What to Wear in Japan in Winters: Popularly known as the “Land of the Rising Sun”, Japan is a beautiful country. An island country of East Asia, it is surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, Sea of Japan, Okhotsk Sea, and the South China Sea. Besides being very well known for its anime creations, and the birthplace of the Harajuku subculture, Japanese fashion is truly iconic. So, when you’re taking a trip to Japan, among other things, your outfits need to be on point! So we’re here with a packing list, and what to wear, how to wear solutions.
Although Japan is often rated as one of the safest countries to visit, the crimes against women are no exception here. Like most countries, harassment cases and the like often go unreported and the dangers only increase with nightfall. Our advice is to never let your guard down and follow the precautions you normally would in your home country.
What to Pack for Winter Trip to Japan?
Japan observes winter during the months of December, January, and February. Japan offers her tourists a White Christmas – which truly is a wonder for those visiting from the hotter countries. The perfect place and time for a family vacation, this trip is definitely worth taking. Here’s a comprehensive list of everything you may need for a Japan trip in the winter months.
Japan Packing List:
- Gadgets: Cameras, chargers, headsets, portable batteries and the like are a given anyway. But don’t forget to carry an adaptor that’s suitable to Japanese power sockets.
- Medicines: If you have prescribed medication, then it goes without saying that you carry them in a pill organizer box. Apart from that, it’s always a good idea to carry some paracetamols, pain-killers and laxatives when on tour.
- Toilettries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorants, travel sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner, detergent packs.
- Make-Up: Moisturizer is a must for cold climates. Also carry hand-cream, sanitizer, lip balm and any other make-up products that you use on the daily.
- Documents: Identification cards, passports, travel passes, visiting tickets, bank cards and photocopies of everything. Even after your trip, these passes and tickets make for very cool souvenirs and keepsakes.
Although temperatures may drop considerably during winters in Japan, it is important to remember that most indoor spaces are centrally heated. As a result, on entering any restaurant or hotel lobby, you will most likely have to take off your coat. Even then, it is important to remember that layering is key.
- Jackets or Coats: These are the outermost layer of your outfit, and just one or two should suffice for a week-long trip. I highly recommend taking along at least one long coat so here are some stylish ways to wear long coats.
- Woolens: Sweaters, cardigans, heavy knit dresses make for cute outfits.
- Bottoms: Go with your trusty pairs of jeans, and always pack fleece stockings to wear underneath your skirts.
- Accessories: Woolen scarves, beanies, berets and gloves are a must-have! Also pack some jewelry that’s in line with your personal aesthetic and a shoulder or sling bag for when you go sight-seeing.
- Undergarments: Our tip is to carry two more sets than you think you’ll need, always. Also, don’t forget your thermals.
- Socks and Shoes: Carry multiple pairs of socks and stockings. One pair of boots and a pair of sandals should be enough, if you’re wearing your sneakers to the airport.
- Last but most important, don’t overpack! Japanese people are some of the most stylish in the world and you’ll definitely want to shop for clothes there so just keep the basics and buy the rest when you go shopping.
And with that general information, we dive straight into some Japan Tour Outfit Inspiration for the Winters. Get packing already!
20 – Knit Dresses
A slip dress but make it winter-appropriate. Choose a knitted camisole dress and wear it over a contrasting sweater or turtleneck and reinvent your look for a trip to the Japanese Alps! Accessorize with some minimal danglers and wear your favorite shade of sunnies as you soak in the warm winter sun. You can also take inspiration from these favorite knit dress outfits of mine.
19 – Turnback Time: Sweater Vests
Sweater vests have made a comeback and it’s chicer than ever. When in Japan, you gotta look stunning and this outfit will help you live that dream. Go for an all-white base. White jeans, white shirt. Pair a brown sweater vest on top of it, grab a pink or an orange bag, slip into a pair of comfortable walking shoes and you’re good to go!
18 – Pink Winter Traveling Outfits for Japan
Got yourself a little meet-cute on your Japan vacation and now you have a date? We’ve got the cutest outfit for you, perfect to make your date the best one! Stay cozy and cute in an embroidered sweater, layered over a white shirt, paired with grey trousers and brown boots. Complete the look with a blush pink coat, beanie, and a smile.
17 – What to Wear to a Japanese Temple
When visiting a Japanese temple, wearing a Japanese kimono is the right choice. The traditional garment comes in bright colors and is easy to move around in. Easily available for tourists in the local markets – this outfit is sure to get you some compliments and a whole lot of appreciation.
16 – Streetwear Fashionistas
On this vacation, be a streetwear fashionista like the youths of Japan. The items are simple. High boots, short skirts, warm turtlenecks, leather or fur jackets, small bags, and of course, masks. Be it Tokyo or Kyoto, strut the streets in style.
15 – Team Gryffindor?
True Potterheads take some Harry Potter magic with them, wherever they go. Pick your favorite house’s sweater and pair it with your trusty jeans and comfortable sneakers for a long day of sightseeing! Carry a warm overcoat in case it gets cold in the evening, and enjoy the sun at other times!
