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

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Ready to pack for Nagahama, Japan? If you're planning to go to Nagahama, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Nagahama, Japan

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

What to wear/what to pack for Nagahama, Japan

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

January in Nagahama can be dangerously cold, somewhat snowy, somewhat rainy and somewhat hazy. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C) to high 20s F (single digits below 0 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 little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option 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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you find the correct type. The vast majority 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 get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

If you check out a temple, such as Daitsūji Temple, wear:

If you see the Hikiyama Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

In February, Nagahama can be bitter cold, somewhat snowy, somewhat rainy and somewhat hazy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C) range. At night, lows are in the high 10s F (single digits below 0 C). This is also a rainy time for Nagahama, with several of the days of the month having rain. In February, humidity reaches as high as 60%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nagahama. 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 large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • 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 right type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you check out a temple, such as Daitsūji Temple, wear:

If you see the Hikiyama Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

If you go to Nagahama in March, you will notice that it is frigid, very rainy and somewhat hazy. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things 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

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you pick the right type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect 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.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you check out a temple, such as Daitsūji Temple, wear:

If you see the Hikiyama Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

If you vacation in Nagahama during April, you may notice that it can be very chilly, very rainy and somewhat hazy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nagahama. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: 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

  • 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. Ensure that you pick the right type. Most adapters currently sold are just 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 work in most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

If you check out a temple, such as Daitsūji Temple, wear:

If you see the Hikiyama Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

If you go to Nagahama in May, you will notice that it is brisk, very rainy and somewhat hazy. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 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 Nagahama. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you find the right type. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Travel neck support 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 huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you check out a temple, such as Daitsūji Temple, wear:

If you see the Hikiyama Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

If you visit Nagahama during June, you will probably find that it is relatively cool, very rainy and somewhat hazy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nagahama. 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 frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • 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 get the correct type. Most adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you check out a temple, such as Daitsūji Temple, wear:

If you see the Hikiyama Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

July in Nagahama is mild, extremely rainy and somewhat hazy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags these days, 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 things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nagahama. 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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow 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. Ensure that you find the right kind. Most 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 sufficient for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you check out a temple, such as Daitsūji Temple, wear:

If you see the Hikiyama Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

In August, Nagahama is balmy, very rainy and very hazy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 60s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Nagahama, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In August, 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nagahama. 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 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 neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to find the correct kind. A lot of adapters available are just plugs and require 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 locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you check out a temple, such as Daitsūji Temple, wear:

If you see the Hikiyama Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

September in Nagahama is crisp, very rainy and somewhat hazy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) to 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.

  • 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 Nagahama. 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 locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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. Be sure to get the necessary type. Many adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you check out a temple, such as Daitsūji Temple, wear:

If you see the Hikiyama Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

If you are traveling to Nagahama in October, you will notice that it is cold, very rainy and very hazy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nagahama. 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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel 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. Be careful to find the correct kind. Most adapters for sale now 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 is sufficent for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you check out a temple, such as Daitsūji Temple, wear:

If you see the Hikiyama Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November in Nagahama is brisk, somewhat rainy and very hazy. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of 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 Nagahama. 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 nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

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. Make sure to find the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you check out a temple, such as Daitsūji Temple, wear:

If you see the Hikiyama Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

In December, Nagahama can be extremely cold, somewhat rainy and very hazy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 30s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C). This is also a rainy time for Nagahama, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In December, humidity reaches as high as 60%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things 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 protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nagahama. 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 large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile 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. Ensure that you get the right kind. Many adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you check out a temple, such as Daitsūji Temple, wear:

If you see the Hikiyama Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Nagahama, Japan

Nagahama is a beautiful city in Japan located in Shiga prefecture. The city is known for its rich history and culture, charming streets and iconic landmarks. It is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world. Here are some of the top tourist attractions to check out in Nagahama.

1. Nagahama Castle

Nagahama Castle is a must-visit tourist attraction in the city. It was built in the late 16th century and was the residence of Lord Hideyoshi Toyotomi’s nephew. The castle is beautifully renovated and exhibits collections of ancient samurai swords, armors, guns and other historical artifacts.

2. Hokoen Park

Hokoen Park is a stunning green oasis with a wide variety of flowers, trees and serene ponds. The park is well-suited for picnic outings, running and walking. You’ll enjoy the refreshing air and peaceful environment as you stroll through the gardens.

3. Nagahama Railway Museum

This museum is an excellent place for train enthusiasts. The museum exhibits a wide range of railway exhibits, including old trains and locomotives. You’ll learn about the history of transport in the region, and the impact of railways on the economy and the environment.

4. Nagahama Hikiyama Festival Museum

The Nagahama Hikiyama Festival Museum showcases various historical artifacts, utensils and costumes used in the famous Nagahama Hikiyama Festival. It is an annual traditional parade that features elaborate floats, dolls, and traditional Japanese plays.

5. Lake Biwa

Lake Biwa is the largest freshwater lake in Japan, and Nagahama city is situated on its western shore. It is a perfect location for fishing, boating, swimming or simply enjoying the beautiful views. You can also take a one-hour cruise tour around the lake.

6. Nagahama Betsuin Zen Temple

Nagahama Betsuin Zen Temple is one of the most iconic religious sites in Nagahama. It is renowned for its stunning architecture and a peaceful atmosphere. The temple is famous for its Zen teachings and its beautiful gardens.

7. Inoue Castle Ruins

Inoue Castle is a historical site that dates back to the 14th century. The ruins portray the lifestyle and struggle of the people during that era. It is an ideal destination for history lovers, researchers and archaeologists.

In conclusion, Nagahama is one of the most picturesque cities in Japan. Whether you are interested in history, nature, religion, culture, or just looking for a peaceful getaway, Nagahama city has something for everyone. These top tourist attractions featured here will make your visit to Nagahama city unforgettable.

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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