What is the perfect outfit for a January trip to Japan? The complete guide to protecting against the cold

Japan in January is the coldest time of the year, and severe cold waves hit the northern part of the country in particular.

There are plenty of events unique to winter, such as events celebrating the new year, the first pilgrimage, and snow festivals, etc., but it is essential to take proper measures against the cold.

In this article, I will explain the key points for choosing clothes for a comfortable January trip to Japan.

We will introduce tips on how to dress according to the temperature in each region and items useful for protecting against the cold, and suggest styles for enjoying Japan in winter.

The climate and characteristics of Japan in January

The average temperature in January and the beginning of severe winter In Japan in January, the severe cold of midwinter continues nationwide.

In Tokyo, the average temperature is around 6 degrees, and the cold is in full swing, and days below freezing continue in northern Japan.

Especially in Hokkaido and Tohoku, snow piles up deeply, and thorough measures against the cold are necessary when going outside.

Also, since the wind feels cold even in urban areas, a combination of outerwear and warm innerwear that protects against wind is required.

Winter events such as Hatsumode and Snow Festival

In January, many winter events are held, such as Hatsumode, New Year's events, and the Hokkaido Snow Festival.

It is also a month where there are many opportunities to go outside, and people often spend long hours outdoors, so it is important to wear clothes that are easy to move around in and have excellent protection against the cold.

In order to enjoy winter events, if you are conscious of coordination that combines functionality and style, you will be able to spend a comfortable time.

Beauty experience in Japan

Tips for dressing according to the January temperature

Down jackets and windproof outerwear to protect against the cold in the middle of winter

For a January trip to Japan, a down jacket is the most effective item to protect against the cold.

In particular, down, which is windproof and water-repellent, is perfect for protecting the body from cold and snow.

Also, the long length down coat can cover your hips and feet well, making you feel warmer.

Choose functional outerwear like this when visiting an urban area with strong cold winds or an area where it snows.

Stay warm with HEATTECH and fleece

Innerwear also requires ingenuity.

In order to cope with the cold of January, layered styles incorporating heat-tech materials and fleece with high thermal insulation are effective.

By choosing a material that does not allow body temperature to escape, you can keep warm even when it comes into contact with the outside air.

Also, if you combine a turtleneck sweater or thick fleece as an inner layer, you can keep out even more from the cold.

January temperatures and clothing guide by region in Japan

January Temperatures and Clothes in the Tokyo/Kanto Region

In Tokyo and the Kanto region, the cold becomes even more severe in January, and the average temperature is around 6 degrees.

Especially in the morning and evening, the temperature is often close to freezing, so a down jacket or wool coat is essential.

Use HEATTECH or fleece as an inner layer and take proper measures against the cold.

It's important to choose warm socks or boots for your feet to protect them from getting cold.

January Temperatures and Clothes in the Kansai Region

In the Kansai region, the average temperature is around 6 degrees in January, mainly in Osaka and Kyoto.

In Kyoto in particular, the cold weather is severe in the morning and evening, so it is necessary to wear a thick down jacket or wool coat.

When visiting tourist spots in winter, the point is to enjoy stylish outfits while protecting against the cold by incorporating cold weather accessories such as scarves, scarves, and hats.

January Temperatures and Clothes in the Hokkaido/Tohoku Region

In Hokkaido and the Tohoku region, severe cold temperatures below freezing continue in January.

In Sapporo and Sendai, temperatures continue to be below freezing during the daytime, and it gets even colder at night.

In this climate, you need down jackets, snow boots, and waterproof outerwear.

Snow boots, winter gloves, and knitted hats are also essential items. It is safe to prepare shoes and thick socks that won't slip on snowy roads.

Beauty experience in Japan

The best clothing items for a January trip

How to choose cold weather innerwear and multifunctional outerwear

Warm innerwear and multifunctional outerwear play an important role when traveling to Japan in January.

Warm innerwear, such as HEATTECH or thick tights, can maintain lightness while maintaining body temperature, and ensure ease of movement.

For outerwear, choose a windproof and water-repellent down jacket or coat to ensure comfort regardless of the weather.

The importance of snow boots and waterproof boots

Waterproof snow boots and winter boots are essential when walking on snowy roads or frozen ground in January.

Especially when visiting Hokkaido or the Tohoku region, it is important to choose boots that are highly insulating and won't cool your feet even in the snow.

Also, many snow boots have non-slip soles, and since they are compatible with snow and ice, the sense of security when moving increases.

Recommended coordination examples by travel destination

Formal cold weather style perfect for the first time

In Japan in January, the first pilgrimage is a traditional event, and many people visit temples and shrines.

For clothing suitable for the first visit, we recommend a style that combines formality and protection against the cold.

Pair a wool coat with a turtleneck sweater and add warmth with gloves or a stole.

As for shoes, long boots or warm shoes that can handle the cold while maintaining a formal look are the best.

Casual Winter Outfits for Enjoying the Snow Festival

In January, snow festivals are held mainly in Hokkaido.

At this event, where people often spend a lot of time outdoors, proper protection against the cold is essential.

