Heading to Tokyo in winter and don’t know what to pack? This Tokyo winter packing list covers everything from cozy layers to cultural essentials so you can stay warm, stylish, and stress-free.
Weather Overview 🌡️
Tokyo winters (December–February) are chilly but not extreme. Expect average daytime highs around 8–12°C (46–54°F) and nighttime lows around 1–5°C (34–41°F). Snowfall is rare but possible, and the air can be dry. Pack layers for warmth, plus some stylish outfits for Tokyo’s fashion-forward vibe.
What to Pack for Tokyo in Winter 🎒
Tokyo is a cosmopolitan city where people dress sharply—even in cold weather. You’ll want warm layers, a chic coat, and comfortable shoes for walking. Locals appreciate modesty in temples and shrines, so pack at least one outfit with covered shoulders and legs.
Style tip: Neutral colors (black, gray, beige, navy) blend in best in Tokyo. Save flashy colors for accessories.
Special considerations for Tokyo in winter:
- Warm outerwear: a stylish wool coat or insulated parka.
- Heat packs (“kairo”): widely sold in convenience stores, but bring a few.
- Face masks: both for health and cultural consideration.
- Moisturizer + lip balm: the dry winter air can be harsh.
- Universal adapter: Japan uses Type A/B plugs with 100V.
✅ The Ultimate Tokyo Winter Packing List
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 – Lightweight, easy to maneuver on trains.
- 🧳 Checked luggage – Only if you plan to shop or bring gifts.
- 🎒 Daypack – For exploring Shibuya, temples, and day trips.
- 🧩 Packing cubes – Keep layers and accessories organized.
- 🛡️ Small lock – For hostels or capsule hotels.
- 🧺 Laundry bag – Tokyo trips can be long, laundromats are common.
- 💤 Inflatable neck pillow – For long-haul flights to Narita/Haneda.
👗 Clothes
- 🧥 Outerwear (1–2) – Wool coat or insulated parka.
- 👕 Long-sleeve tops (5+) – Layer-friendly basics.
- 👔 Blouses / dress shirts (2) – For dinners or upscale outings.
- 👖 Jeans & trousers (3) – Warm and versatile.
- 👗 Dresses / skirts (1–2) – Pair with tights for modesty.
- 🧶 Sweaters (2–3) – Cozy knits or fleece pullovers.
- 🧘 Activewear (1–2) – For light hikes or hotel gym.
- 💤 Pajamas (1–2) – Warm and comfy.
- 🧦 Thermal base layers (2–3) – Essential for cold days.
- 🧣 Scarf + gloves + beanie – Must for chilly nights.
- 👙 Swimsuit (1) – For hot springs (onsen), if outside Tokyo.
- 🧦 Socks (7+) – Warm wool socks are ideal.
- 👚 Undergarments (1 per day).
💆 Skincare
- 🧴 Moisturizer – Thick formula for dry winter air.
- ☀️ Sunscreen – Yes, even in winter!
- 💋 Lip balm – Prevents chapping in cold winds.
- 🌙 Sheet masks – Hydrate skin after sightseeing.
- 👁️ Eye cream – For hydration and freshness.
💄 Makeup
- 🪞 Foundation/BB cream – Lightweight with SPF.
- 💖 Blush – To brighten winter-pale skin.
- 👁️ Mascara + eyeliner – Japanese makeup trends lean subtle but chic.
- 💄 Lipstick/gloss – Hydrating formulas work best.
💇 Hair
- 💆 Hairbrush/comb – Travel-size.
- 🧴 Conditioner & shampoo – Hotel ones can be drying.
- ✨ Hair oil/serum – Adds shine in dry air.
- 💨 Mini flat iron – Many Tokyo locals style sleek.
👠 Shoes & Accessories
- 👟 Sneakers – For walking-heavy days.
- 🥾 Boots – Waterproof ankle
