【2024-2025】What should I wear during my winter trip in Japan?

Among the four seasons in Japan “Winter” is the longest and most severe. December, when the season changes from Autumn to Winter, is a period when various spectacular sceneries such as snow and illumination lighting can be seen throughout Japan.

There are many snowy regions during Winter season in Japan, and today we are going to introduce Winter clothes for those who visit Japan during this time. 

Japan’s Winter Temperatures and Climate

Winter typically lasts for three months in Japan, from December to February.

Knowing how the temperature changes and what the climate is like from December to February in different parts of Japan will help you prepare for a comfortable trip. Let's use winter temperature data for various regions in Japan to help us plan. 

Winter Temperatures in Tokyo

Average temperature 2023 – 2024

Average temperature over the past 10 years

Winter Temperatures in Osaka

Average temperature 2023 – 2024

Average temperature over the past 10 years

Winter Temperatures in Nagoya

Average temperature 2023 – 2024

Average temperature over the past 10 years

Winter Temperatures in Fukuoka

Average temperature 2023 – 2024

Average temperature over the past 10 years

Winter Temperatures in Okinawa (Naha) 

Average temperature 2023 – 2024

Average temperature over the past 10 years

Winter Temperatures in Hokkaido (Sapporo) 

Average temperature 2023 – 2024

Average temperature over the past 10 years

*Source: Japan Meteorological Agency

December is the month when you can enjoy events such as Christmas and Illumination lighting, etc.

The average temperature in December is about 12 degrees, therefore you will need to wear your coat. You will feel warm during day time when it is in fine weather, however you will also need gloves and a scarf as it will get cold at night.

Woman: Usually I will wear a sweater or knit. Knit is the most popular item during winter. Basically, any color will suit you, but I will recommend pastel colors because they have a Winter feel. For outer wear I would normally wear a coat of in popular beige or gray colors. If you prefer to wear a skirt, it is recommended to wear tights underneath to keep your legs warm.

Tights sold in Japan come in various colors but I recommend black or dark blue as these colors have a winter feel.

Man: Since there is sunlight during daytime in December, you won’t feel too cold or too hot by wearing a Parka. The recommended color during winter is grey.

Since the weather is cooler during morning and night, it is recommended for you to get ready with a flight jacket. The classic colors of the jacket are khaki, navy, and black color.

Among them, khaki is the more masculine color with the strong impression of a military aesthetic.

The real winter in Japan starts from January

The coldness gets stronger, especially in the period from January to February. The temperature in January is just one digit during the day time. Since sometimes the temperature goes down until 0 degrees in the morning and at night time, it is better to get inner self-heating wear (such as UNIQLO's HEATTECH) or a down jacket to warm your body.

Woman: During days of strong wind or snow, you will need inner self-heating wear or knit, and a down jacket as outer wear.

The classic color of down jackets is black, but it will be more fashionable with a dark blue coat and black boots.

Man: In Japan, it is warm indoors during winter since there are heaters working. We will recommend to you to wear a long thick T-shirt as inner wear, while wearing another down jacket as outer wear when you are outside. It will show that you are gorgeous by matching white jeans with the navy color down jacket.

February is spring feeling

It is still cold in February in Japan. If you are spending long hours in the outdoors, we recommend you keep your feet warm properly, and prepare some sticking and disposable kairo (heat pack) when going out.

Woman: February has the feeling of spring, usually I will wear a light-colored coat to evoke a spring feeling. A muffler will be a necessary item for you when going out.

Aside from that, it is recommended for you to wear long skirts or tights and boots to keep warm yourself from the cold weather.

Man: Usually I will wear inner self-heating wear or knitted clothes as inner, and a coat as outer wear. It would be better to bring along another woven fabric item when you are going outside.

The popular coat for men is a coat of caramel color because this color gives the soft and gentle impression of masculinity.

Summary of necessary items during winter

1. Inner wear which is self-heating (eg, UNIQLO's HEATTECH)
   
2. Hat and earmuff
   
3. Muffler
   
4. Glove
   
5. Kairo (heat pack)
   

Although it is cold during winter in Japan, but actually there are lots of unique fun during winter. Travel around with proper anti-cold countermeasures!