7 Things to Pack for a Winter Trip to Japan
Japan in winter is cold, dry, and beautiful — but only if you pack right. Here's what actually earns a spot in your suitcase.
The essentials
- A proper insulated jacket — Tokyo drops close to freezing, Hokkaido much lower
- Thermal base layers you can wear under normal clothes
- Waterproof boots with grip — pavements ice over more than you'd expect
- A portable phone charger; cold weather drains batteries fast
Pack layers over one heavy coat — trains and shops are heated well, so you'll want to peel off as soon as you're indoors.