• Menu
  • Skip to right header navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Follow Me Away

Couples Travel & Travel Photography Blog

  • Destinations
    • Asia
    • Caribbean
    • Europe
    • Middle East
    • North America
    • South America
  • Photography
  • About
    • Work With Us
    • In The Press
  • Contact Us
  • Search
  • Home
  • Destinations
    • Asia
    • Caribbean
    • Europe
    • Middle East
    • North America
    • South America
  • Photography
  • Travel Tips
  • Contact Us

Mobile Menu

A woman in a plaid wool jacket over a turtleneck knows what to wear in Tokyo as she takes a selfie during the fall season at a famous temple in Japan.

What to Wear in Tokyo: Outfit Ideas + Packing List for Your Tokyo Trip

July 9, 2025 //  by Follow Me Away

  • Share
  • Tweet
Affiliate Links

So you’re going to Tokyo?! You’re in for a treat! Tokyo is a fusion of tradition and modernity, where centuries-old temples stand alongside sleek skyscrapers and trendsetting fashion reigns. If you’re planning a trip to this vibrant city, understanding what to wear in Tokyo is key—not only for comfort but also to blend in with locals. Whether you’re visiting temples, strolling through Shibuya, or dining in Michelin-starred restaurants, Tokyo’s fashion scene demands both function and flair.

So, we’ll give you into outfit suggestions for various settings in Tokyo, break down Tokyo’s year-round weather, outline what to wear in different weather conditions, and share essential and extra packing lists to help you prepare for your trip. This way you get to enjoy everything without the hassle of stress.

A woman in a long sleeve blue dress, backpack and hat knows what to wear in Tokyo as she ducks beneath cherry blossom trees in spring while on a boat.

Essential Packing List for Tokyo: What You Must Bring

Regardless of the season, or what you really plan on doing, here’s what to pack as a basic list of necessities:

  • Comfortable Walking Shoes: be comfortable walking around and exploring! Non white soles are preferable indoors.
  • Lightweight daypack or Crossbody Bag: Keep your valuables on you and your hands free for days of exploring or when riding public transport.
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen: Even in winter, UV can be high, so protect yourself from the sun!
  • Compact Umbrella: Typhoon season is real, and so are the showers because of it. Be prepared!
  • Flats or Loafers: Comfortable ands sytlish for dressier occasions
  • Scarf or Shawl: For modesty, warmth, and sun protection!
  • Hat: whether this is a beanie or a sun hat depends on when you’re visiting!
  • Reusable Water Bottle: Hydration is key!
  • Basic Toiletries & Travel-Size Skincare: feel good and look good during your visit!
A woman in a black jumper stands a a kisok, buying public transportation tickets.

Outfit Ideas for Tokyo: What to Wear

1. Jeans + Compact Sneakers + Loose T-Shirt + Light Jacket

In the summer and spring months, you want to be comfortable and casual. So when you’re exploring the city, be practical! Jeans and sneakers are a must. Keep a shirt loose for flexibility and bring a light jacket as needed. This is practical for walking long distances and exploring neighborhoods. Check out Harajuku or Shimokitazawa!

2. Linen Trousers + Blouse + Closed-Toe Flats + Scarf

Conservative attire is expected and seen as respectful when you visit sacred places. When going to places like Leki Shrine start with linen pants to keep you cool, or a midi skirt for something more feminine. Pair with a blouse and closed-toe flats! And then add a scarf that can also be used as a shawl.

A young girl with dark hair stands in the middle of the city of Tokyo in winter, knowing what to wear in Tokyo during winter in her wool trench coat and cashmere turtleneck.

3. Tailored Jumpsuit + Ankle Boots + Crossbody Bag

Tokyo’s fashion is elevated. So when doing some shopping in places like Shibuya or Ginza, some areas may seem more upscale. Dress the part with a tailored jumpsuit and ankle boots. Put valuables in a crossbody, and stay comfortable yet chic for long days of walking and exploring.

4. Little Black Dress + Statement Earrings + Clutch + Low Heels

Night out? Tokyo nightlife is classy and polished! Think sophisticated rather than club wear. Start with a classy little black dress and add statement earrings to dress it up. Accessorize with a clutch and low heels, or flats if you’re more comfortable in that. Enjoy Roppongi!

A woman with dark hair enjoys the summer weather in Tokyo as she walks down the street in a green tank top, green shorts, and a crossbody bag over her shoulder.

5. High Waisted Trousers + Tucked in Blouse + Loafers

Tokyo loves a casual yet trendy look. When dining in a more relaxing setting, or exploring with friends at local ramen stops or izakaya, start with high-waisted trousers. I prefer linen in the summer months! Tuck in a silk blouse and don’t forget your cute loafers too!

