Here’s What to Pack for Japan (a checklist for every season)
I used to live in Japan as an English teacher. But nowadays, I take multi-month trips there as a digital nomad. I’ve experienced typhoons, the rainy season, the unrelenting summer heat and the perfect spring weather.
And my takeaway? Pack smart, depending on when you’re going.
So this is my full guide on what to pack for Japan (for every season!).
Now let’s do this freaking thing.
Table of Contents Show
Japan’s Climate
Japan experiences all four seasons (except for Okinawa, which is warm all year round).
The summers are hot and humid (like, really hot and humid) and the winters are cold. And the spring and the fall? These are definitely the best times to visit Japan. The weather is usually perfect with mild temperatures and you don’t usually need to worry about the rainy season (around June) or typhoons (most active around September).
Still, there are benefits to visiting Japan during the shoulder season (such as less crowds and cheaper prices). Because honestly, Japan is beautiful all year round!
You just need to pack smart.
Explore more:
➤ Tokyo vs. Osaka vs. Kyoto
➤ Essential Tokyo Travel Tips
What to Pack for Japan (general stuff)
Cash. While cards are accepted at most places, there are still plenty of small stores and restaurants that are cash-only (including many train station ticket machines); you can exchange your currency at the airport or in the city, or take out cash at a 711 ATM.
SIM card. Having the internet while traveling in Japan is essential, so check out my list of the best SIM cards for Japan; alternatively, you can add an international plan to your phone carrier.
Deodorant. Japan has deodorant, but it can be harder to find during the winter and it’s not always as strong as what I’m used to (back in America) — so I like to always bring some with me, just in case.
Japan Rail Pass. This isn’t something you “pack” per se, but it is something you’ll need to plan ahead for. You can only buy a Japan Rail Pass online before you leave. So if you plan on traveling to multiple cities and using the bullet train a lot, you may want to grab one. You can read my full guide on using trains in Japan here!
Power converter. Japan uses two-pronged outlets, so if you have devices with three prongs, you’ll want to have a converter; you can buy these at electronics stores in Japan, but it’s always easier to just bring with you.
International travel essentials. Obviously, you’ll need things like your passport or proof of onward travel, so be sure to plan ahead for this stuff!
Tip: When planning a trip to Japan, leave some extra room in your suitcase for souvenirs and shopping while in Japan! Check out my guide on how to travel like a minimalist.
What to Pack for Japan (based on season)
This is what to pack for Japan for every season. Keep in mind that you can also buy most of these items after you arrive — so don’t stress if you forget something or you don’t have room in your suitcase.
What to Pack for Japan in Spring (March to May)
Springtime in Japan is the best (cherry blossoms and renewed energy are everywhere). The temperature is anywhere between 2°C (early spring) to 24°C. But on average, it’s around 21°C (~70°F).
So I always pack for both cooler and warmer weather:
Hats and sunglasses
Comfortable walking shoes
A mixture of clothes for both colder and warmer days
Explore:
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What to Pack for Japan in Summer (June to August)
Japanese summers are brutal. It’s super hot and super humid. While average temperatures hover between 21°-32°+C (70°-90°F), you can expect a lot of humidity also, making it feel like tropical heat. It’s also increasingly common for temperatures to reach 35°C or more.
So be prepared to sweat — and pack accordingly!
Here’s what I’d bring to Japan for summer travel:
Good walking shoes
Hats and sunglasses
Sunscreen protection
A raincoat and travel umbrella
A sweater (AC still gets cold!)
Light and loose summer clothing
Hiking books if you’re climbing Mt. Fuji
Bathing suit (if you’re going to the beach)
Explore:
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What to Pack for Japan in Fall (~September to ~December)
Besides the spring, Japanese fall is the other best time to visit. The weather is cool and you’ll get to see the changing of the leaves (koyo). The average temperatures are between 23-28°C (~73-82°F).
Here’s what to pack for fall in Japan:
Scarves and hats
A light jacket or coat
Comfy sweaters and warm clothes
Some light clothing as well (it’s still nice in early fall)
Good walking or hiking shoes (especially if you’re hiking for leaf peeping)
Explore:
➤ Tokyo in the Fall (what to do)
What to Pack for Japan in Winter (December to February)
Japan is known for its epic winters — especially as you head towards Nagano or way up north in Hokkaido. Besides the ski resorts, you can enjoy Japan’s shoulder season if you come during this time (which means less crowds and cheaper prices).
By the way, it’s super easy to take a bus or train up to Nagano for snowboarding — just make sure you get travel insurance!
I usually stay in Tokyo over the winter, which is cold and even gets a snowstorm or two. The average temperature is around -4°C (25°F), with the coldest months in January and February (obviously).
So make sure you bring all of your typical winter stuff if you’re coming to Japan in the winter:
A warm jacket
Gloves, hats and a scarf
Comfy sweaters and such
Waterproof shoes or boots
Thermal layers (but UNIQLO is great for these too)
Explore:
➤ Where to Stay in Tokyo Your First Time
Later ✌️
Japan is amazing all year round. But each season is unique, so knowing what to pack is crucial.
Your intuition will be enough in most cases. Plus, Japan has most stuff in case you forget anything or need to buy something new (like shoes, jackets, deodorant and more).
Still, it’s smart to check the weather before you go and pack accordingly. Spring and fall are mixture between cooler and warmer weather, the winters are cold and the summers are super hot and humid.
So have an epic time and leave some extra space in your suitcase for souvenirs!
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