Winter Travel in Japan: Essential Packing List for UK Travellers

Winter in Japan is magical — sparkling illuminations, relaxing hot springs, powder snow, New Year traditions, and warm seasonal foods.But if you’re visiting from the UK, you might be surprised by how cold some parts of Japan can get, especially compared to London, Manchester, or Edinburgh.

Northern and inland regions, such as Hokkaido, Nagano, and Tohoku, can reach –5°C to –15°C, with heavy snowfall.Even cities like Tokyo and Kyoto are generally colder and drier than most places in the UK, with temperatures around 0–8°C.

To help you stay warm and travel comfortably, here’s a complete list of must-bring items for winter trips in Japan — practical, lightweight, and easy to pack.

📸Ginzan Onsen (Yamagata)

📸Keyakizaka in Roppongi (Tokyo)

📸Yukimi Onsen — a hot spring with snowy views (various regions)

Understanding Japan’s Winter Climate Compared to the UK

Japan

• Northern regions (Hokkaido・Tohoku): –10°C to –2°C

• Tokyo・Kyoto・Osaka: 0°C to 8°C

• Dry air, especially indoors (heaters everywhere)

• Snow & icy paths in many areas

UK (general tendency)

• London: 3°C to 10°C

• Manchester: 2°C to 8°C

• Edinburgh: 0°C to 7°C

• More humid, less extreme cold, and less frequent deep snow

This difference means UK travellers often underestimate how cold it feels — particularly at night, in rural areas, or when sightseeing for long hours outdoors.

📸Blue Pond in Biei (Hokkaido)

📸Kinkaku-ji (Kyoto)

Essential Clothing for Winter in Japan

1. A Warm, Windproof Winter Coat

Japan’s cold wind can feel sharper than in the UK. A coat with insulation or down is ideal, especially for night walks or outdoor sightseeing.

2. Heattech or Thermal Layers

Lightweight, comfortable, and excellent for layering.Perfect for Kyoto temples, Tokyo winter illuminations, or Hokkaido’s snow festivals.

3. Warm Accessories (Scarf, Gloves, Beanie)

Many shrines, markets, and outdoor attractions are in open spaces with little shelter.Accessories make a big difference in comfort.

4. Waterproof or Grippy Shoes

If visiting snowy regions, footpaths can be icy.Choose:

• waterproof trainers

• winter boots

• shoes with good grip

In big cities with light snow, comfortable walking shoes are still essential.

5. Thick Socks or Heattech Socks

Floors in temples, ryokan, and some restaurants can be colder than expected.

Useful Items for Staying Comfortable

6. Pocket Warmers (Kairo)

Sold cheap everywhere in Japan.Slip them into your pockets or gloves — life-changing in cold areas.

7. Lip Balm & Moisturiser

Japan’s winter air is very dry.Even people who don’t usually use skincare find their skin tight or lips cracked.

8. Reusable Water Bottle

Heaters in trains and shops can make you feel dehydrated quickly.

9. Travel Umbrella

Winter brings occasional rain or wet snow, especially in Tokyo and Osaka.Compact umbrellas are the norm in Japan.

Electronics & Travel Essentials

10. Portable Charger (Power Bank)

Cold weather drains batteries faster.Perfect for Google Maps, Suica apps, photos, and weather alerts.

11. Universal Plug Adapter

Japan uses Type A plugs (flat pins).Voltage: 100V (most electronics are compatible).

12. Suica or IC Card App

Useful for trains, convenience stores, vending machines, and lockers.You can now use mobile Suica on many phones (iPhone/Android).

13. Pocket Wi-Fi or SIM Card

Snowy or rural areas can reduce mobile signal.Reliable internet helps with navigation and train info.

Health & Wellness Items

14. Cold Medicine You Trust

Japanese medicine labels may be hard to read.Bringing your preferred cold tablets is recommended.

15. Masks (Optional but Useful)

Good for dry trains, crowded areas, or sudden cold winds.

16. Small First Aid Kit

Band-aids, headache tablets, and basic supplies for long sightseeing days.

Special Items for Winter Activities

17. Ski/Snow Gear

If visiting Hokkaido or Nagano ski resorts:

• thermal leggings

• ski jacket

• waterproof gloves

• warm mid-layer

18. Onsen Essentials

For hot spring towns (Hakone, Kusatsu, Noboribetsu):

• hair ties

• easy-to-remove clothing

• small towel (though big towels are usually provided)

19. Hand Wipes or Sanitiser

Japanese winter food stalls (oden, yakitori, taiyaki) are everywhere — convenient to clean hands.

What You Don’t Need to Bring

Because Japan provides these very easily:

• Shampoo & conditioner (even cheap hotels have good quality)

• Body wash

• Hairdryer

• Heat packs (kairo — cheaper in Japan)

• Slippers (many hotels give you a pair)

Travelling light is totally possible.

Conclusion

Winter in Japan offers some of the country’s most memorable experiences — from snowy landscapes to sparkling illuminations and steaming hot springs. With the right clothing and thoughtful essentials, you’ll stay warm, comfortable, and ready to enjoy every moment of your trip.

📸Zao’s Snow Monsters (Yamagata)

📸Lantern Festival in Nagasaki (Nagasaki)

If you’d like to deepen your connection with Japan’s language and culture before you travel, consider joining our Online Japanese Lessons or In-person Japanese Lessons.

For those preparing specifically for a winter holiday, our Japanese for Travel course will help you navigate Japan confidently and enjoy your journey to the fullest.