Kamakura Weather in November

Overview:

1. Kamakura experiences the peak autumn season in November, cool and dry, perfect for outdoor sightseeing.
2. One of the highlights must be autumn foliage viewing, with colorful leaves painting the landscape.
3. It’s one of the best times to visit Kamakura, thanks to the pleasant weather and the stunning seasonal scenery.

Autumn Foliage Viewing

Cool Temperatures

In November, Kamakura enjoys a cool climate, with average temperatures ranging from 10-16°C (50-61°F). As the month progresses, temperatures gradually drop. In early November, the average daytime temperatures hover between 13-18°C (55-64°F), which is especially ideal for outdoor activities for the whole day. Moreover, based on previous data from 2024, temperatures can still climb to as high as 23 degrees Celsius (73 degrees Fahrenheit) when the sun peaks its high at around 14:00 to 15:00. So it is wise to check the weather forecast in advance and dress in layers to stay comfortable.

By late November, early mornings and late evenings can feel noticeably cold, and you might need to wear a heavier jacket or coat to stay warm. The midday weather generally remains crisp and pleasant, which is perfect for walking tours.

Less Rainfall and Comfortable Humidity

Kamakura receives significantly less rainfall in November, with average precipitation of 98 mm and 13 average rainy days. Most of the rain comes as light and brief showers, so don’t let the drizzle get you down. Just wait for a while, and you might be rewarded with even clearer skies and brighter sunshine. The rain-washed sky makes the sea appear a deeper blue after the clouds pass. If you are at Shichirigahama Beach and lucky enough, you might even catch a clear view of Mount Fuji in the distance, which is a perfect photo spot.

Due to the reduced rainfall and increased sunshine, humidity also drops to a comfortable average of 57%. The air is fresh and relatively dry as a result, making both strolling along the coast and exploring ancient temples and shrines cozy.

The Great Buddha of Kamakura

Shorter Daytime Hours

Daylight hours in Kamakura this month continue to shorten, ranging from 9 hours 59 minutes to 10 hours 44 minutes approximately. This means visitors need to plan their schedules more thoughtfully to make the most of the available sunlight.

Sunrise occurs between 6:03 and 6:30, which is a great opportunity to catch the first light of the day, and you don’t have to get up so early like in summer. In contrast, nights come pretty early, with sunsets happening between 16:20 to 16:47. But don’t be frustrated by the early dusk. After the sunset, Hasedera Temple hosts a special autumn foliage illumination by late November. The night view offers a completely different charm from the daytime – peaceful, glowing, and full of a serene atmosphere. Plus, there are fewer tourists, providing a better viewing experience.

Clothes to Wear

Tops: Considering the cool Kamakura weather, light-knit sweaters and long-sleeve shirts are great choices. A medium-weight jacket is essential, especially in the mornings and evenings. In late November, consider a 3-in-1 jacket to keep warm and cozy.

Bottoms: It is advisable to wear full-length pants, such as jeans or sweatpants. If girls prefer skirts, it’s necessary to pair them with warm tights or thermal leggings.

Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are ideal for exploring temples and hiking trails. If you decide to visit Hasedera in the late evening, it’s recommended to wear anti-slip sneakers, as the steps can be slippery. Long boots are suitable for girls in dresses.

Others:
Pack an umbrella in case of sudden rain.
Considering the increasing sunlight hours, UV rays can be harsh. So sun protection is essential – don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats.

Is November a Good Month to Visit Kamakura?

Yes, November is one of the best times to visit Kamakura. Firstly, Kamakura’s climate in November is cool and dry, ideal for outdoor activities. Secondly, except for weekends, there are no major holidays during this month, which may lead to a better traveling experience with fewer tourists and lower travel costs. More importantly, it is the ideal time to admire yellow and red autumn leaves. Many scenic spots, like Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine and Kamakura Daibutsu in Kotoku-in, would show a gentle quality under the setting of colorful leaves.

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine in Autumn

Travel Recommendations and Tips

Considering the shorter daylight hours and opening hours of most scenic spots in November, it’s highly recommended to explore Kamakura as early as possible per day. You can catch the sunny weather in the morning and head to Shichirigahama Beach, the popular photo spot for crystal-blue water and clear Mount. Fuji. Then visit the Great Buddha of Kamakura when it first opens around 8:00, enjoying its peaceful quality with fewer crowds. Around noon, you can have lunch and take a break at Komachi Street, where you can also buy some souvenirs. Walk through Komachi Street and you'll arrive at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, where the colorful leaves couple with beautifully traditional Japanese architecture.

If you visit Kamakura at the end of November, going ahead to Hasedera Temple for the autumn foliage with night illumination when night falls is also a good choice. But you are advised to pack thick coats as the temperature can be surprisingly low during this time.

Komachi Street

Lovely Beach in Kamakura

Tips:

1. The opening dates for illumination at Hasedera Temple change each year. Therefore, remember to check the official dates and hours in advance.
2. Want to watch autumn leaves turning red totally? It’s best to visit Kamakura at the end of November.
3. There are lots of steps at Hasedera Temple, and they are a bit wet and slippery. You need to pay attention to them when walking at night.
4. If you’re a Slam Dunk fan hoping to take photos at Kamakurakoko-Mae Station, avoid wasting time in daytime queues. Come at night instead – there are fewer people, and the station’s gentle lighting is also suitable for photos.
5. Want a clear view of Mount Fuji? Check the visibility forecast before your visit. The visibility is usually the highest in the first half of the day.