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

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Ready to pack for Izumo, Japan? If you're planning to go to Izumo, here is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Izumo, Japan

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

What to wear/what to pack for Izumo, Japan

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

If you vacation in Izumo during January, you are likely to find that it is pretty cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C). 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 Izumo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is 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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you get the correct kind. Many adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit a temple, such as Hinomisaki Shrine, wear:

If you go to the Shimane Museum of Ancient Izumo, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

If you visit Izumo during February, you might see that it can be very chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C). 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Izumo. 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.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel 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 excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to get the correct kind. Most adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

If you visit a temple, such as Hinomisaki Shrine, wear:

If you go to the Shimane Museum of Ancient Izumo, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

March here is pretty cool. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Izumo. 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 pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the correct kind. Most adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit a temple, such as Hinomisaki Shrine, wear:

If you go to the Shimane Museum of Ancient Izumo, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

If you are traveling to Izumo in April, you will notice that it is cool. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (high 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Izumo. 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.

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 large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to choose the correct kind. Most adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

If you visit a temple, such as Hinomisaki Shrine, wear:

If you go to the Shimane Museum of Ancient Izumo, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

May in Izumo is mild. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Izumo. 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 stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always 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.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to pick the right type. Most adapters currently available 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 is sufficent for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you visit a temple, such as Hinomisaki Shrine, wear:

If you go to the Shimane Museum of Ancient Izumo, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

If you go to Izumo in June, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the high 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Izumo. 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 things.

  • 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 help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to get the right type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

If you visit a temple, such as Hinomisaki Shrine, wear:

If you go to the Shimane Museum of Ancient Izumo, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

If you visit Izumo during July, you will probably see that it is extremely warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Izumo. 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.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the right type. Many adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • 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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit a temple, such as Hinomisaki Shrine, wear:

If you go to the Shimane Museum of Ancient Izumo, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

August in Izumo can be sweltering. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

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 Izumo. 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 recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you find the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts 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

If you visit a temple, such as Hinomisaki Shrine, wear:

If you go to the Shimane Museum of Ancient Izumo, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

September in Izumo is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) to high 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things nowadays, 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 Izumo. 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 amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you find the correct type. Most adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

If you visit a temple, such as Hinomisaki Shrine, wear:

If you go to the Shimane Museum of Ancient Izumo, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

If you are traveling to Izumo in October, you will notice that it is balmy. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (low 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage 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 Izumo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to choose the right kind. 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 places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit a temple, such as Hinomisaki Shrine, wear:

If you go to the Shimane Museum of Ancient Izumo, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

If you are traveling to Izumo in November, you will notice that it is cool. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (mid 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.

  • 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 Izumo. 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 frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to pick the necessary type. Many adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

If you visit a temple, such as Hinomisaki Shrine, wear:

If you go to the Shimane Museum of Ancient Izumo, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

In December, Izumo can be very chilly 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 Izumo, with several of the days of the month having rain.

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 these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Izumo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to choose the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit a temple, such as Hinomisaki Shrine, wear:

If you go to the Shimane Museum of Ancient Izumo, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Izumo, Japan

Izumo, located in the western part of Japan's main island, Honshu, is a fascinating destination that offers visitors a chance to explore the rich cultural heritage of Japan. The region has long been considered a spiritual heartland, making Izumo an important destination for religious pilgrimages.

With its ancient temples, beautiful gardens, stunning beaches, and majestic mountains, Izumo has a lot to offer its visitors. In this article, we will explore some of the top tourist attractions that you should include in your itinerary when visiting Izumo.

1. Izumo Taisha Grand Shrine

One of the most famous attractions in Izumo is the Izumo Taisha Grand Shrine, which is dedicated to the Shinto god of marriage, Okuninushi-no-Mikoto. The shrine is said to be the oldest and most important Shinto shrine in Japan and dates back to the early eighth century.

The shrine is known for its impressive architecture, which features a majestic gabled roof and massive wooden pillars. Inside the shrine, visitors can offer their prayers and experience the peacefulness and tranquillity of the place.

2. Matsue Castle

Located in the city of Matsue, Matsue Castle is one of the few remaining original castles in Japan. Built in 1611, the castle offers visitors a glimpse into Japan's feudal era and samurai culture.

The castle is known for its unique architecture and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can explore the castle's ume garden, which features over 2000 Japanese plum trees.

3. Adachi Museum of Art

Located in Yasugi, the Adachi Museum of Art is one of Japan's most renowned art museums. The museum is famous for its collection of Japanese art and its beautiful garden, which has been voted as Japan's best garden for 16 consecutive years.

The garden features an impressive array of flora, including azaleas, Japanese maples, and ponds that reflect the beauty of the surrounding landscape. The museum provides an excellent cultural experience that is both educational and entertaining.

4. Hinomisaki Lighthouse

Located on the western tip of the Shimane Peninsula, Hinomisaki Lighthouse offers visitors an opportunity to experience Japan's scenic beauty. The lighthouse is surrounded by stunning nature, including the majestic cliffs of the Hinomisaki Peninsula and the glittering Sea of Japan.

Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse to witness the breathtaking view of the surrounding area. The lighthouse is known for its historical significance, and its elegant architecture has become a symbol of Japan's maritime heritage.

5. Lake Shinji

Lake Shinji is located between Matsue and Izumo, and it is one of the largest freshwater lakes in Japan. The lake offers visitors an opportunity to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding area.

The lake is also popular for fishing, and visitors can experience the traditional fishing method of cormorant fishing. This unique method involves using trained cormorant birds to catch fish, which makes for a fascinating and memorable experience.

Final Thoughts

Izumo offers an excellent cultural experience that highlights some of Japan's most beautiful attractions. Whether you are interested in Japanese architecture, art, nature or ancient history, Izumo has something for everyone.

So, if you are planning to visit Japan, make sure to include Izumo on your list of must-visit destinations. With its rich culture and stunning natural scenery, Izumo is sure to impress and leave you with unforgettable memories.

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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