Looking for the best places to visit in November? Kyoto, Japan belongs on any short list of top travel destinations. Days are cool and comfortable, with average highs near 15°C and sweater‑worthy evenings, ideal for long walks between Higashiyama’s lanes and the riverside in Arashiyama. The city’s momiji season generally peaks from mid to late November, when maples light up temple gardens and surrounding hills.

For smart November vacation ideas, time your day with the light. Go early to Arashiyama for mirror‑calm views on the Katsura River, then circle to Tofukuji or Eikando in late afternoon. After dark, several temples stage special illuminations, including Kiyomizu‑dera and Eikando, which add quiet drama to the scarlet canopy. Pack layers and patience, and consider weekday visits to sidestep the heaviest crowds.

Seasonal touches round it out: slow afternoons in garden teahouses, evening strolls through lantern‑lit streets, and crisp air that keeps you moving. Kyoto in November rewards curious travelers with color, calm moments, and short, luminous days. See if it fits your plans.