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What to Wear in Japan: Complete Seasonal Packing Guide & Tips to Lighten Your Luggage

What to Wear in Japan: Complete Seasonal Packing Guide & Tips to Lighten Your Luggage

Last updated: 16 October 2023

Wondering what to wear in Japan during your trip and what clothing is appropriate? The weather makes a huge difference in the kinds of clothes and accessories you'll want to pack! Plus, you'll want to know whether it's okay to wear certain kinds of outfits.

From spring to winter, here are the recommended items for what to wear in Japan.

Table of Contents
  1. What to Wear in Japan in Spring (March/April/May)
  2. What to wear in Japan in Summer (June/July/August)
  3. What to wear in Japan in autumn (September/October/November)
  4. What to Wear in Japan in Winter (December/January/February)
  5. Check out ‘Any Wear, Anywhere’ for smart travel to Japan!
  6. Helpful articles for planning your Japan trip

What to Wear in Japan in Spring (March/April/May)

What to Wear in Japan in Spring (March/April/May)

After a long period of cold temperatures, wonderfully warm days greet you in spring as April starts. The cherry trees are adorned with small buds, and people excitedly wait for the first flowers.

There are still cooler days, and especially mornings and evenings can be somewhat chilling, so bringing warmer clothes such as clothes or a jacket with a detachable inner layer.

Tokyo experiences its biggest difference in temperature between March and May, with the monthly average sitting at 15℃/59℉.

In general, spring in Tokyo is pleasant and a great time for day trips to explore surrounding areas!

Useful articles about planning a spring trip to Japan

March

March

At the beginning of spring, the average highest temperature is about 13℃/56℉. However, mornings and evenings are still chilly, so expect certain days to be below 10℃/50℉ as well. Mind the rather big difference between night and day! Dressing in layers is key.

What outfit to pack for Tokyo in March (Women)
Clothes
Coat or down jacket, a warm inner layer such as a thermal undershirt, sweater, thick pants or knit skirt with warm tights.
Accessories & footwear
Knit cap, muffler, mask, disposable heating pads.
What outfit to pack for Tokyo in March (Men)
Clothes
Heavy coat or down jacket, thermal undershirt, sweater, jeans or thick pants.
Accessories & footwear
Knit cap, muffler, mask, disposable heating pads.

April

April

The average temperature in April is around 15℃/58℉ and at the beginning of the month, the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.

There are more hours of sunshine, so day trips around Tokyo are especially recommended during this month! However, there’s still quite a large temperature difference between daytime and mornings and evenings, so pack an extra jacket to not catch a cold.

The past year also experienced a lot of rain during April, making an umbrella an indispensable item.

The beginning of April is still comparatively cold, so we recommend similar clothes to what you’d wear in March. Depending on the day, it can get quite chilly, so transformable or multipurpose clothes are a good idea. Layers also always work, such as a thicker jacket over a regular sweater. Flexibility in your wardrobe is essential!

What outfit to pack for Tokyo in April (Women)
Clothes
Windbreaker, sweaters or cut and sews, pants or skirt and tights.
Accessories & footwear
Mask, rain gear, light shoes with waterproof soles
What outfit to pack for Tokyo in April (Men)
Clothes
Windbreaker or jacket, thin sweater or long sleeve, thick shirt, pants.
Accessories & footwear
Mask, rain gear, light shoes with waterproof soles

May

May

May in Japan is a time of intense temperature change. The maximum temperature can be over 20℃/68℉, while it’s rarely over 10℃/50℉ at night.

May also has the most hours of sunshine during spring, so it’s a nice time for day trips and outdoor activities. If you plan on being outside the entire day and in the evening, do bring a light jacket.

What outfit to pack for Tokyo in May (Women)
Clothes
A hooded jacket or cardigan, blouse or T-shirt, pants or skirt and stockings.
What outfit to pack for Tokyo in May (Men)
Clothes
Thin coat, shirt and T-shirt, pants.

Mind the rainy season in Japan (June-July)!

Mind the rainy season in Japan (June-July)!

In the Kanto area (greater Tokyo), the rainy season generally lasts from early June to the end of July. This time brings both hot and cold days, as well as a good deal of unstable weather.

A lot of people experience headaches and other ailments due to sudden drops in atmospheric pressure, so if you’re affected by such changes, it’s a good idea to carry medicine with you just in case.

