November's Best Spots for Autumn Leaves: Kyoto's Maple Leaves, Nara's Deer, and Osaka's Food Scene

Five days and four nights from Tokyo to Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara for an unforgettable trip! 🍁 Stunning autumn foliage, adorable interactions at Nara Deer Park, and Osaka's vibrant night markets—hit all the top attractions and food spots in one go. This comprehensive itinerary is a must-read for Japan travel enthusiasts!

If you want to make the most of your limited time experiencing Kyoto's poetic charm, Nara's friendly deer, and Osaka's food and shopping scene, save this guide! The trip primarily uses the Shinkansen for quick connections between four major cities. Accommodation is at APA Hotel Asaka Umeda in Osaka, offering a high-fidelity itinerary with city nightscapes, ancient temples, and adorable Japanese animals. So chill!

🌸 Highlights of the Trip
- Shinkansen 🚄 connecting Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka—comfortable and time-saving!
- Kyoto's ancient temples and autumn leaves, full of historical charm
- Close interactions with deer at Nara Deer Park, super healing~
- Osaka's night markets with local delicacies, city nightscapes, and iconic commercial signs
- Perfect photo backdrops with night views, autumn leaves, and Japanese architecture

⏰ Daily Itinerary Overview

Day 1: Departure from Tokyo + Shinkansen Experience 🚄
Start your journey at Tokyo Station by boarding the world-class Shinkansen. Take some time to admire the station's architecture and grab a bento box for the ride. The scenery along the way is breathtaking!
📍 Address: Tokyo, Japan

Day 2: Osaka City Walk + Night Market Food
Arrive in Osaka and check in at APA Hotel Asaka Umeda. Head straight to Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori in the evening for popular night market foods like takoyaki, Ichiran ramen, kushikatsu, wagyu snacks, and desserts! The commercial district is always bustling, and every photo feels like a movie scene!
📍 Ichiran Ramen Dotonbori Store Address: 1-4-16, Dotombori, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka, 542-0071

Day 3: Kyoto Autumn Leaves + Temple Tour
Kyoto's autumn foliage season is a must-see. Visit Kiyomizu-dera, Arashiyama, and along the Kamo River for vibrant autumn colors. The romantic atmosphere of ancient temples is unparalleled! Stop by cafes and snack shops along the way to enjoy the slow life. Even rainy days add a unique charm to the autumn leaves.
📍 Kiyomizu-dera Address: 1-294, Kiyomizu, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto 605-0862
Opening Hours: Nov 5 - Nov 21: 06:00-18:00 / Nov 22 - Dec 7: 06:00-21:30 (last entry 21:00) / Dec 8 - Dec 31: 06:00-18:00
📍 Kinkaku-ji Address: 1 Kinkakujicho, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8361
Opening Hours: Year-round 09:00-17:00

Day 4: Nara Day Trip - Deer Park Full of Healing
Nara Park is open year-round, offering close interactions with deer. Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds and perfect photos! Then explore Todai-ji and Nara's old streets, where traditional wagashi shops are a must-try.
📍 Nara Park Address: Nara, Japan
Opening Hours: Year-round, all day

Day 5: Free Time in Osaka + Return Trip
Enjoy brunch at a nearby cafe or local eatery near APA Hotel. Then, it's time for some last-minute shopping! Afterward, take the JR or Shinkansen back to Tokyo to wrap up the perfect trip.

🏨 Hotel Experience
APA Hotel Asaka Umeda is conveniently located near shopping districts, making it easy to return at night. The rooms are small but clean and soundproof, offering a relaxing end to your day with all your shopping spoils.

🔥 Practical Tips & Insights
- Book Shinkansen tickets online in advance; use a JR Pass during peak seasons for convenience
- Visit Kyoto's autumn leaves early to avoid crowds; bring an umbrella and comfortable shoes for rainy days
- Nara's deer are friendly but quick—watch your bags while feeding them! Morning is the best time for healing photos
- Try small portions at night markets to sample more dishes; popular spots may require queuing

🚄 Transportation Tips
- Shinkansen is the best option from Tokyo to Osaka—fast and efficient
- Use JR Rail Pass for intercity travel—hassle-free and convenient
- Nara is about 40-50 minutes from Osaka; plan your time accordingly

Experience Japan's autumn leaves, Nara Deer Park, Kyoto's ancient temples, and Osaka's night markets in this ultimate five-day, four-night Kansai itinerary!