Otsu, Japan: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Otsu, Japan? If you're planning to go to Otsu, the following is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Otsu
- Important essentials for Otsu
- Activities for Otsu
- Otsu in January: weather and what to pack
- Otsu in February: weather and what to pack
- Otsu in March: weather and what to pack
- Otsu in April: weather and what to pack
- Otsu in May: weather and what to pack
- Otsu in June: weather and what to pack
- Otsu in July: weather and what to pack
- Otsu in August: weather and what to pack
- Otsu in September: weather and what to pack
- Otsu in October: weather and what to pack
- Otsu in November: weather and what to pack
- Otsu in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Otsu, Japan
Based on the climate and weather in Otsu, Japan, the best time to go is May. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Otsu, Japan
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Otsu, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Otsu, Japan by month
January
January in Otsu is brisk. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C). It tends to rain once in a while.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: this one
Extra socks
Warm pants or jeans
Light gloves or mittens
Fleece
Jacket or coat
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We like:
Health
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 have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
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 Otsu. 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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
A versatile choice is this one
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 get the necessary kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.
February
February in Otsu can be brisk. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains sometimes.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light gloves or mittens
Warm pants or jeans
Extra socks
Fleece
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: this
Jacket or coat
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We suggest:
Health
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 plane-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Otsu. 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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing bags nowadays, 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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel neck pillow
A good option is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the right type. Most adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
March
If you visit Otsu during March, you may find that it is chilly. Temperatures tend to hover around the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 30s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain occasionally.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Jacket or coat
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: this
Light gloves or mittens
Fleece
Extra socks
Warm pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Otsu. 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
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you find the correct kind. Many adapters available online are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel neck support pillow
What we like is this one
April
April in Otsu is mild. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light and heavy skirts
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Pants or jeans
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light jacket or fleece
Extra socks
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We like:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Otsu. 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 frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find 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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to pick the correct kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.
Travel pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
May
May is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion
Extra socks
Sandals
Short pants or heavy shorts
Bug repellent
Breathable footwear or sandals
Light skirts
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Otsu. 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 frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: 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
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to choose the correct type. Many adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.
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 neck support pillow
A great choice is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
June
June in Otsu is extremely warm and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) to low 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Short pants or heavy shorts
Sunscreen lotion
Sandals
Breathable footwear or sandals
Bug repellent
Extra socks
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light skirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
These are a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Safety + Security
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 these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Otsu. 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
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
Travel pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
July
If you visit Otsu during July, you will probably see that it is constantly hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also cleans dangerous contaminants:
thisSkirts
Loose-fit shorts
Waterproof sandals
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and help you stay cool.
Sunglasses
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can keep you cool and guard against UV rays:
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Otsu. 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
Travel pillow
A great choice is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the correct type. A lot of adapters currently available 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 is sufficent for most areas.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
August
August in Otsu is constantly hot. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Loose-fit shorts
Waterproof sandals
Skirts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and keep you cool.
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Sunglasses
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you cool and protect you from the sun:
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also removes contaminants:
thisBug repellent
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great option.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
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 Otsu. 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
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 huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you find the right kind. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.
September
September in Otsu is constantly hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you cool and guard against the sun:
Loose-fit shorts
Sunglasses
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Skirts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and cool you.
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also cleans dangerous contaminants:
thisBug repellent
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
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 stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Otsu. 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
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to choose the necessary type. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
An excellent option is this one
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
October
If you go to Otsu in October, you will notice that it is balmy. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion
Extra socks
Breathable footwear or sandals
Light skirts
Short pants or heavy shorts
Sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Bug repellent
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Otsu. 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 bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: 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
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
What we like is this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you get the correct type. Most adapters available online are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
November
If you visit Otsu during November, you are likely to find that it can be chilly. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain occasionally.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Light and heavy skirts
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light jacket or fleece
Pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Extra socks
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We like:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Otsu. 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 always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find 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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck support pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you get the necessary kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
December
If you visit Otsu during December, you will probably find that it is brisk. Temperatures tend to hover around the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Fleece
Light gloves or mittens
Jacket or coat
Warm pants or jeans
Extra socks
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best is: this one
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, 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 belongings.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Otsu. 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
Travel pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to get the correct type. Many adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money 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
What to do in Otsu, Japan
Otsu, located in the Shiga Prefecture, is a beautiful city in Japan that boasts of many historic and cultural landmarks. It’s a popular tourist destination, as it offers a blend of traditional and modern experiences.
Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Otsu, Japan:
1. Lake Biwa: Lake Biwa is the largest freshwater lake in Japan and is a must-visit when in Otsu. The lake offers various activities such as boat rides, fishing, and cycling around the lake. The lake is also famous for a stunning view of the sunrise and sunset.
2. Hieizan Enryaku-ji Temple: The Hieizan Enryaku-ji Temple is situated on Mount Hiei, and it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple complex is home to many temples from the Heian period and offers a beautiful view of the surrounding mountains.
3. Otsu Castle: Otsu Castle was built in the 16th century during the Edo period and was used as a control tower for the surrounding area. Today, the castle serves as a museum that houses many artifacts and exhibits that showcase the history of the area.
4. Ishiyama-dera Temple: The Ishiyama-dera Temple is a Buddhist temple located on a hill overlooking Lake Biwa. The temple is famous for its cherry blossoms and autumn foliage, making it a popular spot for nature lovers.
5. Miidera Temple: The Miidera Temple, also known as Onjoji Temple, is one of the oldest temples in Japan, dating back to the 8th century. The temple boasts of beautiful gardens and buildings that offer an insight into traditional Japanese architecture.
6. Ogoto Hot Springs: The Ogoto Hot Springs is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, providing a relaxing break from the hustle and bustle of city life. The hot springs offer a variety of outdoor and indoor baths, saunas, and massages.
7. Biwako Hall: Biwako Hall is a cultural center that stages various events year-round, including performances by renowned artists from around the world. The center is also known for its beautiful architecture, which is a fusion of traditional and modern styles.
In conclusion, Otsu, Japan, is a city that offers a lot for tourists to see and do. From its stunning natural landscapes to its rich cultural heritage, the city has something for everyone. A trip to Otsu should be on everyone's travel bucket list to experience the beauty and tranquility of the region.
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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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