What to Wear in Japan?

Last Updated: September 20, 2025

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In short: Neat and stylish clothes are best for Japan, like linen shirts, long dresses, trousers, and flowy skirts in neutral tones. Avoid wearing sloppy, torn or overly revealing clothes as locals prefer clean and covered clothes.

Introduction

Japan is one of the most visited countries, with over36.87 million visits in 2024 alone. It is a favourite among tourists not just because of its stunning beauty but also for its rich cultures and the kindness of the local people towards travelers.

With so many visitors and cultural people together, it is important to take care of what you wear while travelling here. Tourists should wear ones that are comfortable, practical, and blend with the surroundings without offending any local customs.

General Dressing Tips For Japan

There are no strict dressing rules in Japan. Still better if you follow the general dressing guidelines to avoid anyone getting offended.

• Avoid wearing flashy or beach-style outfits for casual travelling or sightseeing.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes like sneakers or slip-ons.
• Dress modestly, covering shoulders or knees, and avoid low necklines or visible underwear.
• Pack up jackets or cardigans, as you may need to add or take off as the temperature changes.
• Use smart and classic clothes for temples (no torn tees).

If you haven't taken any comfy and non-revealing dress, then you can purchase one from Uniqlo, Mujir or ABC mart in Japan.

Dresses to Wear During Different Seasons in Japan

In the spring and autumn seasons, you should wear layered clothes like light jackets or sweaters, while in summer, wear breathable fabrics, like non-revealing shorts and sun protection. Similarly, in winter, wear warm clothes like jackets, scarves, gloves and boots.

What to Wear in Spring (March - May)

In the spring season, the weather is mild and cherry blossoms are roughly from 5 to 23॰C, so better to have light coats, jackets or mid-weight sweaters with you.

Also, the rain is normal in this season, so you should always carry an umbrella or a rain jacket with you while travelling between March to May.
Spring is considered as the best season for visiting Japan.

What to wear in Japan in Summer (June - August)

The temperature in summer is around 25 to 35 °C, which is hot and humid. So wear lightweight and loose clothes with sun protection like sunglasses.

Also, this is the time Japan's rain season (tsuyu) falls, so expect rain and have an umbrella or raincoat with you.

→ Suggestion: Always carry a portable fan, towel, sunscreen and water to stay hydrated.

What to wear in Autumn (September to November)

In September, the average temperature is around 27 °C, which drops to 8 deg C by November. So the dress for Autumn exactly depends on which month you are travelling. IN generally, you should pack multiple-layered dresses with some shorts layered with little thick jackets or sweaters.

Dresses you should wear in different months of Autumn are:

• September: Temperature feels like summer, so wear breathable pants, short-sleeve shorts or a blouse paired with a light jacket.
• October: It is mid-autumn and the cold has started, so wear medium-thick jackets. For women, you can have lightweight leggings with closed-toe shoes. Also, you can have a thin scarf during the evening.
• November: This month almost started to feel like winter, so you should wear thick winter clothes. Wear jackets, coats or thick sweaters with full-length pants or jeans. Also, you should pack scarves, gloves and hats.

What to wear in Winter (December - February)

In winter, you need to be careful with the dresses. In places like Hokkaido, the temperature can go below -10 deg C. So always dress in layers with warmer clothes.

• Bring a thick scarf, gloves, a hat and warm or multi-layer socks.
• For footwear, you can have boots or sturdy shoes.
• Wear a thermal base layer or undershirt.

|| Also Read: What to Wear in Thailand?

What to Wear in Japan as a Woman?

Japanese women wear neat and modest clothes. They rarely show shoulders, belly or knees. So it is better to pack non-revealing clothes.

Skirts are fine then, but keep them at least below the knee. Mini skirts are generally considered for younger women. Also, avoid too-tight leggings or yoga pants.

Plus, when visiting the temple, keep in mind you are dressed formal or according to the temple tradition. You can wear a blouse with a long skirt and clean socks, as you need to remove your shoes there.

In short, avoid wearing super-tight or revealing clothes and wear modest, neutral-colored clothes while visiting Japan as a woman.

What to Wear in Japan as a Man?

Japanese men also wear neat and modest clothes as their women do. Avoid going shirtless or wearing tank tops in public. The casual clothes for men travelers include chinos pants, polos t-shirts, or casual button-down clothes.

For footwear, you can have walking shoes, sneakers or easy slip-ons according to the clothes.

