Packing for Japan: What I wore during two very different seasons

And all in one trusty carry-on

As someone who recently traveled to Japan in both hot and cold weather, I’ve learned that these packing rules apply year-round…

In a nut shell —

• Cold Weather: One coat that’s warm but not too heavy, (I invested in this and will have it forever) 2 sweaters (one thick, one thin), 2 pairs of pants in wool or something warm but still lightweight (I did 1 beige trouser & one dark wool) and one pair jeans, tights for layering, long sleeves, headscarves, gloves, rubber soled boots, & sneakers.

• Hot Weather: Some shorts (these & these & these!), some thin pants like these, button downs, thin sweater, day-to-night cotton dresses, light weight water proof jacket.

• Keep scrolling for “rules”

Hot water Japan outfits (Early October):

From left: V-neck, shorts - similar, similar bag, ribbed top, capris, loafers, similar socks, black pullover, vintage button down - similar, necklace - similar, silk scrunchie

Fom left: White v-neck, pants - similar pair, bag, vintage jacket - similar, Asics, navy track pants - similar here & here & here, vintage top - similar, vintage cargos - similar, Mary Janes, navy silk pants, black pants - similar, vintage dress - similar, socks, loafers

COLD weather Japan outfits (December):

From Left: Bonnet, old beige trousers - similar, turtleneck, v-neck sweater, wool collared shirt, similar belt, similar jeans, old bottega, old boots - similar, claudent blue button up, chunky grey sweater, coat - in black, old Adidas, old vest - similar, vintage suede trench (purchased there), black hood

• Rule #1: Comfortable Walking Shoes.

  • Japan is a walking-heavy destination, so the right shoes are non-negotiable. I rotated between Asics (2, 3, 4, 5, 6) on rainier days, and my trusty Mary Janes — as cute as they are comfortable. They go with everything and come in multiple color ways and new styles. Adidas are always reliable, too.

    • 1 sleek shoe for nighttime: these sleek, waterproof loafers that look way more expensive than they are and reliable for sporadic rain (they come in a chunky sole too). Any comfy loafer will do, especially these that go with everything. Splurge pair, fun pair, beautiful oxblood pair, brown pair. Comfy rubber soled boots for winter.

• #2: Size matters…when it comes to your carry-on.

  • This suitcase is one of the best investments I’ve made — far superior to the Rimowa, and much sturdier than Away suitcases. It fits everything, expands, collapses, has practical pockets, & sturdy wheels. I could go on, but a great carry-on and an expandable duffel (love the Away duffel) are the only way. I try to leave the duffel empty to stuff it with all my purchases, but everyone knows I’m buying large suitcases there either way…

• #3: Layers

  • Light versatile button downs during the day to throw over a tank top or tee (white, black) for Late Spring - early Fall when mornings are chilly before warm afternoons, or in and out of AC blasting museums/stores. Easy to crumple up and throw in your bag to take on and off.

    • Light weight cardigans and thin cashmere crewnecks or v—necks to throw over your shoulders at night. One or two thicker sweaters for winter.

    • This in every color, particularly brown, black, cream, and dark red. Best long sleeve - soft, thin, & flattering. Same goes for the turtleneck version.

    • A thin, lightweight rain jacket. I bought one there, but some great options here, LOVE this, here, here.

    • I layered a turtleneck under a sweater under a coat during the Winter.

• #4: Minimalist, Versatile Clothing

  • Get yourself a one pant wonder that you can wear day to night. I packed one pair of jeans during the winter trip, but during the warmer trip, all my pants were thin and light, and could be dressed up and down. I wore capris too, with sheer black high socks or tights underneath at night.

    • Some more good basics under jackets / sweaters or just on their own.

• #5: A canvas tote bag

  • Really comes in handy for daily outings, easily crumpled into your “real” purse for small purchases that you can throw in. You can also put your purse in it if it starts raining or throw a baseball hat & mini umbrella inside.

• #6: Accessorize

  • The easiest and lightest way to add some life to these simple outfits. Jewelry can sneakily add weight to your luggage. I love neck scarves, patterned colorful socks, good fun belts, hair accessories, especially balaclavas & hoods in the winter, bag keychains & charms, and obviously a lil fun jewelry, too.

    • COIN PURSES ARE A MUST! You will use so many coins in a day, just trust me, you never needed a coin purse until now, or a small attachable pouch like this! So many lil options.