6. Moisture-Wicking Leggings + Breathable Top + Hiking Shoes + Sun Hat

Now this is a super niche outfit and you can’t just wear it anywhere. But if you are exploring the surrounding area and nature in general, get ready for hiking and protect yourself from the sun! We recommend taking a day trip for Mount Takao and wearing leggings, a breathable top and hiking shoe to it!

From a skyway viewpoint, a woman sits on an edge and overlooks the city, knowing what to wear in Tokyo in her pleated skirt and black blouse.

7. Pastel Maxi Dress + Espadrilles + Light Cardigan + Tote

If you’re in visiting in spring you NEED to go see the Cherry Blossoms. Match the vibe with a pastel maxi dress— pink preferred– and espadrilles. Bring a light cardigan as needed and a tote, canvas, to tie it all together. This is perfect: soft spring colors and comfort tie on for perfect picnicking under the sakura.

8. Blazer + Pencil Skirt + Blouse + Modest Heels

If you’re in Japan and Tokyo for more of a professional setting, and wondering what to wear, then consider conservative, formal professional wear. A blazer, pencil skirt (or dress slacks if you prefer them), a silk blouse and modest heels are always the way to go! Remember, their business culture if formal. So match it!

A woman in a plaid wool coat, yellow backpack and neutral, leather beret holds up her phone to take a photo in the main city hub.

9. Breathable T-Shirt + Denim Shorts + Sneakers + Sun Hat (With Mickey?)

If you’re doing the opposite of business trips and going to the Tokyo Disney Resort, channel something much more comfortable and casual. Think of fun things! You need something like a loose shirt (themed?), denim shorts, sneakers, and a cute hat (also themed)? Sometimes I like to wear stretchy shorts or pants instead of denim too.

10. Black Turtleneck + Midi Skirt + Statement Bag + Boots

If you’re more artsy, and you want to go see trendy and creative places like museums, galleries, or even Roppongi Hills, wear a black turtleneck and midi skirts. Add flare with a statement bag and boots! This is polished yet so you!

A woman knows what to wear in Tokyo in winter in her plaid, heavy outer wear, and her turtleneck as she holds up her phone for selfies at a temple.

11. Water Resistant Trench + Cropped Pants + Waterproof Boots

If your’e visiting in the rain season, or even going to places that are crowded and wet (like the Tsukiji fish market), be prepared. Rain is frequen, so stay dry and look smart in a water resistant trench, cropped pants that are easy to clean, and waterproof boots.

12. Thermal Leggings + Wide-Legged Jeans + Wool Coat + Beanie + Gloves

If visiting in winter, know the nights get chilly. Stay warm while enjoying holiday lights during a winter illumination viewing: start with leggings under jeans. Bring a wool coat, beanies and gloves for extra layers of warmth!

A woman in yellow pants and a leather jacket faces the public transport of Japan, ready to ride.

13. Wide-Legged Pants + Vintage Blouse + Bucket Hat + Sneakers

Again, this is more of an artsy look! If you’re checking out more artsy neighborhoods that like more individualistic fashion (Shimokitazawa, anyone?), wear some wide-legged pants and a vintage blouse. Top it off with a bucket hat and sneakers and go cafe hopping!

14. Layered Tee + Cardigan + Trousers + Slip-On Shoes

For airports and train rides and exploring capsules, prioritize functional, adaptable clothing. Easy layers! Start with a layered tee. Throw a cardigan over it, one that is easy to take on and off, and then casual trousers are great with a pair of slip on shoes.

A woman knows what to wear in Tokyo in the fall as she stands in the middle of the city hub street wearing a knit sweater dress that doubles as a turtleneck for extra warmth.

Weather Overhaul: What to Wear in Tokyo Based on the Season

Understanding the seasonal weather helps you plan what to wear in Tokyo based on climate.

Spring (March – May)

  • Temperature: 8°C to 20°C (46°F to 68°F)
  • Weather: Pleasant, cherry blossoms, occasional rain
  • What to wear: Light layers, long-sleeved shirts, cardigans, trench coats

Summer (June – August)

  • What to wear: Breathable fabrics, UV protection, umbrellas, sandals
  • Temperature: 20°C to 35°C (68°F to 95°F)
  • Weather: Hot, humid, rainy season starts in June
  • What to wear: Breathable fabrics, UV protection, umbrellas, sandals

Autumn (September – November)

  • Temperature: 13°C to 27°C (55°F to 80°F)
  • Weather: Mild, cool evenings, typhoons early in season
  • What to wear: Light jackets, sweaters, layered outfits

Winter (December – February)

  • Temperature: 1°C to 12°C (34°F to 54°F)
  • Weather: Dry and cold, occasional snow
  • What to wear: Coats, scarves, gloves, thermal layers
A woman in wide-legged trousers and a puffer jacket climbs a walkway toward a red bridge in a nature exploration near Tokyo.