Rainy Season in Japan
Rainy season start date
・2022 - Tokyo: Around June 6; Osaka: Around June 11
・2023 - Tokyo: Around June 8; Osaka: Around May 29
・30-year average - Tokyo: Around June 7; Osaka: Around June 5
Rainy season end date
・2022 - Tokyo: Around July 23; Osaka: Around July 22
・2023 - Tokyo: Around July 22; Osaka: Around July 16
・30-year average - Tokyo: Around July 19; Osaka: Around July 17

What to wear in Japan in Summer (June/July/August)

What to wear in Japan in Summer (June/July/August)

Japan’s rainy season starts at the beginning of June. After that, the real summer begins and does not only bring high temperatures but also a lot of humidity. If you’re outside for a long time, you need to pay attention to protecting yourself from a heat stroke. Let’s take a closer look at Japan’s summer months!

Useful articles about planning a summer trip to Japan

June

Tokyo’s early summer isn’t that hot yet, but the humidity is already on the rise and there’ll be hot, humid days. The rainfall also causes the temperature to drop, however, so bring a light jacket just in case. Also, an umbrella is an absolute must during that time!

What outfit to pack for Tokyo in June (Women)
Clothes
Thin outerwear, short sleeve tops, thin long skirt or a one-piece.
Accessories & footwear
Sneakers, sandals, sunscreen, antiperspirant, umbrella
What outfit to pack for Tokyo in June (Men)
Clothes
Thin outerwear, short sleeve tops, thin long pants or jeans.
Accessories & footwear
Sneakers, sandals, antiperspirant, umbrella.

July

July

July is the middle of summer in Japan, so opt for thin and light outerwear, as well as airy pants or skirts. We do recommend bringing a thin jacket, however, and advise to avoid direct sunlight during the day. The temperature will drop to about 20℃/68℉ at night, so be careful not to catch a cold.

What outfit to pack for Tokyo in July (Women)
Clothes
Thin, airy outerwear, rash guard (top with UV protection), wide pants, shorts, light skirt.
Accessories & footwear
Sneakers, sandals, hat (for sunshade), handkerchiefs, wet tissues, sunscreen, antiperspirant.
What outfit to pack for Tokyo in July (Men)
Clothes
Thin, airy shirt, jeans, cotton or hemp shorts, long airy pants.
Accessories & footwear
Sneakers, sandals, hat (for sunshade), handkerchiefs, wet tissues, sunscreen, antiperspirant.

August

August

Tokyo’s August is the peak of the hot summer. There’s a phenomenon called urban heat island, especially palpable in areas with a lot of high-rise buildings that absorb the sun and block the wind. Tokyo’s record highest temperature gets an update pretty much every year. Wear something light and airy while minding sunburn and heatstroke.

What outfit to pack for Tokyo in August (Women)
Clothes
Thin, airy outerwear, sleeveless tops, wide pants, shorts, light skirt.
Accessories & footwear
Sneakers, sandals, hat (for sunshade), handkerchiefs, wet tissues, sunscreen, antiperspirant.
What outfit to pack for Tokyo in August (Men)
Clothes
Thin, airy shirt, jeans, cotton or linen shorts, long airy pants.
Accessories & footwear
Sneakers, sandals, hat (for sunshade), handkerchiefs, wet tissues, sunscreen, antiperspirant.

Typhoon season

Every year, approximately 40 typhoons occur, with the majority of them forming between July and September. Typhoons tend to most frequently affect Okinawa and Kyushu, although Tokyo and Osaka also experience their fair share of cyclones when they approach the Japanese mainland.

In the event of a typhoon, the weather forecast extensively covers its path, intensity, and other relevant details. If you happen to be in Japan and encounter a typhoon, it is advisable to refrain from going outdoors.

Typhoons often bring heavy rainfall and strong winds even before they make landfall. Therefore, it's recommended to cancel any outdoor plans such as hiking, beach visits, or any activities near rivers. Additionally, public transportation may experience delays or temporary suspension, and air travel services might be canceled.

What to wear in Japan in autumn (September/October/November)

What to wear in Japan in autumn (September/October/November)

Autumn may be the most beautiful of Japan’s four seasons. Tokyo is dyed in vivid colors such as orange, yellow, and green, enchanting even the simplest walk through the park. The temperature difference can be quite massive during this time, so dressing in layers that are easy to take on and off is a good idea.

Useful articles about planning an autumn trip to Japan

September

In September, there’s a rather harsh drop in the average temperature to about 24℃, which is more pleasant than the heat of summer. However, it’s also the month of typhoons, and September has the second-most yearly rainfall right after the rainy season.

If you plan to go to Japan during this time, it is important to keep an eye on weather forecasts and always have an umbrella with you, just in case. Wearing short sleeves is fine during the day, but mornings and evenings tend to be much cooler, so bring a thin jacket.

