Shinjuku in November 2024: Highlights, Events & Festivals

In November, Tokyo transforms into a stunning landscape where tree leaves turn brilliant shades of red and yellow, offering visitors a perfect opportunity to experience Japanese autumn. The weather can be variable, with late November bringing the first hints of winter.

Shinjuku stands as one of Tokyo's most iconic districts and remains a favorite among international tourists. The area features numerous shopping destinations including department stores, and is characterized by its towering skyscrapers including the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. The vibrant entertainment district of Kabukicho offers authentic Japanese culinary experiences from ramen shops to izakayas.

Notably, Shinjuku Station holds the world record for daily passenger traffic, serving as a crucial transportation hub. November 2024 in Shinjuku presents an exciting array of seasonal events spanning sports, gastronomy, and cultural festivities.

Let's explore the highlights, essential information, schedules, and access details for these events!

Table of Content
- Traditional Events in Shinjuku - November 2024
- Special November Experiences in Shinjuku
- Special Seasonal Experiences in Shinjuku for November 2024
- Shinjuku Gourmet Events - November 2024

Traditional Events in Shinjuku - November 2024

Hanazono Shrine Tori Festival

Source: PR TIMES

Hanazono Shrine, Shinjuku's guardian shrine, hosts the traditional Tori Festival (Otorisai), a celebration for good fortune, business prosperity, and New Year preparations. Located near the entertainment district of Kabukicho, the shrine attracts large crowds during this festival. This year's main festivals will be held on Tuesday, November 5th, Sunday, November 17th, and Friday, November 29th, with eve celebrations on the preceding days.

A highlight is the spectacular display of approximately 900 lanterns illuminating the shrine grounds, upgraded to environmentally-friendly LED bulbs in 2022. Vendors sell "kumade" (decorative rake-shaped talismans) believed to gather good luck and wealth. With traditional entertainment booths and food stalls, visitors can experience authentic Japanese festival culture in the heart of the metropolis.

Dates:
- November 4 (Mon) Eve Festival / November 5 (Tue) Main Festival
- November 16 (Sat) Eve Festival / November 17 (Sun) Main Festival
- November 28 (Thu) Eve Festival / November 29 (Fri) Main Festival

Access: [Train] 0-minute walk from Shinjuku Sanchome Station (Exit E2) on Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, Fukutoshin Line, and Toei Shinjuku Line
　　　　　　　　　7 minutes walk from East Exit of Shinjuku Station on JR Line, Odakyu Line and Keio Line.
　　　　　[Bus]・Toei Bus Route Shin97 bound for Shinjuku Nishiguchi, 3 minutes walk from Shinjuku Sanchome Bus Stop.
　　　　　　　 ・Toei Bus Route Waseda-77 bound for Waseda, 3 minutes walk from Shinjuku Isetan-mae Bus Stop.
Admission: Free
Website: http://hanazono-jinja.or.jp/

Special November Experiences in Shinjuku

SHIN ONSAI 2024

Source: Official website

Shinjuku has long been a cultural hub for film, theater, and music, developing its unique entertainment culture over the years. SHIN-ONSAI, an urban music festival launched in 2018, aims to showcase Shinjuku's charm through cultural experiences.

This event features both established artists and emerging talents across various genres. The 2024 festival will operate as a circuit-style event across five live houses in the Kabukicho area.

At ¥4,000 for admission, this event offers excellent value for experiencing Shinjuku's cultural scene. The area's superior accessibility makes it convenient for attendees regardless of their accommodation location. Music and culture enthusiasts shouldn't miss this autumn tradition in Shinjuku!

<Information>
Date: Saturday, November 30, 2024
Access: Shinjuku LOFT: 2nd basement floor of Tatehana Bldg.
                  Shinjuku MARZ: 5-minute walk from Shinjuku Station on the JR, Tokyo Metro, Toei Subway, Odakyu, and Keio Lines; 1-minute walk from Seibu Shinjuku Station; 3-minute walk from Shinjuku Nishiguchi Station on the Toei Oedo Line.
　　　　　　　　　　　　Shinjuku Nishiguchi Station” on Toei Oedo Line
                  Shinjuku FACE: 10-minute walk from Shinjuku Station East Exit on JR Line and Tokyo Metro Line, 15-minute walk from Shinjuku Station East Exit on Odakyu Line and Keio Line, 2-minute walk from Seibu Shinjuku Station
                  Shinjuku PIT INN: Short walk from Exit C8 of Shinjuku Sanchome Station on the Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway lines
                  Kabukicho Cine City Plaza* wristband exchange: 2-minute walk from Seibu Shinjuku Station / 2-minute walk from Seibu Shinjuku Station
　　　　　　　　　　　　6-minute walk from Shinjuku-Nishiguchi Station on the Toei Oedo Line / 7-minute walk from Shinjuku-Sanchome Station on the Tokyo Metro Line
Admission: 4,000 yen (tax included)
Website: https://shin-onsai.com/

Special Seasonal Experiences in Shinjuku for November 2024

Autumn Foliage

In Japan, the autumn colors rival the beauty of cherry blossoms. The vibrant fall foliage of ginkgo, Japanese maple, and other maple trees typically begins to change color from mid-October, reaching peak viewing from mid-November to mid-December.