Dressing for Tokyo’s Changing Weather

If It’s Mild and Sunny

Go and enjoy the weather! Walk and explore, but if you’re outside a lot, make sure to stay cool and protected from the UV rays (especially in summer!). Think light like cotton dresses, and sneakers. And a sunhat and sunglasses of course!

If It’s Rainy

During typhoon season it’s going to rain. Randomly. All the time. Be prepared since Tokyo gets frequent rain and avoid soaked shoes and long hems so you’re not uncomfortable. Start with waterproof boots, a trench, cropped trousers, and an umbrella!

Two friends sit across from each other, eating and drinking tea, both knowing what to wear in Tokyo in a casual sense with their trousers, buttons downs, stripped tees and hats.

If It’s Windy or Chilly

Tokyo’s wind can cut through lighter layers, so don’t just thrown on a basic cardigan. You want to stay warm without overheating. Think about investing in thicker layers like windbreakers, jeans, thermals, and boots!

If Weather is All Over the Place (Windy, Rainy, Sunny, etc!)

Be ready to add or shed layers depending on Tokyo’s time of day (cooler in the morning, hotter in during the day, and then cooler in the evening again!). Weather swings are also possible, so be invested and prepared with a t-shirt, button downs, a packable rain jacket, and maybe even convertible pants!

A woman in a hat and trench coat  walks toward the stunning trees that are in bloom during cherry blossom season, the flowers a pale pink.

Extras Packing List for Tokyo

Quality Umbrella: First, consider bringing a good-quality umbrella. A compact and sturdy umbrella will keep you dry during a sudden summer drizzle. Make sure it’s small enough to slip into your bag, as space in your luggage may be limited. Find a cute one with a beautiful design and color to enhance your outfits!

Portable Charger: A portable charger is another must-have. With your phone constantly in use for navigation, photos, and making reservations, it’s easy for the battery to drain quickly. A power bank will ensure you don’t run out of power when you need it most, especially during long days of sightseeing. Plus, how will you document your fabulous outfits in beautiful locations if your phone is dead?


Compact Tote Bag: Additionally, a lightweight, foldable tote bag is handy for shopping or carrying extra items as you explore any city. A spare bag will allow you to pick up some unique souvenirs or delicious pastries from local markets without worrying about your other belongings. And if you’re not into totes, invest in a crossbody or backpack!

A woman with pink hair holds a bowl of food close to her mouth and in one hand has chopsticks, but she really knows what to wear in Tokyo to keep it casual and comfortable at this market in her graphic tee and sunglasses.

Face Masks: Masks are still widely used in crowded areas, especially in city hubs and public transport. Packing a few disposable masks will show you offering respect, and keep yourself and others healthy!

IC Card: whether it is the Sucia card, Pasmo card, and/or a lococ card, these are super helpful if you are navigating Japan’s transportation system. They are easy to use, and some people even pay with their card when eating out!

From a high viewpoint of Tokyo a woman in a red sweater puts her hands in the air as she looks down at the cityscape while wearing sunglasses.

Final Thoughts: Style and Sensibility

Tokyo is a city where style meets precision. When planning what to wear in Tokyo, think beyond fashion—consider the climate, local norms, and the physical nature of exploring such a vast metropolis.

Whether you’re climbing temple steps, navigating crowded trains, or tasting the best sushi in the world, you’ll be glad you packed smart and dressed the part. With these outfits in mind, you’re equipped to enjoy Tokyo’s energy while staying comfortable, stylish, and respectful. Happy travels!

Category: Travel Tips

Previous Post: «Traditional greek village Oia of Santorini, with blue domes against sea and caldera, Greece, web banner format. Article is about things to buy from Amazon for Greece. 15 Useful Things To Buy From Amazon Before Visiting Greece
Next Post: 15 Useful Things To Buy From Amazon Before Visiting Japan Kiyomizu-dera temple in Kyoto and mount Fuji at autumn sunset, Japan. it is sunset during the fall with fall foliage leaves framing the building with the mountain in the background. Article is about things to buy from Amazon for Japan.»

Primary Sidebar

About Us

Hi!

We are Victoria and Terrence, a traveling couple on a mission to inspire others to see the world!

Whether that is relaxing at a resort, road tripping through Iceland, photographing in a forest, or exploring a new city, we are thrilled to have you along for the journey and can’t wait for you to create your own memories.

Search Follow Me Away

Site Footer

Follow Me Away Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2025 Follow Me Away · All Rights Reserved

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from Qualifying Purchases.