A Cozy Travel Clothing Guide for Mid-November to Early December
📷 If your travels bring you to Kyoto consider booking a tour or photography session with us!
Golden Leaves, Chilly Mornings, and Clear Blue Skies
From mid-November to early December, Japan transitions from mild autumn into early winter.
The weather is cool and crisp, the skies are often crystal clear, and the last wave of vibrant autumn foliage rolls through Kyoto, Tokyo, and even parts of Kyushu.
You’ll want to dress with warmth in mind—think light coats, scarves, and comfortable layers—but still enjoy the freedom of traveling light, thanks to dry air and mostly sunny days.
It’s the perfect season for slow walks, scenic photos, and warm drinks under golden trees.
Weather Overview
| Region | Daytime Temps | Nighttime Temps | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tokyo / Kyoto | 12–18°C (54–64°F) | 6–10°C (43–50°F) | Cool all day, cold in the morning |
| Osaka / Hiroshima | 13–19°C (55–66°F) | 7–12°C (45–54°F) | Comfortable days, cooler nights |
| Hokkaido / Tohoku | 4–12°C (39–54°F) | -1–6°C (30–43°F) | Already winter-like; possible frost |
| Kyushu / Shikoku | 14–20°C (57–68°F) | 9–13°C (48–55°F) | Still mild, but jackets needed |
☀️ Weather summary:
- Cold mornings that warm up slightly by mid-day
- Dry, clear skies with little rain
- Strong temperature contrast between early morning, afternoon, and evening
What to Pack for Late Autumn
This is the season to bring your full autumn wardrobe, but still avoid bulky winter gear unless heading far north.
🎒 Packing Essentials:
| Item | Why You Need It |
|---|---|
| 🧥 Midweight coat or warm jacket | Essential for morning and evening chill |
| 🧣 Scarf or shawl | Adds warmth + seasonal style |
| 👚 Sweaters or fleece tops | For daily insulation under coats |
| 👕 Base layers | Long-sleeve shirts or thermal tops |
| 👖 Jeans / warm pants | Essential as temps drop |
| 🧦 Warm socks | For chilly floors, temples, and mornings |
| 👟 Closed shoes / boots | Waterproofing not essential, but warmth is |
| 🧤 Optional gloves | Especially in Hokkaido or Tohoku |
🧳 Packing Tip: Layering is still key—but now, warmth is the top priority over breathability.
What NOT to Wear
- ❌ T-shirts without layers (you’ll freeze)
- ❌ Thin sandals or open-toe shoes
- ❌ Heavy winter coats (unless you’re going to Hokkaido)
- ❌ Shorts or skirts without thick tights
Dressing for the Day
| Time of Day | Clothing Suggestion |
|---|---|
| Morning | Sweater + scarf + coat |
| Afternoon | Sweater may be enough in full sun |
| Evening | Re-layer with coat and add gloves if needed |
🎒 Tip: If you’ll be out from morning to night, carry an extra fleece or thermal top to change into if it gets colder than expected.
Notable Events and Cultural Notes
🍁 Peak Fall Leaves in Kyoto & Tokyo
- Kyoto: Tofukuji, Eikando, Arashiyama area (mid–late Nov)
- Tokyo: Rikugien Garden, Meiji Jingu Gaien (late Nov–early Dec)
- Wear warm, comfortable shoes for temple grounds and long walks
- Perfect timing for neutral tones and layered photoshoot outfits
🎓 University Exam Season
- Local students stay home to study = less domestic travel
- Tourist spots may be slightly less crowded than early November
What to Buy Locally (and Why)
- 🧥 Stylish mid-weight coats from UNIQLO, GU, or Muji
- 🧣 Autumn scarves in seasonal tones
- ☕ Heat packs (kairo) for hands, sold in conbini and drugstores
- 🍵 Warm seasonal drinks in vending machines—try yuzu tea, amazake, or roasted green tea (hojicha)
🛍 Bonus: Stores start releasing early winter sales in late November!
Conclusion: The Final Color of Autumn
Late autumn is quiet, golden, and deeply atmospheric in Japan.
It’s the last chance to walk under maple leaves before winter sets in, and the air is cool enough to feel festive but not yet harsh.
Bring your layers, enjoy the clarity of the skies, and follow the leaves as they fall.
Japan in late autumn is a poet’s dream—and a traveler’s joy.
🎥 For more travel tips and guides on all things Japan check out the PiQtour YouTube channel!
