Tips for Choosing Winter Outfits for Your Holiday in Japan
Winter in Japan has its own special charm. From the blanket of snow covering houses in the mountains to the dazzling winter illuminations in the cities, the season offers beauty that’s hard to resist. It’s no wonder that many travelers choose to spend their year-end holidays in the Land of the Rising Sun.
However, for those coming from tropical countries, some preparation is needed to make sure the trip remains comfortable. Bringing the wrong clothes or not dressing warmly enough can quickly turn a fun holiday into an unpleasant experience.
In Tokyo, the average temperature in December ranges between 12 to 17 degrees Celsius, and at night it can drop to around 0 to 10 degrees. For Indonesians, especially those used to daily temperatures of around 30 degrees in cities like Jakarta, this sudden change can be a shock. If you plan to visit higher areas such as Hokkaido, the temperature can even reach minus 15 degrees.
If you are visiting Tokyo, where winter temperatures are relatively mild, it’s best to wear comfortable thermal underwear and long johns made of cotton, layered with a fleece or knitted sweater, and topped with a thick coat or parka. Sneakers are fine for walking around the city, as long as you also wear warm wool socks. Don’t forget accessories such as gloves, a beanie or warm hat, and a scarf to protect your neck from the cold wind.
If you plan to travel to areas near the mountains, where the temperature can drop to between 0 and minus 10 degrees, you’ll need slightly heavier clothing. Choose thermal underwear made of wool, a thick fleece or sweater, and a sturdy parka. Thermal or wool pants will keep your legs warm, while a raincoat or an extra outer layer will protect you from wind and moisture. Winter boots are highly recommended in these regions, along with wool gloves, a warm beanie, and thermal socks.
For high-altitude destinations such as Hokkaido, where temperatures can reach minus 15 degrees, make sure to wear proper winter gear. Start with thermal underwear made of wool or synthetic materials, add a wool sweater or thick fleece, and layer with a down jacket or an insulated parka that’s both windproof and waterproof. Choose thick thermal pants that can block the wind, and wear waterproof winter boots with non-slip soles. To stay fully protected, use thick wool gloves with inner lining, a long wool scarf, a fleece or wool beanie, earmuffs to cover your ears, and a face mask to protect your skin from the cold air.
Packing too many clothes can make your luggage bulky, so mastering the art of layering is important. A good layering system can start with everyday underwear, followed by long johns, a blouse or shirt with long pants, and then a coat on top. This way, you can stay warm without having to carry excessive clothing. Don’t forget small but essential items like scarves, gloves, beanies, and masks, since cold air tends to make your skin and lips dry. Gloves with anti-slip fingertips are also handy so you can still use your phone comfortably. Wool socks will keep your feet warm, and sneakers are fine for city walks, while boots are better for colder regions. If you still feel cold, add an extra layer such as a thermal shirt or a light jacket under your main coat.
There are also a few essential items that will make your trip more comfortable. Heattech clothing, developed by UNIQLO, uses special fabric that absorbs body moisture and turns it into heat, helping to maintain your body temperature. Heat packs are another useful item; they release warmth gradually and can be placed on your hands, feet, neck, or back for extra comfort. An insulated tumbler helps keep your drinks warm longer, which is great for keeping your body temperature up while exploring outdoors. Since cold air can easily dry out your lips, bring lip balm to prevent cracking and irritation. It’s also a good idea to carry an umbrella, which can protect you from both rain and snow, as well as basic medicines in case you catch a cold or experience minor discomfort.
With enough preparation and the right clothing, you’ll be ready to enjoy Japan’s winter comfortably. The cold weather may be a big change, but it’s also part of the charm that makes your holiday experience even more memorable.
