Are you excited about shopping for clothes during your trip to Japan?
While it’s a fantastic experience, it’s important to be aware of a few differences in sizing compared to what you might be used to at home.
Japan has its own unique sizing system, and understanding how it works can help you make smarter shopping choices.
In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between Japanese and international sizing, and provide some helpful tips.
Understanding Japanese Sizing
Image by Siora Photography
Japan has its own national sizing standard called JIS.While many brands follow this standard, some may have their own specific sizing.
Smaller Sizes:
Generally, Japanese sizes tend to run smaller compared to international standards. For example, an international size M for women is equivalent to a size L in Japan.
Number System:
In addition to using S, M, L, and XL, Japanese clothing often uses a number system, especially for tops. For instance, an international size M for men corresponds to a size 3 (L) in Japan, and for women, it’s usually a size 11 (L).
Top Sizing Comparison
Here is a size comparison table of TOPS.
Size comparison chart for men’s tops
| International | Japan | USA | UK | Germany | France | Italy |
| XS | 1(S) | 34 | 34 | 44 | 38 | 44 |
| S | 2(M) | 36 | 36 | 46 | 40 | 46 |
| M | 3(L) | 38 | 38 | 48 | 42 | 48 |
| L | 4(LL) | 40 | 40 | 50 | 44 | 50 |
| XL | 5(3L) | 42 | 42 | 52 | 46 | 52 |
Size comparison chart for women’s tops
| International | Japan | USA | UK | Germany | France | Italy |
| XXS | 5(XS) | 0-2 | 6 | 32 | 34 | 38 |
| XS | 7(S) | 4 | 8 | 34 | 36 | 40 |
| S | 9(M) | 6 | 10 | 36 | 38 | 42 |
| M | 11(L) | 8 | 12 | 38 | 40 | 44 |
| L | 13(LL) | 10 | 14 | 40 | 42 | 46 |
| XL | 15(3L) | 12 | 16 | 42 | 44 | 48 |
Bottom Sizing Comparison
While inches are commonly used for bottom sizes in Western countries, centimeters are often used in Japan, especially for items other than jeans.
Size comparison chart for men’s bottoms
| International | Japan | USA | UK | Germany | France | Italy |
| XS | 68-71 | 27 | 27 | 42-46 | 36-38 | 42-44 |
| S | 71-76 | 28-29 | 28-29 | 46-48 | 38-40 | 44-46 |
| M | 76-84 | 30-31 | 30-31 | 48-50 | 40-44 | 46-48 |
| L | 84-94 | 32-33 | 32-33 | 50-54 | 44-48 | 50 |
| XL | 94-104 | 34-35 | 34-35 | 54-58 | 48-50 | 51-52 |
Size comparison chart for women’s bottoms
| International | Japan | USA | UK | Germany | France | Italy |
| XXS | 58-61 | 23 | 23 | 30 | 32 | 34 |
| XS | 61-64 | 24 | 24 | 32 | 34 | 36 |
| S | 64-67 | 25 | 25 | 34 | 36 | 38 |
| M | 67-70 | 26-27 | 26-27 | 36-38 | 38-40 | 40-42 |
| L | 70-73 | 28-29 | 28-29 | 40-42 | 42-44 | 44-46 |
| XL | 73-76 | 30 | 30 | 44 | 46 | 48 |
Always Try Before You Buy
Image by Orna
Given the differences in sizing and the potential for variations between brands, it’s highly recommended to try on any clothing item before purchasing it. This is especially important when shopping for clothes in Japan.
Please note that due to factors like duty-free shopping or the use of coupons, returns may not be possible in all cases.
So, take your time and ensure the fit is perfect.
Additional Tips
Check out the following tips to make your shopping experience perfect.
Check the label carefully:
Look for specific measurements in centimeters to get a more accurate idea of the size.
Consult with a salesperson:
Don’t hesitate to ask a store associate for assistance. They can often provide valuable advice.
Be aware of brand-specific sizing:
Some Japanese brands may have their own unique sizing systems, so it’s always good to check with the brand or retailer.
