Winter months at Tokyo Disney Resort — and Japan in general — are from December until the end of February, with the coldest months being January and February (this is the slowest time of the year for crowds). Our tips and recommendations keep you nice and toasty during this chilly time of year. Even if you’re from a colder climate, you’ll still want to give this a read, as I guarantee you will learn a few tricks!
Average Temperatures
Here’s a reference for how cold it gets on average during the winters months of December to February:
- Average Temperature: 7°C (45°F)
- Average High: 10°C (50°F)
- Average Low: 3°C (37°F)
What to Wear
If you’re from a cold climate (shout out to my Canadian brethren), then this is a walk in the park, sorta. The cold is humid, so it does chill you to the bone if not dressed in proper layers, and it can also get windy. If you’re not used to the cold climate, then you’ll want to memorize this section.
Here’s my recommendation for items to wear:
- Uniqlo Heattech Undershirt
- Uniqlo Ultra Light Down Jacket or Vest
- At least 2-3 layers of clothing
- Gloves that allow you to use your smartphone
- Scarf and knit cap (toque for us Canadians out there)
- Fleece blanket
- Anything fleece
The reason for the layers is while it keeps you nice and toasty outside when you go inside the heat is — on average — pumped up and you will get hot. This is true on public transportation as well. This way it’s easy to take off a layer or two.
I swear by the Uniqlo Heattech (or a shirt that is similar), as it holds your body heat. Also recommended is the Ultra Light Down jacket or vest (this helps with the wind). Both are thin and light, which makes it easy to layer on top without the bulk. If you have a Uniqlo in your home country, pick them up before your trip. If not, Uniqlo stores are everywhere in Japan, including Narita and Haneda Airport.
Before Japan, I refused to wear anything with fleece, but now I am a believer. If it has fleece, you bet I am going to wear it. And with of all the adorable choices at the parks, how can you resist?
Wearing a blanket is not uncommon in the parks by locals, so go ahead and treat yourself to that Chip ’n’ Dale fleece blanket or shoulder wrap. Keep yourself warm while you wait for the best parade they have — Tokyo Disneyland Electrical Parade Dreamlights.
Other Ways to Keep Warm
- Kairo hand warmers
- Kairo body warmers (sticks to your clothing)
- Kairo Feet Warmers (stick them on your socks in your shoes)
- Hot beverage
- Adorable Gelatoni, ShellieMay, or Duffy cup cozy (available at Cape Cod Cook-off)
- Refuge inside a restaurant
Kairo (カイロ) is brilliant and I keep a bunch of these in my bags anytime I am outside or at the parks in the winter. There are two types: One that you hold in your hand and it warms up; the other is a patch you stick on the outside of your clothing. I suggest sticking it on your Uniqlo Heattech or undershirt and NOT directly on your skin.
These last for hours on end and you’ll thank me once you have some. They are available almost everywhere in the parks, or if you have time, any convenience store or Daiso carries them for much cheaper. Or follow the links above and buy them before your trip so you aren’t scrambling when it’s cold!
Staying Inside or Covered
Most queues for attractions are covered or indoors, so you won’t have to endure the cold for too long, hopefully. If you have everything listed above, it makes it bearable. As for restaurants, avoiding sitting outside is a good idea. Warm yourself up with a hot beverage, or if you’re at Tokyo DisneySea, some hot wine.
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