Kanazawa, Japan: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Kanazawa, Japan? If you're planning to go to Kanazawa, this is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Kanazawa
- Important essentials for Kanazawa
- Activities for Kanazawa
- Kanazawa in January: weather and what to pack
- Kanazawa in February: weather and what to pack
- Kanazawa in March: weather and what to pack
- Kanazawa in April: weather and what to pack
- Kanazawa in May: weather and what to pack
- Kanazawa in June: weather and what to pack
- Kanazawa in July: weather and what to pack
- Kanazawa in August: weather and what to pack
- Kanazawa in September: weather and what to pack
- Kanazawa in October: weather and what to pack
- Kanazawa in November: weather and what to pack
- Kanazawa in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Kanazawa, Japan
Based on the climate and weather in Kanazawa, Japan, the best time to go is June. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Kanazawa, Japan
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Kanazawa, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Kanazawa, Japan by month
January
January in Kanazawa is pretty cool. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light gloves or mittens
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: this
Fleece
Jacket or coat
Extra socks
Warm pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great option.
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 wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
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.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kanazawa. 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 airports constantly losing things nowadays, 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 adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to find the correct kind. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices 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
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you go to a temple, such as Ninja Temple, wear:
Dresses that cover your knees
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
Trousers
If you go to Kenroku-en Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Binoculars
February
February for Kanazawa can be brisk. Temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Warm pants or jeans
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: this one
Extra socks
Light gloves or mittens
Fleece
Jacket or coat
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kanazawa. 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 bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
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.
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 excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to find the correct type. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
What we like is this one
If you go to a temple, such as Ninja Temple, wear:
Dresses that cover your knees
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
Trousers
If you go to Kenroku-en Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Binoculars
March
March here is brisk. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (single digits C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light gloves or mittens
Jacket or coat
Extra socks
Fleece
Warm pants or jeans
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: here
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
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.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
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 bags 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 Kanazawa. 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 good option is this one
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
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you pick the right kind. Many adapters currently available are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.
If you go to a temple, such as Ninja Temple, wear:
Dresses that cover your knees
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
Trousers
If you go to Kenroku-en Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Binoculars
April
April in Kanazawa is cool. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.
Light and heavy skirts
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Light jacket or fleece
Pants or jeans
Extra socks
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Health
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.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kanazawa. 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 luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
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
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to choose the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.
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 pillow
Our favorite is this one
If you go to a temple, such as Ninja Temple, wear:
Dresses that cover your knees
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
Trousers
If you go to Kenroku-en Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Binoculars
May
If you go to Kanazawa in May, you will notice that it is balmy. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light and heavy skirts
Pants or jeans
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light jacket or fleece
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Extra socks
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
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 first aid kit
This one is a good choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kanazawa. 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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: 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
Travel neck pillow
A good option is this one
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
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 sure to find the correct kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.
If you go to a temple, such as Ninja Temple, wear:
Dresses that cover your knees
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
Trousers
If you go to Kenroku-en Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Binoculars
June
June in this region is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sunscreen lotion
Light skirts
Extra socks
Bug repellent
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Short pants or heavy shorts
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
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
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
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.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kanazawa. 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
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like 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. It's important that you find the right kind. The majority of adapters available online are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel pillow
A great choice is this one
If you go to a temple, such as Ninja Temple, wear:
Dresses that cover your knees
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
Trousers
If you go to Kenroku-en Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Binoculars
July
If you go to Kanazawa in July, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you cool and protect you from skin damage:
Loose-fit shorts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and help you stay cool.
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also filters contaminants:
this
Sunglasses
Skirts
Bug repellent
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can locate 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 Kanazawa. 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.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to pick the right kind. Most adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours 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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel neck support pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
If you go to a temple, such as Ninja Temple, wear:
Dresses that cover your knees
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
Trousers
If you go to Kenroku-en Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Binoculars
August
If you visit Kanazawa during August, you are likely to see that it is constantly hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Loose-fit shorts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and cool you.
