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

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Ready to pack for Kumano, Japan? If you're planning to go to Kumano, this article contains some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Kumano, Japan

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

What to wear/what to pack for Kumano, Japan

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

January in this region can be very chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains about half of the time and snows 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 Kumano. 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 belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A good option 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. Take care to choose the right type. The majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

February

Traveling to Kumano in February, you will notice that it is pretty cool and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time and snow once in a while. Daytime temperatures are 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kumano. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you pick the correct kind. 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 fried. This one should work in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

March

March here is chilly and very rainy. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. It rains about two thirds 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 Kumano. 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 things.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to find the right kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust 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

April

In April, Kumano can be chilly and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 60s F (high 10s C) and regularly jump into the low 70s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 50s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Kumano, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In April, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

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 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kumano. 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 recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

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. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to get the correct type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

May

If you go to Kumano in May, you will notice that it is mild and very rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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 Kumano. 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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the correct kind. A lot of adapters available online 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 sufficient for most places.

June

In June, Kumano is a perfect temperature and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 70s F (mid 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the 60s F (high 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Kumano, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In June, 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.

  • 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 Kumano. 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 belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge 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 neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to find the correct type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

July

If you are traveling to Kumano in July, you will notice that it is extremely warm and very rainy. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kumano. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the right type. Many adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

August

August is pretty consistently hot and very rainy. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains about two thirds 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 Kumano. 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 these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to choose the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

September

If you vacation in Kumano during September, you will probably find that it is a perfect temperature and very 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 about two thirds 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 bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kumano. 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

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties 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 find the necessary kind. Many adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

October

Traveling to Kumano in October, you will notice that it is mild and very rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. 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.

  • 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 Kumano. 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 frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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 surcharges with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to choose the right type. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

November

If you go to Kumano in November, you will notice that it can be chilly and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 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.

  • 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 Kumano. 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you choose the necessary kind. Most adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

December

In December, Kumano is chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 50s F (low 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Kumano, with several of the days of the month having rain. In December, humidity reaches as high as 50%.

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kumano. 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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you choose the necessary type. Most adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

What to do in Kumano, Japan

Kumano, Japan is a stunning destination that draws visitors from around the globe with its incredible scenery, rich history and cultural experiences. Located on the Kii Peninsula in the Wakayama Prefecture, Kumano has a deep reverence for the region’s ancient Shinto and Buddhist roots, and is one of the most sacred regions in Japan. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top tourist attractions in Kumano that shouldn’t be missed.

1. Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Routes

The Kumano Kodo is a network of ancient pilgrimage routes that connect three grand shrines: Hongu Taisha, Hayatama Taisha and Nachi Taisha. These routes have been used by pilgrims for almost 1000 years as a way to connect with the spiritual side of their journey, and it’s not hard to see why. The journey through the deep forests, passing by waterfalls and serene mountain streams is so breathtaking, it’s easy to get lost in its natural beauty. Along the way, you’ll discover small villages that have retained their timeless charm, rich cultural heritage, and traditions that are still practiced to this day.

2. Nachi Falls

Nachi Falls is one of Japan's most famous and picturesque waterfalls, and perhaps the single most impressive in the country. The waterfall has a drop of 133 meters and is also the longest waterfall in Japan. The Nachi Shrine is located near the waterfall, adding to the incredibly spiritual vibe that surrounds the area of Kumano. If you’re lucky enough to be here during the night, you’ll experience something truly special. The Nachi Falls are illuminated, providing a stunning view that will take your breath away.

3. Kumano Nachi Taisha

Kumano Nachi Taisha is one of the three grand shrines of Kumano, and it's essential to pay a visit while you're in the region. It is said that the shrine was founded in the 4th century and the current structure was constructed in the 14th century. This shrine is dedicated to the deity of the waterfall, as well as the god of marine traffic and seafaring. With its beautiful natural surroundings, serene atmosphere and the sounds of the waterfall nearby, it is no wonder that this place is regarded as a sacred place.

4. Shirahama Beach

Shirahama Beach is another must-see spot in Kumano. Located on the southern coast of Wakayama Prefecture, it’s a white sandy beach that stretches for about 640 meters. Shirahama beach is considered one of the best beaches in Japan and is also well-known for its crystal clear blue waters. When you visit Shirahama, you can choose to soak in the hot springs nearby or try your hand at various water sports that are on offer. If you’re looking for a beautiful, relaxing day near the water, you won’t find a better spot in Kumano.

5. Onsen

Kumano is known for its selection of onsen, or hot springs. These hot springs are dotted in and around the region, and offer a relaxing and reflective experience for visitors. The hot springs contain minerals that are believed to have healing properties and are perfect for travelers who want to relax and rejuvenate their bodies. There are numerous Onsen resorts to choose from in Kumano, all offering a different experience. So why not take a dip and experience another one of Kumano's incredible attractions.

In conclusion, Kumano is an incredible destination that perfectly showcases the cultural richness, spirituality and natural beauty of Japan. From its scenic trails to its beautiful beaches and hot springs, there are so many incredible things to be experienced in Kumano. So why not grab your camera, your walking shoes and embark on a journey to this incredible destination? You won’t regret it.

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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