Seasons in Japan
Storm season runs August to October
Right now · September
Japan is in its storm season right now, August to October. Most trips are unaffected, but a storm reroutes flights and closes beaches at a day's notice — the packing consequence is a buffer day and a charged power bank, not different clothes.
Going in November
Easy monthsNovember
Cool, dry and clear, and the autumn colour is at its best — the other reason to come.
What this means for your bag
Layers, not one thick coat
Three thin layers beat one heavy one: they cover a wider range and pack smaller. A base layer, a fleece and a shell.
See the Winter Warmth Kit packQuick-dry fabrics
Cotton takes two days to dry in this air and starts to smell before it does. Synthetics and merino wash in a sink and are wearable by morning.
See the Summer Sun Kit pack
Packing for Japan?
Build a packing plan around the season you are actually travelling in.
Seasonal ranges are typical, not guarantees — a monsoon can arrive early and a dry season can break. Check the forecast before you seal the bag.