Kofu, Japan: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2023]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

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

Contents

When to go to Kofu, Japan

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

What to wear/what to pack for Kofu, Japan

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

January here can be very chilly. Temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Japan has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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 Kofu. 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 bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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 huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you pick the necessary kind. Most adapters available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

If you see a temple, such as Takeda Shingen Shrine, wear:

If you see the Yamanashi Prefectural Museum of Art, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

February can be brisk. Temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Japan has some specific safety 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 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 peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kofu. 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 adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to get the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. 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 large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

If you see a temple, such as Takeda Shingen Shrine, wear:

If you see the Yamanashi Prefectural Museum of Art, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

If you are traveling to Kofu in March, you will notice that it is crisp. Daytime temperatures are in the 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Japan has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kofu. 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 peace of mind, 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.

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. It's important that you get the correct type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • 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 neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

If you see a temple, such as Takeda Shingen Shrine, wear:

If you see the Yamanashi Prefectural Museum of Art, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

If you are traveling to Kofu in April, you will notice that it is mild. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Japan has some specific safety 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 things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kofu. 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 bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges 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 careful to get the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see a temple, such as Takeda Shingen Shrine, wear:

If you see the Yamanashi Prefectural Museum of Art, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

May for Kofu is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Japan has some specific safety 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 locate it anywhere in the world: 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 Kofu. 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 huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you pick the right kind. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see a temple, such as Takeda Shingen Shrine, wear:

If you see the Yamanashi Prefectural Museum of Art, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

Traveling to Kofu in June, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature. Daytime temperatures are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Japan has some specific safety 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 Kofu. 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 help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to find the right type. Many adapters available are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you see a temple, such as Takeda Shingen Shrine, wear:

If you see the Yamanashi Prefectural Museum of Art, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

July in this region is constantly hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Japan has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kofu. 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 bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel 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. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to get the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices 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

If you see a temple, such as Takeda Shingen Shrine, wear:

If you see the Yamanashi Prefectural Museum of Art, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

August in Kofu is really hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) to high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Japan has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kofu. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • 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 surcharges with this

  • Travel 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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to find the right kind. A lot of adapters available are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

If you see a temple, such as Takeda Shingen Shrine, wear:

If you see the Yamanashi Prefectural Museum of Art, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

Traveling to Kofu in September, you will notice that it is hot. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Japan has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kofu. 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 repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you choose the correct type. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your devices to change 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

If you see a temple, such as Takeda Shingen Shrine, wear:

If you see the Yamanashi Prefectural Museum of Art, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

If you vacation in Kofu during October, you might see that it is balmy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Japan has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags recently, 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you find the correct kind. Most adapters for sale now are simply 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 be sufficient for most areas.

If you see a temple, such as Takeda Shingen Shrine, wear:

If you see the Yamanashi Prefectural Museum of Art, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November in Kofu is chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Japan has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • 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. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see a temple, such as Takeda Shingen Shrine, wear:

If you see the Yamanashi Prefectural Museum of Art, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

If you are traveling to Kofu in December, you will notice that it is brisk. Daytime temperatures are in the low 50s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Japan has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kofu. 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 peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you choose the correct type. Most adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see a temple, such as Takeda Shingen Shrine, wear:

If you see the Yamanashi Prefectural Museum of Art, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Kofu, Japan

Kofu, Japan is a city located in the Yamanashi Prefecture, and it is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. Kofu is a historically rich city, with plenty of attractions to suit every visitor's needs. Here are some of the top tourist attractions to visit in Kofu, Japan.

1. Takeda Shrine

Takeda Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of agriculture, Takeda no Komori. This shrine is located on a mountain overlooking Kofu, so visitors can enjoy a stunning view of the city while they visit. The shrine has a long history and is known for its unique architecture, such as its impressive torii gate and the ancient cedar trees that surround the shrine.

2. Shosenkyo Gorge

Shosenkyo Gorge is a natural wonder that is located in the Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park. This gorge has a stunning landscape, with waterfalls, lush greenery, and towering cliffs. Visitors can hike or take a bus to explore the gorge, which is particularly beautiful in the autumn months when the leaves change color.

3. Kai Zenko-ji Temple

Kai Zenko-ji Temple is a Buddhist temple that is believed to have been founded in the 7th century. This temple is known for its beautiful garden, which is particularly stunning during springtime when the cherry blossom trees are in bloom. Visitors can explore the temple's various halls, pagodas and courtyards, which are full of exquisite artwork and religious artifacts.

4. Kofu Castle

Kofu Castle is a reconstructed castle that dates back to the 16th century. Visitors can visit the castle's museum to learn about its rich history and explore the castle's various rooms and towers, which offer a stunning view of the city. The castle also has a beautiful garden that is full of cherry blossoms in the spring.

5. Yamanashi Prefectural Museum of Art

The Yamanashi Prefectural Museum of Art is a modern museum that features contemporary art from both Japan and around the world. The museum has a large collection of different art forms, including painting, sculpture, and photography. Visitors can also explore the museum's beautiful grounds, which are full of sculptures and other outdoor artworks.

In conclusion, Kofu, Japan is a city full of rich history, natural beauty and modern culture. It is a great destination for tourists who want to experience all that Japan has to offer. Whether you're interested in history, outdoor activities, or art and culture, Kofu has something for everyone.

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.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Gers, France, Fuchu, Japan, North Canterbury, Alaska, New Zealand, Mardin, Turkey, Ambleside, England, United Kingdom, North Miami Beach, Florida, United States of America, Taldykorgan, Kazakhstan, Telluride, Colorado, United States of America, Xhariep, South Africa, Elizabeth, New Jersey, United States of America, and Sedro-Woolley, Washington, United States of America.