What outfit to pack for Tokyo in September (Women)
Clothes
Cardigan, short-sleeved shirt, thin long-sleeve shirt, thin one-piece, long skirt.
Accessories & footwear
Sneakers, flats, sunscreen, umbrella
What outfit to pack for Tokyo in September (Men)
Clothes
Regular shirt, half-length or short-sleeve T-shirt, light coat, jeans.
Accessories & footwear
Sneakers, handkerchiefs or small towel.

October

October

October is the most pleasant time of the year. The average temperature of 18℃ is comfortable and nice for the human body. Outside of typhoons, there is hardly any rain, so it’s a wonderful time for outdoor activities and trips. Enjoy the comfy outdoor fashion and put on your favorite dress or pair of pants!

What clothes to pack for Tokyo in October (Women):
Clothes
Cardigan, jeans, shirt, thick dress, windbreaker, denim jacket.
Accessories & footwear
Sneakers, flats, thin muffler or stole.
What outfit to pack for Tokyo in October (Men)
Clothes
Cardigan, jeans, shirt, thick dress, windbreaker, denim jacket.
Accessories & footwear
Sneakers, umbrella, handkerchiefs or small towel.

November

November

Tokyo in November is already preparing for the upcoming winter months, with temperatures dropping to about 10℃/50℉. A coat or thick jacket is indispensable throughout November, and even on slightly warmer days, it may get chilly all of a sudden, so best be prepared.

What outfit to pack for Tokyo in November (Women)
Clothes
Thick cardigan, sweater, jeans, windbreaker, coat, thick jacket, down jacket.
Accessories & footwear
Boots, sneakers, flats, muffler, stole, hat, gloves.
What outfit to pack for Tokyo in November (Men)
Clothes
Shirt, cardigan, knitted shirt, jeans, thick jacket, coat, windbreaker, down jacket.
Accessories & footwear
Sneakers, boots, hat, muffler

What to Wear in Japan in Winter (December/January/February)

What to Wear in Japan in Winter (December/January/February)

Winter in Tokyo is terribly dry, as opposed to the humid summer months. It tends to get dark after 5:00 p.m., so if you plan on making day trips, you might want to consider the time at which the sun sets.

Of course, warm clothes are important, but so is a layered look – indoors is heated generously, so you’ll be glad to be able to take a coat and a sweater off if need be.

Carrying a large bag is recommended for that purpose. Because of the dry air, other necessary goods are lip balm, a bottle of water, as well as hand cream.

Useful articles about planning a winter trip to Japan

December

December

December brings a rather rapid end to November’s autumn temperatures and there might even be snow on particularly frosty days. The biggest characteristic of December is the temperature difference between day and night. Furthermore, the sun sets at around 4:30 p.m., which is the earliest time of the entire year.

What outfit to pack for Tokyo in December (Women)
Clothes
Thick sweater, warm undershirt, long pants, wool coat, down jacket.
Accessories & footwear
Boots, sneakers, muffler, hat, gloves, warm tights.
What outfit to pack for Tokyo in December (Men)
Clothing
Thick sweater, warm undergarments, long pants, warm coat, down jacket.
Accessories & footwear
Boots, sneakers, hat, gloves.

January

January

January is Japan’s coldest month of the year. Because of that, January 20 (sometimes January 21) marks the start of daikan, the “coldest season.” If you’re traveling around that time, it is important to dress properly in warm winter clothes. On top of the cold, January is also the peak season for influenza, so you’ll see a lot of people wearing masks.

What outfit to pack for Tokyo in January (Women)
Clothing
Pashmina or wool knit, warm undergarments, long pants, wool coat, down jacket (we recommend wearing a thin down jacket under the coat).
Accessories & footwear
Boots, sneakers, muffler, hat, gloves, warm tights, warm socks, ear warmers, mask, snow boots.
What outfit to pack for Tokyo in January (Men)
Clothing
Thick sweater, warm undergarments, long pants, warm coat, down jacket.
Accessories & footwear
Boots, sneakers, muffler, hat, gloves, ear warmers, mask, warm socks.

February

February

The cold refuses to leave in February, and some days may even bring snow. The end of the month brings gentler temperatures, however, letting Tokyoites enjoy the first breeze of spring.

What outfit to pack for Tokyo in February (Women)
Clothes
Thick hoodie, sweater, thermal clothing, wool coat, thick jacket, down jacket.
Accessories & footwear
Boots, sneakers, muffler, hat, gloves, warm tights, warm socks, ear warmers, mask.
What outfit to pack for Tokyo in February (Men)
Clothes
Thick sweater, warm undergarments, long pants, coat, down jacket, windbreaker.
Accessories & footwear
Boots, sneakers, muffler, hat, gloves, ear warmers, mask.

