The 67% of foreigners who arrive in Japan admit they packed poorly for the climate and end up spending, on average, ¥45,000 (about $300 USD) on clothing and emergency items during the first month.1 But the biggest surprise isn’t the weather—it’s discovering that your entire apartment will be smaller than your current closet and that finding your size will feel like searching for a unicorn.
My first week in Tokyo was a complete disaster. I arrived in April with summer clothes, thinking spring meant warmth, but Tokyo was still in “you’ll freeze in the morning” mode. I also didn’t prepare for the Japanese summer which, to be clear, is basically living inside a sauna 24 hours a day.
Expectation vs. Reality
Expectation: “I’ll pack efficiently like Marie Kondo.”
Reality: Two suitcases full of clothes you’ll never wear.
Result: You end up wearing the same Uniqlo T-shirt for six months.
After nearly a decade living here and watching hundreds of foreigners go through the same difficulties, I can finally share what you actually need to bring. And more importantly: what NOT to bring, because those 15 pairs of jeans definitely won’t fit in your future 25 m² apartment.
Forget the romantic tale of “four seasons.” The real Japanese climate is:
According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, Tokyo reaches very high humidity in summer; July is one of the most humid months.2 For context: 35°C in dry weather is tolerable. In Japan, with that humidity, it’s like walking wrapped in a hot, wet towel. That’s not an exaggeration.
The invisible (but very real) dress code
There are unwritten rules about clothing in Japan that are important to know:
It’s important to be prepared for this:
| Your Western size | Equivalent in Japan | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| XS–S | Japanese M–L | Widely available |
| M | Japanese L–XL | Available with dedicated searching |
| L | Japanese LL–3L | Very limited |
| XL or larger | 4L–5L | Practically nonexistent in physical stores |
If you wear over 25 cm (women) or 28 cm (men) in shoes, finding footwear will be a real challenge and considerably more expensive.3
My shoe-store experience
Me: “Do you have this in 26.5?”
Clerk: *awkward smile* “Sorry, we only carry standard sizes.”
Takeaway: That’s when I realized I’d need to import shoes for the rest of my life.
Based on years of collective experience from the foreign community:
Spring (March–May): Allergy season
While everyone admires cherry blossoms, Japanese cedar pollen (花粉症) can become a serious problem for allergy sufferers.
Summer (June–September): The extreme humidity challenge
The rainy season (梅雨) lasts about 6 weeks with frequent rainfall.4 Then July and August arrive with extreme heat and humidity.
Adapting to the Japanese summer
First week: “It’s manageable with air conditioning.”
Third week: “Clothes are never completely dry.”
Second month: “I’ve accepted living in constant humidity.”
Third month: “It’s now part of my new normal.”
Autumn (October–November): The best time of year
Japanese autumn is beautiful but notably brief.
Winter (December–February): Indoor–outdoor contrast
Mistake #1: Counting on finding your size
Large sizes are limited in physical stores and, when available, tend to be more expensive.5
Mistake #2: Underestimating space constraints
The average one-person apartment in urban Japan is compact; in Tokyo, 1R/1K units are typically around 20–30 m².6 Storage space will be minimal: typically two hanging bars and a shelf.
Reality of living space
Typical Western closet: 4 m² or more
Entire apartment in Tokyo: 25 m²
Actual storage space: Less than 1 m²
Conclusion: Minimalism isn’t optional.
Mistake #3: Ignoring regional climate differences
| Region | Climate characteristics | Required preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Hokkaido | Winters down to −15 °C | High-quality thermal wear |
| Tokyo/Osaka | 0 °C to 38 °C with high humidity | Maximum versatility |
| Kyushu | Humid subtropical | Focus on humidity management |
| Okinawa | Tropical climate | Constant sun protection |
For traditional corporate jobs
For teachers (ALT/Eikaiwa)
For families with children
Must-bring items
What you should NOT bring
Natural evolution of luggage
First year: 3 huge suitcases (70% unused).
Third year: 2 suitcases (40% unnecessary).
Fifth year: 1 suitcase with the essentials.
Tenth year: A backpack with deodorant and documents.
Little-known practical tips
We all eventually develop a relationship with Uniqlo. It’s practically inevitable. Initial resistance gives way to acceptance and finally appreciation for its practicality.
I’d love to hear about your packing experiences. What was the most unnecessary thing you brought? What emergency purchase did you have to make?
Personally, I still keep those five thick sweaters I brought “just in case” years ago. I’ve never worn them, but they take up valuable space in my tiny closet—reminders of my well-intentioned early optimism.
A useful mantra: なんとかなる — “it’ll work out somehow.” I repeat it every time I pay exorbitant prices for basic imported products.
Is it really that hard to find effective deodorant?
Japanese people have a genetic variation (ABCC11 gene) associated with producing less body odor. Their products are formulated accordingly. For Westerners, you’ll need to look for imported brands that cost 3–4 times more. I recommend bringing a year’s supply.
What are my options if I have large feet?
For sizes above 28 cm (men) or 25 cm (women): specialized “large size” stores, Amazon Japan with a limited selection, or international orders. Bring at least 3–4 pairs for your first year.
Is the office shoulder rule really a thing?
In most traditional companies, showing shoulders is considered unprofessional, while short skirts are acceptable. It’s contradictory but it’s the cultural norm. Always keep a cardigan handy.
What’s a reasonable first-month clothing budget?
Set aside ¥30,000–50,000 for unforeseen expenses: emergency clothing, hard-to-find hygiene products, and thermal wear you’ll discover you need.
Is Uniqlo really the only option?
It’s not the only one, but it’s the most practical and affordable. Sizes go up to Japanese XL (roughly Western M), with accessible prices and decent quality. It’s a solution, not a fashion statement.
What exactly does “at-home clothing” mean?
In Japanese culture, clothing worn outside is never used inside the home. You need specific at-home clothing (部屋着), even if you live alone.
Is the seasonal wardrobe change mandatory? 衣替え is a deeply rooted cultural practice. On June 1 people switch to summer clothing, and on October 1 to winter clothing, regardless of the actual temperature.
When are the best sales?
January and July offer discounts of up to 70%. Flagship stores in areas like Shibuya are packed on the first day of sales. Mental preparation is recommended.
