What Should You Pack for Tokyo?
Tokyo has four distinct seasons, so you’ll need to pack accordingly! In spring and fall, layers are key—light sweaters, long sleeve shirts, and a light jacket will keep you comfortable during the day and into the cooler evenings. Summers can be hot and humid, so pack light, breathable clothing like dresses, shorts, and tank tops. Winters are cold but dry, so a warm coat and scarves will help, especially when visiting outdoor attractions. Comfortable shoes are a must for walking around the city’s neighborhoods!
Make sure you’re prepared for: Exploring the temples of Asakusa, shopping in Shibuya and Harajuku, visiting the Tokyo Tower, walking in Ueno Park, and experiencing traditional tea ceremonies.
Dress Code
Tokyo is known for its eclectic style, blending tradition with modern fashion. You’ll see locals wearing everything from traditional kimonos to trendy streetwear in districts like Harajuku. During the day, smart-casual attire works well for most activities—think light dresses, jeans, and stylish tops. If you’re visiting temples or shrines, dress modestly by covering your shoulders. For evenings out, a nice dress or slacks and a fashionable jacket will fit right in at Tokyo’s stylish bars and restaurants.
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Spring
50 – 65°F
(10 – 18°C
)
Summer
70 – 85°F
(21 – 29°C
)
Fall
60 – 75°F
(16 – 24°C
)
Winter
35 – 50°F
(2 – 10°C
)
Spring: Mild, with occasional rain
Summer: Hot and humid, with some rain
Fall: Pleasant, with cooler evenings and clear skies
Winter: Cold, with dry and crisp days
Spring
4.6 inches of rain
Summer
6.5 inches of rain
Fall
6.2 inches of rain
Winter
2.0 inches of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Perfect for warm spring days spent walking through Ueno Park—I loved how comfortable mine were for sunny afternoons!
2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Great for layering in the cooler evenings, especially after a day exploring Tokyo’s busy streets.
3. Sweaters: Ideal for cooler days in spring or fall when you’re strolling through Asakusa’s temples.
4. Casual Jacket: A versatile jacket is perfect for sightseeing during cooler evenings.
5. Rain Jacket: Essential for rainy days, especially during the summer months.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Pants: Comfortable and stylish for walking through Tokyo’s many shopping districts—I loved wearing mine in Shibuya!
2. Leggings: Ideal for long flights and casual sightseeing days.
3. Shorts: Perfect for Tokyo’s hot and humid summer days when you’re exploring outdoor markets or parks.
4. Dresses: Great for both casual sightseeing and evenings out at restaurants or bars.
5. Skirt: A chic and comfortable option for strolling through Tokyo’s trendy neighborhoods.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes are essential for Tokyo’s busy streets and subway stations—I loved having mine while exploring Shibuya!
2. Flats: A stylish option for dining out or enjoying the nightlife in Shinjuku.
3. Sandals: Perfect for warm summer days spent at Tokyo’s parks and open-air shopping streets.
4. Hat: Ideal for sun protection while walking through outdoor markets or gardens.
5. Sunglasses: A must for sunny days while exploring famous landmarks like the Tokyo Tower.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Perfect for short trips or keeping essentials handy for flights—I loved having mine for easy transport on Tokyo’s subway system!
2. Daypack: Ideal for carrying your essentials while visiting parks or exploring districts like Harajuku and Ginza.
3. Purse: A stylish and practical option for carrying personal items while shopping and dining.
4. Tote Bag: Great for carrying extra layers or shopping finds while visiting Tokyo’s many markets.
Travel Essentials
- Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
- Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
- Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
- Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
- Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
- White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
- Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
- Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
- Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
- Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
- Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
- Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
- Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
- Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
- E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
- Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
- Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
- Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
- GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
- Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
- Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
- Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
- Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
- Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
- Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
- Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
- Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
- Floss: Any floss will do.
- Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
- Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
- Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
- Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
- Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
- Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
- Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
- Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
- Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
- Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
- After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
- Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
- Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
- Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
- Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
- Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
- Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
- Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
- Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
- Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
- Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
- Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
- Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
- Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
- Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
- Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
- Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
- Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
- Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
- Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
- Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
- Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
- Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
- Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
- Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
- Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
- Passport
- Travel Visas (if needed)
- Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
- Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
- Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
- Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
- Credit / Debit Cards
- Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.
What to Know Before You Pack
- Layers: Tokyo’s weather changes frequently, especially in spring and fall, so pack plenty of layers.
- Comfortable shoes: With so much to explore, you’ll be walking a lot!
- Umbrella: Tokyo sees a lot of rain in summer and fall, so it’s handy to carry a compact umbrella.
