Chuo Alps, Japan: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Chuo Alps, Japan? If you're planning to go to Chuo Alps, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Chuo Alps
- Important essentials for Chuo Alps
- Activities for Chuo Alps
- Chuo Alps in January: weather and what to pack
- Chuo Alps in February: weather and what to pack
- Chuo Alps in March: weather and what to pack
- Chuo Alps in April: weather and what to pack
- Chuo Alps in May: weather and what to pack
- Chuo Alps in June: weather and what to pack
- Chuo Alps in July: weather and what to pack
- Chuo Alps in August: weather and what to pack
- Chuo Alps in September: weather and what to pack
- Chuo Alps in October: weather and what to pack
- Chuo Alps in November: weather and what to pack
- Chuo Alps in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Chuo Alps, Japan
Based on the climate and weather in Chuo Alps, Japan, the best time to go is September. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Chuo Alps, Japan
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Chuo Alps, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Chuo Alps, Japan by month
January
Traveling to Chuo Alps in January, you will notice that it is brisk and somewhat snowy. Expect it to rain sometimes and snow about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Insulated water bottle
Our pick:
thisSweaters
Travel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.Warm pants or jeans
Heavy socks
Such as:
Gloves
Heavy jacket
Lip balm
Our pick is: this
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For traveling to Chuo Alps, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is essential in this type of weather.
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great option.Ski accessories
Chuo Alps has some excellent skiing If you plan to ski, we also recommend:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good kit.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly 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 Chuo Alps. 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 belongings.
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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel neck pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you pick the correct kind. Many adapters available are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
February
February in Chuo Alps can be very chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C). It tends to rain 5-10 days this month. It also snows a bit less than half of the time. With the colder weather comes lower humidity, which is in the 40% to 50% range on average.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sweaters
Heavy socks
Such as:
Heavy jacket
Gloves
Travel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.Warm pants or jeans
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice:
thisLip balm
Our pick: here
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Chuo Alps, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is important here.
Umbrella
This one is a great choice.Ski accessories
Chuo Alps has some good ski areas If you plan to ski, we also suggest:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good value.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Chuo Alps. 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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing luggage these days, 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.
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 good option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you find the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices 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
March
In March, Chuo Alps is brisk and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 50s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Chuo Alps, with several of the days of the month having rain. In March, humidity reaches as high as 50%.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Fleece
Jacket or coat
Warm pants or jeans
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best is: this
Extra socks
Light gloves or mittens
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Chuo Alps, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is essential in this type of weather.
Umbrella
This one is a great option.Ski accessories
Chuo Alps has some famous skiing If you plan to ski, we would suggest:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Chuo Alps. 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 little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
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 step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to choose the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers 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 areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
April
April in Chuo Alps is cool and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about half of the time. With the colder weather comes lower humidity, which is in the 40% to 50% range on average.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Light and heavy skirts
Light jacket or fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Pants or jeans
Extra socks
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These are a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great option.
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.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Chuo Alps. 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 things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
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 pillow
An excellent option is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the correct type. Many adapters available online are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.
May
If you vacation in Chuo Alps during May, you will probably see that it is balmy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C). Humidity is generally between 40 and 50% 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
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light and heavy skirts
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Extra socks
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light jacket or fleece
Pants or jeans
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We like:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent value.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Chuo Alps. 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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you 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 pillow
A great choice is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
June
If you go to Chuo Alps 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 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
Light skirts
Sunscreen lotion
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Bug repellent
Short pants or heavy shorts
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We suggest:
Health
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.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little 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 airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Chuo Alps. 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. Take care to find the right type. Most adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.
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. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
A good option is this one
July
In July, Chuo Alps is pretty consistently hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 80s F (high 20s C) and once in a while jump into the low 90s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 60s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Chuo Alps, 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
Sunscreen lotion
Light skirts
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sandals
Bug repellent
Extra socks
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Short pants or heavy shorts
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent one.