Shinjuku offers numerous recommended spots for enjoying autumn colors. The beauty of fall foliage amid towering skyscrapers creates a uniquely Shinjuku scenery that will surely become a memorable experience. Beyond dedicated foliage viewing spots, you can experience Japan's distinct seasons everywhere, even while shopping.

Meiji Jingu Gaien's Ginkgo Avenue

Source: Go Tokyo

The most popular autumn foliage spot in Tokyo is Ginkgo Avenue at Meiji Jingu Gaien. The spectacular sight features 146 ginkgo trees lining a 300-meter path. What makes this avenue particularly remarkable is its three-dimensional appearance, created by trees planted in perspective leading to the Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery. Walking through this golden tunnel will leave you in awe. The yellow carpet of fallen leaves adds to the magical atmosphere.

This famous spot has appeared in many movies and TV dramas. Take time to capture your own memorable photos in this beautiful setting.

Best Viewing Period: Mid-November to early December
Access: 
- 3 minutes walk from Gaienmae Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line), Exit 4a
- 5 minutes walk from Aoyama-Itchome Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza, Hanzomon, and Toei Oedo Lines), Exit 1
- 13 minutes walk from Shinanomachi Station (JR Chuo-Sobu Line)
Admission: Fees apply for some facilities within Meiji Jingu Gaien
Website: http://www.meijijingugaien.jp/walk/sight/season.html

Shinjuku Gyoen

Source: Official website

Shinjuku Gyoen, another representative autumn foliage spot in Tokyo, was originally created as an imperial garden in 1906 and opened to the public after World War II. The vast grounds combine various garden styles where visitors can enjoy seasonal trees and flowers throughout the year.

The autumn foliage here is particularly spectacular. You can enjoy colored leaves of ginkgo, maple, and cherry trees throughout the garden, with the unique backdrop of Shinjuku's skyscrapers. The red maple trees near Shinjuku Gate, Momiji-yama (Maple Mountain), and ginkgo trees are especially impressive and perfect for photography.

Thanks to the variety of tree species, the foliage viewing period is longer than at other locations.

Best Viewing Period: Colors begin mid-October, peak from early November to mid-December
Access:
By train: 10-minute walk from the South Exit of Shinjuku Station on the JR, Odakyu, and Keio Lines / 5-minute walk from Exit 1 of Shinjuku-Gyoenmae Station on the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line
　　　　　　　　　Shinjuku Gyoenmae Station Exit 1 on the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line (5 min. walk) / Shinjuku Sanchome Station on the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line (5 min. walk from Exit E5) / Shinjuku Sanchome Station on the Toei Subway Shinjuku Line (5 min. walk from Exits C1 and C5)
　　　　　　　　   Bus: Toei Bus Shin97 (Shinagawa Shako - Shinjuku Station West Exit) Shinjuku Sanchome alighting
　　　　　　　　　　　　Toei Bus Ike 86 (Ikebukuro Station East Exit - Shibuya Station East Exit) Shinjuku 4-chome alighting
　　　　　　　　　　　　Toei Bus Waseda 77 (Waseda Station - Shinjuku Station West Exit) Shinjuku Isetan-mae alighting

[To Okidomon Gate] ＊Train: 5 min. walk from Exit 2 of Shinjuku-Gyoenmae Station on the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line.
　　　　　　　　　Bus: Toei Bus Shin97 (Shinagawa Garage - Shinjuku Station West Exit) alighting at Shinjuku 1-chome
　　　　　　　　　　　　    Toei Bus Waseda 81 (Waseda University Main Gate - Shibuya Station East Exit) Yotsuya 4-chome alighting

[To Sendagaya Gate] *Train: 5-minute walk from Sendagaya Station on the JR Sobu Line.
　　　　　　　　　　　　　Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line “Kitasando Station” Exit 1, 10 min. walk
　　　　　　　　　　　　　Toei Subway Oedo Line “National Stadium Station” 5 min. walk from Exit A5
　　　　　　　　　*Bus: Toei Bus Kuro 77 (Meguro Station - Sendagaya Station), get off at Sendagaya Station
　　　　　　　　　　　　　Toei Bus Ike 86 (Ikebukuro Station East Exit - Shibuya Station East Exit) Get off at Kitasando
　　　　　　　　　　　　　Toei Bus Waseda 81 (Waseda University Main Gate - Shibuya Station East Exit) Get off at Sendagaya Station
　　　　　　　　　　　　　Hachiko Bus (Jingu no Mori Route <Jingumae/Sendagaya Route>)
　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Get off at Sendagaya Station

Admission:
- General: 500 yen
- Seniors (65+)/Students (high school and above): 250 yen
- Children (junior high school and below): Free
Website: https://fng.or.jp/shinjuku/en/

Seasonal Events at Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

In November 2024, visitors to Shinjuku can experience spectacular seasonal events at Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. Throughout the year, the garden offers special openings for cherry blossom viewing in spring, the imperial tradition of the "Chrysanthemum Exhibition," and the regular "Western Orchid Exhibition" featuring both submitted works and orchids cultivated within the garden. Each event offers tourists a chance to experience Japan's seasonal beauty and natural splendor.

