October in Tokyo is peak urban autumn charm — think golden ginkgo trees, crisp mornings, and perfect sightseeing weather. This Tokyo October packing list keeps you fashion-forward, weather-prepped, and ready for everything from sushi counters to temple steps.
Weather Overview 🌡️
Tokyo in October is mild and pleasant:
- Highs: 65–75°F (18–24°C)
- Lows: 55–60°F (13–16°C)
- Rain: Light showers possible, especially early in the month
- Humidity: Lower than summer, but still slightly muggy early October
Think light layering by day and cozy extras for evenings.
What to Pack for Tokyo in October 🎒
Tokyo fashion is polished and minimalist. Locals lean toward neutrals, clean lines, and smart-casual vibes — even on casual outings. Skip gym-wear unless you’re actually working out. Pack neat, comfortable shoes, and modest options for cultural spots.
Packing smart will help you make the most of your trip. Here’s everything you need to bring for a comfortable and stylish adventure.
Carry-On Suitcase / Travel Bag Duffle / Portable Steamer / Packing cubes / Luggage scale / Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones / Speaker / Portable Charger / Universal Travel adapter / Compact Hair Dryer / Eye Mask / Waterproof Toiletry Bag Hanging / Zipper Pouch / Water BOTTLE / Liquid I.V. Hydration Vegan
🧳 Luggage & Packing Tools
If you want more options to have everything organized and well packed, take a look at these suggestions.
1. Rolling Backpack / 2. Luggage (large) / 3. Luggage (small) / 4. Toiletry Bag / 5. Beach Bag / 6. Backpack / 7. Packing Cubes
- 🧳 Carry-on suitcase (1) – Compact and metro-friendly
- 🎒 Daypack or crossbody bag (1) – Lightweight + anti-theft zippers
- 🧼 Hanging toiletry bag (1) – Tokyo bathrooms are compact
- 💼 Packing cubes (4–5) – Organize by category or day
- 🥿 Shoe bags (1–2) – Protect from city grime
- 🧺 Laundry bag (1) – Many hotels have coin laundry
- 📁 Travel wallet or pouch (1) – For IC card, passport, cash
- 🛍️ Foldable tote (1) – For konbini runs or shopping
- 💧 Quick-dry towel (1) – Optional but great for ryokans or day trips
- 💤 Neck pillow + eye mask – Long-haul flight or bullet train comfort
👗 Clothes
- 👚 Long-sleeve tops (3–4) – Breathable and layering-friendly
- 👕 Short-sleeve or half-sleeve tops (2–3) – For warm days
- 🧥 Light jacket or trench coat (1) – Stylish + windbreaking
- 🧥 Cardigans or light knits (2) – Perfect for layering
- 👖 Dark jeans / tailored pants (2 pairs) – Versatile and polished
- 👗 Knee-length skirt or midi dress (1–2) – With tights if chilly
- 🧘♀️ Activewear (1 set) – For parks, walks, or lounging
- 🛌 Sleepwear / loungewear (1–2 sets) – Cozy for cool mornings
- 🧦 Socks (5+ pairs) – You’ll remove shoes often indoors
- 👙 Underwear (1 per day)
- 👙 Bras (2–3) – Include one comfy for travel days
- 🧤 Tights or leggings (1–2 pairs) – For extra warmth or layering
- 🧣 Scarf (1–2) – Lightweight or medium-weight
- 🧥 Modest outfit (1) – For shrines, temples, or tea ceremonies
💆 Skincare
- 🌞 Sunscreen (face + body) – UV can still be strong
- ❄️ Hydrating moisturizer – Air can get dry in the evenings
- 🧴 Gentle cleanser – Especially if you wear makeup
- 💋 Lip balm (SPF + hydrating) – A must
- 🧴 Makeup remover – Wipes or micellar water
- 💥 Spot treatment – Travel and pollution can trigger breakouts
- ❄️ Facial mist (optional) – Refreshing mid-day
💄 Makeup
- 💧 BB cream or SPF foundation – Light and breathable
- 🖌️ Concealer – To brighten tired eyes
- 🌸 Cream blush + highlighter – Glowy, not heavy
- 👁️ Neutral eyeshadow palette – Earth tones or pink hues
- 🖊️ Eyeliner + mascara – Smudge-proof is best
- 💄 Lipstick or tint (1–2) – Red, coral, or berry tones are big in Tokyo
- 💦 Setting spray or powder – For humidity + rain days
💇 Hair
- 💇 Brush or travel comb – Windy train platforms happen
