What to pack for a tour of Japan
Short answer: Japan has four distinct seasons, from humid summer heat above 30 degrees to cold winters with snow. Pack layers for the season, shoes that are easy to slip on and off, neat socks or tights and light nightwear for small hotel rooms.
Four seasons with big differences
Spring, with cherry blossom in March and April, often brings 10 to 20 degrees. Summer from June to August is hot and humid at 28 to 35 degrees, with a rainy season in June. Autumn is mild and dry with beautiful colours in November. Winter is cold in Hokkaido and the mountains and mild in Tokyo and Kyoto. Pack for the season and plan on layers, since indoor heating and air conditioning make temperatures vary a great deal.
Shoes off and on many times a day
In temples, traditional restaurants, ryokan and many homes you take your shoes off. Shoes without laces that slip on and off easily save time. It also means your socks will be seen, so clean socks without holes are a good idea. In colder months tights under a skirt or dress are a practical choice that also keeps you warm. See bamboo tights for women for a soft option that works all day.
Layers for trains and cities
Japanese trains, shops and hotels are often heated in winter and cooled in summer. You move between warm and cold many times a day. A thin long sleeved top as a base layer can be worn under a cardigan or jacket and taken off when you go inside. Take a look at women's long-sleeved bamboo T-shirt. People in Japan generally dress neatly, and clean, simple clothing fits in well wherever you go.
The humid summer
In summer humidity is high and it is hard to stay dry. Choose light, breathable fabrics and bring a small hand towel, as many people in Japan do. A sun hat or a parasol against the sun is common. Drink plenty of water and take breaks in the shade. If you have problems with heat or blood pressure, talk to your doctor before you travel.
Sleeping in hotels and ryokan
Hotel rooms in Japanese cities are often very small, and your suitcase needs to fit open on the floor. In a ryokan you sleep on a futon on tatami mats and are given a yukata. Ordinary hotels often provide a nightgown or pyjamas, but many travellers prefer their own. See bamboo sleepwear for women for light nightwear that packs small and dries quickly.
Packing list for two weeks
For two weeks in Japan you can manage with seven tops or T-shirts, two long sleeved tops, a cardigan, a jacket suited to the season, two pairs of trousers, a skirt or dress, tights, shoes without laces, socks, underwear and nightwear. Many hotels have washing machines, so you can pack light. Consider sending your suitcase ahead with takkyubin, so you do not have to carry it on trains and the metro.
Frequently asked questions
Do you have to take your shoes off in Japan
Yes, in temples, ryokan, many restaurants and private homes. Shoes without laces are practical.
When is the rainy season in Japan
Usually in June and early July on most of the main islands.
Can you do laundry at hotels in Japan
Yes, many hotels have coin operated washing machines, so you can pack light.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
