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

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Okinawa, Japan? If you're planning to go to Okinawa, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Okinawa, Japan

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

What to wear/what to pack for Okinawa, Japan

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

In January, Okinawa is extremely hot. Temperatures routinely are in the high 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the 70s F (mid 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Okinawa, with several of the days of the month having rain.

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 belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Okinawa. 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 luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to get the necessary type. Most adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient 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 neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

February

If you are traveling to Okinawa in February, you will notice that it is constantly hot. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are 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. 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 recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of 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.

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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the right type. The majority of adapters for sale now 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 is sufficent for most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

March

March in Okinawa can be very hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) to 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little 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 airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Okinawa. 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 excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • 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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you choose the correct kind. Most adapters currently available are just 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 sufficient for most places.

April

In April, Okinawa is consistently hot. Temperatures routinely are in the high 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the 70s F (mid 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Okinawa, with several of the days of the month having rain.

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 protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Okinawa. 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 nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to find the right type. The majority of adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

May

In May, Okinawa is extremely hot. Temperatures routinely are in the high 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the 70s F (mid 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Okinawa, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.

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 things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to find the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

June

June in Okinawa is consistently hot. 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.

  • 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Okinawa. 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 excessive 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. Be careful to pick the necessary type. The vast majority 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 burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

July

In July, Okinawa can be very hot. Temperatures routinely are in the high 80s F (low 30s C) and occasionally jump into the low 90s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the 70s F (mid 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Okinawa, with several of the days of the month having rain.

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. 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 protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the necessary type. The majority of 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 destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • 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 excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

August

August is consistently hot. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Okinawa. 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 excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel adapter

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite 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

September

September in Okinawa is constantly hot. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage recently, 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Okinawa. 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 belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge 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. Be careful to get the right type. Many adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect 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.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

October

October in Okinawa is really hot. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to choose the right kind. Many adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

November

November for Okinawa is really hot. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage 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. 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 things.

  • 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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to find the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

December

December in Okinawa is constantly hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) to 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. 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 bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of 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

  • 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 excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to get the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs 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 places.

What to do in Okinawa, Japan

As one of the most beautiful and unique destinations in the world, Okinawa, Japan is a traveler’s paradise. From its crystal-clear waters to its rich cultural heritage, Okinawa offers a variety of experiences that are sure to please visitors of all ages and backgrounds. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Okinawa that are not to be missed.

1. Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium - This is one of the largest and most impressive aquariums in the world, with a variety of marine life including whale sharks, manta rays, and dolphins. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing day exploring the aquarium’s exhibits, learning about the sea creatures, and attending shows and feeding demonstrations.

2. Shuri Castle - This beautiful and historic castle dates back to the Ryukyu Kingdom and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the castle’s grounds, admire its architecture and beautiful interiors, and learn about Okinawa’s unique cultural heritage.

3. Miyako Island - This beautiful island is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and exploring the island’s natural beauty.

4. Cape Zanpa - This picturesque cape offers stunning views of the sea and the surrounding coastline. Visitors can watch the sunset, explore the lighthouse, and take in the beauty of this peaceful and serene location.

5. Okinawa World - This theme park offers a range of cultural exhibits, shows, and attractions that showcase Okinawa’s unique heritage. Visitors can watch traditional dances and music performances, learn about local crafts, and explore the park’s caves.

6. Kokusai Street - This bustling street is the main shopping and dining area in Naha, the capital of Okinawa. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of shops, restaurants, and local street food, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of this lively area.

7. Hiji Falls - This stunning waterfall is located in the northern part of Okinawa and offers a beautiful hiking trail that leads to the falls. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the forest and the peaceful sounds of the cascading water.

Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or culture, Okinawa has something for everyone. With its beautiful beaches, unique cultural heritage, and stunning natural beauty, Okinawa is truly one of the most unforgettable destinations in the world.

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.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Biggleswade, England, United Kingdom, Harrison, New York, United States of America, Chandausi, India, Yoshino, Japan, Saint-Raphaël, France, Geldrop, Netherlands, Northern Lowlands, Guatemala, San Casciano dei Bagni, Italy, Locust Grove, Oklahoma, United States of America, Berlin, New Hampshire, United States of America, and Chulanur Peafowl Sanctuary, India.