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

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

Contents

When to go to Kochi, Japan

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

What to wear/what to pack for Kochi, Japan

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

If you vacation in Kochi during January, you will probably see that it can be brisk and extremely rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 40 and 50% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain almost every day of the month and snow 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 Kochi. 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 things.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

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 penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to pick the correct type. Many adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you see a temple, such as Tosa Shrine, wear:

If you go to Kochi Prefectural Makino Botanical Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

Traveling to Kochi in February, you will notice that it can be brisk and extremely rainy. Expect it to rain most days. Daytime temperatures are in the low 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 Kochi. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges 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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you find the right type. The majority of adapters currently being sold 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 appropriate for most countries.

If you see a temple, such as Tosa Shrine, wear:

If you go to Kochi Prefectural Makino Botanical Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

March in Kochi is chilly and extremely rainy. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day. It rains almost every day of the 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kochi. 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 voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to choose the right type. The majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • 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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see a temple, such as Tosa Shrine, wear:

If you go to Kochi Prefectural Makino Botanical Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

If you visit Kochi during April, you might see that it is balmy and extremely rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 10s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain most days.

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 these days, an AirTag can help you 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 belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kochi. 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 excessive prices 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 neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to pick the necessary kind. Most adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

If you see a temple, such as Tosa Shrine, wear:

If you go to Kochi Prefectural Makino Botanical Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

If you are traveling to Kochi in May, you will notice that it is balmy and extremely rainy. Expect it to rain almost every day of the month. 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kochi. 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 repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: 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
  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to get the necessary kind. Most adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you see a temple, such as Tosa Shrine, wear:

If you go to Kochi Prefectural Makino Botanical Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

If you vacation in Kochi during June, you may find that it is warm and extremely rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 60s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
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 repeatedly losing bags recently, 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kochi. 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
  • 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. Ensure that you pick the right type. Many adapters available are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

If you see a temple, such as Tosa Shrine, wear:

If you go to Kochi Prefectural Makino Botanical Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

If you visit Kochi during July, you might notice that it is pretty consistently hot and extremely rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

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. Take care to pick the correct type. Many adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

If you see a temple, such as Tosa Shrine, wear:

If you go to Kochi Prefectural Makino Botanical Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

In August, Kochi is extremely hot and extremely rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 80s F (low 30s C) and sometimes jump into the low 90s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the 70s F (mid 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Kochi, with most of the days of the month having rain. In August, humidity reaches as high as 80%.

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 bags 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 Kochi. 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
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to find the right type. A lot of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

If you see a temple, such as Tosa Shrine, wear:

If you go to Kochi Prefectural Makino Botanical Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

If you go to Kochi in September, you will notice that it is hot and extremely rainy. Expect it to rain almost every day of the month. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 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 Kochi. 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 repeatedly losing things 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.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the necessary type. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs 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 countries.

If you see a temple, such as Tosa Shrine, wear:

If you go to Kochi Prefectural Makino Botanical Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

October here is a perfect temperature and extremely rainy. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains most days.

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 belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kochi. 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 always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    A great choice 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. Make sure to get the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you see a temple, such as Tosa Shrine, wear:

If you go to Kochi Prefectural Makino Botanical Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

Traveling to Kochi in November, you will notice that it is cool and extremely rainy. Expect it to rain most days. Daytime temperatures are in the 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 Kochi. 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 recently, 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.

  • 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. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you get the correct kind. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • 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

    A versatile choice is this one

If you see a temple, such as Tosa Shrine, wear:

If you go to Kochi Prefectural Makino Botanical Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

December in Kochi is crisp and extremely rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain almost every day of the month. With the colder weather comes lower humidity, which is in the 40% to 50% range on average.

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kochi. 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 good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • 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. Check that you get the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

If you see a temple, such as Tosa Shrine, wear:

If you go to Kochi Prefectural Makino Botanical Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Kochi, Japan

Kochi prefecture, located on the southern coast of the island of Shikoku in Japan, is known for its picturesque landscapes, rich history, and unique cultural offerings. From pristine beaches and lush forests to ancient castles and traditional festivals, there is no shortage of tourist attractions in Kochi. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the top must-see sights in this beautiful region.

1. Kochi Castle

Kochi Castle, one of the most iconic landmarks of the prefecture, was first built in the 17th century as a home for the influential Yamauchi family. The castle was significantly damaged during World War II, but has since been restored to its former glory. Visitors can explore the castle's grounds and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the top of the main keep.

2. Hirome Market

Located in the heart of downtown Kochi, Hirome Market is a bustling indoor market that offers a wide range of local cuisine and cultural experiences. The market is renowned for its seafood dishes, regional sake, and unique atmosphere that brings together locals and tourists alike.

3. Katsurahama Beach

Katsurahama Beach, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Pacific Ocean, is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Japan. The beach is also home to the Katsurahama Aquarium, which features a variety of marine life native to the region, including dolphins, sea turtles, and whale sharks.

4. Shimanto River

The Shimanto River, also known as the "last clear stream" in Japan, flows through the heart of Kochi prefecture and is a popular destination for water activities such as kayaking, rafting, and fishing. The river is known for its stunning natural beauty and serene atmosphere.

5. Yosakoi Festival

The Yosakoi Festival, held annually in August, is a lively celebration of Kochi's unique dance culture. The festival features thousands of dancers in colorful costumes performing traditional Yosakoi dances to the beat of taiko drums and other instruments. The festival attracts visitors from all over Japan and around the world.

6. Tosa Washi Paper

Tosa Washi Paper, a traditional Japanese paper made from the bark of the mulberry tree, is a cultural treasure of Kochi prefecture. Visitors can learn about the papermaking process at the Tosa Washi Museum, and even try their hand at making their own paper.

In conclusion, Kochi prefecture offers a wealth of cultural and natural attractions that are sure to delight any traveler. From ancient castles and traditional festivals to pristine beaches and serene rivers, there is something for everyone in this beautiful region of Japan.

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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