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, 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
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 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.

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
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 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.

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
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 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.

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
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 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.

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
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 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.

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
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 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.

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
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 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.

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
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.

  • 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.

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
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 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.

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
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 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.

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
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 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.

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
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 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.

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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