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

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Ready to pack for Karuizawa, Japan? If you're planning to go to Karuizawa, I have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Karuizawa, Japan

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

What to wear/what to pack for Karuizawa, Japan

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

January is freezing. Temperatures average in the 30s F (single digits 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.

  • 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Karuizawa. 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

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you pick the right type. A lot of adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you plan to see the stunning Karuizawa Shaw Memorial Church, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Kazakoshi Park Arena, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you're considering visiting Shiraito falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

February

If you are traveling to Karuizawa in February, you will notice that it can be extremely cold. Expect it to rain occasionally. Daytime temperatures are in the 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties 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. It's important that you find the right kind. Many adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you plan to see the stunning Karuizawa Shaw Memorial Church, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Kazakoshi Park Arena, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you're considering visiting Shiraito falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

March

March in Karuizawa is pretty cool. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C). It tends to rain 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.

  • 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Karuizawa. 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 locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the right kind. Most adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you plan to see the stunning Karuizawa Shaw Memorial Church, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Kazakoshi Park Arena, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you're considering visiting Shiraito falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

April

April in Karuizawa is cool. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, 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 Karuizawa. 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 always losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to find the correct kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

If you plan to see the stunning Karuizawa Shaw Memorial Church, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Kazakoshi Park Arena, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you're considering visiting Shiraito falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

May

May in Karuizawa can be chilly. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C) to 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 Karuizawa. 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 airlines always losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you choose the correct kind. Many adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you plan to see the stunning Karuizawa Shaw Memorial Church, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Kazakoshi Park Arena, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you're considering visiting Shiraito falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

June

If you vacation in Karuizawa during June, you are likely to see that it is balmy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: 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 Karuizawa. 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • 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 choose the right kind. Many adapters on sale 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 should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you plan to see the stunning Karuizawa Shaw Memorial Church, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Kazakoshi Park Arena, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you're considering visiting Shiraito falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

July

If you visit Karuizawa during July, you may see 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 high 50s F (mid 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third 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 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 constantly losing luggage nowadays, 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 Karuizawa. 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

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you get the necessary type. Many adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

If you plan to see the stunning Karuizawa Shaw Memorial Church, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Kazakoshi Park Arena, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you're considering visiting Shiraito falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

August

If you vacation in Karuizawa during August, you may notice that it is warm. 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 (mid 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 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 Karuizawa. 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

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 pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you get the necessary type. Many adapters available online are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you plan to see the stunning Karuizawa Shaw Memorial Church, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Kazakoshi Park Arena, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you're considering visiting Shiraito falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

September

September is balmy. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains about a third 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 Karuizawa. 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 recently, 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like 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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to pick the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

If you plan to see the stunning Karuizawa Shaw Memorial Church, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Kazakoshi Park Arena, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you're considering visiting Shiraito falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

October

If you vacation in Karuizawa during October, you are likely to find that it is crisp. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 30s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 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.

  • 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 Karuizawa. 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 luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to pick the right kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply 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 locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

If you plan to see the stunning Karuizawa Shaw Memorial Church, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Kazakoshi Park Arena, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you're considering visiting Shiraito falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

November

November in Karuizawa can be brisk. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 50s 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Karuizawa. 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like 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. Make sure to pick the right kind. Many adapters currently sold 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 should be appropriate for most areas.

If you plan to see the stunning Karuizawa Shaw Memorial Church, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Kazakoshi Park Arena, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you're considering visiting Shiraito falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

December

December in Karuizawa is cold. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 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 repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Karuizawa. 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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to get the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge 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

    A good option is this one

If you plan to see the stunning Karuizawa Shaw Memorial Church, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Kazakoshi Park Arena, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you're considering visiting Shiraito falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

What to do in Karuizawa, Japan

Karuizawa is a renowned tourist destination located in the Nagano Prefecture, Japan. It is famous for its picturesque landscapes, unique culture, lively shopping centers, and relaxing hot springs, attracting a large number of visitors each year. Here are the top tourist attractions in Karuizawa.

1. Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza

Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza is a large shopping mall with more than 200 stores, offering a wide range of items, including luxury brands, fashion items, food, electronics, and local souvenirs. This shopping mall also has a variety of restaurants serving delicious Japanese cuisine.

2. Shiraito Falls

Shiraito Falls is a must-visit destination in Karuizawa, offering a stunning view of cascading waterfalls, surrounded by lush greenery. Visitors can enjoy a pleasant walk to the falls through a wooded path, where they can enjoy peaceful moments with nature and take some amazing pictures.

3. Hoshino Onsen

Hoshino Onsen is one of the most popular hot springs in Karuizawa, offering a relaxing and rejuvenating experience to visitors. Located in a peaceful environment surrounded by mountains and forests, visitors can soak in the natural hot springs and admire the breathtaking views.

4. Karuizawa Museum of History and Folklore

The Karuizawa Museum of History and Folklore showcases the region's history and culture, featuring various exhibits, artifacts, and records that showcase everything from the region's architecture to the prominent individuals who have shaped its history.

5. Karuizawa Kogen Church

The Karuizawa Kogen Church is a unique white church with a familiar structure that is home to several services and events throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy the stunning architecture of the church and take a serene walk around the grounds to observe the beautiful gardens nearby.

6. Karuizawa Taliesin

Karuizawa Taliesin is a historical building known for its architecture, which was designed by American architect Frank Lloyd Wright. The building has since turned into an art museum, where visitors can admire the art collections and paintings of various artists.

7. Mount Asama

Mount Asama is an active volcano located close to Karuizawa and is the perfect place for visitors to experience winter sports activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and sledding. Visitors can reach the ski resorts located at the foothills of Mount Asama by car, train, or bus.

In conclusion, Karuizawa has a lot to offer, ranging from its hot springs, unique culture, stunning natural landscapes, and exceptional architecture, which has something for everyone. Visitors can explore these top tourist attractions, gaining insight into the region's history and culture while enjoying a serene and peaceful environment with family and friends.

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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