Chikuma, Japan: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Chikuma, Japan? If you're planning to go to Chikuma, we've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Chikuma, Japan

Based on the climate and weather in Chikuma, Japan, the best time to go is June. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Chikuma, Japan

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Chikuma, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Chikuma, Japan by month

January

Traveling to Chikuma in January, you will notice that it is brisk. Expect it to rain sometimes. Daytime temperatures are in the high 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage 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 Chikuma. 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.

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 necessary type. Many adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit a temple, such as Chourakuji Temple, wear:

If you go to Joyama Historic Park and Arata-Jo Mountain Castle, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

February here is brisk. Temperatures average in the high 30s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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 Chikuma. 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 always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • 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. Ensure that you pick the right kind. Most adapters available are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

If you visit a temple, such as Chourakuji Temple, wear:

If you go to Joyama Historic Park and Arata-Jo Mountain Castle, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

March for Chikuma is cold. Temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chikuma. 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 bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: 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 peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you find the right type. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you visit a temple, such as Chourakuji Temple, wear:

If you go to Joyama Historic Park and Arata-Jo Mountain Castle, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

April in Chikuma is chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: 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 Chikuma. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

If you visit a temple, such as Chourakuji Temple, wear:

If you go to Joyama Historic Park and Arata-Jo Mountain Castle, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

May in Chikuma is mild. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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 stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chikuma. 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.

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. Ensure that you get the right kind. 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 get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit a temple, such as Chourakuji Temple, wear:

If you go to Joyama Historic Park and Arata-Jo Mountain Castle, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

June for Chikuma is warm. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chikuma. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    What we like 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 large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you choose the necessary type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

If you visit a temple, such as Chourakuji Temple, wear:

If you go to Joyama Historic Park and Arata-Jo Mountain Castle, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

If you visit Chikuma during July, you might find that it is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chikuma. 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 bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

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. Take care to find the correct kind. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you visit a temple, such as Chourakuji Temple, wear:

If you go to Joyama Historic Park and Arata-Jo Mountain Castle, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

August in Chikuma can be very 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
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chikuma. 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 help you find it anywhere anywhere: 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.

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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to find the right kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

If you visit a temple, such as Chourakuji Temple, wear:

If you go to Joyama Historic Park and Arata-Jo Mountain Castle, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

September in this region is warm. Temperatures average in the high 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
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: 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 Chikuma. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • 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. Save money with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit a temple, such as Chourakuji Temple, wear:

If you go to Joyama Historic Park and Arata-Jo Mountain Castle, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

If you vacation in Chikuma during October, you may find that it is relatively cool. Temperatures tend to hover around the 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 once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chikuma. 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 peace of mind, 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 airlines repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you choose the necessary type. Many adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit a temple, such as Chourakuji Temple, wear:

If you go to Joyama Historic Park and Arata-Jo Mountain Castle, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

November for Chikuma is pretty cool. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chikuma. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the correct type. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • 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

If you visit a temple, such as Chourakuji Temple, wear:

If you go to Joyama Historic Park and Arata-Jo Mountain Castle, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

If you go to Chikuma in December, you will notice that it is brisk. Expect it to rain sometimes. Daytime temperatures are in the low 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chikuma. 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 peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

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 find the correct kind. A lot of adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you visit a temple, such as Chourakuji Temple, wear:

If you go to Joyama Historic Park and Arata-Jo Mountain Castle, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Chikuma, Japan

Chikuma is a beautiful city located in Nagano Prefecture, Japan. It is often regarded as a hidden gem that is yet to be discovered by many tourists. The city boasts of unique natural scenery and cultural heritage that is worth exploring. From majestic mountains to historical landmarks, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Chikuma, Japan.

Togura Kamiyamada Onsen

Togura Kamiyamada Onsen is a famous hot spring resort dotted with around 40 traditional Japanese inns. The hot spring has a refreshing feel, and its medicinal qualities are believed to help heal various ailments. Visitors can relax and rejuvenate in communal and private baths, foot baths, and outdoor hot tubs while enjoying the magnificent view of the surrounding mountains.

Mount Togakushi

Mount Togakushi is a mountain range in Nagano Prefecture, Japan. It is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking and trekking. Visitors can access the mountain by taking a cable car to the lower station, where they start hiking through the cedar forests, lush greenery, and scenic trails. The peak of Mount Togakushi offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and is an excellent location for a picnic.

Obasute Station

Obasute Station is a railway station on the Shinano Railway Line that has become famous for its picturesque scenery. The station is situated on a slope overlooking the rich landscape of the Chikuma River Valley. Visitors can appreciate the beauty of nature while relaxing on the platform while waiting for the next train. The station's name, which means "abandoned grandmothers" in Japanese, is derived from the practice of leaving elderly women on the mountains to die during times of famine.

Togakushi Shrine

Togakushi Shrine is a sanctified Shinto shrine located in the Togakushi mountain range. It is among the most popular shrines in Nagano Prefecture and has a rich history that spans over thousands of years. Visitors will find the entrance to the shrine through a picturesque path that leads up the mountain. There are five shrines within Togakushi Shrine, each with its unique identity, and visitors can learn more about the history behind each location.

Chikuma River

The Chikuma River is the longest river in Japan and a significant attraction for visitors to Chikuma City. The river is located at the heart of the city, and visitors can enjoy a variety of activities like kayaking, rafting, and cruising. Along the riverbank, there are many scenic spots and parks that offer an ideal spot for a picnic, taking a walk, or relaxing.

In conclusion, Chikuma City is a spectacular city that is worth exploring for its stunning natural scenery and cultural heritage. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast or want to immerse yourself in the rich cultural history of Japan, Chikuma has something to offer everyone. The above-listed destinations are just the tip of the iceberg, and visitors should be ready to discover more of what the city has to offer during their visit.

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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