What I Packed: Tokyo in July
Fun fact: I’ve visited Japan 4 times and all of those times have been in the heat. We visited late April/beg of May once, we just went in July, I did a wive’s trip one year in August, and last year we did Osaka in September. My only experience with weather in Japan is HOT HUMID HOT HOT HOT.
Lightweight linen + sandals in Shinjuku
The first thing that hits you when walk out of the airport in Japan is the heat - the kind that clings to your skin like a damp blanket and makes you question every clothing choice you’ve ever made. It’s hot and humid, he kind of weather where even standing still feels like work. If you pack like you’re heading to a normal summer destination, you’re going to be sweaty, cranky, and probably spending too much money buying emergency clothing from Uniqlo (which, to be fair, isn’t the worst thing that could happen).
Whether you're heading to Japan solo, as a couple, or with kids in tow, this guide will help you stay cool, dry, and ready to explore.
Tokyo Summer Clothing Essentials
Lightweight, Breathable Clothing
Pack loose-fitting T-shirts or tank tops, breathable linen or moisture-wicking shirts, light cotton dresses or shorts, and lightweight pants or skirts.
UV Umbrella or Compact Travel Umbrella
A UV umbrella has become more and more popular around Asia, so if you don’t have one, they’ll be easy enough to find to purchase. It works for both sun protection and sudden showers, and you’ll blend right in. If you don’t want to carry an umbrella, a UV jacket is another great piece to have. They’re lightweight and can be thrown in a backpack or tied around your waist when you’re not wearing it.
Cooling Accessories
Think cooling towels, neck fans or mini USB fans. Just don’t forget to charge them every night!! You’ll thank yourself while walking around exploring. The girls carried, and used, their fans everyday.
Comfortable Walking Shoes or Sandals
Tokyo = walking city. You’ll rack up 10,000+ steps without even trying. My forever favorites are Nike Tanjun but for this trip I packed my Onitsuka Tigers. They’re true to size, lightweight and you truly can walk all day in them. Breathable, comfortable walking sandals are also a must - nothing that needs breaking in while ON the trip. Sudden rain showers are common during the summer in Tokyo, so if you don’t like wet feet, don’t pack flip flops.
Sunscreen and After-Sun Care
Japanese sunscreen is fantastic and sold in every convenience store, but if you have a preferred brand or skin sensitivity, bring your own. Pack aloe gel or after-sun lotion just in case. This is my current favorite Korean sun stick and I can not recommend it enough. If you don’t have one you love, check it out!
Portable Battery Charger
Between Google Maps, translations, train apps, and photos of sushi, your phone won’t survive the day without a boost. Again - don’t forget to charge it every night!! Also make sure to check your airline’s regulations on what size battery packs can be carried on these days! I have this Anker one that I love but it is HEAVY and it just barely passes airline regulations, however, it can last for several days on a single charge. I’m considering getting this one with the built in cords, so if you have it, let me know what you think!
Other things that would be good to have include a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day, especially in Tokyo’s July heat. If you don’t have one, or don’t have room to pack one, don’t worry! There are vending machines on nearly every corner as well as convenience stores - but those add up quickly!
If you plan on going back to your hotel or AirBNB during the day, you should also plan on changing clothes. Once you’ve cooled off and relaxed, you won’t want to continue wearing wet, sweaty clothes.
Traveling with Kids? Add these to your list:
Extra outfits (they will get sweaty or soaked)
Reusable water bottles + water bottle holders - the water bottle holder makes it so much more convenient for kids to carry their water bottles around
Compact stroller + stroller fan
Hats and sunglasses (for both kids and adults)
Tokyo in July is alive with energy but the weather is no joke. Pack smart, plan indoor breaks, and drink more water than you think you need. You'll thank yourself when you’re breezing around town while others are wilting in the heat.
Be sure to check out my other Japan travel blogs including:
What I Packed: Taipei in June - the heat and humidity is very similar!
