Kansai, Japan: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Kansai, Japan? If you're planning to go to Kansai, this article contains some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Kansai
- Important essentials for Kansai
- Activities for Kansai
- Kansai in January: weather and what to pack
- Kansai in February: weather and what to pack
- Kansai in March: weather and what to pack
- Kansai in April: weather and what to pack
- Kansai in May: weather and what to pack
- Kansai in June: weather and what to pack
- Kansai in July: weather and what to pack
- Kansai in August: weather and what to pack
- Kansai in September: weather and what to pack
- Kansai in October: weather and what to pack
- Kansai in November: weather and what to pack
- Kansai in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Kansai, Japan
Based on the climate and weather in Kansai, Japan, the best time to go is May. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Kansai, Japan
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Kansai, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Kansai, Japan by month
January
January can be brisk and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time and snows occasionally.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Warm pants or jeans
Fleece
Extra socks
Jacket or coat
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: this
Light gloves or mittens
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard shoes, you should bring snow boots. For visiting Kansai, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is essential in this type of weather.
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly product.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kansai. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
Our fave is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to find the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.
February
February in Kansai can be brisk and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain a bit less than half of the time. It also snows sometimes. With the colder weather comes lower humidity, which is in the 50% to 60% range on average.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Jacket or coat
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best is: this one
Fleece
Extra socks
Light gloves or mittens
Warm pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For traveling to Kansai, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is vital here.
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kansai. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to find the necessary kind. The majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
Our favorite is this one
March
If you visit Kansai during March, you will probably find that it can be very chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Fleece
Jacket or coat
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: here
Light gloves or mittens
Extra socks
Warm pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kansai. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to get the necessary kind. Many adapters available online are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
Our favorite is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
April
If you vacation in Kansai during April, you are likely to find that it is cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light and heavy skirts
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Extra socks
Pants or jeans
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Light jacket or fleece
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kansai. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel neck pillow
What we like is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to find the right type. The majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
May
May is balmy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sandals
Bug repellent
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Short pants or heavy shorts
Extra socks
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Sunscreen lotion
Light skirts
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kansai. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel pillow
Our fave is this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to get the right type. Many adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
June
If you are traveling to Kansai in June, you will notice that it is warm and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Sunscreen lotion
Short pants or heavy shorts
Extra socks
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light skirts
Bug repellent
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We like:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kansai. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
Our favorite is this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you pick the correct type. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
July
In July, Kansai is extremely warm and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 80s F (high 20s C) and sometimes jump into the low 90s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Kansai, with several of the days of the month having rain. In July, humidity reaches as high as 70%.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also cleans contaminants:
thisBreatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you cool and protect you from the sun:
Waterproof sandals
Skirts
Sunglasses
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and cool you.
Bug repellent
Loose-fit shorts
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We like:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kansai. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you find the correct kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
An excellent option is this one
August
In August, Kansai is constantly hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 80s F (low 30s C) and a bit less than half of the time jump into the low 90s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Kansai, with several of the days of the month having rain. In August, humidity reaches as high as 70%.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and help you stay cool.
Loose-fit shorts
Sunglasses
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also removes dangerous contaminants:
thisBug repellent
Skirts
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against the sun:
Waterproof sandals
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kansai. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
A great choice is this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to pick the correct kind. Many adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
September
In September, Kansai is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 60s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Kansai, with several of the days of the month having rain. In September, humidity reaches as high as 70%.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Short pants or heavy shorts
Sunscreen lotion
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Breathable footwear or sandals
Bug repellent
Sandals
Light skirts
Extra socks
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent one.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kansai. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to get the right type. A lot of adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
Our favorite is this one
October
In October, Kansai is mild and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 60s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Kansai, with several of the days of the month having rain. In October, humidity reaches as high as 60%.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Light and heavy skirts
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Pants or jeans
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light jacket or fleece
A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good kit.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kansai. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the correct kind. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.
Travel neck pillow
A great choice is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
November
In November, Kansai is chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Kansai, with several of the days of the month having rain. In November, humidity reaches as high as 60%.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light and heavy skirts
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light jacket or fleece
Extra socks
Pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great option.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kansai. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the right kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel neck pillow
A versatile choice is this one
December
December in Kansai is pretty cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Jacket or coat
Light gloves or mittens
Warm pants or jeans
Extra socks
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: this one
Fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We like:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly product.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kansai. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to get the correct kind. Most adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel neck pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
What to do in Kansai, Japan
Kansai is a must-visit area in Japan, known for its vibrant cities and rich history. Located in the western part of Japan's main island, Honshu, Kansai region is home to a range of attractions that are hard to miss. The following are the top tourist attractions worth visiting in Kansai, Japan.
1. Osaka Castle
Osaka Castle is one of the most iconic landmarks in Osaka, and it is undoubtedly one of the city's top attractions. The castle was built in 1583, and it is known for its impressive architecture, beautiful gardens, and historical significance. Visitors can explore the castle's museum, which houses various artifacts, armors, and weapons used by the samurai in the early age of Japan.
2. Himeji Castle
Himeji Castle is another impressive castle that you can find in Kansai. It is a World Heritage site, and it is considered one of the most beautiful castles in Japan. The castle dates back to 1333, and it has undergone several renovations and repairs, making it one of the best-preserved castles in the country.
3. Fushimi Inari Shrine
The Fushimi Inari Shrine is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Kansai, and it is known for its thousands of vibrant red Torii gates, which form a tunnel-like path. The shrine was built in the 8th century, and it is dedicated to the God of Rice and Sake. Visitors can explore the shrines' complex and hike the mountain, known as Inari, where they can find various temples and other shrines.
4. Kyoto Imperial Palace
Kyoto Imperial Palace is a must-visit destination for those interested in Japan's history and culture. The palace was built in the 17th century and was the residence of the Japanese emperor until 1868. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful gardens, the intricate architecture, and the impressive interior of the palace.
5. Nara Park
Nara Park is one of the oldest parks in Japan, and it is home to over 1,200 wild deer. The park also houses various temples and shrines, including Todaiji Temple, which is one of the most significant and popular temples in Japan. Visitors can enjoy feeding the deer, explore the park's scenic beauty, and visit the temples and shrines.
6. Kobe
Kobe is a vibrant city located near Osaka, and it is known for its stunning scenery, delicious beef, and multicultural atmosphere. The city is a hub for shopping, art, and entertainment, making it an ideal destination for those looking for a blend of traditional and modern attractions.
In conclusion, Kansai is a region of Japan worth visiting, especially for those interested in history, culture, and scenic beauty. The above tourist attractions are just a few in a long list of interesting destinations worth visiting in Kansai. The region offers various attractions that cater to different interests, making it an ideal destination for anyone seeking a memorable vacation.
About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
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