 8:30 PM
・ Admission: One-Day Go: Adults 5,800 yen; After Go (Entry from 3 PM on Jewel Illumination days + limitless rides): Adults 3,100 yen
・ Closed: Open daily through the occasion

Marunouchi Illumination (Marunouchi)

Marunouchi’s fundamental road, Marunouchi Nakadori, and different areas like Tokyo Kotsukaikan close to Yurakucho Station and Tokyo Station Nihonbashi Exit, will see round 340 road timber illuminated with about 1.2 million LED lights. What makes this show distinctive is its champagne gold colour scheme, which is brighter and extra vibrant than typical yellow mild, making a heat and welcoming environment.

All the energy for the illumination of Marunouchi Nakadori comes from inexperienced power sources like photo voltaic and wind. Whereas TOKYO TORCH Park, which is a big outside area in entrance of Tokyo Station’s Nihonbashi Exit, is a bit away from Marunouchi, it would even be embellished with illuminations.

Occasion Particulars
・ Venue: Marunouchi Nakadori, Tokyo Station neighborhood, and extra
・ Occasion Dates: Mid-November onwards (particulars to be confirmed)
・ Occasion Hours: 3 PM – 11 PM
・ Admission Price: Free
・ Closed: Open daily through the occasion
・ Cellphone Quantity: 03-5218-5100 (Marunouchi Name Middle)

Autumn Leaf Viewing & Festivals in November

Shirasagi-no-Mai (White Heron Dance) (Asakusa)

The annual White Heron Dance takes place at Sensoji Temple and is impressed by the Sagimai (Sacred Heron Dance) depicted within the ‘Keian Engi Emaki’ scroll. It’s held on the 2nd Sunday of April and November third. Throughout the occasion, eight dancers wearing white heron costumes carry out a sleek dance whereas parading by the Sensoji Temple grounds. The costumes are paying homage to the Heian interval. The dancers are surrounded by round 40 performers, together with warriors, musicians, and different performers who stand in formation, creating a sublime ambiance with the sounds of drums and flutes. The white herons gracefully unfold their wings and transfer in sync with the beat of drums and flutes, making a mystical expertise that resembles swans hovering by the sky.

Occasion Particulars
・ Occasion Dates: November 3, 2023
・ Occasion Hours: Usually from 11:30 AM and a couple of:40 PM
・ Admission Price: Free
・ Closed: Open daily through the occasion

Tori no Ichi Pageant at Hanazono Shrine (Shinjuku)

The ‘Tori-no-hi’ refers to a day designated by the Chinese language zodiac, with ‘Tori-no-hi’ representing the rooster on this case. The ‘Tori-no-ichi’ (Chook Market) is an annual occasion held on today, the place folks pray for good luck and prosperity, notably in enterprise. This custom has been noticed for the reason that Edo interval and is held in numerous areas throughout Japan, with a give attention to the Kanto area.

The Torinoichi market held at Hanazono Shrine in Shinjuku is without doubt one of the largest among the many ‘Kanto San-dai Tori-no-ichi’ (the three main Tori-no-ichi markets within the Kanto area).

It options the sale of auspicious gadgets comparable to ‘Kumade’ (bamboo rakes) and charms, believed to collect fortune, cash, and blessings. If you buy a Kumade, the shopkeeper will cheer, and there is a rhythmic handclap following ‘Yo~!’ with ‘3-3-3-1’ beats. Because it runs by the night time from the eve of Tori-no-hi, it is price stopping by earlier than heading again to your resort, particularly if staying in Shinjuku.

Occasion Particulars
・ Venue: Hanazono Shrine
・ Occasion Dates: Ichi-no-tori (Eve) – November 10, 2023, Principal Pageant – November 11, 2023; Ninotori (Eve) – November 22, 2023, Principal Pageant – November 23, 2023
・ Occasion Hours: Eve from night to subsequent day 2 PM
・ Admission: Free
・ Closed: Open daily through the occasion

Tori no Ichi Pageant in Asakusa (Asakusa)

(Photograph: © Tokyo Conference & Guests Bureau)

Just like the beforehand talked about Tori-no-Ichi at Hanazono Shrine, the Asakusa Tori-no-Ichi is taken into account one of many three main Tori-no-ichi festivals within the Kanto space. Held at Otorisama Temple and Chokokuji Temple in Asakusa, it’s thought of the most important and busiest in Japan by way of each scale and liveliness.

