Koyomi Japan / Kyoto / November 2026

Events in Kyoto: November 2026

1 fireworks display and 15 autumn leaf spots in Kyoto and the temples and hills around it during November 202616 in all. Dates are re-checked against official sources.

What November 2026 is like in Kyoto

The peak of the autumn colour season across most of Honshu, and the month the first winter illuminations switch on, generally from mid-November. Days are short — it is dark by around 5pm — which suits illuminated night viewing but leaves less daylight for sightseeing. Culture Day and Labor Thanksgiving Day both fall in November and make popular viewing spots noticeably busier.

Japanese public holidays this month — expect heavier crowds at the spots above, and on the trains to them:

Kyoto in November 2026: common questions

What's on in Kyoto in November 2026?
This page lists 1 fireworks display and 15 autumn leaf spots in Kyoto and the temples and hills around it during November 2026 — 16 in total. Highlights include Nara Park Autumn Leaves, Sanzenin Temple Autumn Leaves and Inagawa Fireworks Festival. Every date is re-checked against the official source for that event.
When do the autumn leaves peak in Kyoto?
Across the 15 autumn leaf spots listed around Kyoto, typical peak colour starts as early as Oct 25 and as late as Nov 20, with the last spots holding colour until about Dec 8. Higher and more northern spots turn first; low-lying city gardens are usually last. Peak dates move by a week or more from year to year with the weather.
Are there any public holidays in Japan in November 2026?
Yes — Culture Day (Tuesday, November 3) and Labor Thanksgiving Day (Monday, November 23). Popular viewing spots and the trains to them are noticeably busier on public holidays and the weekends either side of them.

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