Plus, when visiting temples, keep in mind to dress modestly to show respect towards their culture. Avoid wearing skinny or athletic clothes inside traditional places.

What not to wear in Japan (and why)

There are a few types of clothes and items that tourists should avoid while visiting Japan, not to offend any people there.

• Avoid wearing sloppy, torn or dirty clothes.
• Men: Skip wearing cut-off shorts, board shorts, or muscle tanks as they mostly look like beachwear.
• Women: Wearing skimpy tops, very short skirts, exposed underwear straps or leggings is a big no for women.
• Plastic flip flops are less common in Japanese cities; you can wear them on beaches.
• For Temples: Wearing revealing or tight clothes is a big no for sacred places. If you are unsure about your dress, better to cover it with a shawl.
• Also, don't wear excessive graphics, very bright colors to avoid any unwanted attention.

Packing Checklist For Japan

The packing list depends upon the duration of the itinerary in Japan and the season you are going to visit, still there are some essential items that you should bring every time with you. Some of the crucial items to bring with you include:

• Underwear (many pairs)
• Socks (include warm pairs if visiting in cooler months)
• Short-sleeve shirts/T-shirts
• Long-sleeve shirts or blouses (for layering)
• Sweater or fleece (layering for cooler seasons)
• Light jacket or cardigan.
• Heavy coat or packable down parka (only for winter travel)
• Travel rain jacket or compact umbrella
• Pants/jeans/khakis (at least two pairs)
• Shorts or skirts (for summer)
• Knee-length dress or skirt (for women)
• Comfortable walking shoes/sneakers (good tread, easy on/off)
• Sandals or slippers (for indoors or onsen)
• Sun Protection (Hat/Cap, Sunglasses, Sunscreen)
• Scarf and gloves (only for winter)
• Pajamas/sleepwear
• Adapted (Japan uses Type A and B plugs, 100V)
• Photo ID and some cash in yen (many places are cash only)
• Light Jacket or cardigan.
• Heavy coat or packable down parkha (only for winter travel)
• Travel rain jacket or compact umbrella
• Pants/jeans/khakis (at least two pairs)
• Shorts or skirts (for summer)
• Knee-length dress or skirt (for women)
• Comfortable walking shoes/sneakers (good tread, easy on/off)
• Sandals or slippers (for indoors or onsen)
• Sun Protection (Hat/Cap, Sunglass, Sunscreen)
• Scarf and gloves (only for winters)
• Pajamas/sleepwear
• Adapted (Japan uses Type A and B plugs, 100V)
• Photo ID and some cash in yen (many places are cash only)

You can avoid too many clothes or multiple similar items, depending on the season and your travel length.

Conclusion

The best dress for Japan is the one that is comfortable while respecting their culture, plus one that is adaptable according to the season. The fabric and layering matter for the different seasons, from hot to snowy and winter.

Remember, there are no strict rules for wearing in Japan, still you should always dress modestly and avoid any revealing outfits to respect their culture. With the right clothes, you will feel confident and comfortable without offending anyone.

FAQs

Q1. Are there any colors to avoid wearing in Japan?

There are no colors strictly forbidden to wear in Japan. Still, it is better to avoid bright and flashy colors like Red, Yellow, and Purple, as these colors are common for temples and have faith that only high-ranking people can wear those colors.

Q2. Can I wear active wear in Japan?

The local Japanese do not mostly prefer activewear. In fact, even in the gym, they prefer leggings and non-skinny outfits over skinny ones. So, no, it's better not to wear active wear in Japan.

Q3. Can women tourists wear shorts in Japan?

Yes, women tourists are free to wear shorts in Japan, especially in hot and humid weather. Still better to avoid revealing dresses.

Q4. What footwear should I wear in Japan?

You are free to wear any kind of footwear like boots, sneakers, sandals or heels. But keep in mind you often need to visit different cultural places and need to take off and on frequently, so it's better to wear sliders, or ones that are easy to take off. Also, avoid wearing stinky socks or shoes.

Q5. Is it okay to wear traditional clothes like yukata or kimono?

Generally, Japanese people don't wear traditional clothes, so wearing this may look weird. Otherwise, you are free to wear a yukata or a kimono if you want.

Q6. What should a child wear in Japan?

There is no specific rule for children; they can wear what they love. Still, wearing gentle and respectful clothes like a full covering dress is a better choice.

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