What to Wear in Winter in Japan: Your Ultimate Guide

What to Wear in Winter in Japan

I get this question quite a bit from my travel girlies that are heading to Japan during winter: What do I actually wear?

This is especially true if you will be going from travelling round the coldest parts of Japan as well as going out in Tokyo and want to take cute photos. Even though Japan is cold in winter, there are some beautiful places in Japan you must see in winter!

So, I’ve put together what are my go-to’s when dealing with winter in Japan. If you’re wondering what to wear in winter in Japan, hopefully this will help! If you’re heading to Japan, or living in the country and dealing with the daily struggle of staying warm chic this winter, I have some tips and tricks below!

What to wear in Winter when travelling around Japan

If you’re travelling around Japan, going to some of the coolest places in Japan to visit during Winter, you’re probably going to have a jam-packed day. Japan in general gets very cold in winter, with snow common in many parts. The general rule being that the further north you go, the more snow you get – however Japan also has very mountainous regions that get a lot of snow. If you’re heading to Hokkaido, Ginzan, or Shirakawago, you’ll want to make sure you stay warm all day while visiting all the magical sites Japan has to offer.

Hat, Scarves & Gloves:

These are great to help regulate how warm you stay and easy to take off when you go inside. I tend to pick colourful ones as its an easy way to brighten up an outfit. This is what to pack when travelling to Japan in winter when you want to change up your outfits!

Jacket:

I know that puffer jackets are super popular but I rarely wear these while travelling. They just don’t tend to photograph well as they’re so bulky. I opt for a parka that is fully lined with a detachable hood in a neutral colour. Although I’m a super colourful person, if I got a pink parka it might not be the same tone as other pink items I have (and I have A LOT) so this makes the jacket more wearable. I am a huge advocate for multi-wear clothes!

Tops & Pants:

I don’t like to wear too many heavy, chunky layers underneath my jacket because inside Japanese trains and restaurants you will notice that the only temperature that is acceptable is boiling hot. I go for a breathable skivvy or thin mock neck sweater (or turtleneck for the Americans) and a HEATTECH singlet from Uniqlo. That way it is not super bulky and when I go inside all I need to take off is my jacket.

For pants, I go for structured leggings so that it is easy to tuck my socks and boots over. Do not wear jeans – they are not made for the cold! My trick is wearing the thermal leggings (HEATTECH) from Uniqlo under my leggings. Leggings are stretchy, so its easy to get them over!

shoes & boots:

This is not the time to wear high heels made of delicate materials. If you’re in snow or ice, especially if you are not experienced with being in snow, I highly recommend some waterproof hiking boots. Rainboots are a great cute option in winter too as you can wear really thick socks and keep your feet dry.

What to Wear in Winter in Japan: my recommendations

NOTE: I TRY TO STICK TO SUSTAINABLE AND VEGAN MATERIALS BUT PLEASE READ EACH ITEM’S MATERIAL DESCRIPTION BEFORE DECIDING FOR YOURSELF IF IT SUITS YOU.

What to wear in winter in tokyo

Tokyo is a little different because you probably won’t be dealing with snow. You will also probably be catching the metro, hitting the malls, and cafes. These spots will all be super hot as heaters will be at their full capacity, that you will want something to keep you warm outside but be able to become basically a summer outfit when you step inside. You also don’t want a jacket that is too heavy or chunky as it will be a lot to carry around.

Hat, Scarves & Gloves:

These you can pick and choose as you like, however pick something that you can fit in your bag. I recommend a beret as it keeps your head warm while looking chic.

JACKETs & COATS:

I opt for a more formal or funky coat in this situation and its fine if its a little lighter. However, you still want something that will keep you warm because…

TOPS & PANTS:

Because you are in a really fashion-forward city, you can go wild! I tend to wear lighter clothes like a lighter sweater and a skirt with tights and boots. Alternatively, I choose a sweater-dress or turtleneck tunic with knee-high boots and tights. This keeps you warm but also not too hot once you get inside and take your coat off. On the chillier days, or days you plan on spending more time outside (think a walk around Imperial Palace) you can throw a layer of HEATTECH underneath.

SHOES & BOOTS:

It doesn’t usually snow a lot in winter in Tokyo, you can wear a wider range of shoes. Paths are well-paved and you won’t have too much trouble walking around in heels. If you love wearing skirts like I do, I recommend pairing them with tights and boots with thick socks so that you can keep your legs warm.

What to Wear in Winter in Tokyo: my recommendations

NOTE: I TRY TO STICK TO SUSTAINABLE AND VEGAN MATERIALS BUT PLEASE READ EACH ITEM’S MATERIAL DESCRIPTION BEFORE DECIDING FOR YOURSELF IF IT SUITS YOU.