Hokkaido, Japan: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Hokkaido, Japan? If you're planning to go to Hokkaido, I have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Hokkaido
- Important essentials for Hokkaido
- Activities for Hokkaido
- Hokkaido in January: weather and what to pack
- Hokkaido in February: weather and what to pack
- Hokkaido in March: weather and what to pack
- Hokkaido in April: weather and what to pack
- Hokkaido in May: weather and what to pack
- Hokkaido in June: weather and what to pack
- Hokkaido in July: weather and what to pack
- Hokkaido in August: weather and what to pack
- Hokkaido in September: weather and what to pack
- Hokkaido in October: weather and what to pack
- Hokkaido in November: weather and what to pack
- Hokkaido in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Hokkaido, Japan
Based on the climate and weather in Hokkaido, Japan, the best time to go is July. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Hokkaido, Japan
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Hokkaido, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Hokkaido, Japan by month
January
January in Hokkaido is frigid and extremely snowy. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C) to high 20s F (single digits below 0 C), although night temperatures can dip into the single digits F (10+ below zero C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extreme cold weather gloves
Lip balm
The best pick: this
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best values:
Fleece for under jacket
Sweaters
Pajamas
Thermal undergarments
We chose:
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteWaterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For visiting Hokkaido, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is worth investing in for this weather.
Umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.Ski accessories
Hokkaido has some great 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
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
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 Hokkaido. 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 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
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
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you get the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
A good option is this one
February
February here can be extremely cold and extremely snowy. Temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C) during the day. It snows nearly every day this month.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best values:
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Thermal undergarments
Our choice is:
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoritePajamas
Sweaters
Extreme cold weather gloves
Fleece for under jacket
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Lip balm
The best option: here
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For visiting Hokkaido, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is something you need here.
Umbrella
This one is a great option.Ski accessories
Hokkaido has some great ski slopes If you plan to ski, we would 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
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Hokkaido. 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 peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can locate 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 pillow
A great choice is this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to choose the correct type. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.
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 amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
March
March in Hokkaido can be extremely cold and extremely snowy. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C) to 30s F (single digits C), although night temperatures can dip into the single digits F (10+ below zero C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sweaters
Travel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.Warm pants or jeans
Heavy jacket
Gloves
Heavy socks
Such as:
Insulated water bottle
Our fave:
thisLip balm
Our choice: this one
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard shoes, you should bring snow boots. For traveling to Hokkaido, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is something you need here.
Umbrella
This one is a great option.Ski accessories
Hokkaido has some famous ski slopes If you plan to ski, we would 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 rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Hokkaido. 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 airlines constantly losing bags recently, 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 top rated pillow is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you choose the right kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
April
April in Hokkaido is pretty cool and very rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about two thirds of the time. It also snows about a third of the time. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 60% to 70% range on average.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Fleece
Warm pants or jeans
Jacket or coat
Extra socks
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: this
Light gloves or mittens
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular shoes, you should bring snow boots. For travel to Hokkaido, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is vital here.
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent option.Ski accessories
Hokkaido has some excellent 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
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing things 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 Hokkaido. 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.
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 good option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you find the necessary kind. Many adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
May
May in Hokkaido can be chilly and extremely rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain most days. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 60% to 70% range on average.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light jacket or fleece
Extra socks
Light and heavy skirts
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Pants or jeans
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Dresses
You can find some great options here
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Hokkaido. 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 luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate 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 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
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you get the correct kind. Many adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
June
June for Hokkaido is mild and very rainy. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains most days.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light jacket or fleece
Extra socks
Light and heavy skirts
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Pants or jeans
Dresses
You can find some great options here
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
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 wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Hokkaido. 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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to find the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel neck pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
July
In July, Hokkaido is warm and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 70s F (mid 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Hokkaido, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In July, humidity reaches as high as 80%.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Bug repellent
Short pants or heavy shorts
Sunscreen lotion
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Breathable footwear or sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Sandals
Light skirts
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We recommend:
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 choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Hokkaido. 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.
