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Whether crossing the busiest intersection in the world, getting lost among the cherry blossoms, or exploring shrines, a trip to Japan means a LOT of walking. Keep your feet happy as you explore with this roundup of the best shoes for walking in Japan!
Best Shoes to Wear in Japan
Table Of Contents
If you’re packing for a trip to Japan, shoes are definitely one of the most important items to consider. Readers say that comfy shoes are key, as you’ll be walking a ton and climbing a good amount of stairs.
When it comes to the right shoes for Japan, a lot of readers ask whether slip on shoes are necessary. Those who either have visited Japan or live there have shared that unless a lot of shopping (and trying on clothes), visiting the insides of temples and shrines, or going out to eat at fancy restaurants are on your itinerary, slip ons are not an absolute essential, though they’re convenient!
They also emphasize that if you do need to take your shoes off, there are always benches and there is never a hurry to get inside, so if your most comfortable pair of travel shoes have laces or straps, those should be the ones you wear!
Our readers have helped us compile this list of the best walking shoes for travel in Japan that are comfortable, stylish, and will cover every season!
Best Sneakers for Japan
Throughout the year, you can always find sneakers among locals and travelers in Japan. Readers note that locals take pride in their appearance and will always choose simple, classic items, even when it comes to comfortable shoes. Classic-looking sneakers in neutral colors are ideal if you want to fit in with the local style, but of course, comfort should always be the priority!
Shop: Allbirds
Allbirds Wool Runners
Many readers recommend the Allbirds Wool Runners as some of best shoes for walking Japan (and for travel in general), as they offer incredible comfort, protection from the elements, and temperature regulation due to their merino wool construction. TFGs love their sporty-chic design and say that they’re comfy in all climates, have great support, and are easy to care for.
A traveler says she trekked all around Japan in them and they help up great, and that they’re her favorite shoes by far!
These are our tried and tested reader recommendations for the world’s best travel shoes!
Shop: Nordstrom
On Cloud 6
Sporty with a bit of an edge, these On Cloud 6 waterproof sneakers would make the perfect addition to a streetwear-inspired look that Tokyo is known for! The Cloud 5s are one of the most popular sneakers in the TFG community, equipped with incredible cushioning and arch support, a springy outsole, a breathable upper, and easy slip-on laces. You’ll be able to log some serious mileage in these!
One reader says she wore her On Cloud 5 waterproof shoes most days on her trip to Japan, and they were lightweight and incredibly comfortable.
Read this article to check out more waterproof sneakers.
Hoka Clifton 9
Another one of the most popular sneakers among readers and highly recommended for Japan, the Hoka Clifton 10 sneakers are adored for their ultra-lightweight feel and extra-responsive cushioning. The rubber outsole is super rugged, so it’ll handle long bouts of sightseeing on rough streets with ease, and the breathable fabric will ensure your feet stay cool and comfy throughout the day.
Despite the chunky, athletic look, they’ll look great contrasted with wide leg jeans and a white button-down for a comfy sightseeing look! One reader says she loves her Hokas and that she’s walked 10-12 miles per day on city streets wearing them!
Best Sandals for Japan
Summer in Japan can be very hot and humid, so readers suggest packing a pair of comfortable walking sandals that you can walk around in that are airy. You’ll want something a bit more supportive than flip-flops, so opt for a pair that has great cushioning and straps to keep your feet balanced and secure. Versatility is always key for travel, so if they can be worn for casual sightseeing and then dressed up for dinner, all the better!
Shop: Nordstrom
Keen Rose
Designed to keep your feet protected and comfortable on any adventure, these Keen Rose sandals are really good shoes for Japan if you’re going to be out in nature, though a lot of readers have loved them for city sightseeing in Tokyo, too! These sandals are lightweight and airy, so they’re comfy in the sweltering heat, and the cushioned footbed and arch support will keep your feet happy mile after mile.
Whether paired with a moisture wicking dress or a t-shirt and cropped pants, these walking sandals will go with anything and add tons of comfort to your trip. One traveler wore these to Thailand during a hot and humid summer where she climbed long flights of stairs to the top of temples and walked all day long on uneven terrain. She reports that they were comfortable and reliable, the traction was perfect, and her feet were always protected!
Check out a few airplane outfit ideas to feel relaxed but still look chic when traveling!
Taos Truile
Supportive and comfortable, the Taos Trulie sandals are a go-to summer sandal for so many TFG readers. The leather-blend woven straps give these sandals a stylish flair, while the contoured cork footbed with arch support and shock absorption makes them a dream to wear for long periods of time.
Readers highlight the secure straps that make them feel super stable. One traveler who bought these for travel says the fit is amazing, they’re very stylish, and they hold up well on uneven streets. She adds that they’re pricey but so well made that she highly recommends them!
Shop: Nordstrom | Macy’s | Vionic
Vionic Cypress
The Vionic Cypress Strappy Sandal combines comfort and style, making it a great choice for travel and everyday wear. It features a contoured footbed for balance and stability, plus cushioned support and excellent arch support comfortable enough for long days of walking.