A casual style that combines a down jacket with snow pants or warm boots is appropriate.

Also, by using gloves, knitted hats, and scarves, you can enjoy stylish winter casual outfits while protecting against snow and cold.

summary

In order to spend a comfortable trip to Japan in January, it is essential to take proper measures against the cold.

It is important to choose a down jacket, wool coat, and warm innerwear, and choose flexible clothing according to the cold.

Also, keep your whole body well protected from the cold by incorporating small items such as winter shoes, gloves, and scarves according to the temperature differences and snow conditions in each region.

Please make your January trip to Japan memorable while enjoying a comfortable and stylish style even in the cold.

A beauty experience is also recommended when visiting Japan!

Finding a spot in Japan where you can experience beauty treatments such as massages, nails, and esthetics to heal the tiredness of your trip is highly recommended as part of sightseeing.

Here are a few salons that I recommend to those who are particular about technology and quality. Please enjoy sightseeing while relaxing even in the cold winter.

Beauty experience in Japan

Ginza/ “Mani Nail Care Ginza Store”

Open at 9 a.m.! A 5-minute walk from Ginza Station, this is a popular nail care salon where you can get rid of nail problems.

Hand and foot nails can be performed simultaneously. For those who are concerned about the burden of gel nails, we have prepared a number of “non-scraping” gel polishes, shellac, nail care, foot care, etc.

Recommended for those trying nail art for the first time, as well as those seeking special care. Men's care is also available, so it's also suitable for couples.

Details

Ginza/ “head CONCIERGE Ginza Store”

A head spa specialty store where a group of nationally qualified specialists lead to “ultimate sleep.”

It is a technique of pressing pressure points on the head called the deep muscle approach, which leads to ultimate sleep.

Various effects can be expected, such as “relieving insomnia,” “improving shoulder stiffness,” “recovering from eye strain,” and “anti-aging.”

Enjoy the ultimate head spa that goes beyond relaxation.

Details

Akihabara, Kanda, Awajicho/ “Esthetic & Relaxation WELLFIT” *Women Only

Kanda, Awaji, and Akihabara are also within walking distance.

“Esthetic & Relaxation WELLFIT,” a talented salon attended by professional beauticians and therapists

This treatment can also be used for pelvic correction, small face, beautiful skin, head spa, and maternity care.

It is a powerful salon that has been published in over 50 beauty magazines and specialty magazines. Please enjoy the industry's most advanced technology.

Details

Ikebukuro/ “Mix Up!! Ikebukuro store”

This salon, located about a 10-minute walk from Ikebukuro, offers many effective facial treatments for pores, beautiful skin, lift-up, and anti-aging.

As for body treatments, you can choose between slimming or relaxation courses. You can have your whole body well cared for according to the condition of the day.

Details

Jimbocho, Akihabara/ “CREBIA Jimbocho Store” *Women only

A slimming esthetic salon that leads to effortless results! Highly skilled and experienced staff are popular.

It is a talented salon that is a strong ally for women who want to go on a diet.

Our experienced staff will suggest a menu tailored to each person's constitution and concerns, so you can get closer to your ideal body without difficulty, without waste, and effectively.

Details

Oshiage (Asakusa, Tokyo Skytree)/“Zipangu Esthetic Room Oshiage Store”

The salon is located close to TOKYO SKYTREE, right next to Oshiage Station.

We have prepared a variety of facial menus with an emphasis on results, and we provide treatments tailored to each customer's skin concerns.

All of our estheticians have over 10 years of extensive experience.

This beauty salon is recommended for those who are concerned about repeated lift-ups, aging care, open pores, and rough skin.

Details

Kyoto/ “Mani Nail Care Kyoto Store”

It's a 1-minute walk from Gojo Station in Kyoto, perfect for a break between sightseeing.

A nail salon boasting careful service that has received high reviews.

This nail salon also suggests colors that are perfect for your skin tone and preferences.

Details

Osaka/ “bellissimo”

A beauty salon focused on results, located right next to Osaka's “Fukushima” station, and staffed by knowledgeable and experienced staff.

This salon is recommended for those with scalp problems such as diet, stiff shoulders/swelling, or hair loss.

We offer a superb relaxation menu, such as slimming machines, oil massages, head spas, hair loss care, and hair growth care menus.

Since it is a treatment that is close to each person in a private room, you can receive it with peace of mind.

Details

Osaka/ “Watanabe Acupuncture and Moxibustion Chiropractic Clinic”

If you are looking for high quality acupuncture and manipulative treatment, I recommend this salon.

We are good at improving constitution and treating pain and numbness, and we provide safe treatment for people with various problems.

Please experience our careful treatment and high technical skills.

Details

Fukuoka/ “Nailsalon epi” *women only

A 3-minute walk from Meinohama Station on the Fukuoka Metro Airport Line, this is the perfect nail salon for those looking for trends.

The color can be changed according to the wishes of each customer, and it is popular for its good durability and beautiful finish.

You can also enjoy a movie during the treatment in the stylish store, so you can spend a relaxing time.

Enjoy fashion from your fingertips at this popular nail salon.

Details