November - December Weather in Tokyo: What to Wear

Tokyo Weather in November-December and What to Wear

Rikugien Garden illumination. Photo by Pixta

As the year draws to a close, Tokyo transforms into a beautiful blend of vibrant autumn colors and crisp winter landscapes. November brings cool breezes and golden leaves, while December marks the start of colder days accompanied by festive illuminations. Planning your wardrobe for this season is essential to enjoy Tokyo comfortably, whether you're strolling through parks or exploring its lively streets.

November

Tokyo in November is characterized by mild and comfortable temperatures during the day, typically ranging between 12°C to 17°C (54°F to 63°F). Evenings and early mornings are cooler, often dipping to around 7°C to 10°C (45°F to 50°F). Rainfall is minimal, making it a great time to explore the city without worrying about wet weather.

December

As the final month of the year progresses, temperatures drop further, ranging between 5°C to 12°C (41°F to 54°F). By late December, early mornings can get as cold as 2°C (36°F). The weather is mostly dry, with plenty of sunny days, but chilly winds may remind you that winter is settling in.

The information below can be used as a reference for the entire Kanto region (eastern Japan), which includes Tokyo and the prefectures Ibaraki, Tochigi, Gunma, Saitama, Chiba, and Kanagawa.

Tokyo's Weather in November and December

After Halloween, Japan gradually enters the late autumn and winter seasons. During this lovely season of red fall foliage and snowflakes, it is important to stay warm.

In November, there is a significant temperature difference between morning and evening. Although the sunlight during the day may be strong, the dry autumn wind can still feel chilly.

December is when winter officially begins in Japan. The temperatures go often below 10 degrees Celsius and there is always the possibility of snowfall or chilly winds. In other words, prepare warm clothes and accessories to withstand the cold weather.

November Clothing for Women: Light Sweater, Thick Trousers, Windproof Item

In the crisp and pleasant November weather, wear a light sweater paired with trousers.

One of the biggest concerns in autumn and winter is the cold wind blowing through the trouser fabric. For girls who easily get cold hands and feet, we recommend wearing thicker trousers and socks or leggings under the trousers.

A cute wool cap not only adds a sense of style but also protects you from the chilly wind.

November Clothing for Men: Casual Shirt and Trousers

For men, it's relatively simpler. You can wear a flannel shirt that not only has a casual vibe suitable for travel but also brings gentle warmth during the journey.

In addition, simple and classic khaki pants or jeans are also suitable as autumn and winter outfit choices.

December Clothing for Women: Sweater, Tights/Leggings, Long Coat, and Scarf

In December, the temperature suddenly drops, so if you plan to visit Japan, remember to bring a windproof, warm jacket, but avoid wearing overly heavy clothing. Most indoor places in Japan have heating systems, so layering is recommended because you can easily take something off if it's too hot.

Girls can choose to wear a sweater with tights or leggings, a combination that looks fashionable. Pairing it with a long coat ensures that you won't feel cold when going outside. You can also wear a scarf around your neck if necessary.

The thickness of tights or stockings is measured in denier units. The higher the denier, the thicker and tighter the material, but it may be less durable. Here is some reference information on denier for conventional tights/leggings:

- 40 denier to 60 denier: Suitable for early spring and autumn, providing a relatively slim appearance.

- Up to 80 denier: Suitable for late autumn and early winter; the tights/leggings are thicker, and when paired with long boots, they provide better insulation.

- 120 denier and above: Ideal for cold winter days, with considerable thickness for extra warmth.

December Clothing for Men: Casual Shirt, Windproof Trousers, and Warm Coat

A simple and versatile coat that can be worn for both formal and casual occasions is best. Stick to the layering principle and you won't have trouble indoors where it might feel too hot.

Packing Tips for Travelers

• Layering Essentials: Pack items like thermal inner wear, cardigans, and versatile coats that are easy to layer for changing temperatures.

• Lightweight and Compact Options: Opt for lightweight, packable down jackets for warmth without bulk.

• Must-Haves: Bring gloves, a foldable umbrella, and a small backpack for convenience while exploring.

• Seasonal Touches: For late December visits, include holiday-themed attire to match the festive atmosphere.

• Multi-Functional Accessories: Items like multi-purpose scarves or ponchos can serve as both cold-weather gear and protection against unexpected rain.

• Eye Care Essentials: In dry winter weather in Japan, an eye mask or moisturizing eye drops can help keep your eyes comfortable.

• Backup Cold-Weather Gear: While additional gloves or scarves can be purchased locally, having spares packed ensures you're ready for sudden cold snaps.

• Travel-Sized Skincare Kit: Winter air can be harsh on your skin, so pack a compact set of moisturizing products like hand cream and lip balm to stay hydrated.

Clothes Suited For Each Occasion

 

By dressing appropriately for seasonal activities, you'll not only stay comfortable but also fully immerse yourself in the unique charm of Tokyo's late autumn and winter.

Autumn Leaves Viewing (Mid-November to Early December)

- Tokyo offers stunning autumn foliage spots like Rikugien Garden and Showa Kinen Park. When exploring these areas, wear a warm jacket or a wool coat for comfort.

- Opt for walking-friendly footwear, such as sneakers or trekking shoes, as you'll likely spend a lot of time on your feet. Lightweight gloves and a scarf are perfect for keeping you warm during chilly mornings and evenings.

Illuminations (Late November to December)

- Iconic areas such as Omotesando, Tokyo Midtown, and Marunouchi transform into magical winter wonderlands with dazzling light displays. To stay warm while admiring these illuminations, choose a windproof long coat or a down jacket.

- Layer with heat-retaining inner wear, and consider accessories like a knit hat and gloves for added warmth. Thick socks and boots will keep your feet comfortable, even in prolonged outdoor conditions.

Christmas Markets (Mid-December to December 25)

- Christmas markets in locations like Roppongi or Hibiya Park bring festive charm to Tokyo with seasonal decorations and delicious treats. To complement the holiday ambiance, consider wearing bright-colored or patterned sweaters for photo opportunities or just joining the joyful atmosphere.

- Since evenings can get quite cold, bring a well-insulated coat, a thick scarf, and warm boots to keep cozy while strolling through the market.

New Year's Eve and Hatsumode (December 31 to Early January)

- Celebrating the New Year at iconic temples and shrines, such as Sensoji or Meiji Jingu, requires dressing warmly for the cold nights. A thick down coat or wool coat is essential, along with a scarf or shawl to keep your neck warm.

- For visiting temples and shrines, opt for smart casual attire rather than overly casual outfits like jeans or sweatpants. Slacks or chinos paired with a sweater provide a polished yet comfortable look suitable for the occasion.

Enjoy Your Autumn - Winter Trip to Tokyo!

The above content is based on reference temperatures for the Tokyo area in 2022. It is specifically written for travelers planning to visit the Kanto region (Tokyo, Chiba, etc.).

If you are planning to go to Hokkaido or Okinawa, the temperature conditions will be different. we hope this article is helpful for those who are planning to visit Tokyo in autumn and winter.