Its sleek, strappy design pairs easily with shorts, pants, skirts, and dresses, so you can wear it from sightseeing to casual dinners. One TFG reader says these sandals are super comfortable, supportive, and cute with almost any outfit.
Shop: Nordstrom | The Walking Company
Naot Kayla
Fresh, minimalist, and effortlessly chic, the Naot Kayla Sandal fits right in with Japan’s clean, modern style. This supportive walking sandal features a contoured cork footbed that molds to your foot, offering excellent arch support and cushioning for long sightseeing days without feeling bulky.
The adjustable straps help create a secure, custom fit, while the sturdy sole provides stability and traction for city walking. It pairs beautifully with linen pants, relaxed denim, or midi skirts, making it a polished yet practical option for travel. Many wearers love how supportive and comfortable it feels even after hours on their feet, helping reduce foot fatigue throughout the day.
Best Slip Ons for Japan
Whether you have a temple walking tour planned, want to do a lot of shopping, or just love the ease and comfort of slip on shoes, they’ll make really good walking shoes for Japan! With a sleek silhouette, slip ons are super easy to style. As always, opt for a pair that’s light and breathable, comfortable and supportive, and not too snug — especially if you’re traveling in the hotter months!
Shop: Kohl’s
Skechers Go Walk
The Skechers Go Walk Joy slip on sneakers are one of the most popular shoes on the website, raved about for their memory foam footbed that feels like you’re walking on a cloud! Their incredible support and lightweight feel will keep your feet energized throughout long days of sightseeing, and their slim, simple design will be easy to pair with all of your outfits.
From Shibuya Crossing to seaside strolls in Okinawa, these versatile sneakers will be the perfect travel companion! One reader highly recommends these Skechers, saying they’re some of the best shoes for traveling in Japan.
Mix and match with these top reader recommendations for white sneakers!
Shop: Nordstrom
Veja Recife
This sporty Recife slip-on from Veja exudes a cool, fashion-forward look that’ll amp up even the simplest of outfits. The cushioned insole is perfect for days spent on your feet, and wearers say they’re supportive and sturdy when walking on tough city streets. The velcro straps make them a breeze to get on and off and add a unique look, too.
Readers adore these sneakers! One TFGer shares that they’re stylish and sleek, go with absolutely everything, while another adds that they were perfect on her trip to Japan in the spring.
Shop: Naturalizer | Nordstrom
Naturalizer Marianne
While stylish and fun, the best part about these Naturalizer Marianne slip ons is their comfort! They boast a memory foam footbed, arch support, and flexibility, so you can strut around Japan looking fab while being supported.
These gems are durable, easy to slip on and off, and have a non-slip outsole, too. Tons of reviews say they’re the best slip ons for narrow feet–and they come in wide sizes as well!
One traveler reports these are cute yet super comfortable shoes and used them for two trips to Europe, which involved a lot of walking and they felt great on her feet.
Ryka Echo Knit
Ryka’s Echo Knit slip on can handle both city streets and nature trails, equipped with killer traction and ample support. This sporty pair has an amazingly comfortable fit, with soft cushioning, arch support, a roomy toe, shock absorption, and tons of flexibility. Lightweight yet highly durable, these cuties can handle whatever your Japan adventures bring!
A user says she walked 18,000 steps per day for five straight days with no foot or knee pain at all in these. They dress up or down with leggings or dresses and are great for travel!” They come in wide sizes, too!
Best Flats for Japan
The nightlife in Japan offers so much to explore, from incredible restaurants to fun dive bars to extravagant clubs. That means you’ll likely want to pack a nicer pair of shoes for when you get a bit dressed up. Flats are the most practical choice, as they’re chic yet comfortable and will allow you to walk for shorter periods of time without aching feet!
Shop: VIVAIA
VIVAIA Margot
These VIVAIA Margot Mary Jane flats are a chic yet practical option for travel, especially in walkable cities like Japan. With a sleek, polished look, they’re easy to dress up with skirts and dresses while still being comfortable enough for sightseeing. The cushioned insole and flexible knit upper provide all-day comfort, and the breathable, lightweight design helps keep feet cool in warmer weather.
The secure Mary Jane strap adds stability perfect for long walking days and frequent on-and-off wear at temples or traditional spaces. One TFG reader notes that with the supportive padding and comfortable fit, these flats can handle full days of exploring without sore feet.
Here are TFG’s packing lists for international destinations that you can customize to meet your own unique needs and style!
Shop: Rothy’s
Rothy’s Loafers
Slim and sophisticated, you’d never guess that these Rothy’s loafers are as comfortable, supportive, and resilient as they are! They have an extra-cushy insole with arch support and a soft, flexible upper that supports your foot with every step. Readers also love that the almond-toe design has a roomy fit, so your toes won’t feel squished in these.
To top it off, they’re breathable, machine-washable, and knit from recycled water bottles! One reader recommends them as a dressier shoe for Japan, describing them as very light and pretty.
Shop: Everlane
Everlane Flats
These Everlane Day Glove flats exude elegance, with their luxuriously supple leather that molds to your foot for the perfect fit. Side vents keep the air flowing, the rubber sole will handle city streets, and the cushioned insole adds some lovely comfort. Plus, you can choose from the narrow or comfort width!