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 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.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Chuo Alps. 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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate 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
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the necessary kind. The majority of adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
August
If you vacation in Chuo Alps during August, you will probably see that it is extremely warm and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. 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
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and protect you from skin damage:
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and help you stay cool.
Waterproof sandals
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Loose-fit shorts
Sunglasses
Skirts
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also removes dangerous contaminants:
thisBug repellent
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We like:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Chuo Alps. 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 neck support pillow
A versatile choice 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. Save money with this
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.
September
September is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Short pants or heavy shorts
Sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Bug repellent
Extra socks
Sunscreen lotion
Light skirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
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 Chuo Alps. 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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing things these days, an AirTag can find 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 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 expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices 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
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. Avoid penalties with this
Travel neck support pillow
What we like is this one
October
October in Chuo Alps is cool and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 50s F (single digits C). It tends to rain a bit less than half of the time. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 50% to 60% range on average.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Pants or jeans
Light jacket or fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Light and heavy skirts
Dresses
You can find some great options here
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We like:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take 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 product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Chuo Alps. 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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, 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
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. Save money with this
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to find the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.
Travel pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
November
If you are traveling to Chuo Alps in November, you will notice that it can be chilly and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the 50s F (low 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Jacket or coat
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: this
Warm pants or jeans
Extra socks
Fleece
Light gloves or mittens
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
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
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Chuo Alps. 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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you 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
Travel pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you find the right kind. A lot of adapters currently 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 should work in most areas.
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 penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
December
If you go to Chuo Alps in December, you will notice that it is brisk. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time and snow occasionally. Daytime temperatures are in the 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Jacket or coat
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: here
Light gloves or mittens
Warm pants or jeans
Fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Chuo Alps, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is important here.
Umbrella
This one is a great option.Ski accessories
Chuo Alps has some excellent ski slopes If you plan to ski, we would suggest:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
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 have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Safety + Security
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.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Chuo Alps. 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.
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 prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel pillow
A great choice 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
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you pick the right type. Most adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.
What to do in Chuo Alps, Japan
The Chuo Alps, located in central Japan, are a stunning mountain range that offer breathtaking views and a variety of outdoor activities for tourists to enjoy. The region is home to several popular destinations that are sure to leave visitors with lasting memories.
1. Kiso Valley - The Kiso Valley is a historic area that is home to some of Japan's most beautiful traditional villages. The area is also known for its ancient post roads, architectural marvels, and lush forests. One of the most popular attractions in the valley is the Nakasendo Trail, a 300-year-old hiking route that winds through the mountains and connects several scenic towns.
2. Matsumoto Castle - Matsumoto Castle, also known as the "Black Castle," is one of the most iconic landmarks in Japan. Built in the 1500s, the castle has a striking black exterior and is surrounded by a moat and beautiful gardens. Visitors can explore the castle's interior, which houses a collection of historical artifacts and exhibits. The castle is especially beautiful during cherry blossom season.
3. Kamikochi - Located in the heart of the Chuo Alps, Kamikochi is a picturesque valley that is known for its crystal-clear rivers, blooming alpine flora, and stunning mountain scenery. Visitors can hike the many trails that wind through the valley, or simply enjoy a picnic in one of the many scenic areas.
4. Takayama - Takayama is a charming city that is known for its preserved Edo-period streets and traditional architecture. Visitors can explore the narrow alleyways and merchant homes of the Sanmachi Suji district, visit the Takayama Jinya, a historic government building, or enjoy a hot spring bath at one of the many onsens in the area.
5. Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route - The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route is a scenic mountain drive that takes visitors through the heart of the Chuo Alps, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The route includes a variety of attractions, such as the Kurobe Dam, the Midagahara Plateau, and the stunningly beautiful Murodo Plateau.
6. Shirakawa-go - Shirakawa-go is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to some of Japan's most beautiful traditional thatched-roof farmhouses. Visitors can explore the village and its unique architecture, or take a hike to the nearby Taira Highland for a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding mountains.
In conclusion, the Chuo Alps offer a wide variety of attractions that are sure to please any visitor. From traditional villages to majestic mountain vistas, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful region of Japan.

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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