In Tokyo, winter is generally considered to be from December to February, as those are the coldest months!
- Table of Contents
There are tons of amazing things to do in Japan during winter, but to make the most of them, you really need to know what to wear and what to bring. So let’s take a look at average temperatures and how to pack for the chilly season.
What to Expect
There are so many activities and delicious dishes that start to pop up all over the place in winter in Japan. We picked out just a few pictures to get you into the winter mood:
These are just a few of the cool things you can expect to see in Japan during winter!
What’s the Temperature Like in Winter?
In Tokyo, there are a lot of clear days, with very little precipitation. Sometimes you might see some rain or some snow, but generally it is pretty sunny. This means the air is very dry! Humidity at only 30% is pretty common. So, it’s good to pack some moisturizer and remember to drink plenty of water, because your skin and throat can dry out pretty quickly – especially if you have the heating on a lot of the time!
What to Pack
You’ll definitely need a coat in December! It’s a good idea to pack mostly long sleeved items, and layers so you can take them off and put them on as necessary. It’s also a good idea to bring gloves and hats for additional warmth.
The average temperature in January and February are pretty similar, usually at about 5℃. It’s much colder in the mornings and evenings, so don’t underestimate the weather if you’ll be out late at night or early in the day!
You might find that trains and indoor areas are very warm due to the cozy heating many facilities have in place. This means that layers are your best bet, because you can take them off if you start to feel too warm indoors. Carrying around a backpack to stow away your layers is a good idea, or you can source a locker at your destination if you intend on being there for a while.
It can also get pretty windy, so it’s a good idea to bring beanies, bobble hats and ear muffs. Gloves are also a must! For women, it’s a good idea to bring some hair bands for long hair, seeing as the wind will whip it all over the place. Otherwise you can tame it somewhat by locking it down with a scarf.
Japan-Specific Tip!
Japan sells these amazing heat pads called “kairo”, which come in packets like the one above. There are a few different types and sizes, and you can stick them to something or simply hold them if your hands are cold. The are pretty good for sticking inside your shoes or on your clothes. You’ll find them at most convenience stores during winter, but also at pharmacies and sometimes supermarkets!
With all the hot pot, illuminations, hot springs and skiing, there are so many different reasons to come to Japan in winter – but to enjoy it to the fullest you’ve gotta pack right! So hopefully these tips will make your trip even more memorable.
Illustrations courtesy of Manga de Japan
- Area
- Category
*Prices and options mentioned are subject to change.
*Unless stated otherwise, all prices include tax.
Recommended places for you
-
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Gardens
Shinjuku
-
The Tokyo Station Marunouchi Building
Landmarks
Tokyo Station
-
Ueno Zoo (Ueno Zoological Gardens)
Zoos, Aquariums & Botanical Gardens
Ueno
-
Kappabashi Street
Old Towns (Shitamachi)
Asakusa
-
Ameyoko Shopping Street
Old Towns (Shitamachi)
Ueno
-
Senso-ji Temple
Temples
Asakusa
-
Experience the Magic of 'The Nutcracker' in Tokyo This Winter
-
Nature with Art: Explore 'teamLab: Hidden Traces of Rice Terraces' in Ibaraki
-
Experience the Best of Shiga Prefecture at COCOSHIGA! From Japan's Largest Lake Biwa to Tasty Omi Beef
-
The Ride of Your Life! Experiencing Japan from Above in a Private Helicopter Tour
by: Cassandra Lord
-
Visiting Japan in December - the Best Things to Do and Reasons to Visit
by: James Davies
-
2024 Christmas Markets in Japan: Gourmet Treats, Wine, and Unique Finds
by: Mizue Ito
Inspiration for Accommodations
-
Top Ranked Hakone Hotels with Mt. Fuji View: Enjoy Stunning Scenery from Your Private Space
-
Convenient Tokyo Hotels with Airport Shuttle: Ideal for Families and Heavy Luggage
-
Stunning Tokyo Tower View Hotels: Enjoy Spectacular Scenery from Your Private Space
-
Family-Friendly Hotels with Free Shuttle to Disneyland: Convenient Access for a Magical Stay
-
Convenient Asakusa Hotels with Kitchens: Ideal for Extended Family Visits
-
Experience Luxury: Hakone's 10 Best Five-Star Accommodations
-
Enjoy Mt. Fuji Autumn Leaves! Top Hotels Near the Popular Autumn Leaves Corridor
-
Experience Hakone Fall Foliage from Your Room with Stunning Views
-
Enjoy Mt. Fuji from the Comfort of Your Room! Recommended Ryokan with Mt. Fuji View
-
Experience Luxury at Mt. Fuji Resort Hotels! Best Extended Stay Options for Families
-
What to Pack for Japan: 8 Essential Things for a Hassle-Free Trip
-
Cleansing with Fire: Spiritual Bonfires during Japanese New Year!
-
7 Best Winter Events in Tokyo: Chilly Evenings, Shiny Holidays (November/December)
-
Plan Your New Year Travel Early! Understand the Special Shinkansen Reserved Seat Rules for a Comfortable Trip
by: Timothy Sullivan
-
Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingu): Exploring the Sacred Sanctuary of Peace in Bustling Tokyo
-
4 Fun Winter Day Trips From Tokyo: Onsen, Snow & More
- #best ramen tokyo
- #what to buy in ameyoko
- #what to bring to japan
- #new years in tokyo
- #best izakaya shinjuku
- #things to do tokyo
- #japanese nail trends
- #what to do in odaiba
- #onsen tattoo friendly tokyo
- #daiso
- #best sushi ginza
- #japanese convenience store snacks
- #best yakiniku shibuya
- #japanese fashion culture
- #best japanese soft drinks