Chrysanthemum Exhibition

Source: Official website

The Chrysanthemum Exhibition, featuring chrysanthemums with imperial connections, is held annually from November 1st to 15th. Originally cultivated at the Akasaka Palace, cultivation began at Shinjuku Gyoen in 1904. Since opening to the public after World War II, this annual event has delighted countless visitors.

A highlight for tourists is the ability to stroll through the garden while viewing the displays. The chrysanthemums create a stunning harmony with the autumn foliage. The Uwaya building showcases unique flower-embedding techniques that can only be seen here. Different varieties of chrysanthemums are displayed using various methods, allowing visitors to appreciate their diverse charm. Viewers are captivated by the sight of uniformly-sized chrysanthemums blooming simultaneously. This is an excellent opportunity to experience Japanese tradition, craftsmanship, and subtle beauty.

Western Orchid Exhibition

Source: Official website

The Western Orchid Exhibition is a long-beloved event at Shinjuku Gyoen. This year, it will be held from Tuesday, November 19th to Sunday, November 24th.

Shinjuku Gyoen has been cultivating Western orchids in its greenhouse for approximately 140 years, making it considered the birthplace of Western orchid cultivation in Japan. Western orchids, grown for ornamental purposes, include varieties such as Cattleya and Cymbidium. These flowers are typically found in tropical and subtropical regions, and Shinjuku Gyoen recreates these environments for cultivation.

The Western Orchid Exhibition, which began in 1983, showcases tropical plants grown in the garden's greenhouse, orchids cultivated in the garden, and submissions from orchid enthusiasts. Visitors can experience the greenhouse filled with vibrant orchids and their various fragrances.

If you're visiting Shinjuku during these event periods, these exhibitions are highly recommended for tourists wanting to experience unique aspects of Japanese culture and horticulture.

Shinjuku Gourmet Events - November 2024

The Great Tsukemen Expo: Japanese Dipping Noodle Championship at Okubo Park

Source: Loa-Ticke

This prestigious event, launched in 2009, has been held at Okubo Park during autumn since 2013. It's famous for popularizing "tsukemen culture" in Japan, where cooked noodles are served separately from rich broths made with seafood or pork bone.

The competition features 40 renowned shops from across Japan, with 10 different shops rotating weekly over four weeks. Visitors can enjoy dishes from both popular and up-and-coming restaurants, and their votes determine Japan's number one tsukemen! While previous years included ramen categories, this year focuses exclusively on tsukemen, returning to the event's roots.

While ramen is well-known internationally, we encourage tourists to experience tsukemen, which rivals ramen in popularity within Japan. Your vote could help crown the national champion!

Dates: October 10 (Thu) - November 6 (Wed), 2024
Access: 3-min walk from Seibu-Shinjuku Station / 8-min walk from Shinjuku Station
Admission: Free (Unified meal tickets: ¥1,000 per serving)
Website: https://www.dai-tsukemen-haku.com/

Sweet Potato, Chestnut & Pumpkin Festival at Okubo Park

This inaugural event celebrates Japan's beloved autumn flavors. Visitors can enjoy traditional dishes like chestnut rice and seasonal desserts like pumpkin pudding and mont blanc. The festival operates with food tickets in ¥200 increments and runs in two stages:
- 1st Stage: November 8-14
- 2nd Stage: November 15-24

This is a unique opportunity to experience authentic Japanese autumn cuisine in a festival setting, different from regular restaurants.

Dates: November 8 (Fri) - November 24 (Sun), 2024, 11:00-21:00
Access: 2-min walk from Seibu-Shinjuku Station / 6-min walk from JR Okubo Station / 15-min walk from Shinjuku Station
Admission: Free (Food tickets in ¥200 increments)
Website: https://ikkfes.com/

TRY Ramen Awards Festival 2024 at Okubo Park

The TRY Awards (Tokyo Ramen of the Year), established in 2000, determines Tokyo's best ramen. Celebrating its 25th anniversary, this special festival brings together award-winning ramen shops. It's perfect for both ramen enthusiasts and newcomers to Japanese cuisine!

The venue features 600 covered seats, making it comfortable even in cold weather. Experience authentic, premium ramen from Japan's top establishments.

Dates: November 26 (Tue) - December 15 (Sun), 2024, 11:00-21:00
Stages:
- 1st Stage: November 8-14
- 2nd Stage: November 15-24
Access: 2-min walk from Seibu-Shinjuku Station / 6-min walk from JR Okubo Station / 15-min walk from Shinjuku Station
Admission: Free (Meal tickets: ¥1,000)