The Best Outfits for a Summer Holiday in Japan
Are you planning a summer holiday in Japan? Don't forget to prepare the right outfits. To ensure you pack correctly, you should know that summer clothing in Japan prioritizes cool materials like cotton and linen. Garment types include a yukata for casual events or festivals, and other casual wear like T-shirts and culottes. It is also important to bring a foldable umbrella for rain, and several layers to maintain modesty, especially when visiting places of worship or formal restaurants.
Here are some essential outfits for enjoying the Japanese summer:
Breathable Tops
Forget thick cotton shirts! Japanese summer requires light, quick-drying materials. Choose: linen or thin cotton t-shirts; tank tops with a light outer layer (for entering temples that require covered arms); or trendy tropical print short-sleeved shirts. Japan is a very fashion-forward country. Don't be surprised if you see locals looking stylish despite the hot weather. They have a trick: smart layering!
Comfortable Bottoms
Walking is an essential part of a holiday in Japan. The best choices are: quick-dry shorts; a flowy midi skirt (super comfortable and still modest enough for entering temples); or thin long trousers for the evening or air-conditioned places.
Multi-Functional Shoes
This is the most crucial part! You will be walking at least 15,000 steps per day. Remember to bring: comfortable white sneakers (classic and suitable for all outfits); proper sandals; and slip-on shoes for places that require you to remove your footwear.
Anti-Heat Essentials
Don't forget to bring: cooling sheets (sold at konbini, but better to bring from your home country); a traditional folding fan; and sunscreen SPF 50+ (don't buy it in Japan, as it is very expensive).
Tech and Gadgets
You will need a power bank of at least 20,000 mAh, a universal adapter, and a Pocket WiFi or eSIM (internet is essential for navigation).
Convenience Items
Make sure to pack travel-size hand sanitizer, wet wipes, and a foldable shopping bag.
Smart Packing Strategy
What is the secret to efficient packing for the Japanese summer? All items must be able to be mixed and matched! Bring neutral colors that are easy to pair: white, black, navy, and beige as a base; 1-2 accent colors for a statement; and a maximum of 2 types of patterns.
Rolling and Folding Techniques
To maximize space in your suitcase: roll shirts and trousers; fold shirts and skirts; and use packing cubes to organize your items.
Outfits for Various Activities
For Temple Visits in Kyoto, wear linen long pants + a short-sleeved t-shirt + a thin cardigan + comfortable sneakers. Remember, some temples have a dress code! Summer in Japan requires us to be more mindful about clothing in sacred places. For a Hanabi (Fireworks) Festival, opt for a modern yukata or a nice midi dress + comfortable sandals + a small crossbody bag. This comes across as casual yet special. For Shopping in Harajuku, wear a crop top + high-waisted shorts + a thin outer layer + sneakers. Harajuku is the place to express your personal style. For Fine Dining in Tokyo, choose smart casual attire—a shirt + chino trousers/midi skirt + loafers. When entering high-end restaurants in Japan, you are expected to dress politely.
Important Tips
Laundry: In Japan, you will find coin laundries in many places. Bring travel-size detergent and utilize this to reduce the amount of clothing you need to pack.
Buy Clothes in Japan If You Have To: Uniqlo and GU have summer collections that are perfect for the local weather. Plus, the prices are reasonable and the quality is very good.
Download a Weather App: Download a local Japanese weather app. They are super accurate and will help you plan your daily outfit.
Last Shopping List Before Departing
Before leaving for the Japanese summer, make sure your shopping list is complete: personal medicine (Japanese pharmacies require a doctor's prescription); your favorite Indonesian snacks (to cure homesickness); gifts for hosts/friends in Japan (if applicable); and photocopied and scanned important documents.
