Detailed Guide for Layering Tips in Winter in Japan and Korea to Keep You Warm and Cozy (+ Bonus Winter Tips) for a 9-Day 8-Night Trip
Woman dressed in Winter
PHOTO: Unsplash/@beccatapert
Winter in Japan and Korea is a magical experience, with snow-covered landscapes and bustling winter festivals. However, the cold, often dropping to zero or below zero degrees Celsius, can be biting. Dressing appropriately in layers is essential to enjoy the season comfortably. Here's a comprehensive guide to staying warm and cozy, including bonus tips you might not have thought about.
Layering Tips for Winter in Japan and Korea
1. Base Layer: The Foundation of Warmth
Purpose of a Base Layer
Heat Tech Uniqlo Illustration
Photo: Uniqlo Singapore
The base layer is the first layer in direct contact with your skin. Its primary role is to wick away moisture, keeping you dry, as sweat can make you feel colder. It also traps body heat, serving as the foundation of your layering system.
Recommendations
Heat Tech Uniqlo Guide
Photo: Uniqlo Malaysia
Uniqlo Heattech Ultra Warm: Highly recommended for its thermal properties. Opt for the turtleneck version for extra coverage for your neck, or the crew neck style if you prefer less bulk around the neck.
How Many to Pack: For a 9-day, 8-night trip, bring 3-4 Heattech tops and alternate wearing them. Heattech is lightweight and easy to wash and dry if needed.
2. First Middle Layer: Fleece or Long-Sleeved Shirt
Purpose
The middle layer adds insulation. It traps heat close to your body and acts as a barrier against the cold.
Recommendations
Example of fleece shirt on Uniqlo
Photo: Uniqlo Singapore
Long-Sleeved Fleece Tops: Opt for lightweight fleece with a snug fit.
For those who get colder, bring a thicker long-sleeved shirt to layer over the Heattech.
How Many to Pack: 2-3 fleece tops or shirts, depending on how cold you usually feel.
3. Second Middle Layer: Sweater or Light Coat
Purpose
This layer ensures internal warmth and provides an easy-to-remove option when indoors, where heaters keep temperatures warm.
Recommendations
Example of thick sweaters for middle layer
Photo: Unsplash/ @tomthephotographer
Thick Sweaters or Light Coats: Choose wool or thermal sweaters for excellent insulation. Consider sweaters with zippers or buttons for convenience.
How Many to Pack: 2-3 thick sweaters. You can repeat wear them by switching up your inner layers.
4. Outer Layer: Shield Against the Elements
Purpose
The outer layer protects you from wind, rain, and snow. It must be windproof and waterproof to block out the chill caused by strong winds.
Recommendations
A woman wearing a outer waterproof and windproof jackets
Photo: Unsplash/ @claybanks
Waterproof and Windproof Jackets: Look for insulated jackets with hoods.
For colder regions or individuals who feel cold easily, choose a long down jacket that extends below the knees.
How Many to Pack: 1 good-quality jacket. This will be your main protection outdoors.
5. Accessories: The Unsung Heroes of Warmth
Photo: Unsplash/ @punttim
Hats and Ear Protection
Choose a hat that covers your ears, or opt for a 3-in-1 hat-scarf-ear cover for convenience.
Gloves
For temperatures around zero or below zero, invest in thick, windproof gloves. Avoid thin gloves designed for milder autumn weather.
Scarves
A fleece or wool scarf is ideal. Alternatively, the 3-in-1 coverage options save space in your luggage.
Heat Packs
Heat pads for toes/ feet during winter time
Photo: Amazon
Bring both sticky and non-sticky heat pads. Use sticky pads on your inner layers and non-sticky ones in your pockets.
Feet Heat Packs: Essential for keeping your feet warm, especially if you're out for long hours.
6. Bottoms: Keep Your Legs Warm
Recommendations
Photo: Uniqlo Singapore
Heattech Leggings: Wear under your pants for extra warmth.
Windproof Pants: Uniqlo's Heattech-lined pants are excellent, but for temperatures below zero, pair them with an additional Heattech layer underneath.
How Many to Pack: 2-3 pairs of Heattech leggings and 2-3 windproof pants.
7. Footwear: Prioritize Function Over Fashion
Photo: Unsplash/ @daugirl
Shoes
Opt for proper snow boots with anti-slip studs. These are essential for navigating icy streets and snowy paths.
Choose high-cut boots that provide additional wind and cold protection.
Size Tips: Go up 2-3 sizes to accommodate thick socks. For example in my case, my regular size is 37, I had to size up to 40 for added comfort.
Socks
Pack thick wool socks for insulation.
Bring 1-2 extra pairs to layer for extreme cold.
Tips: Improper shoes and thin socks can lead to numbness, causing your body to divert heat from extremities, making you feel colder overall.
8. Bonus Tips: Don’t Overlook These Essentials
Moisturiser for face and body
Photo: Unsplash/ @issaphotography
Moisturizer and Lip Balm
Cold winds and dry air can lead to cracked skin and lips, causing irritation and pain.
Use a hydrating face cream and body moisturizer daily.
Carry a lip balm to prevent dryness.
Packing Efficiently
Winter clothes are bulky. Use vacuum-sealed ziplock bags to compress items.
Rewear sweaters and outerwear to reduce luggage load.
Some winter essentials, like scarves and gloves, can be purchased locally for a more authentic touch.
Packing List for a 24-Inch Luggage (9 Days, 8 Nights)
Clothing
Base Layers (Heattech): 4 tops, 3 bottoms
Fleece Tops: 3
Sweaters: 3
Windproof Pants: 3
Outer Jacket: 1 (waterproof and windproof)
Scarves: 2
Hats: 1 (3-in-1 recommended)
Footwear
Snow Boots: 1 pair
Thick Wool Socks: 5 pairs
Accessories
Gloves: 1 pair (windproof)
Heat Packs: 10-15 (sticky and non-sticky)
Feet Heat Packs: 5 pairs
Toiletries
Body Moisturizer
Face Cream
Lip Balm
Hand-Carry Luggage Essentials
Photo: Unsplash/@alexgoesglobal
Change of Clothes: 1 Heattech top, 1 Heattech leggings, fleece shirt, and wool socks to change into upon arrival.
Outerwear: Carry your jacket to save luggage space.
Accessories: Gloves, hat, scarf, and heat packs for immediate warmth.
By following these tips and packing appropriately, you’ll stay warm and comfortable while exploring the winter wonderlands of Japan and Korea. Enjoy your 9-day, 8-night journey with confidence and style! To get more tips on Hokkaido trips, visit more blog articles or itinerary here!