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you cool and protect you from the sun:
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also filters dangerous contaminants:
thisSunglasses
Skirts
Waterproof sandals
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good kit.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
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.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kanazawa. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
Our fave is 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. Make sure to find the right type. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
If you go to a temple, such as Ninja Temple, wear:
Dresses that cover your knees
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
Trousers
If you go to Kenroku-en Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Binoculars
September
September here is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Short pants or heavy shorts
Sunscreen lotion
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sandals
Extra socks
Light skirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kanazawa. 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 constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate 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.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
An excellent option is this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the right kind. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money 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 go to a temple, such as Ninja Temple, wear:
Dresses that cover your knees
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
Trousers
If you go to Kenroku-en Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Binoculars
October
October in Kanazawa is mild. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Pants or jeans
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Light jacket or fleece
Light and heavy skirts
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Extra socks
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent value.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
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.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kanazawa. 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 things.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
Our favorite is this one
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. Ensure that you find the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
If you go to a temple, such as Ninja Temple, wear:
Dresses that cover your knees
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
Trousers
If you go to Kenroku-en Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Binoculars
November
November here can be chilly. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light and heavy skirts
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Pants or jeans
Extra socks
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Light jacket or fleece
Rain poncho
A quality rain poncho to wear over your jacket will help avoid loads of aggrevation by protecting your main jacket. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots essential. These boots are well-suited for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is designed for bad weather.
So your stuff remain dry. Even the most durable suitcases can let rain in. We recommend:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
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.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kanazawa. 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 airports constantly losing bags these days, 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.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
Our favorite is this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to choose the right kind. The majority of adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert 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 huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you go to a temple, such as Ninja Temple, wear:
Dresses that cover your knees
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
Trousers
If you go to Kenroku-en Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Binoculars
December
December is pretty cool. Temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Warm pants or jeans
Fleece
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: this
Light gloves or mittens
Jacket or coat
Extra socks
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Rain poncho
A high quality rain poncho to wear over your coat will avoid travel headaches by protecting your nice jacket. We like this one.
The stormy weather makes rubber rain boots essential. These boots work well for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is built for storms.So your belongings don't get wet. The finest luggage can let moisture in. We recommend:
Rain pants
These pants are a lifesaver in a storm.
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
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.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kanazawa. 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 constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: 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 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
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you get the necessary kind. Many adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.
Travel neck support pillow
Our favorite is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
If you go to a temple, such as Ninja Temple, wear:
Dresses that cover your knees
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
Trousers
If you go to Kenroku-en Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Binoculars
What to do in Kanazawa, Japan
Kanazawa is a beautiful city located in the Ishikawa Prefecture of Japan. Known for its rich history, beautiful gardens, and traditional handicrafts, it is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling in Japan. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Kanazawa that you should not miss.
1. Kenrokuen Garden
Kenrokuen is considered one of the three most beautiful gardens in Japan. Located in the heart of Kanazawa, it is a spacious park with traditional Japanese landscaping that includes artificial hills, ponds, streams, and ornaments such as teahouses, lanterns, and stone bridges. It is especially stunning in spring and autumn when the flowers and foliage change colors.
2. Kanazawa Castle
Kanazawa Castle was built in the 16th century and was once the seat of the powerful Maeda Clan. Much of the castle was destroyed over time, but parts have been reconstructed, including the imposing Ishikawa-mon Gate that stands at the entrance to the park. Inside the park, visitors can explore the castle's impressive stone walls, gardens, and historical exhibits.
3. Higashi Chaya District
Higashi Chaya is a well-preserved historical district that is famous for its wooden teahouses. Visitors can stroll through the narrow streets and admire the traditional architecture, which includes lattice windows, sliding doors, and painted facades. Several of the teahouses have been converted into shops selling traditional crafts and souvenirs.
4. Naga-machi Samurai District
Naga-machi is another well-preserved historical district in Kanazawa that was once home to Samurai warriors. Visitors can explore the elegant houses, narrow streets, and small museums that showcase the history and lifestyle of the Samurai. One of the highlights of Naga-machi is the Nomura-ke, a restored Samurai residence that features beautiful gardens and traditional architecture.
5. Omi-cho Market
Omi-cho is an enormous covered market that sells fresh seafood, produce, and other local specialties. Visitors can stroll through the bustling alleys, taste a variety of seafood, and shop for souvenirs. There are also several small restaurants that serve local dishes such as sushi, tempura, and soba noodles.
6. Kanazawa 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art
The Kanazawa 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art is a modern museum that showcases contemporary art from around the world. The museum's unique circular design incorporates natural light and outdoor space, and visitors can explore indoor and outdoor exhibitions, installations, and interactive displays.
7. Myoryuji Temple (Ninja Temple)
Myoryuji Temple, also known as the Ninja Temple, is a unique temple that was built in the 16th century. The temple is famous for its hidden features, such as trap doors, secret passageways, and hidden rooms, which were designed to protect the residents from attackers. Visitors can join a guided tour to explore the temple's hidden features and learn about its history.
In conclusion, Kanazawa is a city that offers a glimpse into traditional Japanese culture and history. From beautiful gardens to ancient temples, it has something for every traveler. A trip to Kanazawa is definitely worth the effort for anyone looking to experience authentic Japanese culture.
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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