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

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Ready to pack for Okinawa Island, Japan? If you're planning to go to Okinawa Island, the following is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Okinawa Island, Japan

Based on the climate and weather in Okinawa Island, Japan, the best time to go is April. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Okinawa Island, Japan

Already know when you're traveling?

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

What to wear/what to pack for Okinawa Island, Japan by month

January

In January, Okinawa Island can be chilly and extremely rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 60s F (high 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Okinawa Island, with most of the days of the month having rain. In January, 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you choose the correct kind. Most adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Peace Memorial Park and Himeyuri Monument, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you decide to visit Hiji Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

Okinawa Island has nice beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:

February

February is balmy and extremely rainy. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day. It rains almost every day of the month.

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 things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage adapter

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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts 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 pillow

    Our fave is this one

If you go to Peace Memorial Park and Himeyuri Monument, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you decide to visit Hiji Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

Okinawa Island has nice beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:

March

March here is mild and extremely rainy. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains almost every day of the month.

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 Okinawa Island. 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 things.

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you find the right kind. Most adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

If you go to Peace Memorial Park and Himeyuri Monument, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you decide to visit Hiji Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

Okinawa Island has nice beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:

April

If you are traveling to Okinawa Island in April, you will notice that it is warm and extremely rainy. Expect it to rain most days. Daytime temperatures are in the 70s F (mid 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 repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Okinawa Island. 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 belongings.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you choose the correct type. The majority of adapters available are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you go to Peace Memorial Park and Himeyuri Monument, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you decide to visit Hiji Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

Okinawa Island has nice beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:

May

May here is warm and extremely rainy. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains almost every day.

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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Okinawa Island. 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 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.

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 neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to Peace Memorial Park and Himeyuri Monument, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you decide to visit Hiji Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

Okinawa Island has nice beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:

June

If you visit Okinawa Island during June, you may see that it is extremely warm and extremely rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain almost every day.

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 bags recently, an AirTag can 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Okinawa Island. 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
  • Voltage adapter

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to Peace Memorial Park and Himeyuri Monument, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you decide to visit Hiji Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

Okinawa Island has nice beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:

July

July in this region is really hot and extremely rainy. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains nearly every day this month.

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 airports always 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 Okinawa Island. 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
  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • 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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to choose the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your devices to change 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

If you go to Peace Memorial Park and Himeyuri Monument, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you decide to visit Hiji Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

Okinawa Island has nice beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:

August

August in Okinawa Island is really hot and extremely rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s 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 Okinawa Island. 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 bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to find the right type. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours 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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you go to Peace Memorial Park and Himeyuri Monument, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you decide to visit Hiji Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

Okinawa Island has nice beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:

September

If you visit Okinawa Island during September, you might see that it is extremely hot and extremely rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain most days.

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 constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Okinawa Island. 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
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to choose the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

If you go to Peace Memorial Park and Himeyuri Monument, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you decide to visit Hiji Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

Okinawa Island has nice beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:

October

October here is hot and extremely rainy. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains almost every day of the month.

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 protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the right type. A lot of adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge 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

If you go to Peace Memorial Park and Himeyuri Monument, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you decide to visit Hiji Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

Okinawa Island has nice beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:

November

November in Okinawa Island is warm and extremely rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C) to 70s F (mid 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Okinawa Island. 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 constantly losing things recently, 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.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you get the necessary type. The majority of 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 works in most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to Peace Memorial Park and Himeyuri Monument, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you decide to visit Hiji Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

Okinawa Island has nice beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:

December

If you visit Okinawa Island during December, you might notice that it is balmy and extremely rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 10s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain almost every day.

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Okinawa Island. 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 neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • 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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you pick the necessary kind. A lot of adapters on sale are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

If you go to Peace Memorial Park and Himeyuri Monument, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you decide to visit Hiji Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

Okinawa Island has nice beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:

What to do in Okinawa Island, Japan

Okinawa Island, located in southern Japan, is a favorite destination for both domestic and international tourists. With spectacular beaches, historical landmarks, unique culture, and delicious food, Okinawa Island has something to offer every visitor.

Here are some of the top tourist attractions that should not be missed during your trip to Okinawa Island:

1. Shuri Castle: Located in the capital city of Naha, Shuri Castle was the former royal palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom. The castle, which was destroyed during World War II, has been restored to its former glory and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the castle's many buildings and learn about Okinawan history and culture.

2. Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium: The Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the world and is located in the northern part of the island. The aquarium is home to a wide variety of marine life, including whale sharks, manta rays, and tropical fish. Visitors can watch feeding sessions, attend dolphin shows, and even swim with whale sharks.

3. Kouri Island: Kouri Island is a small island off the coast of Okinawa Island and is connected by a bridge. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the ocean and the island's famous "Heart Rock" formation. The island is also home to beautiful beaches, including Kouri Beach, which is known for its turquoise waters and white sand.

4. Kokusai-dori: Kokusai-dori is a lively shopping street in Naha that is popular with both locals and tourists. The street is lined with shops selling traditional Okinawan crafts, souvenirs, and food. Visitors can also try the local specialty, Okinawa soba, which is a type of noodle dish.

5. Cape Manza: Cape Manza is located on the western coast of the island and offers stunning views of the turquoise waters of the East China Sea. The cape is also home to numerous caves and rock formations that visitors can explore. The area is also a popular spot for snorkeling and diving.

6. Ryukyu Village: Ryukyu Village is an open-air museum that showcases traditional Okinawan culture. Visitors can see traditional houses, arts and crafts demonstrations, and even watch traditional music and dance performances. The village is also home to a wide variety of tropical plants and flowers.

7. Nakijin Castle: Nakijin Castle is another former royal palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom and is located in the northern part of the island. The castle is surrounded by beautiful gardens and is a great place to learn about Okinawan history.

These are just a few of the many tourist attractions that Okinawa Island has to offer. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or just relaxing on the beach, Okinawa Island has it all.

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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