Mao Goto is a Japanese freelancer who was born in Hayama, Kanagawa prefecture, and raised in Tokyo. Since 2016 she lives in the Taito Ward, home to a lot of Japanese culture hotspots such as Asakusa, Akihabara, and Ueno. She has been interested in the field of English education in Japan and got her Master’s degree in March 2020. A lover of photography, travel, sweets, and cross-stitch. Contact her via Facebook.
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Crisp autumn air, vibrant foliage, and a dynamic cultural calendar create an enchanting atmosphere in Tokyo in November for travelers. November offers a perfect blend of tradition, modernity, and breathtaking beauty, from world-renowned festivals that bring the city’s streets to life to hidden local gems. If you’re a foodie looking to indulge in seasonal delicacies, an art lover eager to dive into Japan’s contemporary scene, or simply longing to soak in the unique atmosphere of Tokyo in autumn, there is something special for you to discover. This sprawling metropolis has many things on offer, from awe-inspiring events to must-see attractions that capture the essence of Tokyo’s eclectic charm. Join us as we dive in to the “10 Best Events and Things to Do in Tokyo in November 2024”, exploring this exciting city in one of its best seasons!
- 1. Hirosaki Neputa Asakusa Festival
- 2. Kurimoto Furusato Sweet Potato Festival
- 3. Hachiōji Ginkgo Festival
- 4. Shibuya Street Dance Week
- 5. Kameido Tenjin Chrysanthemum Festival
- 6. Shinjuku Tori-no-ichi Fair II
- 7. SAKANA & JAPAN FESTIVAL
- 8. Tokyo Ramen Festival 2024
- 9. Keyakizaka Illumination 2024
- 10. Tokyo Midtown Ice Skating Rink 2024-2025
- Japan Wonder Travel Tours in Tokyo
- Other Articles you Might be Interested in:
1. Hirosaki Neputa Asakusa Festival
This autumn festival in Asakusa, held annually in late November, encompasses all of the attractions in Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture. The event features traditional Aomori festival activities and the spectacular Neputa parade, as well as the Hirosaki tourism product market. Take this opportunity to enjoy the culture and delicacies that Hirosaki has to offer, including fresh apple products and local specialties.
Official Website: Hirosaki Neputa Asakusa Festival (Only in Japanese)
2. Kurimoto Furusato Sweet Potato Festival
Held in the Kurimoto district of Chiba Prefecture, the Kurimoto Furusato Sweet Potato Festival is an important event in November for sweet potato lovers, as Kurimoto’s famous sweet potatoes play a major role in the festivities. In particular, the “Japan’s No. 1 Yaki-imo Square” is a spectacular endeavor in which an astonishing five tons of Benikomachi (べにこまち) variety yaki-imo (baked sweet potato) are roasted and served to everyone. Benikomachi sweet potato is a specialty in Kurimoto that is highly reputed for its delicious taste and is an absolute must-try.
Official Website: Kurimoto Furusato Sweet Potato Festival (Only in Japanese)
3. Hachiōji Ginkgo Festival
When the leaves of approximately 770 ginkgo trees that line the Koshu Kaido road in Hachiōji change into a beautiful yellow hue, the entire city becomes enveloped in autumn colors. The annual Hachiōji Ginkgo Festival is held during the last weekend in November and attracts more than 500,000 visitors. One popular event, the “Sekisho Orienteering (関所オリエンテーリング)” allows festival-goers to experience the brandings available at 12 different check-points along a 5.5-kilometer course.
Official Website: Hachiōji Ginkgo Festival
4. Shibuya Street Dance Week
A festival in Shibuya scheduled for Saturday, November 23, 2024 (a national holiday) aims to integrate street dance into the artistic culture of the area. A variety of programs for children and adults will display the quality entertainment that characterizes Shibuya to the rest of the world. Visitors can experience the excitement, freedom and diversity of dance culture that transcend the boundaries of everyday life.
Official Website: Shibuya Street Dance Week (Only in Japanese)
5. Kameido Tenjin Chrysanthemum Festival
From late October to late November at the Kameido Tenjin Shrine in Koto ward, this elegant festival is held for chrysanthemum lovers! The shrine grounds are lined with a wide variety of chrysanthemums, from thousand-flower blooms to bonsai, creating a scene reminiscent of a chrysanthemum flower competition. Especially impressive is the “Chrysanthemum Sky Tree”— a six-meter high chrysanthemum tower that is one-hundredth the size of the real Sky Tree— is sure to amaze you with its floral art!
