Chikuma, Japan: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2022]
Traveling to Chikuma, Japan? If you're planning to go to Chikuma, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Chikuma
- Important essentials for Chikuma
- Activities for Chikuma
- Chikuma in January: weather and what to pack
- Chikuma in February: weather and what to pack
- Chikuma in March: weather and what to pack
- Chikuma in April: weather and what to pack
- Chikuma in May: weather and what to pack
- Chikuma in June: weather and what to pack
- Chikuma in July: weather and what to pack
- Chikuma in August: weather and what to pack
- Chikuma in September: weather and what to pack
- Chikuma in October: weather and what to pack
- Chikuma in November: weather and what to pack
- Chikuma in December: weather and what to pack

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.
When to go to Chikuma, Japan
Based on the climate and weather in Chikuma, the best time to go is June. See below for details.
Important essentials for Chikuma, Japan
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Chikuma, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
COVID-19 ESSENTIALS FOR 2022
-
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
-
A vaccine card protector
Vaccine cards can wear away. An unreadable vaccination card may result in severe consequences. This vaccine card protector helps avoid that.
-
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
-
N95 masks to use in crowded airports
These N95 masks provide the best level of COVID-19 protection possible.
Travel insurance
If you or a companion get COVID-19, your amazing trip can be ruined. Good travel insurance can help. See plans
-
Kids' KN95 masks
N95 masks aren't sold for kids. These are a good alternative (and can also be used by adults if N95 masks are not available).
General health necessities
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
-
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good kit.
-
Emergency motion sickness relief
Don't forget these
-
Airplane or car necessities
-
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
-
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
-
For families with young children
-
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.
-
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. This one works in most locations, but check with your hotel.
What to wear/what to pack for Chikuma, Japan by month
Already know when you're traveling?
January
January in Chikuma can be very chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C). It tends to rain sometimes.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Sweaters
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Heavy jacket
-
Lip balm
Our favorite option: here
-
Gloves
-
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite:
-
Cold weather footwear
-
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants are essential in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We recommend:
If you visit a temple, such as Chourakuji Temple, wear:
If you go to Joyama Historic Park and Arata-Jo Mountain Castle, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
February
February in Chikuma can be very chilly. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Sweaters
-
Heavy jacket
-
Gloves
-
Lip balm
Our pick is: here
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Insulated water bottle
Our fave:
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Cold weather footwear
-
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These can be essential in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We recommend:
If you visit a temple, such as Chourakuji Temple, wear:
If you go to Joyama Historic Park and Arata-Jo Mountain Castle, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
March
March in Chikuma can be very chilly. Temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains occasionally.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Gloves
-
Sweaters
-
Heavy jacket
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Lip balm
Our pick is: here
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Insulated water bottle
Our pick:
-
Cold weather footwear
-
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These can be vital in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We recommend:
If you visit a temple, such as Chourakuji Temple, wear:
If you go to Joyama Historic Park and Arata-Jo Mountain Castle, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
April
If you are traveling to Chikuma in April, you will notice that it is cool. Expect it to rain sometimes. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Jacket or coat
-
Fleece
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Extra socks
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: this
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Standard footwear
-
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants can be vital in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We suggest:
If you visit a temple, such as Chourakuji Temple, wear:
If you go to Joyama Historic Park and Arata-Jo Mountain Castle, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
May
May in Chikuma is balmy. 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:
-
Dresses
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Extra socks
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Standard footwear
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
Pants or jeans
-
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants can be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We recommend:
If you visit a temple, such as Chourakuji Temple, wear:
If you go to Joyama Historic Park and Arata-Jo Mountain Castle, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
June
June for Chikuma is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains occasionally.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Sandals
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Bug repellent
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Extra socks
-
Light skirts
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These are vital in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We suggest:
If you visit a temple, such as Chourakuji Temple, wear:
If you go to Joyama Historic Park and Arata-Jo Mountain Castle, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
July
July in Chikuma is hot. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against skin damage:
-
Skirts
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and help you stay cool.
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also removes harmful contaminants:
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Bug repellent
-
Sunglasses
-
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants will be essential in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We suggest:
If you visit a temple, such as Chourakuji Temple, wear:
If you go to Joyama Historic Park and Arata-Jo Mountain Castle, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
August
If you go to Chikuma in August, you will notice that it is extremely hot. Expect it to rain occasionally. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Skirts
-
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also filters contaminants:
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and help you stay cool.
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Bug repellent
-
Sunglasses
-
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against the sun:
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These can be vital in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We suggest:
If you visit a temple, such as Chourakuji Temple, wear:
If you go to Joyama Historic Park and Arata-Jo Mountain Castle, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
September
If you vacation in Chikuma during September, you might find that it is a perfect temperature. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Extra socks
-
Bug repellent
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Sandals
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Light skirts
-
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest 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 belongings remain dry. We recommend:
If you visit a temple, such as Chourakuji Temple, wear:
If you go to Joyama Historic Park and Arata-Jo Mountain Castle, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
October
Traveling to Chikuma in October, you will notice that it can be chilly. Expect it to rain occasionally. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s F (high 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Dresses
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
Standard footwear
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Extra socks
-
Pants or jeans
-
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants are vital in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We suggest:
If you visit a temple, such as Chourakuji Temple, wear:
If you go to Joyama Historic Park and Arata-Jo Mountain Castle, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
November
November in Chikuma can be brisk. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Jacket or coat
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: this
-
Fleece
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Extra socks
-
Standard footwear
-
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants are vital in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We suggest:
If you visit a temple, such as Chourakuji Temple, wear:
If you go to Joyama Historic Park and Arata-Jo Mountain Castle, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
December
If you are traveling 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:
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Lip balm
Our pick is: here
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Sweaters
-
Gloves
-
Insulated water bottle
Our pick:
-
Heavy jacket
-
Cold weather footwear
-
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
-
Umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We suggest:
If you visit a temple, such as Chourakuji Temple, wear:
If you go to Joyama Historic Park and Arata-Jo Mountain Castle, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Activities for Chikuma, Japan
Here are some activity recommendations and activity-specific packing tips for Chikuma.
Check out our guides for these other locations: Cardano al Campo, Italy, Fátima, Portugal, La Rinconada, Peru, Essex, Vermont, United States of America, Carndonagh, Ireland, Eldorado, São Paulo, Brazil, Carcass Island, Falkland Islands, Sagar Island, India, Alliance, Nebraska, United States of America, Perak, Malaysia, and Tilton, New Hampshire, United States of America.