Planning your summer in Tokyo outfit and need some inspo?
You are definitely on the right site!
Hello there! I am Sam, your go-to travel buddy for making Japan adventures easy, stylish, and stress-free—especially if it is your first time!
Not gonna lie; Tokyo summers can be intense at times.
But with the slay right outfits, you can stay cool, comfortable, and photo-ready as you are exploring the temples, cafe hopping, or dancing at a summer festival.
So here is your complete guide to cute, functional, and culturally appropriate outfit ideas for summer in Tokyo—plus some unique local summer cooling practices you won’t want to miss!
What is Summer Like in Tokyo?
Tokyo’s summer runs from June to August, and as you can expect, it is going to be hot and humid.
- Temperatures: 25 to 35°C
- Humidity: High, especially in July and August
- Rain: Sudden downpours or even typhoons
I know some of you might be panicking just looking at those temperatures, but hear me out.
Despite the humidity, my summer days on my first trip to Japan were never dull.
In fact, I was constantly in awe of how stylish the locals looked, even in the heat!
Meanwhile, I was out there sweating buckets… just from existing. 😅
So read on to find out how to survive (and maybe even slay) your summer in Tokyo outfit 🤩
What to Consider When Choosing Outfits for Tokyo Summer
Before we jump into outfit ideas, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, and moisture-wicking materials are your best friend.
- Sun protection matters. Think UV-cut clothing, hats, and long sleeves for daytime.
- Smart layering is key. Show off your fashion style while covering your arms and legs from the harsh sun rays. Wearing miniskirt? Pair it with thigh-high socks. Spaghetti strap? A lightweight jacket pairing sounds cool.
- Modesty is common in Japanese fashion. Shorts and sleeveless tops are okay, but super revealing outfits may stand out, especially in temples or rural towns.
- You will walk a lot (like 20K steps kind of lot), and you will thank yourself for prioritising comfort and practicality during the Japan trip.
Getting too overwhelmed? Skip the research and refer to my Japan summer packing list instead 😉
7 Cute Summer in Tokyo Outfit Ideas
1. Sightseeing Chic
What to wear: Flowy midi dress + cardigan + comfy sneakers/ black boots
Styling tips: Add a tote bag and a UV umbrella
Why it works: You will stay breezy and look effortlessly cute while walking through parks, shrines, or museum districts.
Shop the Look 👇
2. Cafe or Shopping Day
What to wear: High-waisted shorts + T-shirt or cropped top + sneakers
Styling tips: Pair with a hat, mini backpack, or tote bag
Why it works: Ideal for Harajuku, Omotesando, or Shimokitazawa days. Trendy but still comfy for lots of browsing and iced coffee runs!
If you are not sure how to plan out your days in Tokyo, then make sure to read my fun 4 days Tokyo itinerary (+personal experience!) 🥳
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3. Temple Visits
What to wear: Dark maxi skirt or linen pants + light-coloured top + sneakers
Styling tips: Pair with a cap and a bag
Why it works: Respectful while staying cool for religious and cultural spots like Senso-ji Temple or Meiji Shrine. Avoid spaghetti straps and opt easy slip-on shoes if entering temple halls.
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4. Rainy Day Look
What to wear: Quick-dry tee + wide-leg pants
Styling tips: Add a compact raincoat or foldable umbrella
Why it works: Rainy season alert! Go for waterproof sandals or lightweight trainers and embrace the showers with style.
Shop the Look 👇
5. Summer Festivals Vibe
What to wear: Yukata (light cotton kimono) + geta sandals or white sneakers
Styling tips: Add a matching drawstring purse (kinchaku) + hairstyling
Why it works: Totally seasonal and Instagrammable! Rent a yukata from shops in Asakusa or Harajuku for a one-of-a-kind experience at vibrant summer events like Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival.
6. Day Trip Attire
What to wear: Wide-leg jumpsuit + crop tee
Styling tips: Use a fun canvas tote and tie your hair with a printed scrunchie
Why it works: Easy, breezy, and comfy for a whole day out!
Travel tip: Don’t leave Tokyo without checking out my Tokyo ultimate bucket list—these are the experiences you will be kicking yourself for missing! 😉
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7. Night Out in Tokyo
What to wear: Cropped linen vest + flowy satin or cotton long skirt
Styling tips: Add low heels or strappy sandals and a mini bag
Why it works: Tokyo’s nightlife is casual-chic. This outfit works for sushi bars in Ebisu or cocktails in Shinjuku’s Golden Gai.
Shop the Look 👇
What NOT to Wear in Japan in Summer
Heavy or Bulky Clothing
- Thick jeans or heavy fabrics
Forget about wearing thick jeans, sweapants and sweaters for your day out in Japan during summer.
You might think you are serving looks, but Japan’s summer heat and humidity will humble you fast.
Too Many Shoes
- Bulky boots or high heels
Bulky boots and high heels are a no-go for Japan in the summer unless you are planning for a romantic date night out with your partner.
Between the humidity and endless walking, and the constant shoe removal at the temples, your feet will be begging for mercy before the day even ends.
My suggestion: Bring lightweight, slip-on, non-slip flat covered shoes.
Only Crop Tops or Revealing Clothing
While fashion is diverse in big cities like Tokyo, showing cleavage or a lot of midriff can still feel out of place, especially in more traditional areas or temples.
So cover yourself with a lightweight outer or jacket before heading out!
Unique Local Tips to Beating the Tokyo Summer Heat
Here are some of the lesser-known yet super effective tips locals in Tokyo practice to stay cool and look neat during the summer months:
- Use Cooling Sheets and Body Wipes
Available in unscented and scented types, the sheets or wipes help in removing sweat, body odour, and leaves skin feeling powdery-dry and refreshing.
Recommended Japanese products: Biore SaraSara Body Sheets, Gatsby Ice-Type Body Paper
You can easily find an entire shelves dedicated to them in drugstores and convenience stores like Matsumoto Kiyoshi and Don Quijote during summer.
If you want to buy some before visiting Japan, you can get this:
- Carry a Foldable UV Umbrella
People in Asia including Japanese use UV umbrella to protect their skin and prevent overheating while walking under the sun.
- Wear Cooling Innerwear
Many Japanese people wear cooling innerwear under their regular clothes to keep them dry and non-sticky by absorbing the sweat.
And one of the best places in Japan to get the innerwear is Uniqlo!
- Change Clothes Midday
This might seem tedious but it is common for office workers and students to bring a spare shirt to change into during the day, especially after a sweaty commute.
Check out some of the best things to do in summer in Japan if you are visiting for the first time!
Final Thoughts: Your Tokyo Summer Style Game Plan
With the right outfits, a little planning, and some local secret hacks, you are going to look effortlessly stylish while staying breezy exploring Tokyo.
Let’s not forget about the cultural aspect of dressing modestly too, so you can still look cute and feel confident while respecting local norms!
Enjoy your trip 😉
Sam Lee, founder of Sam Lee Travel, is a seasoned traveler with over 10 years of experience exploring various Asian countries. Having lived in Singapore for almost a decade, Sam has developed a deep understanding of the culture, customs, and attractions in the region.
With a passion for outdoor travel adventures and water sports, Sam has helped over 25K readers per month plan their trips around Asia, including off-the-beaten-path destinations, offering helpful travel tips and unfiltered personal travel experience.