Nagano Weather in November
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Nagano in November
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In Brief: Mildly Cold; Significant Day-night Temperature Variance; Maple Leaf Season
In November, Nagano's weather is mildly cold, featuring large diurnal temperature variations and slight rainfall, making the early month ideal for viewing vibrant autumn foliage, while the second half offers the delight of picking ripe apples.
Temperature
Avg. Temperature Range: 2~11℃/36~52℉
Precipitation
Rainfall: 44 mmAvg. Rainy Days: 9
Sunrise & Sunset
In November, sunrise and sunset relatively occur at 6:10~6:39 and 16:31~16:50, providing 10.5 hours of daylight. Sunsets are early without much waiting, but temperatures drop sharply afterward, highlighting the importance of thermal layers.Maple Leaf Season
The maple leaf season in Nagano peaks from late October to early November, when the foliage transforms into a tapestry of red, gold, and green.
Packing List
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Upper Wear
Start with a long-sleeved shirt for warmth, add a sweater for insulation, and top them off with a thick jacket to fend off the cold. At higher altitudes, a down jacket is an absolute must.Pro Tip for Comfort: The multi-layer clothing above is called the Sandwich Clothing Method, by which you can easily add or remove layers as needed, staying comfortable and adaptable in the unpredictable November weather in Nagano’s mountains.
Lower Wear
Wear leggings as a base layer for warmth and a snug fit, and pair them with long pants to protect your legs from the chill.Footwear
Hiking boots are a must for sturdy support and traction, especially in uneven terrain. For daily activities, athletic shoes provide the necessary flexibility and comfort.Accessories
Alpenstocks or ice cleats prevent slipping over on icy or wet surfaces, while scarves, gloves, and hats keep you warm. Additionally, sunglasses and sunscreen are essential for sun protection.Rain Gear
A reliable raincoat or umbrella to protect against rain and snow.
Top Things to Do in November in Nagano
Admire the Autumn Scenery in Kamikochi
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Red Leaves in Kamikochi
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In early November, Kamikochi bursts into an autumn spectacle, with layered mountains adorned in a breathtaking gradient of greens, yellows, oranges, and reds. At Taishoike Pond, the left bank showcases a continuous stretch of red maple leaves mirroring its azure waters. Nearby, the golden birch trees at the foothills form neat diagonal lines ascending from low to high, their fallen leaves tinting the ground golden.
Autumn mornings add a magical touch, with the mountainside often wrapped in a light mist veil and the summit capped with snow. As the sun rises, its golden rays illuminate both the summit and the mist, creating a breathtaking scene.
Pick Apples at the Yamakawa’s Apple Orchard
During this peak apple-harvesting month, visitors can learn about the rich history and planting process of Nagano's apples, and hear heartwarming stories about the orchard family and their apple-growing tradition in Yamakawa's Apple Orchard.Equipped with picking tools, you can pick up your apples from the mature apple trees. Staff members will then peel and slice them for immediate tasting, revealing an unparalleled sweetness and crispness that store-bought apples can't match.
Experience the Ebisukou Fireworks Festival
The Ebisukou Fireworks Festival is one of Japan’s unique autumn fireworks displays, offering a starkly different beauty from summer fireworks against the cold night sky. Only skilled pyrotechnicians participate, ensuring a highly qualified showcase with up to 10,000 fireworks.Highlights include synchronized fireworks like Musical Starlight and 100 Consecutive Super Wide Spherical Starlight, which burst into vibrant colors, transforming the crisp autumn night into a dazzling display. Some spectators are even moved to tears by the magnificent spectacle.
Tips
1. The exact timing of Nagano's autumn foliage season can vary depending on the climate. For instance, in 2024, warmer weather delayed the vibrant hues slightly. To catch the foliage at its peak, stay updated with weather forecasts and foliage reports for the best viewing experience.2. Some scenic areas experience early snowfall in November, resulting in the closure until spring, like Kamikochi on November 15. Plan your visit accordingly.
3. As late November approaches, several ski resorts open, including Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort and Shiga Kogen Kumanoyu Ski Area.
4. In Nagano, due to early darkness in November, it's advisable to leave scenic areas by 4 PM and return to your hotel, as the sunlight fades around 3 PM and complete darkness descends by 5 PM, especially if you have no evening plans.