Do you want to know what to wear in Japan in Spring? Spring in Japan, no matter whether you are on Honshu or in Hokkaido is classified as March, April and May and is one of the most popular times to visit. However it can be a challenge to pack for. .
In this guide you will learn:
- what to expect from the Spring weather in Japan by region and month,
- What to wear in Japan in Spring for weather, dress codes and more and
- any special events that may affect your Japan Spring packing list.
Weather in Japan in Spring
The weather in Japan in Spring will very much depend on the region and month of travel. For instance the Northern island of Hokkaido has far cooler temperatures than the South, and March can still feel pretty Wintery.
Whereas by May in Southern cities and regions such as Okinawa you will find it quite summery.
How cold is Japan in Spring?
As I said above, the temperatures in Japan vary greatly by region, however you can expect the average daytime temperatures in March and April in Honshu to be around 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit / 15-21 Celcius. So you will definitely want lots of layers with you.
While in May the average temperature high in Tokyo can be up to 23 Celsius / 73F.
Note: as Hokkaido tends to have different weather to the rest of Japan we have written up a specific Hokkaido Spring packing list here.
How rainy is Japan in Spring?
Although monsoon season has not yet started in Japan in Spring, it is still a good idea to prepare for rain. This means packing a waterproof coat, shoes and always having a compact travel umbrella handy.
Does it snow in Japan in Spring ?
If you are traveling around Tokyo or Kyoto it is unlikely that you will see any rain in Spring, unless you are atop a montain. However it is very possible to get snow in Hokkaido in Spring. In Hokkaido March sees fairly significant snowfall but sou can even see snow in May in the ski resorts on the higher ground.
Note: we always recommend checking the forecast at your destination(s) 7 days out from travel to make sure there are no expected weather fronts i.e. heatwaves or cold snaps.
What to Wear in Japan in Spring
As I said above, layers are going to be your best friend for Japan in March and April. And while in early Spring you can wear your Spring capsule wardrobe by the end of May you will definitely be transitioning into your summer one.
What to Wear in Japan for Women
Rain Jacket
The number one pick for Japan in Spring has to be a rain jacket. Now while the month of travel will affect the thickness required. And while you may want to have a stylish rain coat with you, I personaly think a more outdoor style raincoat is better becayse you will be spending a long time outdoors walking
Click here to shop jackets for Japan.
Trousers
Trousers are a better pick than dresses or skirts for daytime sighting especially in March. And my favorite type of trouser to travel with is a jean. Personally I recommend sticking wiht a smarter pair of jeans as this will work well in all sorts of locations.
Also for May, you can’t go wrong with a pair of Capri pants.
Skirts and Dresses
On top of trousers I will usually add a couple of dresses or skirts to the packing list, especially for traveling in late April and May.
Personally I prefer to wear skirts and dresses in a maxi or midi length and during a rainy period I tend to stick to midi dresses so the ends of my dress don’t get wet in puddles.
T Shirts
T Shirts are a great base for Japan whatever Spring month you are visiting. At this time of year I recommend packing a mix of both long and short sleeve t shirts.
Blouse
On top of t shirts I also recommend packing some nice blouses that can be used in restaurants and smarter places. I try to stick to blouses made of natural fabrics such as linen and cottons especially in May when the temperatures are heating up.
Layers
Layers are absolutely essential for Japan even in Spring and the earlier in Spring you are traveling the more layers you will need. Depending on the activities you are doing will affect how formal the layers should be but I would usually pack a mix of sweaters, hoodies and fleeces for Spring.
Hoodies are a great casual top layer for sightseeing in the day at places such as museums, interactive spaces and galleries. However I like to have something smarter for evenings. My favorites are merino wool sweaters and cardigans that can be used to layer day to night transition outfits.
PJs
Depending on whether you are traveling in Early or Late Spring will affect the weight of nightwear you will want.
Swimwear (optional)
No matter the season of travel I would always add some swimwear to your packing list. There are lots of spas and onsens to visit.
Underwear and Socks
Goes without saying. The best socks for Japan have to be merino wool socks that are insulating but still thin. But if you are traveling in May, sneaker socks may be more suitable.
What to pack for Japan in Spring for Men
The packing list for men is quite similar as the ladies packing list for Japan in Spring and we recommend packing:
Rain coat
A practical coat is again definitely worthwhile packing.
T Shirts and Shirts
A mix of long and short sleeve t shirts are good for Spring. A button down shirt is also a good choice for fancier restaurants.
Trousers
Jeans are great for sightseeing in cities. As well as jeans you may also want to add a smarter pair of chinos for nights out and fancier dinners.
Shop men’s travel chinos here.
Layers
A hoodie, fleece and sweater alongside your coat / jacket are the perfect layers to pack for 7 days in Japan.
Underwear, Socks and Pjs
Best Shoes for Japan in Spring
Waterproof Shoes
For Japan in Spring I recommend having at least one pair of waterproof shoes with you. For March this could include ankle boots, but for later in Spring some waterproof sneakers such as the Ecco Soft Seven.
What to pack for Japan in Spring (March, April and May -Non Clothing
- Crossbody Bag – I always travel with this type of bag as it is a great pickpocket deterrent anywhere in the world. I didn’t find Japan a particularly unsafe place but this is a staple on all of my travel packing lists.
- Backpack – for storing items on your day trips. If there is going to be very haevy rain during your travel you may also want a waterproof cover.
- Universal Travel adaptor – Japan uses two types of plug a and b. Therefore you will absolutely need a universal travel adaptor whether you are coming from UK, USA or Australia.
- Power Pack / battery packs
- Camera
- Travel First Aid Kit
- Blister plasters
- Sunscreen
- Toiletries – for our essential toiletries packing list click here. These could be purchased in the big cities easily, however it can be easier when not familiar with language to have them packed with you
FAQs About this Japan in Spring Packing List
So now you know what to pack for Japan in Spring we will answer your most frequently asked questions,
Do you need winter boots in Japan in Spring?
If you are sticking to Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka then winter boots will not be needed. However you may still want some ankle boots with you.
What to wear to see cherry blossoms in Japan?
Seeing the cherry blossoms bloom, also known as the Sakura is a bucket list Japan experience for Spring. We recommend sticking with your Spring capsule wardrobe and picking pastel colors and floral patterns if you want that perfect instagram snap.
Can you wear jeans in Japan in Spring?
Yes you can absolutely wear jeans in Japan in Spring. In fact they are one of the best trousers to wear in Springtime in Japan.
Have you been to Japan in Spring? What did you wear? We would love you to tell us in the comments below!