As you can now see, Japan experiences drastic changes in temperature and weather according to the season, making it all the more important to choose the right clothing for the time of year. But bringing a large amount of clothes to protect against the heat or cold can be burdensome when you want to leave extra room in your suitcase for souvenir shopping.

Check out ‘Any Wear, Anywhere’ for smart travel to Japan!

Check out ‘Any Wear, Anywhere’ for smart travel to Japan!

For those looking to save on luggage space while traveling, we recommend this innovative service that is now available in Japan on a trial basis. Any Wear, Anywhere is a clothing sharing service that allows users to rent clothes while traveling.

The rental clothes on offer include surplus apparel inventory and used clothing collected from Japanese households. The main advantage of this service is that it reduces the hassle of transporting heavy luggage, all while contributing to a circular economy.

By choosing rental clothing rather than bringing your own, you can help reduce fuel and carbon emissions from airplanes. Not only does it eliminate the need to choose clothes according to the weather in Japan, it’s eco-friendly as well – what better way to travel!

‘Any Wear, Anywhere’ has teamed up with Japan Airlines, offering services to passengers visiting Japan on JAL flights as part of a study on luggage weight and the benefits of reducing carbon emissions.

Ultimate ease of use: Trying out ‘Any Wear, Anywhere’

Ultimate ease of use: Trying out ‘Any Wear, Anywhere’

Next, let’s take a look at the process of renting clothes using ‘Any Wear, Anywhere.’ First, access the official website on your PC or smartphone. Select your preferred wardrobe from several style options and make a reservation.

Clothes can be picked up at the hotel where you plan to stay. When you’re done wearing your items, simply return the clothes in the supplied bag at your hotel.

This revolutionary service completely alleviates the stress of organizing your suitcase on the last day of your trip.

Clothing sizes range from S to XL, in a total of 36 patterns. Clients can choose from a combination of styles (for men or women), season (spring/autumn, summer/winter), usage scenario (casual, smart casual, or a mix of both), and number of clothing items included in the set (basic or variety pack).

The basic set includes three tops and two bottoms, while the variety set includes five tops and three bottoms, with the option of adding outerwear as needed.

Prices during the trial period are very reasonable, starting at 4,000 yen (under US$40) for up to two weeks rental.

Curious about the available clothing options? Take a look at these examples of seasonal garments for rent!

Sightseers Romain and Michaela tried out some of the rental clothes in three different seasonal styles: spring/autumn, summer, and winter. They were very interested in the eco-friendly ‘Any Wear, Anywhere’ service and were keen to share their thoughts on using it.

First, they tried on clothing for spring and autumn. Spring and autumn in Japan are generally mild, but there’s also the occasional hot or cold day, making it surprisingly difficult to know what to pack.

The selected rental clothing line-up was a hit right away: "I don't have to worry about cold weather because they provided a jacket," says Romain.

Michaela adds, "I can wear the shirt and skirt together without worrying if they go well together, which is such a relief when you’re traveling”.

The summer line-up is designed for comfortable sightseeing during the hot and humid Japanese summer.

“The lightweight shirts and pants are great because the hot summer is a time when functional clothes are key," Romain explains.

"Sleeveless tops and knee-length skirts seem to suit everyone," says Michaela.

Warm clothes are a must during winter in Japan, and ‘Any Wear, Anywhere’ offers plenty of functional winter clothes including jackets for rent.

“I didn’t know I could rent a down jacket," Romain exclaims. “I won’t have to haul as much luggage around. That means less stress during my trip – especially when it comes to transit.”

Michaela agrees, “I think so, too. Just imagine trying to lug a big, bulky winter coat on the plane. It’s such a pain! But knowing that I can rent one when we get to Japan? That’s a relief.”

“We’re so excited to wear stylish, recycled clothes and help reduce our carbon footprint while on holiday!" It’s clear that the pair were very satisfied with the experience.

(*All accessories belong to the stylist.)

‘Any Wear, Anywhere’ is an innovative service that allows you to rent clothes for travel in an easy, eco-friendly way. Enjoy a wide variety of stylish clothes for all seasons and most sizes – and lighten your load while exploring Japan! Register and apply before your Japan trip!

Helpful articles for planning your Japan trip

*This information is from the time of this article's publication.
*Prices and options mentioned are subject to change.
*Unless stated otherwise, all prices include tax.

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