- 🧴 Leave-in conditioner / oil – For post-rain frizz
- 🧼 Dry shampoo – Optional, but helpful on busy days
- 🔌 Mini straightener or curler – Style for dinner out
- 🧷 Hair ties / clips / scrunchies – Always handy
- 🎩 Beret or felt hat (optional) – Tokyo fall fashion vibes
👠 Shoes & Accessories
- 👟 Comfortable walking shoes (1 pair) – Sneakers or sleek flats
- 👢 Waterproof ankle boots (1 pair) – For rainy or dressy days
- 👠 Dressy flats or heels (1 pair) – Optional for upscale dinners
- 🧣 Scarf (as above) – Must-have for layered looks
- ☔ Compact umbrella (1) – Sold everywhere, but nice to bring
- 🕶️ Sunglasses (1 pair) – Still useful for sunny days
- 👜 Secure crossbody or tote (1) – Room for snacks + camera
- ⌚ Watch (optional) – For metro timing
🧾 Documents & Essentials
- 🛂 Passport + physical + digital copies
- 💳 Credit cards + some Japanese yen (cash is still king in places)
- 💼 JR Pass or Suica/PASMO IC card – For trains and subways
- 🏨 Printed hotel + flight confirmations
- 📱 Phone with Japanese SIM or pocket Wi-Fi
- 📲 Download Google Maps, Google Translate, Japan Travel app
- ✍️ Notebook + pen – For directions, notes, or journaling
- 🔑 House keys + wallet
🩹 First Aid
- 🩹 Bandaids / blister pads – Tokyo = lots of walking
- 💊 Pain relievers / allergy meds / motion sickness pills
- 🧴 Hand sanitizer + wipes – Carry at all times
- 🧻 Pocket tissues – For public restrooms without TP
- ✂️ Nail clippers + tweezers – Optional but helpful
💊 Health & Hygiene
- 💊 Prescription meds (in original packaging)
- 🧼 Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss
- 🧴 Deodorant, body wash, razor
- 🧽 Shaving cream + travel mirror
- 🩸 Feminine hygiene products – Bring preferred brands
- 💅 Nail file, clippers
- 🧴 Perfume / body spray – Subtle scents are ideal
📱 Tech & Electronics
- 📱 Phone + charger + power bank
- 🔌 Universal adapter (Type A/B for Japan)
- 🎧 Bluetooth headphones or earbuds
- 📷 Camera (optional) – Tokyo is photogenic
- 📲 Translation + train apps downloaded ahead
- 💻 Tablet or laptop (optional) – For digital nomads or planning
🎧 Entertainment
- 📚 Book / Kindle – For trains and quiet cafes
- 🎧 Podcasts or playlists – Tokyo jazz or lo-fi anyone?
- 🎥 Downloaded shows or anime – For late-night hotel chills
- 🃏 Travel games or sketchbook – Great for solo travelers
🎒 Extras
- 🍱 Reusable water bottle – Vending machines everywhere, but refilling is eco-friendly
- 🍙 Snack bars or nuts – For long temple days
- 🧺 Shopping tote or eco bag – Required at stores
- 🧼 Laundry detergent (travel size) – For hand-washing delicates
- 🧵 Mini sewing kit – Optional, but handy
- 💤 Melatonin or sleep aid – Beat the time zone
- 👃 Shoe deodorizer – Especially if you’re rewearing sneakers daily
✈️ Travel Tips
- 🚉 Grab a Suica or PASMO card at the airport for transit
- ☔ Keep an umbrella with you — rain comes suddenly
- 🧥 Pack layers; mornings and nights can feel chilly
- 🎟️ Reserve Ghibli Museum and teamLab tickets in advance
- 🧼 Public trash bins are rare — carry your trash till you find one
🛂 Visa Tips
- 🇯🇵 Japan allows visa-free entry for many countries for up to 90 days
- 📄 Have proof of departure and accommodation (they may ask)
- 🧾 Customs declaration form required upon arrival
- 📸 Bring a few passport photos — just in case
- 💼 Always carry ID when out and about
✅ Must-Haves for a Smooth Trip
- 🧥 Layers + waterproof jacket
- 👟 Stylish walking shoes
- 📱 SIM card or pocket Wi-Fi
- 💴 Cash + credit cards
- 🗺️ Transit pass or IC card (Suica/PASMO)
- ☔ Umbrella + portable power bank
- 🧣 Scarf or light accessories for layering
👍 Good-to-Have Items
- 📸 Polaroid or film camera – Tokyo loves analog aesthetics
- ☕ Travel mug for on-the-go coffee
- 🧴 Face masks (for crowded subways or allergies)
- 🧍 Compression socks (for long flights or train rides)
- 📓 Travel diary for all those hidden ramen joints