The Asakusa Tori-no-ichi begins at midnight on the day of the rooster in November (November 11, 2023) with the beating of drums. The pageant then continues for twenty-four hours.

The grounds of the temple are lined with about 100 stalls promoting “kumade,” colorfully embellished rakes embellished with sea bream motifs, giant and small gold cash, maneki-neko beckoning cats, and different ornaments believed to deliver good luck. As well as, about 750 stalls will probably be arrange, making a festive environment. The sound of rhythmic clapping of fingers and hand clapping, which will be heard right here and there, makes one really feel as if one thing good will occur sooner or later. Asakusa Torinoichi additionally takes place all through the night time, so don’t be concerned in regards to the time and take your time to benefit from the environment. Nevertheless, it will get chilly within the morning and at night time, so remember to deliver heat garments.

Occasion Overview
・Dates: November 11 and November 23, 2023
・Hours: Midnight to midnight on each days
・Admission: Free
・Closed: Open day by day through the interval

Meals Occasions in November

Tsukiji Autumn Pageant (Tsukiji)

(Photograph is for illustrative functions. Credit score: PIXTA)

Yearly in November, the Tsukiji Exterior Market hosts its Autumn Pageant, which features a particular occasion known as the Tsukiji Meals Fest held at Ichibashi Park. The pageant options quite a lot of dishes comparable to seafood, meat, noodles, rice, beer, and wine.

There are additionally different occasions comparable to Meals Schooling and Meat Seminars the place guests can study rooster, beef, wine, and extra. Moreover, the Tsukiji Outer Market Residence Run Sale affords seasonal substances, restricted version units, and beneficial merchandise at cheap costs. Throughout the occasion interval, a marketing campaign will probably be held that enables guests to obtain an unique Tsukiji postcard after they current a legitimate Toei 1Day Go (Toei Marugoto Kippu) on the data counter at Plat Tsukiji.

Occasion Overview
・Venue: Tsukiji Outer Market 　
・Dates: November 3-4, 2023
・Hours: Varies relying on the day and occasion
・Admission: Free
・Closed: Open day by day through the interval

Katsushika Meals Festa 2023

The Katsushika Meals Festa is a extremely anticipated occasion that may happen in Katsushika-ku, situated within the japanese a part of Tokyo. A complete of thirty-three native eating places will probably be opening their stalls, providing a variety of menu gadgets.

The occasion’s fundamental attraction is the varied number of dishes supplied by the taking part eating places, together with Japanese sweets comparable to chestnut dorayaki and kusa-dango dumplings, well-known road meals like mazesoba and yakisoba, fried meals comparable to karaage, and rice dishes like sekihan and takomeshi. The pageant affords an opportunity to pattern an array of beautiful flavors which can be cherished by the locals and recognized solely to them. This can be a nice alternative to get an introduction to Japan’s well-known “B-class delicacies.” Moreover, from the twenty fourth to the thirtieth, a free circulation bus will probably be obtainable for rides.

Occasion Overview
・Dates: November 25-26, 2023
・Hours: 10 AM – 4 PM
・Admission: Free
・Closed: Open day by day through the occasion
・Tel: 03-3838-5555, Katsushika-ku Meals Festa Government Committee

Get pleasure from a few of the beautiful autumn colours round Tokyo

(Picture: Shutterstock)

The autumn foliage, or “koyo”, is one in all Japan’s most picturesque seasonal phenomena, and the primary draw for vacationers to Japan in November. Fiery maple, golden gingko, and orange oak leaves are joined by deep pink dogwoods and polychromatic zelkovas. The parks and tree-lined avenues of Tokyo are not any stranger to the colours of fall.

A number of the well-known foliage spots round Tokyo embrace Hibiya Park, Ueno Park, Rikugien Gardens, Hamarikyu Gardens, and Meijijingu Gaien.

Though the mornings and evenings are chilly in November and you’ll really feel the strategy of winter, there are lots of distinctive Japanese occasions to get pleasure from autumn, comparable to autumn foliage occasions, illumination, gourmand festivals, and extra. We hope you’ll go to the occasion websites and revel in yourselves.

(The knowledge on this article is present as of October 2023. Please examine the official web sites for the newest data.)