14 – Feelin’ Touristy
Look and feel like a true tourist, and enjoy all that the beautiful country of the rising sun has to offer! For this outfit, pair a blue sweater with an A-line, midi skirt, and a windcheater jacket. Put the look together with a newsboy cap and take trains across the country to enjoy the true essence of Japan.
13 – What Shoes to Wear in Japan?
Nothing as soothing as beige neutrals and dipping your feet in a clear river. Pair a white sweater with your khaki cargo pants. Add a bucket hat, shades, and a brown sling to stay hands-free and well protected from the sun. For shoes, go with chunky white sneakers.
12 – How to Wear Layers
The best thing about winter outfits is easily how chic layers can look. For an effortlessly elegant look, style a pair of skinny-fit beige trousers with a well-fitted black sweater and high-crested, white shoes. Layer a brown, slightly oversized, heavy long coat over it for your strolls along the beautiful streets of Japan. Here are some more tips on how to layer your clothes like a pro.
11 – Throws, but Make Them Fashion
Something so fashionable about drapes and the numerous ways you can style them! For a winter look, pair some statement joggers with a sweater and drape a colorful shawl over it! Accessorize with a fanny pack and a charm pendant. Don’t forget your mask, and just like that, you’re good to go.
10 – Winter Night Out Outfits for Japan
As a woman in a foreign country, you can never be too safe. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have fun. Here’s the perfect, and adequately modest outfit for parties on a winter night. Go for your trusty pair of classic blue jeans, wear a solid color, well-fitted sweater, and layer a leather jacket over it.
9 – Statement Jackets
A statement jacket goes a long away. Versatile, stylish and so utilitarian – these are a must-have for winter. Layer it over a monochromatic base – like your go-to blacks. Be outrageous, be unapologetic and be oh so fashionable in Japan!
8 – What to Wear to a Trip to Disneyland in Japan
Visiting Tokyo and not dedicating a day to Disneyland is blasphemous! So stay in the Disney Gods’ good books and book yourself out for a good ol’ fashioned day of fun. And here’s what you wear for it. A cute printed dress, boots and a leather jacket. And of course, you can’t possibly forget the Minnie headband.
7 – Instagrammable Outfits
Instagram is all about aesthetics and appealing contrasts. Pose against a bright background in this all-black outfit with a floral shrug to get the perfect shot for your followers.
6 – What to Wear to Blend in with the Locals in Japan
If you truly want to experience the beauty of Japan like the locals, you must dress like the locals. The women of Japan are often seen wearing bright, printed, or embroidered kimonos when they go out on their daily chores. Pick a kimono from a local shop and embrace the beauty of the culture with it!
5 – Japan’s Sanctuary Visit Outfit
On your sanctuary visit or safari in Japan, we urge you to be one with nature. Wear a khaki or better put, soil-colored trench coat dress and soak in the beauty of the wild. Also a great color for camouflaging, this one has more uses than one. Wear woolen slacks to keep the cold at bay and combat boots to finish the look.
4 – Old-School Meets Millennials
If you identify as a millennial with an undying love for all things old-school, this outfit was tailor-made for you. Style a pair of blue bootcut jeans with a checkered flannel shirt. Accessorize with a plush, fur scarf around your neck and a small shoulder bag. Stay comfortable in your chunky white sneakers and bag the compliments.
3 – Emily in Japan
Are you a fan of Emily’s outfits in Paris? Yes, us too. Be an aspiring and inspired Emily and bring her bold fashion with you on your trip to Japan. Style a black long skirt under an electric blue trench coat. Slip into powder blue sneakers and pull the look together with a black, embellished bucket bag. Is it even Emily appropriate, if it’s not crazy enough?
2 – Neutrals with a Dash of Sunshine
Choose neutrals but light up the room by being the ball of sunshine that you are! And here’s how to work that sunshine into your outfit. Choose a pair of white knitted joggers with yellow crochet details. Go for a classic white shirt and pull on a warm yellow sweater vest over it. Slip into a pair of mustard boots, and take a pastel yellow sling tote bag as a crossbody bag.
1 – What to Wear in Tokyo in December?
As the fashion capital of Asia, Tokyo’s high fashion streetwear knows no bounds. To keep up, go for a look like this one. Style a pair of skinny-fit black jeans with an iconic red and black cardigan. An oversized sweater that doubles up as a dress works wonders. Slip into a pair of combat boots and put on a newsboy hat or a beret to complete the look. Strut the streets in style.
That was our curation of everything you need to carry on your trip to Japan, and all the inspiration you need for your outfits! Hope you liked them, and hope you have a wonderful trip. Happy Travels!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is there a Dress Code in Japan for Tourists?
There is no dress code in Japan for tourists, although we’d advise you to wear modest ensembles when visiting a temple. However, it is mandatory and respectful to remove your shoes before entering any temple. You will probably find slippers near the entrance to change into.
Q. Is it Rude to Wear Shorts in Japan?
Absolutely not. Although a little uncommon in Japanese men, shorts are often worn by tourists of all genders in Japan, especially in the summer season.
Q. What to not Wear in Japan?
There is nothing that you’re forbidden from wearing in Japan. However, we do advise you to avoid an all-black formal outfit as these are associated with funerals in the country. In case you’re traveling for work, a conservative trouser length or a knee-length skirt-suit should be perfect.