This is one of the most popular ballet flats with readers! One happy owner says they fit very well, the high cut gives them an edgy, stylish look, and they never hurt or rub. And they come in narrow sizes, too!
Best Boots for Japan
TFG readers say that from late fall to early spring when Japan can get a bit chilly, boots are a perfect shoe option. Be sure to pack a comfortable pair that won’t weigh you down and that you can wear for long periods of time. A sleek and stylish pair of boots will be super versatile, too, as you can wear them for casual sightseeing by day and dress them up for dinner and drinks at night!
Sorel Joan
These Sorel Joan Chelsea boots are simply gorgeous, made with durable, waterproof leather that’ll hold up amazingly well over time. They’re easy to slip into and boast a cushioned footbed and a grippy outsole that’ll keep your feet sturdy and supported on any terrain. They’ll give you 2 1/2 inches of height with a platform to keep them ultra-comfy and walkable.
Plus, the slim silhouette paired with a chunky sole will add major style points to any outfit! One wearer describes them as a perfect waterproof boot for travel that can be dressed up or dressed down and is comfortable enough to walk all day in.
Readers agree that waterproof leather ankle boots are always good for travel–see this list of top recommendations!
Shop: Ecco
Ecco Amsterdam
Just as functional as they are sleek, these Ecco Amsterdam ankle boots are supportive enough for long days of sightseeing and pretty enough for a fun night out in Tokyo. Despite their slim shape, wearers say they’re not too tight and have a roomy toe box. These beauties are lightweight, have anatomical support, and will totally suit the polished and understated style of Japan.
A traveler who bought these for a two-week trip says they looked great and were comfortable when walking all day!
Shop: Sorel
Sorel Out N About
Sporty yet stylish, readers adore the Sorel Out N About boots for walking-heavy trips, especially if rain is in the forecast. The rugged, waterproof design features enhanced traction and an amply cushioned footbed, making them an excellent option for nature walks in the countryside or enjoying the city’s many sprawling gardens.
Readers love that they’re super solid yet lightweight and are an elevated alternative to a rain boot! One traveler says they offer warmth, comfort, and style and that after multiple long days of walking during her travels, her feet never got sore or tired.
Find out our readers’ picks for the best black ankle boots for traveling!
Shop: Nordstrom
Blondo Danika
These chic Blondo Danika boots are warm and comfy and made of high-quality, waterproof leather. Good looks aside, these boots are robust and suitable for everything from shopping in Harajuku to leisurely trails in Kyoto. Your feet will love the cushioned insole and great arch support, and the grippy lug sole will keep you stable.
One wearer says she highly recommends these boots for sightseeing. She wore them five days in a row on a trip that involved lots of walking on uneven streets, and they were perfect!
Shop: Nordstrom
Olukai Hawai’iloa Manu Hope
Olukai’s Hawai’iloa Manu Hope booties give off a casual yet classy vibe that much of Japanese fashion exudes! Comfy and supportive, they’re a great go-to shoe option for cooler weather that’ll look great with any outfit. The soft, waterproof leather upper is flexible, cozy, and pretty, while the cushy, anatomical footbed will put a bounce in your step!
One traveler says they were amazing for walking all around Tokyo!
Compass Rose Carryon Size Packing Cubes: Slim Size Cubes | Medium Size Cubes
How to Pack Your Shoes for Japan
Now that you’ve found the best styles for you, it’s time to pack those walking shoes for Japan to prepare for your big trip! Start by selecting a container such as a shoe bag or a packing cube, then pack according to your type of luggage.
Many of our readers use Compass Rose Packing Cubes to organize and compress their clothing and other items they plan to bring. These packing cubes are the only ones on the market with a number and color-coded system, so you know where you packed everything.
And now the Compass Rose Packing Cubes are offered in two sizes: slim and medium. The slim size cubes measure 13” x 5” x 2.8”, and the medium size cubes measure 2.8” x 13” x 8.5”. Both fit an international carry-on suitcase. Users say the medium size is great for bulkier items!
If you want to learn how to use packing cubes, watch the video below.
Watch this video to start learning how to organize with packing cubes!
Whether you have a front loading or top loading backpack, it’s crucial to put your shoes first, at the bottom. If you’re planning to pack shoes in a rolling carry-on, remember that it stands sideways, so it’s important to note how it functions when it is upright. Most often, your shoes will need to be packed close to the wheels, so that the luggage maintains its balance in transit. This is the secret to packing carry-on only!
What do you think are the best women’s walking shoes for travel in Japan? Share in the comments!
For more Japan packing help, please read:
- Japan Packing List: What to Pack for Kyoto
- What to Wear in Japan in Spring
- What to Bring to Japan and South Korea from Spring through Autumn
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Reading all the blog posts about Japan and fall!
If you’re wearing sandals and therefore no tights or socks, keep a pair of socks in your bag or pocket. Although it is customary to remove shoes inside in Japan, being completely barefoot can be considered uncouth. And also it’s nicer for your own hygiene! (In most places if they really have an issue with bare feet they will lend socks or slippers)
Great advice, thanks for sharing!