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

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

Contents

When to go to Nara, Japan

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

What to wear/what to pack for Nara, Japan

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

January in Nara is pretty cool and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about half of the time. It also snows sometimes. With the colder weather comes lower humidity, which is in the 40% to 50% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nara. 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.

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you choose the necessary kind. Many adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

February

February in Nara is brisk and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about half of the time. It also snows sometimes. With the colder weather comes lower humidity, which is in the 40% to 50% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • 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 stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nara. 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 these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

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

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

March

Traveling to Nara in March, you will notice that it is cool and very rainy. 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 Nara. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags recently, 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges 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. Make sure to get the correct kind. Many adapters that you can buy 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 places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

April

In April, Nara is 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 Nara, 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nara. 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.

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 get the necessary type. A lot of adapters available online are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

May

If you visit Nara during May, you might find that it is mild and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half 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 Nara. 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 airports constantly losing luggage recently, 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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to choose the necessary type. Many adapters currently being sold 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 be sufficient for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

June

If you vacation in Nara during June, you might notice that it is warm and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nara. 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 things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • 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. Make sure to pick the necessary kind. Many adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

July

Traveling to Nara in July, you will notice that it is hot 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 airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: 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 Nara. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

August

In August, Nara is hot and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 80s F (high 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Nara, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In August, humidity reaches as high as 80%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nara. 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 things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to pick the correct type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

September

September in Nara is warm and very rainy. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 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.

  • 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 Nara. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

October

In October, Nara is mild and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 70s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Nara, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In October, 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nara. 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great 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 find the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

November

In November, Nara is chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 60s F (high 10s C) and occasionally jump into the low 70s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Nara, with several of the days of the month having rain. In November, 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nara. 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 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave 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

December

If you visit Nara during December, you will probably see that it is cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 40 and 50% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nara. 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money 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 sure to pick the necessary kind. Many adapters available online are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

What to do in Nara, Japan

Nara, Japan is a city that is well known for its abundance of natural beauty, rich history and culture, and friendly locals. Situated in the Kansai region of Japan, Nara is a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists. The city is home to an abundance of must-see attractions that attract thousands of visitors from all over the world every year.

1. Nara Park

Nara Park is a sprawling 660-hectare park located in the heart of the city. The park is famous for its vast herd of Sika deer that roam freely around the area, a well-known symbol of the city. Visitors can purchase special crackers from vendors that allow them to feed the deer and interact with them (just be careful not to get bitten!). Besides deer, there are several attractions to explore within the park, including the serene Isuien Garden and Todai-ji Temple.

2. Todai-ji Temple

Todai-ji Temple is one of the most significant temples in Japan and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple complex is home to the Daibutsu (Great Buddha), which is the largest bronze statue of Buddha in Japan, measuring over 15 meters tall. The temple has several halls and buildings, each with its ornate design and intricate sculptures that showcase the fine craftsmanship of Japan's artisans.

3. Kasuga-taisha Shrine

Situated on the eastern edge of Nara Park is the Kasuga-taisha Shrine, an ancient Shinto shrine that has been around for over a thousand years. The shrine is famous for its unique lanterns that adorn the entire complex, giving it a magical feel. The lanterns are lit twice a year during the Setsubun and Obon festivals and create a breathtaking sight.

4. Nara National Museum

The Nara National Museum houses a vast collection of Japanese art, focusing mainly on Buddhist art and artifacts that date back to the 8th century. The museum has an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and calligraphy that captures the essence of Japan's rich cultural heritage.

5. Yoshiki-en Garden

For lovers of gardens and nature, Yoshiki-en Garden is a must-visit destination. The garden comprises three separate gardens, each with its unique design, including a pond garden, a moss garden, and a tea garden. The garden is perfect for strolling, relaxing or enjoying a traditional tea ceremony.

6. Horyu-ji Temple

The Horyu-ji Temple is one of the oldest temples in Japan and another UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple complex features wooden structures, some of which date back to the 7th century. Visitors can explore the various halls and buildings, each with their unique architecture, and see firsthand the stunning artwork, sculptures and artifacts that reflect Japan's rich history.

In conclusion, Nara is a city that captivates and fascinates visitors with its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and friendly locals. No matter what your interests are, there is something for everyone in this beautiful city. So if you are planning a trip to Japan, be sure to add Nara to your itinerary and experience everything this enchanting city has to offer.

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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