- Modest clothing: If you’re visiting temples or religious sites, be sure to dress respectfully by covering your shoulders and legs.
Tokyo Travel FAQs
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT TOKYO?
April is the best month to visit Tokyo. April’s also great because it’s cherry blossom season, with the city’s parks covered in beautiful sakura blooms. The weather is mild and pleasant, perfect for sightseeing, and the crowds are not as intense as in summer.
WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN TOKYO?
Cherry Blossom Festival (March-April): A major tourist attraction, perfect for couples and families who enjoy nature and culture.
Sumida River Fireworks Festival (July): One of Tokyo’s largest fireworks displays, great for friends and groups to enjoy together.
Tokyo International Film Festival (October): A prestigious event for film lovers, ideal for solo travelers or groups.
Meiji Shrine Autumn Festival (November): A cultural celebration with traditional music and dance, perfect for families and solo travelers.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN TOKYO?
Tokyo is a mix of futuristic skyscrapers and ancient temples. Start with Shibuya Crossing for a modern Tokyo experience, and visit Meiji Shrine for a peaceful retreat in the city. One of my favorite spots is Asakusa, where you can visit Senso-ji Temple and explore the traditional streets. For a breathtaking view of the city, head to the Tokyo Skytree or the Tokyo Tower. Don’t miss exploring Harajuku’s fashion scene or taking a walk in Ueno Park during cherry blossom season.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT TOKYO?
Ideally, spend at least 4-5 days in Tokyo to experience the main sights and neighborhoods. A weekend can cover major highlights.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: On day one, visit Shibuya Crossing, explore Meiji Shrine, and enjoy shopping in Harajuku. On day two, explore Asakusa’s Senso-ji Temple, visit Ueno Park, and end the day with a view from Tokyo Skytree.
5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary and add: On day three, visit the Tokyo Imperial Palace and explore the gardens. Spend day four in Odaiba, enjoying Tokyo’s futuristic waterfront and shopping malls. On day five, take a day trip to Nikko or Mount Takao for hiking and nature.
1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary and add: On day six, visit the Ghibli Museum and explore the trendy neighborhoods of Shimokitazawa. On day seven, relax at an onsen or take a food tour in Tsukiji Market.
10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary and add: On day eight, explore Akihabara’s anime and gaming culture. Spend day nine visiting the Edo-Tokyo Museum and enjoying a sumo wrestling match. On day ten, visit the Oedo Onsen Monogatari for a relaxing end to your trip.
2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary and add: On day eleven, take a day trip to Yokohama for its waterfront and Chinatown. Spend days twelve to fourteen exploring nearby cities like Kamakura or Hakone, with hot springs and beautiful temples.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN TOKYO?
2 Days
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 1 Dress
- 2 Pairs of Socks
- 2 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Daypack
5 Days
- 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 2 Dresses
- 5 Pairs of Socks
- 5 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Daypack
1 Week
- 5 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 2 Dresses
- 6 Pairs of Socks
- 6 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Daypack
10 Days
- 6 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Pairs of Pants
- 3 Dresses
- 7 Pairs of Socks
- 7 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Daypack
2 Weeks
- 7 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 4 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 4 Pairs of Pants
- 4 Dresses
- 9 Pairs of Socks
- 9 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Daypack
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR TOKYO?
High heels: Tokyo’s busy streets and subway stations make high heels impractical for walking.
Heavy winter clothing: Tokyo’s winters are cold, but a medium coat and layers will suffice.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO TOKYO ?
Airfare: $600-$1,200 depending on your departure city and season. Prices rise during cherry blossom season and holidays.
Accommodation: $100-$300 per night depending on location, with higher rates in Shibuya and Shinjuku.
Transportation: $20-$50 for public transit and taxis; Tokyo’s subway system is affordable and covers most of the city.
Meals: $30-$80 per day depending on whether you eat at casual ramen shops or upscale sushi restaurants.
Activities: $20-$70 per day depending on whether you visit museums, go shopping, or attend special events.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN TOKYO? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Tipping is not customary in Japan. Service charges are usually included in the bill, and leaving a tip can be considered rude.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT TOKYO BEFORE I VISIT?
- Carry cash: While Tokyo is modern, many small restaurants and shops only accept cash.
- Respectful behavior: Always be polite and quiet on public transport.
- Use public transport: Tokyo’s subway is efficient and covers almost every part of the city.
- Be mindful at temples: When visiting shrines or temples, be respectful by bowing and following local customs.