What to wear in Tokyo in December
December in Tokyo is cool: daytime highs around 12°C / 54°F, lows around 5°C / 41°F, with about 5 wet days.
Long-term averages (long-term average (highs ~14 °C early in the month to ~10 °C by the end)); wet day = ≥ 1 mm (WeatherSpark wet-day probability 13–21%). Source: WeatherSpark — Average Weather in December in Tokyo. Always check the forecast before you go.
Layer for chilly mornings and evenings
- T-shirts and long-sleeve tops to mix
- A knit or sweatshirt
- A light-to-mid jacket (trench, wool, or padded)
- Closed shoes; skip sandals
Local tips for Tokyo
December is dry and often bright — one of the best months for clear views of Mt Fuji.
You’ll take shoes off at temples, ryokan, some restaurants and fitting rooms: slip-on shoes and presentable socks save a lot of fuss.
Trains and shops are heated; layer a light knit under a warm coat so you can strip down indoors.
Sample outfits
5-day carry-on capsule for Tokyo
Mix and match — every top should work with every bottom. Wear the bulkiest pieces on the plane.
- Tops (mix of tees and long-sleeves) × 3
- Knit or sweater
- Trousers or jeans × 2
- Light jacket
- Walking shoes
- Smarter shoes or boots
Plan with the clothes you actually own
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