(Photo courtesy of Metropolis Magazine)
As the fall winds pick up and the chill in the air deepens, we know November has arrived. While it might feel like a “filler” month—wedged between the boisterous Halloween celebrations and the ever-so busy Christmas season, Tokyo proves otherwise. From festivals to illuminations, there’s no shortage of things to do in Tokyo in November. Check out Metropolis‘ picks for the best of the season below.
Hogwarts in the Snow, November 8 – January 12
Hogwarts in the snow (Image credit: wbstudiotour.jp)
This limited Christmas event transforms the world of Harry Potter into a winter wonderland. With over 400 candles floating above the Great Hall and dorms dressed up with ribbons and Christmas trees, the tour brings the beloved series to life.
Time: Opening times vary
Location: Warner Bros Studio Tokyo, 1-1-7 Nerima-ku, Kasuga-cho
Entrance Cost: ¥7,000 for Adults / ¥5,800 for Kids 12-17 / ¥4,200 for Kids 4-11
Sweet Potato Fes TOKYO 2025, October 31 – November 9
Yakiimo Fes (Photo credit: yakiimofes.jp)
Celebrate Japan’s iconic autumn flavor—the sweet potato—at this 10-day festival. 14 vendors serve up everything from the classic fried sweet potato, to sweet potato crepes and milkshakes—all highlighting the season’s star ingredient. Now in its fourth year, this year’s festival celebrates the “science of flavor,” blending Japanese and international flavors.
Time: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Location: Nakano Shiki-no-mori Park Event Area, 4-12 Nakano, Nakano-ku
Entrance Cost: Free
Midtown Christmas 2025, November 13 – December 25
Tokyo Midtown illumination (File photo)
Tokyo Midtown’s annual illumination returns this November, transforming the plaza into a glowing winter scene. Thousands of LED lights blanket the space in cool blues and golds, an ideal backdrop for a romantic walk or a casual night out with friends.
This year’s theme is “Your Christmas Story.” A tree decorated with more than 1,600 miniature Santas and a festive Christmas Marché (details coming soon) add to the holiday cheer.
Time: 5 – 11 p.m.
Location: Tokyo Midtown, 9-7-1 Akasaka, Minato-ku
Entrance Cost: Free
Hachioji Ginkgo Festival, November 15 – 16
(File photo)
Every year, over 700 gingko trees transform into a brilliant golden canopy over the Koshu Kaido Road in Hachioji. The community-led Ichou Festival unfolds against this golden backdrop, with local food and craft vendors lining the street. Pick up a wooden “travel permit” and collect stamps from 12 checkpoints along the route—a playful nod to the Edo period, when travelers carried official passes to move between checkpoints along the Koshu Kaido.
Time: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Entrance Cost: Free
Time:Location: Koshu Kaido Road, Hachioji-shi
Yuru Camp 10th Anniversary Exhibition, November 15 – 24
(Illustration credit: yurucamp-ex.com)
The cozy camping anime “Yuru Camp” (titled “Laid-Back Camp” in English) celebrates its 10th anniversary with a special exhibition. Enjoy original manga manuscripts, full-color illustrations and behind-the-scenes animation artwork, plus limited-edition merchandise.
Time: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Entrance Cost: ¥2,200
Location: Tokyo Skytree, TOKYO Solamachi 5F
Yunth Midtown Ice Rink, November 21 – February 23
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File photo)
Few winter experiences feel as surreal as skating in the heart of Tokyo under Roppongi’s winter illuminations. Midtown’s open-air rink captures that quiet magic: real ice, crisp air and the city sparkling around you. Visit in November or early December to see the last of the autumn leaves before winter fully sets in.
Time: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Entrance Cost: ¥2,500
Location: Tokyo Midtown Lawn Square (Roppongi), 9-7-1 Akasaka, Minato-ku
SAKANA&JAPAN Festival 2025, November 28 – 30
A fresh fish shop in the Ameyoko shopping street where many seafood are lined up. (Photo credit: y-studio)
One of the largest open-air seafood festivals takes over Hibiya Park with over 30 gourmet vendors. From sushi to grilled specialties, the event celebrates Japan’s deep love of fish. Variety is the name of the game, with everything from tuna bowls to fried oysters on offer. The festival promotes Japan’s gyoshoku (lit. “fish food”) culture, a tradition of nutrient-rich, fish-centered meals, and encourages people to enjoy and support Japan’s vibrant seafood heritage.
Time: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Entrance Cost: Free
Location: Hibiya Park, 1-6 Hibiyakoen, Chiyoda-ku
