Kumamoto, Japan: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Kumamoto, Japan? If you're planning to go to Kumamoto, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Kumamoto
- Important essentials for Kumamoto
- Activities for Kumamoto
- Kumamoto in January: weather and what to pack
- Kumamoto in February: weather and what to pack
- Kumamoto in March: weather and what to pack
- Kumamoto in April: weather and what to pack
- Kumamoto in May: weather and what to pack
- Kumamoto in June: weather and what to pack
- Kumamoto in July: weather and what to pack
- Kumamoto in August: weather and what to pack
- Kumamoto in September: weather and what to pack
- Kumamoto in October: weather and what to pack
- Kumamoto in November: weather and what to pack
- Kumamoto in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Kumamoto, Japan
Based on the climate and weather in Kumamoto, Japan, the best time to go is October. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Kumamoto, Japan
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Kumamoto, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Kumamoto, Japan by month
January
If you are traveling to Kumamoto in January, you will notice that it can be brisk. Expect it to rain once in a while. Daytime temperatures are in the low 50s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: this
Warm pants or jeans
Extra socks
Fleece
Jacket or coat
Light gloves or mittens
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good value.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
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 Kumamoto. 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 recently, 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.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you find the right type. A lot of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel neck support pillow
Our fave is this one
February
Traveling to Kumamoto in February, you will notice that it is pretty cool. Expect it to rain once in a while. Daytime temperatures are in the low 50s F (low 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Warm pants or jeans
Jacket or coat
Fleece
Light gloves or mittens
Extra socks
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: this
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always 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 Kumamoto. 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 little protection, 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
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 pick the necessary type. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.
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
Travel neck support pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
March
March in Kumamoto is crisp. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: this
Jacket or coat
Fleece
Light gloves or mittens
Warm pants or jeans
Extra socks
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
These are essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
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 Kumamoto. 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 luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, 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
A top rated pillow is this one
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. Be sure to get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.
April
April in Kumamoto 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
Light jacket or fleece
Extra socks
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Dresses
You can find some great options here
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Light and heavy skirts
Pants or jeans
A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
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 Kumamoto. 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 nowadays, 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 things.
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 penalties 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. Take care to find the right type. The majority of adapters available are simply plugs 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.
May
If you visit Kumamoto during May, you might notice that it is warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light skirts
Sunscreen lotion
Bug repellent
Short pants or heavy shorts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Sandals
Extra socks
Breathable footwear or sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We like:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kumamoto. 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 little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can find 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 pillow
An excellent option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices 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 voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you find the right kind. A lot of adapters available are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.
June
If you visit Kumamoto during June, you might see that it is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. 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 5-10 days this month.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Short pants or heavy shorts
Sandals
Bug repellent
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
Light skirts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sunscreen lotion
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
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 value.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kumamoto. 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 belongings.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to find the correct kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
July
July for Kumamoto can be very hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Loose-fit shorts
Waterproof sandals
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and keep you cool.
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also filters harmful contaminants:
thisSunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Sunglasses
Skirts
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from UV rays:
Bug repellent
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We like:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
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.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing things 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 Kumamoto. 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 protection, 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
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to find the right kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel pillow
What we like 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
August
If you visit Kumamoto during August, you will probably notice that it is constantly hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also filters contaminants:
thisSkirts
Loose-fit shorts
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and protect you from skin damage:
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and help you stay cool.
Bug repellent
Sunglasses
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb 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 important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: 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 Kumamoto. 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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
A versatile choice 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. It's important that you pick the right kind. A lot of adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.
September
If you visit Kumamoto during September, you will probably notice that it is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Waterproof sandals
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and keep you cool.
Skirts
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also filters dangerous contaminants:
thisLoose-fit shorts
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and protect you from the sun:
Bug repellent
Sunglasses
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
These are vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We like:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
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 a good plane-friendly product.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kumamoto. 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 belongings.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
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 huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel pillow
A good option is this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you find the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
October
Traveling to Kumamoto in October, you will notice that it is warm. Expect it to rain sometimes. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light skirts
Sandals
Short pants or heavy shorts
Extra socks
Sunscreen lotion
Bug repellent
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can find 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 Kumamoto. 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
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
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you pick the necessary type. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
Travel neck support pillow
A versatile choice is this one
November
November in Kumamoto is crisp. 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), although night temperatures can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Extra socks
Light jacket or fleece
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light and heavy skirts
Pants or jeans
Dresses
You can find some great options here
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kumamoto. 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 frequently losing things 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.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
What we like is this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to find the correct type. Most adapters currently available are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties 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
December
December in Kumamoto is cold. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain once in a while.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Warm pants or jeans
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: this
Light gloves or mittens
Fleece
Jacket or coat
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
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 Kumamoto. 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 things these days, an AirTag can locate 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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel pillow
A good option is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you choose the right kind. A lot of adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect 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 locations.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
What to do in Kumamoto, Japan
Kumamoto is a city located on the island of Kyushu, in the southwestern region of Japan. It is a charming city that has become increasingly popular with tourists, both national and international. This is due to its historical significance, natural beauty, and unique culture. In this article, we will explore some of the top tourist attractions in Kumamoto.
1. Kumamoto Castle
One of the most iconic sites in Kumamoto is the Kumamoto Castle. It was built in the 17th century and is recognized as one of the top three castles in Japan. The castle was severely damaged by an earthquake in 2016, but it has been fully restored and reopened to the public. Visitors can tour the castle and learn about its fascinating history.
2. Suizenji Garden
Suizenji Garden is a beautiful Japanese-style garden located in Kumamoto. It features a miniature replica of Mount Fuji and a pond with several islands. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the garden and enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility.
3. Aso Volcano
Aso Volcano is one of the most active volcanoes in Japan and is located just outside of Kumamoto. Visitors can take a scenic drive up to the crater and observe the stunning landscape. It is also possible to hike some of the easier trails around the caldera.
4. Tadewara Wetlands
The Tadewara Wetlands are located in the Aso-Kuju National Park and are a prime spot for birdwatching. This wetland is home to several endangered species of birds, including the Japanese crane. Visitors can take a guided tour or go for a peaceful walk through the wetlands.
5. Kumamoto Zoo and Botanical Gardens
The Kumamoto Zoo and Botanical Gardens is a wonderful destination for families. It features a wide range of animals, including elephants, lions, and monkeys. There is also a large botanical garden with over 1,200 species of plants. Visitors can enjoy a picnic or take a ride on the park's monorail.
6. Sakuranobaba Josaien
Sakuranobaba Josaien is a historic district in Kumamoto that features traditional Japanese architecture. Visitors can explore the old shops and stalls and sample some of the local cuisine. There is also a museum that showcases the history and culture of Kumamoto.
In conclusion, Kumamoto is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. It is a great destination for anyone who wants to experience the best of Japan. Whether you are interested in history, nature, or just want to immerse yourself in Japanese culture, Kumamoto 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.
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