What to pack for Tokyo in May
Heading to Tokyo in May? Here's a packing list built directly from local climate averages — not generic blog advice.
Tokyo, Japan
Essentials
- ★ Passport + a photocopy stored separately Travel documents
- ★ Phone + charging cables (USB-C, Lightning as needed) Daily essentials
- • Refillable water bottle (1L) Reduces single-use plastic + saves money
- • Compact daypack (15–20L) For day trips, hands-free walking
- • Travel-size first-aid kit (band-aids, ibuprofen, antihistamines) Pharmacy access varies
Tops
- ★ T-shirts (5–6) — cotton or merino Avg high 23°C — warm
- • 1–2 long-sleeve linen or chambray shirts Cooler evenings + sun protection
Bottoms
- ★ Light chinos or trousers (1–2) Cooler evenings + cultural sites
- • Shorts (2) — knee-length Daytime warmth
Outerwear & layers
- ★ Light jacket — denim, bomber, or packable windbreaker Overnight lows 15°C
Rain & weather protection
- ★ Waterproof jacket or rain shell (e.g. Patagonia Torrentshell) 10 rain days expected
- ★ Compact travel umbrella For sudden showers
Footwear
- ★ Comfortable walking shoes (broken in) Mild weather, lots of walking
- • Lightweight sneakers (1 backup pair) Rotation prevents blisters
Accessories
- ★ High-SPF sunscreen (SPF 30+ minimum, 50+ for fair skin) Strong sun expected
- ★ Sunglasses with UV400 protection Sunny conditions
- ★ Wide-brim sun hat or peaked cap Sun protection
Local style + dress code
- • 1 nicer outfit (collared shirt or dress + dark trousers + non-sneaker shoes) Locals dress smart-casual — e.g. Tokyo restaurants and evenings expect more than t-shirt + sneakers
Power, voltage & adapters
- ★ 100V at 50/60Hz Mains electricity standard for Japan
- ★ Plug types: A, B (Type A — flat 2-pin (US/Canada/Japan style)) Most common: A. Older buildings may also use B.
- • From the UK/Ireland: bring a G→A travel adapter UK Type G plugs don't fit Japan's outlets
- • From continental Europe: bring a C/F→A travel adapter EU Type C/F plugs don't fit Japan's outlets
- • If your device is labeled '220–240V only' (common for European hairdryers/kettles), it WILL underperform or not work at all here. Most phone/laptop chargers are dual-voltage — they're fine. Japan runs 100V — too low for EU-only 230V devices
- · Easiest option: a universal travel adapter (e.g. Anker, Epicka) that handles A/B/C/E/F/G/I in one — covers ~95% of countries. If you travel to multiple regions
How this list was built
Every recommendation above maps to specific climate data for Tokyo in May: average high (23°C), average low (15°C), expected rain days (10), and any peak hazard seasons. Heavier items appear at colder temperatures; rain gear scales with how often it rains; sun protection appears when it's warm and dry.
The ★ items are essential — pack these first. The • items are recommended for comfort. The · items are nice-to-have if you have space.
Other months in Tokyo
Daily forecasts, climate averages, and the best activities for the season.