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

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

Contents

When to go to Japan, Japan

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

What to wear/what to pack for Japan, Japan

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

January in Japan can be very chilly. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Japan. 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 additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to get the necessary kind. Most adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

February

February for Japan is pretty cool. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains occasionally.

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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Japan. 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 some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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. Be sure to choose the right type. Many adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

March

March in Japan is crisp. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain once in a while.

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 frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Japan. 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.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • 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 correct kind. A lot of 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 get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

April

If you visit Japan during April, you may see that it is mild. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 40s 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Japan. 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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you pick the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

May

If you vacation in Japan during May, you might notice that it is a perfect temperature. Temperatures tend to hover around the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.

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

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Japan. 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 added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you choose the correct type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

June

June in Japan is pretty consistently hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.

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 more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Japan. 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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

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 careful to find the correct kind. Most adapters available are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

July

If you vacation in Japan during July, you are likely to notice that it is really hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (low 30s 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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Japan. 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.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts 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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to get the right kind. Most adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

August

If you are traveling to Japan in August, you will notice that it can be very hot. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (low 30s 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

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Japan. 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 some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to find the correct type. Most adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support 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

September

September in Japan can be sweltering. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) to 80s F (low 30s 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.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, 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 Japan. 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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you pick the necessary type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plugs 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.

  • 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 pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

October

Traveling to Japan in October, you will notice that it is balmy. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Japan. 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.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A good option 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. Be careful to find the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in 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

November

November in Japan is crisp. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Japan. 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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you find the correct type. The majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • 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 great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

December

Traveling to Japan in December, you will notice that it is brisk. 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Japan. 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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to find the right type. The vast majority of adapters available are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for 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. Avoid surcharges with this

What to do in Japan, Japan

Japan is a must-visit country for travel enthusiasts. It is a country with a rich culture, stunning natural beauty and unique places that can only be found in Japan. From the bustling cities to the tranquil countryside, Japan has something for everyone. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Japan that you should not miss:

1. Mount Fuji

Mount Fuji is the most iconic landmark in Japan and is considered one of the country's symbols. This majestic mountain stands at an impressive height of 3,776 meters and is visible from Tokyo on clear days. If you're up for a challenge, you can hike climb Mount Fuji during the summer months. However, the best time to go is during winter, where you can witness its snow-capped peak against the blue skies.

2. Tokyo

Tokyo is a must-visit destination in Japan, the city is a testament to the country's bustling culture and is one of the world's most populated cities. Tokyo has something for everyone, from traditional sites such as the Senso-ji Temple, the Imperial Palace as well as the Meiji Shrine, to futuristic landmarks such as the Tokyo Skytree, and Shibuya Crossing, the world's busiest pedestrian crossing.

3. Kyoto

Kyoto is another city in Japan that is synonymous with traditional culture. For centuries, Kyoto was the former imperial capital of Japan and is home to countless shrines, temples, and gardens that highlight the country's history and culture. One of the most notable shrines is the Fushimi Inari Shrine, which features numerous torii gates leading to the top of a mountain. Kyoto also offers visitors the opportunity to experience traditional Japanese cuisine, such as Kaiseki, a multi-course Japanese meal.

4. Hiroshima

Hiroshima is well known for its tragic history of the atomic bombing, but it is also a city full of hope and resilience. The city has embraced peace and has become a symbol for the eradication of nuclear weapons. The unique Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum can educate you about this tragic event in history. Also, the Hiroshima Castle and the Itsukushima Shrine are iconic landmarks worth visiting while in Hiroshima.

5. Okinawa

Okinawa is an island off Japan's southern coast known for its stunning beaches and pristine waters. The island has a delectable cuisine with extensive seafood dishes that are unique to the region. The Okinawan Islands is also an excellent place to explore Japanese culture while enjoying nature with activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and sea kayaking.

In conclusion, Japan is a rich country that has something for every traveler, be it a rich cultural experience, food exploration, or natural beauty. These top tourist attractions in Japan are just the tip of the iceberg, and there is still more to discover in the land of the rising sun. Take a trip to Japan, and you will undoubtedly fall in love with its culture, history, and people.

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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