Japan, Asia
Hokkaido in November
Leaves are gone, snow is not reliable yet, and many seasonal attractions close. Little reason to go.
The straight answer
November is a month to think twice about visiting Hokkaido. Leaves are gone, snow is not reliable yet, and many seasonal attractions close. Little reason to go.
- Weather
- Cold and gray, highs near 45F (7C), sleet
- Crowds
- 1 of 5
- Prices
- 1 of 5
What November is like in Hokkaido
November is cold and gray, with highs near 45F (7C) and sleet. The leaves are gone, snow is not reliable yet, and many seasonal attractions close. Shiretoko Pass and mountain roads shut for winter. There is little reason to go. Ski resorts generally do not open until late November or December. Days are short and the weather is damp, though prices are among the lowest of the year.
Most travelers should skip November. If you want snow, wait until late December or January. If you want fall color, go in October.
Make the most of November
What is especially good about Hokkaido this month.
Low prices in Sapporo
City hotels are cheap, good for a food-focused trip.
Onsen towns without crowds
Noboribetsu and Jozankei are quiet, and the baths feel great on cold days.
Early ski openings, in some years
Some resorts open in late November if snow comes early.
What to pack for November
- A warm waterproof coat
- Waterproof boots
- Gloves and a hat
- An umbrella
Our timing tip
If you must visit in November, stay in Sapporo and plan onsen day trips rather than mountain adventures.
Book Hokkaido for November.
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- Hotels for November
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in HokkaidoOpens a hotel search for Hokkaido in November, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in HokkaidoWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in HokkaidoTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Hokkaido for November. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
Things to do in Hokkaido
Sapporo Snow Festival
Giant snow and ice sculptures in Odori Park and Susukino for about a week in early February. Book lodging months ahead.
Niseko and the ski resorts
Niseko is the most international; Furano, Rusutsu, and Kiroro are often quieter. January and February are the powder months.
Furano and Biei lavender
The fields peak in mid to late July. Go early morning to beat tour buses at Farm Tomita and the Blue Pond.
Otaru
Canal town with glassworks and sushi, 30 to 40 minutes from Sapporo. Magical during the Snow Light Path festival in February.
Shiretoko Peninsula
Five Lakes walk and bear-watching boat cruises in summer; drift ice walks in February and early March.
Asahiyama Zoo
Famous for its winter penguin walk and animal viewing design. A great family stop in Asahikawa.
Beat the crowds
- If you want the Snow Festival, book Sapporo hotels three to six months out, or stay in Otaru and commute.
- Ski in early to mid January or March for good snow with fewer people and lower rates than Christmas, Lunar New Year, and February.
- At Farm Tomita and the Blue Pond, arrive before 8am in July. By 10am the tour buses are in.
- Avoid Obon week in mid August for rental cars and lodging, and book summer rental cars early; they sell out.
Know before you go
- Shiretoko Pass (the road across the peninsula) and many mountain roads close in winter, usually from roughly early November to late April.
- Many summer attractions, ropeways, and lodges in national parks close from about November to April; check any specific site.
- Ski resorts generally open in late November or December and close between late March and early May depending on the resort and snow.
- Heavy snowstorms can cancel flights at New Chitose and shut roads and trains for a day. Build a buffer day into any winter itinerary.
Hokkaido in November, quick answers
Is November a good time to visit Hokkaido?
November is a month to think twice about visiting Hokkaido. Leaves are gone, snow is not reliable yet, and many seasonal attractions close. Little reason to go.
What is the weather like in Hokkaido in November?
Cold and gray, highs near 45F (7C), sleet.
Is Hokkaido crowded in November?
November is one of the quieter months in Hokkaido; most sights can be done without long waits.
Keep planning Hokkaido.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in November
Before you book.
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