Weather in Kyoto 🇯🇵
Monthly weather averages & travel planning
November
Avg Temp
16°C
Rain Days
8 days
Sun Hours
8 hrs
Humidity
65%
Asia › 🇯🇵 Japan › Kyoto
Updated: March 2026
Is November a Good Time to Visit Kyoto?
7/10
Good
November is a good time to visit Kyoto (7/10). With 8 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.
vs October:21°C avg high
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 8 hours of daylight sun on offer, November gives you the raw material for a genuinely memorable trip.
16°C
61°F
Avg High
8°C
46°F
Avg Low
8 days
82 mm total
Rain Days
8h
per day avg
Sunshine
65%
Moderate
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 Trends
High
Low
Rainfall (mm)
0-20 mm21-50 mm51-100 mm100+ mm
What to Wear in Kyoto in November
Morning8°CBefore the day warms up
Afternoon16°CPeak daytime temperature
Evening11°CAfter sunset cools down
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
In November, Kyoto experiences average highs of 16°C (61°F) and lows of 8°C (46°F). Expect around 8 rainy days and 8 hours of sunshine per day, with humidity averaging 65%. The 8°C gap between daytime and overnight temperatures is worth planning around: light layers work for most visitors during the day, but an extra jacket is essential for evenings. UV exposure is moderate at index 2.
Kyoto typically sees 8 rainy days in November, with total precipitation of around 82mm. Rain is moderate and manageable. Showers tend to pass quickly, and a light rain layer or foldable umbrella is sufficient protection for most days. For context, the driest month in Kyoto typically sees 4-6 fewer rain days than November.
Pack a warm jacket, sweaters, and layering pieces for Kyoto in November. Temperatures can drop to 8°C at night, so thermal underlayers are advisable for evening outings. Waterproof footwear is a sensible precaution even though rain days are limited. A scarf, hat, and gloves handle the windchill on clear cold days, which often feel colder than the thermometer reads.
Yes, November is an excellent time to visit Kyoto. With 8 daily sunshine hours and only 8 rainy days, conditions are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Temperatures averaging 16°C during the day are comfortable for long walks and outdoor dining. This is peak travel season, so booking accommodation in advance and arriving at popular attractions early in the morning helps avoid the busiest periods.
The average high temperature in Kyoto in November is 16°C (61°F), and the average low is 8°C (46°F). The mean daily temperature is approximately 12°C (54°F). The day-to-night range of 8°C is moderate, meaning a single light jacket covers most situations. These are 30-year climate normals based on the 1991 to 2020 reference period; individual years will vary, particularly in transitional months like spring and autumn.
The best month to visit Kyoto is generally May. May offers the most sunshine at 9 hours per day and only 11 rainy days. Average temperatures reach 23°C, making it comfortable for sightseeing, outdoor dining, and exploring the city. If your travel dates are flexible, planning your trip around May gives you the best chance of dry, bright weather.
November is shoulder or low season in Kyoto, meaning fewer tourists and generally lower prices than peak months. With 8 sunshine hours and 8 rainy days, the weather is less of a draw for mass tourism. This is an advantage for travellers who prefer a quieter, more relaxed experience with shorter queues and easier accommodation availability.
In November, Kyoto suits a range of activities thanks to cool conditions around 16°C. Mix of indoor and outdoor activities works well given the moderate chance of rain. Top options include exploring historic neighbourhoods, visiting museums and galleries, local food markets, and day trips to surrounding areas. With 8 hours of sunshine, parks and waterfront walks are particularly enjoyable.
November ranks 11th sunniest of the year in Kyoto, with an average 8 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
| Month | High | Low | Rain Days | Sun | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 8°C | 0°C | 8 | 8h | View |
| February | 8°C | 1°C | 10 | 8h | View |
| March | 12°C | 3°C | 13 | 9h | View |
| April | 18°C | 8°C | 12 | 9h | View |
| May | 23°C | 13°C | 11 | 9h | View |
| June | 26°C | 18°C | 15 | 8h | View |
| July | 29°C | 22°C | 17 | 9h | View |
| August | 31°C | 23°C | 13 | 11h | View |
| September | 27°C | 19°C | 13 | 9h | View |
| October | 21°C | 13°C | 10 | 8h | View |
| November | 16°C | 8°C | 8 | 8h | View |
| December | 10°C | 2°C | 8 | 8h | View |
January
8 rain days, 8h sun
8°0°
February
10 rain days, 8h sun
8°1°
March
13 rain days, 9h sun
12°3°
April
12 rain days, 9h sun
18°8°
May
11 rain days, 9h sun
23°13°
June
15 rain days, 8h sun
26°18°
July
17 rain days, 9h sun
29°22°
August
13 rain days, 11h sun
31°23°
September
13 rain days, 9h sun
27°19°
October
10 rain days, 8h sun
21°13°
November
8 rain days, 8h sun
16°8°
December
8 rain days, 8h sun
10°2°
Other Months in Kyoto
Plan Your Trip to Kyoto
Nearby Destinations
Cities within 500 km with comparable weather conditions
Data Sources for Kyoto
Climate normals represent 30-year averages (1991-2020). Individual years may vary.