What to Wear in Japan in November: Outfit Ideas

Not sure what to wear in Japan in November? You’re going to love this time of year. The weather feels comfortable, the leaves are glowing, and it’s the perfect season to wander through temples, cozy cafés, and quiet onsen towns.

In this travel guide, I’ll show you exactly what to pack, what Japan’s November weather feels like, and November outfit ideas that’ll keep you warm, comfy, and perfectly dressed for fall.

Japan weather in November

November in Japan feels so cozy. The rush of summer is long gone, and the scenery looks straight out of a painting.

Everywhere you go, you’ll see golden ginkgo trees, red maple leaves, and locals pulling out their coats for the season.

Here’s what the weather is like across Japan this month:

• Tokyo, Kyoto & Osaka: November is one of the nicest times to visit these cities. The days are cool and sunny, usually around 15 to 17 °C (59 to 63 °F), and the evenings get chilly enough for a warm drink or night stroll.
• Hokkaido: Up north, it already feels like early winter. Daytime temperatures sit around 8 to 10 °C (46 to 50 °F), and nights often drop close to freezing. If you’re heading to Sapporo or the mountains, you might even see the first snow of the season.
• Kyushu: Down south, it’s still mild and comfortable. Most days are between 17 and 20 °C (63 to 68 °F).
• Okinawa: This region stays warm and sunny, almost like summer never left. Expect highs around 25 °C (77 °F) and gentle breezes in the evening.

What to wear in Japan in November

Packing for Japan in November is honestly one of my favorite things. You get to pull out all your cozy fall pieces, without needing full-on winter gear yet.

Here’s how I like to plan my Japan November outfits:

• Tops: Bring long-sleeve tees and a couple of warm sweaters. I usually wear a light base layer during the day and swap to something thicker when I head out for dinner or evening walks.
• Outerwear: A wool coat or light down jacket is perfect for most of Japan in November. If you’re going to Hokkaido or the mountains, you’ll want something warmer.
• Rain jacket: I keep a compact rain jacket in my bag. The weather’s usually dry, but you never know.
• Bottoms: Jeans, chinos, or trousers are all great choices. I like to mix in a skirt or dress with tights for city exploring.
• Shoes: You’ll be walking a lot, so comfortable shoes are a must. I usually wear sneakers or ankle boots depending on how cold it feels. If you’re visiting temples or staying in a ryokan, easy slip-on shoes make life so much easier.
• Accessories: A scarf, warm socks, and maybe light gloves for cooler evenings. I always pack a small crossbody bag to stash layers.

When it comes to colors, I love leaning into warm neutrals like camel, beige, olive, or soft brown. They look amazing against Japan’s red and yellow autumn leaves, especially in photos.

Japan November outfit ideas by activity

Here’s how I like to dress for different parts of the trip:

City sightseeing (Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka)

City days in Japan usually mean a lot of walking. Between temples, cafés, and shopping streets, you’ll want something comfy but still stylish for photos.

What I’d wear:

• Soft knit sweater or turtleneck
• Jeans or straight-leg trousers
• Wool coat or light down jacket
• Comfortable sneakers or ankle boots

If you’re spending time in Tokyo, I’d lean slightly more trendy. In Kyoto, I usually go softer and cozier, especially for fall foliage days at the temples.

Visiting temples and shrines

Temples in Japan always feel calm and respectful, so I like to dress modestly. You’ll also need to take your shoes off sometimes, so slip-ons or low boots are your best friend.

My go-to look:

• Long-sleeve top or light sweater
• Pants or long skirts/ dresses
• Cardigan or wrap for extra warmth
• Slip-on flats or easy boots
• Scarf

Autumn foliage walks and outdoor trips

If you’re heading to see Japan’s fall leaves in November, especially in Nikko, Nara, or Hakone, dress in layers. The mornings can feel chilly, but you’ll warm up once you start walking.

Easy combo:

• Thermal top or long-sleeve base layer
• Fleece, hoodie, or sweater
• Windproof or light down jacket
• Jeans or leggings
• Walking shoes or trail sneakers
• Gloves

Evenings out and dinners

Evenings cool down fast in November, so it’s the perfect excuse to dress a little cozier (and cuter). Whether it’s dinner in Kyoto or drinks in Shinjuku, I love adding a few warm layers with texture.

What I’d wear:

• Knit sweater or blouse
• Tailored coat or wool jacket
• Skirt with tights or trousers
• Boots or loafers
• Wool scarf

Staying at a ryokan or onsen town

If you’re spending a night in a traditional ryokan, you’ll likely get a yukata (cotton robe) to wear around the inn. For travel days or quick walks nearby, I keep it simple and warm.

My cozy outfit:

• Leggings or soft pants
• Long-sleeve top or knit
• Light jacket or fleece
• Slip-on shoes

What not to wear in Japan in November

Packing for Japan in November is pretty simple, but there are a few things I always skip. You don’t need much, just smart layers that actually match the season. Here’s what I’d leave out:

• Summer clothes: Tank tops, shorts, and thin dresses will just sit in your suitcase. It’s too chilly for them, even in the cities.
• Bulky winter coats: November isn’t that cold yet (unless you’re going to Hokkaido). Big puffer coats just take up space and feel too heavy for most of Japan.
• Shoes with poor grip: Fallen leaves can get slippery after rain. Go for shoes that can handle wet pavements or temple paths.
• Tight or fussy outfits: You’ll move between warm trains and cool outdoors a lot. Anything stiff or layered awkwardly just feels uncomfortable after a few hours.
• Too many “once-only” pieces: Stick to clothes you can rewear and mix easily. Laundry is easy to find, and you’ll thank yourself for packing light.

Packing tips for Japan in November

Packing for Japan in November doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are a few tips I’ve learned after a few late-autumn trips:

• Start with a capsule wardrobe: Stick to a few colors that mix well together so every piece works in multiple outfits. It keeps your suitcase light and makes dressing way easier in the mornings.
• Check the region before you fly: Hokkaido and Okinawa feel like two different worlds in November. A quick weather check helps you pack smarter (and avoid packing for both).
• Travel-size essentials save space: Lip balm, moisturizer, and a small bottle of body lotion are a must. The the air gets dry in November.
• Keep room for souvenirs: Japanese snacks, skincare, and stationery are impossible to resist. I always pack a small foldable duffel bag just in case I shop more than I planned (which, honestly, always happens).

Before you go

If you’re planning a cozy getaway, my guide to the best onsen towns in Japan will give you plenty of ideas for hot spring escapes.

And if you want to experience something truly magical, check out my post on snow onsen in Japan.

For leaf lovers (and who isn’t in November?), I’ve shared my favorite spots in Kyoto in autumn, plus a list of the best day trips from Kyoto for fall foliage if you’re looking to explore a little further.

Got a sweet tooth? I’ve rounded up my favorite Japanese desserts you should try. And if you’re dreaming of that perfect traditional stay, my guide on how to book a ryokan walks you through exactly how it works.