Osaka in November: Is Momiji Season Worth the Hype
November in Osaka is defined by cool, clear days and the peak of autumn foliage. With highs around 17°C (63°F), parks and gardens turn brilliant shades of red and gold. The city’s cultural calendar is rich, with heritage festivals, food expos, and the start of winter illuminations. Crowds return for the fall colors, but the atmosphere is festive and welcoming. November is a time for scenic walks, culinary exploration, and savoring Osaka’s seasonal beauty.
Pro tips for visiting Osaka in November
Reserve tickets for Osaka Castle night illuminations and popular restaurants.
Visit Midosuji Avenue for ginkgo trees in late November.
Attend food expos and heritage festivals for unique experiences.
Enjoy momiji (maple) viewing at Osaka Castle Park and Minoh Falls.
Layer clothing for cool days and chilly nights.
Winter illuminations begin—plan evening walks to see the lights.
Weekends are busiest—visit parks early for the best views.
What to eat in Osaka in November: Seasonal delicacies
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Tecchiri (fugu hotpot, winter start)
By November, hotpot season returns and fugu becomes a classic Osaka choice. Book ahead and choose licensed restaurants only. Plan a light lunch if you want a full set dinner. Try Hireya in Sennichimae; it is seafood-focused and not vegetarian.
A local specialty of crisp-fried maple leaves sold near the Minoh Falls trail. November suits it because autumn color outings peak. Eat it warm after the hike. Start at Minoh Falls and look for snack stands near the trail entrance; vegetarian.
Sweet, warm amazake is a common seasonal drink around shrine visits as temperatures drop. November evenings suit it during illumination walks. Buy a small cup first if you are new to the flavor. Try it around Sumiyoshi Taisha when seasonal stalls appear; non-alcoholic versions exist.
Culture Day parade reenacting Osaka’s historic international links, with Korean, Chinese, and Japanese court costumes. It is popular with families. Arrive early for parade views.
A medicine-themed shrine festival in Doshomachi with tiger charms and pharmacy heritage. It is unique to Osaka. Go in the evening for the parade atmosphere.
Evening fall-color illumination at Osaka Castle’s Nishinomaru Garden through November. Entry is paid and weekends get busy. Go midweek for smoother paths and photos.
German-style Christmas market under Umeda Sky Building with hot wine, food stalls, and decorations. Evenings and weekends get packed. Go on a weekday for shorter lines.
A city-defining winter illumination along Midosuji from early November through January 31. Great for evening walks. Expect heavier foot traffic near Umeda and Namba.
Switch-on ceremony that starts Osaka’s winter illumination season. Expect crowds near Osaka City Hall and nearby river areas. Arrive early if you want a clear view of the countdown.
Large indoor food festival and trade-show style event with tastings and cooking demos. It is easy in bad weather. Arrive hungry and expect queues at famous booths.
Nighttime heritage programming with free entry windows and projection mapping on historic buildings. It is popular for photography. Arrive early to avoid long lines at peak slots.
Universal Studios Japan’s Christmas program with shows, seasonal decorations, and holiday-limited offerings. Weekends and December 24 to 25 are busiest. Book early and arrive at opening.
Osaka in November at a glance
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Weather
Maximum temperature: 17°C
Minimum temperature: 12°C
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Daylight
Around 10 hours 35 minutes of daylight
Sunrise: 6:20am
Sunset: 4:55pm
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Key events
Shitennoji Wasso Festival, Shinno-sai (Ebisu cold remedy festival), Festival of Lights Osaka opening ceremony, Kansai Foodie Expo (autumn)
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Crowds
Tourist-heavy, with long queues at attractions, crowded streets, and seasonal events adding to the buzz.
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What to pack
Jacket, sweater, scarf, camera, comfortable shoes, umbrella for occasional rain.
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Seasonal treats
Maple leaf tempura at Minoh, autumn wagashi, festival oden, Kansai Foodie Expo specialties
Plan ahead: must-visit experiences for Osaka in November