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 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
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck support pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to choose the right kind. Many adapters available are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
August
If you vacation in Hokkaido during August, you are likely to notice that it is warm and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (high 10s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain most days.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sandals
Short pants or heavy shorts
Extra socks
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sunscreen lotion
Light skirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Bug repellent
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We like:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
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 these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Hokkaido. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to pick the correct kind. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
September
September in Hokkaido is mild and extremely rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 10s C) to low 60s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light jacket or fleece
Light and heavy skirts
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Extra socks
A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent value.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Hokkaido. 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 nowadays, an AirTag can help you 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 pillow
What we like is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.
October
October in this region is cool and extremely rainy. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day. It rains most days.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Dresses
You can find some great options here
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Extra socks
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light jacket or fleece
Pants or jeans
Light and heavy skirts
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Hokkaido. 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.
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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to choose the necessary type. Many adapters that you can buy are simply 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 sufficient for most locations.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
Our favorite is this one
November
Traveling to Hokkaido in November, you will notice that it is pretty cool, somewhat snowy and very rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time and snow about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: this
Warm pants or jeans
Jacket or coat
Light gloves or mittens
Fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard footwear, you should bring snow boots. For travel to Hokkaido, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is essential here.
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.Ski accessories
Hokkaido has some great ski slopes 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
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Hokkaido. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
Our fave is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you get the right type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
December
December in Hokkaido is frigid and extremely snowy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C). It tends to rain about a third of the time. It also snows most days. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 60% to 70% range on average.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sweaters
Travel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.Lip balm
Our pick: this one
Insulated water bottle
Our fave:
thisHeavy socks
Such as:
Warm pants or jeans
Gloves
Heavy jacket
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard footwear, you should bring snow boots. For traveling to Hokkaido, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is worth investing in for this weather.
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.Ski accessories
Hokkaido has some good skiing 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
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Hokkaido. 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
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. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the correct kind. A lot of adapters available online are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
Travel neck support pillow
Our fave is this one
What to do in Hokkaido, Japan
Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan, is a scenic and pristine destination with stunning natural beauty, hot springs, ski resorts, national parks, and some of the best seafood in Japan. This vast island is perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to experience the authentic Japanese culture. Here are some top tourist attractions in Hokkaido, Japan.
1. Sapporo:
Sapporo is the largest city in Hokkaido and the fifth-largest city in Japan. This modern metropolis is famous for its beer, snow festival, and delicious cuisine. The Sapporo Beer Museum showcases the history and process of making Sapporo beer, while the Sapporo Snow Festival, held in February, attracts millions of tourists to see the elaborate snow sculptures and snowboarding competitions.
2. Niseko:
Niseko is Hokkaido's premier ski resort, known for its powder snow and stunning mountain views. This resort town has many restaurants, bars, and luxury accommodations that cater to international visitors. Niseko is also a popular destination for hot springs, known as onsens, that soak away the cold and fatigue from skiing and snowboarding.
3. Shikotsu-Toya National Park:
Shikotsu-Toya National Park is a geothermal wonderland with two caldera lakes, hot springs, and active volcanoes. Lake Toya has a promenade where visitors can enjoy the panoramic views of the mountains and the lake. Showa-shinzan is a newly formed volcano that erupted in 1944 and is still steaming. Visitors can take a cable car to the top of Mt. Usu for stunning views of the volcanic landscape.
4. Otaru:
Otaru is a charming port town located on the western coast of Hokkaido. This historic town has many preserved buildings and canals that date back to the late 19th century. Visitors can stroll through the old canal district to see the stone warehouses and glass workshops that once served as the center of the herring industry. Otaru is also famous for its sushi, sake, and sweets, particularly the popular LeTAO cheesecake.
5. Furano-Biei:
Furano-Biei is a picturesque area known for its rolling hills, colorful flower fields, and lavender farms. Visitors can take a leisurely walk or bike ride along the scenic countryside to enjoy the stunning views and peaceful atmosphere. The lavender fields are at the peak bloom in July, attracting many visitors from all over the world.
In conclusion, Hokkaido is a destination that offers a unique blend of culture, cuisine, and nature. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Hokkaido has something to offer for everyone. These top tourist attractions in Hokkaido, Japan, are just a glimpse of what this beautiful island has to offer.

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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