January is a very cold month, so come prepared with winter-appropriate clothing. Long pants, warm, thin layers, a coat, and warm accessories (gloves, a hat, and a scarf) are recommended.
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Tokyo temperature in January: Average high of 10.2°C (50°F); average low of 1.8°C (35°F). Not only does the sun rise very late, January is also the coldest month of the Japanese year.
Invest in Waterproof, Slip Resistant, Insulated Winter BootsFeet are the most vulnerable body parts as you might have to put your feet in the snow or on the icy road when traveling in cold weather.
The weather is usually cool, dry and sunny during January and sites are much less crowded than later in the year. In northern Japan there is heavy snowfall making conditions good for skiing.
Narcotics such as opium, cocaine, heroin, MDMA, magic mushrooms, stimulant drugs (stimulant drugs contained in an inhaler or items containing stimulant drug ingredients), cannabis, opium smoking paraphernalia and psychotropic drugs are not allowed in Japan.
You'll find women most often turned out in a sharp skirt, blouse, and heels. Since you'll be walking all day, dress comfortably, but in clothing that's neat and fitted. A tucked-in shirt or trim sweater, trousers, or dark jeans, and a comfortable but stylish shoe will help you avoid standing out.
Most businesses are closed from December 29th to January 3rd for the shogatsu (New Year's) holiday. This is a quiet month in terms of crowds (except for at the shrines during shogatsu).
Japan has earned a reputation as having some of the lowest crime rates in the world, both theft and violent crimes. While the Yakuza, Japan's organized crime syndicate, often plays a role in movies, they are not likely to target tourists. While in Japan, simply exercise common sense and don't make yourself a target.
What time of year is best to visit Japan? In short, you'll have the best chance of comfortable weather and fewer crowds in early spring (March – early April) and in autumn (late October – November).