Packing guide for Winter in Japan

Packing can seem like a daunting task, so I like to provide little guides to help you remember all the necessities and maybe even give you a few NEW ideas for your travel plans.

Backpacking all over Japan for 21-days meant I needed to be organized and practical with my choices. I also had to pack for a variety of temperatures because for half of the time I was in Tokyo where it averaged 30-50*F and the other half of my trip I was snowboarding in Niseko where the weather ranged 15-30*F. Since I was snowboarding I also had to pack all my gear, but still keep it as light as possible.

I am here to give you my best packing advice for a winter adventure in Japan.

January 10 - January 31 I set out to explore the cultural explosion of Japan. On my trip I stayed in AirBnbs in Shanghai (layover) and Tokyo, a ryokan in Nagano, and an apartment in Niseko. A ryokan is a Japanese inn that has kept traditional structure and equipment. So think sliding panel doors, pillows around coffee tables, bath houses, and mats to sleep on. It was everything I dreamt.

Through my unforeseen shortcomings and/or life-saver moments I complied a list of things you will DEFINITELY NEED and some travel tips that will help you plan your Japan adventure.

CARRY-ON

CLOTHES

  • Scarf
  • Gloves - mittens, tech fingers
  • Undies
  • Wool socks
  • Sports bras
  • Short sleeve graphic tee
  • Long sleeve thermals
  • Sweaters
  • Dressy top
  • Turtleneck
  • Coat
  • Blue jeans
  • Black jeans
  • Long leggings: cotton & athletic
  • PJ sweats & shorts
  • Belt
  • Walking shoes/workout shoes* - There are so many places to explore, so make sure you bring your most comfortable pair.
  • Boots

TOILETRIES

  • Chapstick/Aquaphor
  • Moisturizing eye drops
  • Face & Body lotion
  • Sunscreen
  • Face wash
  • Deodorant/sample perfume bottles
  • Makeup
  • Q-tips
  • Hairbrush & hairties
  • Toothbrush/Paste/Floss
  • Razor/Tweezer

MISC.

  • Extra vitamin C
  • Tea
  • Face towel
  • Curling iron
  • Jewelry
  • Laundry tote (I like reusing Free People tote bags)

SNOW GEAR

  • Goggles
  • Beanie
  • Ear warmer headband
  • Gloves
  • Jacket layers (fleece, quilted puffy, windbreaker)
  • Pants
  • Boots
  • Snowboard & bindings
  • Snowboard bag with wheels
  • Onesie by Tipsy Elves - Best idea ever because it is so easy to slip on to run out the door. It is also great because snow doesn't creep down your pants.

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So that's my packing list for a chilly trip to Japan. Next read about the best places to explore on your trip!