Official Website: Kameido Tenjin Chrysanthemum Festival (Kameido Tenjin) (Only in Japanese)
6. Shinjuku Tori-no-ichi Fair II
The Hanazono Shrine in Shinjuku is the location of this traditional festival that has been a go-to for success in terms of business and financial prosperity! In 2024, the first rooster day is scheduled for Tuesday, November 5, the second rooster day for Sunday, November 17, and the third rooster day for Friday, November 29! Don’t miss your chance to improve your luck at this exciting festival!
Official Website: Shinjuku Tori-no-ichi Fair II (Hanazono Shrine) (Only in Japanese)
7. SAKANA & JAPAN FESTIVAL
From November 1 (Friday) to 4 (Monday, substitute holiday), 2024, the exciting “SAKANA & JAPAN FESTIVAL” will be held in the Odaiba Aomi district of Koto ward. The four-day gourmet seafood festival features a wide variety of exquisite seafood dishes from Japan and abroad, including seafood rice bowls, fisherman’s rice, local seafood dishes, seafood ramen, seafood paella, and more, all made with the bounty of the sea. Visitors can experience Japanese food culture and enjoy seasonal seafood in a sumptuous setting near the sea!
Official Website: SAKANA&JAPAN FESTIVAL (Only in Japanese)
8. Tokyo Ramen Festival 2024
In 2024, the festival will be held at Komazawa Olympic Park Central Square in Setagaya ward from Thursday, October 24 to Monday, November 4, 2024! Admission is free, and purchase of a ticket for 1,100 yen (including tax) can be exchanged for one bowl of ramen. For the first time, the festival will be held in a three-act format over four days, with each act featuring 12 different ramen stores. This is your chance to enjoy a total of 36 kinds of ramen. Details on the ramen stores and festival will be updated on the official website, so stay tuned for more information!
Official Website: Tokyo Ramen Festival 2024 (Only in Japanese)
9. Keyakizaka Illumination 2024
This illumination event will envelop the 400-meter-long Keyakizaka slope in a warm glow of fantastic “snow and blue” light to enchant visitors. About 800,000 blue and white LED lights will create a breathtakingly beautiful light show that resembles a fantasy world. The “Christmas Market,” a reproduction of an authentic German Christmas market, will also be held concurrently, adding to the whimsical atmosphere.
Official Website: Keyakizaka Illumination (Only in Japanese)
10. Tokyo Midtown Ice Skating Rink 2024-2025
A signature winter event in Tokyo Midtown, the ice skating rink will be opened again this year from Christmas to late February. The actual opening and closing dates for the 2024-2025 season have yet to be determined, so be sure to check the official website for the latest information.
Official Website: Tokyo Midtown Ice Skating Rink 2024-2025 (Only in Japanese)
We explored the “10 Best Events and Things to Do in Tokyo in November 2024.” Did anything capture your imagination or leave you eager to explore further? Whether you’re planning to visit for festivals, food, or culture, or if you’re just a curious traveler wishing to experience Tokyo’s magical autumn atmosphere, these events are bound to make your November trip to Tokyo unforgettable. When you wander through vibrant parks adorned in autumn colors or partake in lively cultural events that bring together both tradition and modern innovation, Tokyo in November will capture your imagination at every turn.
Japan Wonder Travel Tours in Tokyo
Japan Wonder Travel is a travel agency that offers guided tours throughout Japan.
From private walking tours to delicious Food and Drink tours, we can help organize the best tours just for you! If you want to explore Japan and learn more about the history and backstories of each area you are traveling in, our knowledgeable and friendly guides will happily take you to the best spots!
In addition, we can provide you with any assistance you may need for your upcoming trip to Japan, so please feel free to contact us if you have any questions or need some help!
▶Tokyo Tsukiji Fish Market Food and Drink Tour
Explore the most lively and popular fish market in Tokyo, where you will have the chance to try some of the local’s favorite street foods and sake along with your friendly English-speaking guide!
▶Tokyo 1–Day Highlights Private Walking Tour (8 Hours)
There’s no better way to explore an area than taking a tour with a knowledgeable local guide. You will have the chance to learn about the history and interesting background stories of Tokyo, as well as discover some hidden gems which can be hard to do without a guide.
▶Shinjuku Bar Hopping Tour: Experience Tokyo’s Nightlife in Izakaya
Check out the best spots in Shinjuku while bar hopping through the lively and vibrant area. Try some delicious local food and drink as you explore the narrow yet photogenic alleys that the town has to offer. Experience Japanese izakaya culture and drink in Shinjuku like the locals!
▶Kimono Experience in Tokyo
Step into the charm of the kimono, a beloved icon of Japanese tradition, ideal for festivals and wandering quaint streets. Asakusa offers the perfect setting to don your kimono and create cherished memories with picturesque backdrops. Let Kimono Rental Wargo dress you up for a day of delightful exploration in timeless style!
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