What to Pack for Tokyo in November: Stylish Layers for Fall in the City

Traveling to Tokyo in November? This Tokyo November packing list will help you stay stylish, comfortable, and culturally respectful as you explore Japan’s fashion-forward capital during one of its most scenic months.

🌡️ Weather Overview: What to Expect in Tokyo in November

November in Tokyo is cool, crisp, and dry — a favorite time for travelers. Expect average temperatures between 47°F and 63°F (8°C to 17°C) with low humidity and clear skies. The leaves turn vivid red and gold, making city parks and temples especially photogenic. Pack for light layers, with something warm for the evenings.

🎒 What to Wear in Tokyo in November

Tokyo fashion is polished and modest. Even casual wear leans neat and coordinated. Avoid overly revealing or athletic looks unless you’re heading to the gym. Aim for neutral tones, layered styles, and sleek footwear. Comfort is key for walking, but style matters — you’ll fit in better if you look put-together, especially in more upscale neighborhoods like Ginza or Omotesando.

🧳 Luggage & Packing Tools

• 🧳 Carry-on suitcase – Compact and easy for trains and small hotel rooms.
• 🎒 Stylish daypack or crossbody – For museums, shrines, and day trips.
• 🧼 Packing cubes – Helpful for organizing layers and accessories.
• 👜 Waterproof toiletry bag – Japan’s bathrooms are compact but well-equipped.
• 🔒 Lock – Optional for lockers at train stations or capsule hotels.
• 🧺 Laundry bag – For socks and shirts after long city walks.
• 🛏️ Sleep mask + earplugs – Capsule hotels and Airbnbs can vary in quietness.

👗 Clothes

• 🧥 Trench coat, wool coat, or warm jacket – For cool evenings and city style.
• 👚 Long-sleeve shirts or lightweight sweaters (3–5) – Ideal daytime layers.
• 🧥 Cardigan or fleece – Adds warmth without bulk.
• 👖 Dark jeans or tailored pants (2–3) – Perfect for blending in with locals.
• 👗 Dress or skirt + tights – Stylish for dining or cultural outings.
• 🧣 Scarf – Useful for layering and fashion.
• 🧤 Gloves (optional) – Thin gloves for colder mornings or late nights.
• 🧢 Hat or beret – Adds style and warmth in the evenings.
• 🧦 Socks (5–7 pairs) – Make sure they’re clean and hole-free — shoes often come off indoors.
• 🩲 Underwear + bras – Enough for your stay or plan to use laundromats.

💆 Skincare

• 🧴 Moisturizer – Dry, cool air can make skin feel tight.
• 🌞 Sunscreen – Still important on clear, sunny days.
• 💋 Lip balm – Prevents dry, cracked lips.
• 🧼 Gentle cleanser – Good after a full day in city air.
• 💦 Night cream or serum – Helps hydrate after long days of travel.

💄 Makeup

• 🧴 Lightweight foundation or BB cream – Locals favor natural, dewy looks.
• 👁️ Subtle eyeshadow palette – Earth tones or soft pinks.
• 💄 Lip tint or gloss – Popular for soft, fresh looks.
• 🎯 Concealer – For dark circles or blemishes after flights or long days.
• 💅 Setting powder – Keeps shine away in dry-to-mild conditions.

💇 Hair

• 🧴 Travel-size shampoo + conditioner – Most hotels provide basics, but bring your favorites.
• 🌀 Hair oil or serum – Smooths hair in dry air.
• 🌬️ Dry shampoo – Helpful for busy travel days.
• 🪮 Brush, ties, or clips – Keep hair tidy throughout the day.

👠 Shoes & Accessories

• 👟 Stylish, comfortable walking shoes – You’ll walk a lot in Tokyo.
• 🥿 Flats or ankle boots – For nicer dinners or museums.
• 🧦 Nice socks – You’ll remove shoes at temples, restaurants, and homes.
• 👜 Compact handbag or anti-theft crossbody – Keep belongings close on trains.
• ☂️ Folding umbrella – November brings some occasional rain.
• 🕶️ Sunglasses – For bright, crisp days.

🧾 Documents & Essentials

• 🪪 Passport + copies – Required for check-in at hotels.
• 📄 Japan Rail Pass (if using trains) – Order in advance before your trip.
• 💳 Credit/debit cards – Accepted widely, but always carry cash too.
• 💴 Yen (JPY) – Many smaller shops and restaurants are cash-only.
• 📱 IC card (Suica/PASMO) – For trains, vending machines, and convenience stores.

📱 Tech & Electronics

• 📱 Phone + charger – Load it with Google Maps and a Japanese translation app.
• 🔌 Power adapter (Type A & B – same as U.S.)
• 🔋 Power bank – You’ll need it during long days of sightseeing.
• 📷 Camera (optional) – Tokyo is incredibly photogenic.
• 🎧 Earbuds – Great for trains or podcast time while walking.

🎒 Extras

• 💧 Water bottle – Refill at public fountains or convenience stores.
• 🧴 Hand sanitizer – Handy for shrines or before meals.
• 🧻 Tissues + pocket wipes – Some public restrooms don’t have paper towels.
• 🛍️ Foldable tote – Essential for shopping or groceries (bags aren’t free).
• 📖 Travel notebook or journal – Record your Tokyo experiences.

✈️ Travel Tips

• ✅ Avoid large luggage — train stations often lack elevators.
• ✅ Learn basic Japanese greetings — it’s appreciated.
• ✅ Always carry cash — even big cities like Tokyo still rely on it.
• ✅ Dress respectfully for temples and shrines — no bare shoulders or short shorts.