Tokyo’s winter season (December to February) brings crisp, cold weather, with temperatures ranging from chilly to brisk, but rarely extreme. To help you prepare for your trip, we’ve created a month-by-month packing guide to ensure you’ll be comfortable and ready to explore the city during this beautiful season.
December in Tokyo
December weather in Tokyo
December in Tokyo marks the start of winter, with highs around 10 to 15°C (50-60°F) and nighttime lows near 0°C (around 35°F). Factoring in the wind, nighttime temperatures can feel a few degrees lower (near 30°F). The weather is typically dry, with clear skies and mild winds.
What to wear in Tokyo in December
Layering is essential for December. A thermal base layer, sweaters, and a medium-weight coat should be sufficient for most days. A scarf, gloves, and a beanie will keep you warm during chilly mornings and evenings. Comfortable boots or insulated shoes will help you stay warm while exploring the city.
Photo for illustrative purposes
January in Tokyo
January weather in Tokyo
January is the coldest month in Tokyo. Daytime highs hover around 10°C (50°F), and nighttime lows average between 0 to 5°C (slightly over 35°F). With wind chill, nighttime temperatures can feel as cold as 0°C (near 30°F). Cold northern winds are more frequent this month, contributing to the chill factor. Snow is rare but possible in late January, though it seldom accumulates.
What to wear in Tokyo in January
January requires warm clothing, including thermal tops, sweaters, and winter outerwear like a wool coat or down jacket. A windproof jacket is essential to shield against the cold winds. Accessories like scarves, gloves, and hats will help you stay comfortable, particularly in the mornings and evenings. Waterproof shoes with good traction may be useful if snow or wet weather occurs.
Photo for illustrative purposes
February in Tokyo
February weather in Tokyo
February brings a gradual end to winter, with daytime highs between 10 to 15°C (around 50 to 60°F) and nighttime lows averaging a bit over 5°C (between 40 to 45°F). While snow is still possible, it remains a rare occurrence.
What to wear in Tokyo in February
In February, stick to your winter layers. A medium-to-heavy coat, along with thermal tops and sweaters, will keep you comfortable. Windproof outerwear is still useful as winds can remain strong. Waterproof footwear may be necessary in the event of snow or rain, though this is not common.
Photo for illustrative purposes
General winter tips for Tokyo
Though temperatures can be chilly, Tokyo’s winter days are often sunny, making sunglasses and UV protection helpful, particularly for outdoor activities. Additionally, Tokyo’s dry winter air can cause skin and lip dryness, so it’s recommended to carry hand cream and lip balm for extra comfort. Indoor spaces and public transportation are typically well-heated, so wearing removable layers will help you stay comfortable as you move between indoor and outdoor environments.
In sum, Tokyo’s winter weather calls for thoughtful layering and warm accessories to stay comfortable during your visit. Practical clothing like thermal base layers, windproof outerwear, and insulating accessories will ensure you enjoy the crisp winter air and explore all the city has to offer. With the right preparation, you can stay warm and make the most of Tokyo’s beautiful winter season.
Weather data is based on the five-year average from 2019 to 2023 provided by the Japan Meteorological Agency.
