Otaru, Japan: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2022]
Traveling to Otaru, Japan? If you're planning to go to Otaru, we've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Otaru
- Important essentials for Otaru
- Activities for Otaru
- Otaru in January: weather and what to pack
- Otaru in February: weather and what to pack
- Otaru in March: weather and what to pack
- Otaru in April: weather and what to pack
- Otaru in May: weather and what to pack
- Otaru in June: weather and what to pack
- Otaru in July: weather and what to pack
- Otaru in August: weather and what to pack
- Otaru in September: weather and what to pack
- Otaru in October: weather and what to pack
- Otaru in November: weather and what to pack
- Otaru in December: weather and what to pack

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.
When to go to Otaru, Japan
Based on the climate and weather in Otaru, the best time to go is July. See below for details.
Important essentials for Otaru, Japan
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Otaru, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
COVID-19 ESSENTIALS FOR 2022
-
Kids' KN95 masks
N95 masks aren't sold for kids. These are a good alternative (and can also be used by adults if N95 masks are not available).
-
N95 masks to use in crowded airports
These N95 masks provide the best level of protection possible.
Travel insurance
If you or a companion get COVID-19, your amazing trip can be ruined. Good travel insurance can help. See plans
-
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
-
A vaccine card protector
Vaccine cards often wear out. An unreadable card may result in severe consequences. This vaccine card protector helps avoid that.
-
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
General health necessities
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
-
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
-
Emergency motion sickness relief
Don't forget these
-
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
-
For families with young children
-
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
-
Airplane or car necessities
-
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Otaru. 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.
-
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. This one should be appropriate for most areas, but check with your hotel.
What to wear/what to pack for Otaru, Japan by month
Already know when you're traveling?
January
January in Otaru is very cold and extremely snowy. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C), although night temperatures can dip into the single digits F (10+ below zero C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Heavy jacket
-
Sweaters
-
Insulated water bottle
Our choice:
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Lip balm
Our pick: here
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Gloves
-
Cold weather footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Otaru, we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A wind resistant umbrella
This is essential here. This one is an excellent option.
If you go to the Otaru Music Box Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
February
February in Otaru is frosty and extremely snowy. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits C), although night temperatures can dip into the single digits F (10+ below zero C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Heavy jacket
-
Sweaters
-
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice:
-
Gloves
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Lip balm
Our pick: here
-
Cold weather footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Otaru, we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A umbrella
This is something you need here. This one is a great option.
If you go to the Otaru Music Box Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
March
In March, Otaru is pretty cool and extremely snowy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 30s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C). This is also a rainy time for Otaru, with a few of the days of the month having rain. In March, humidity reaches as high as 70%.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite:
-
Lip balm
Our choice: this
-
Heavy jacket
-
Sweaters
-
Gloves
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Cold weather footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular shoes, you should bring snow boots. For traveling to Otaru, we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A windproof umbrella
This is important here. This one is a perfect option.
If you go to the Otaru Music Box Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
April
April in Otaru is cold and very rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 50s F (single digits C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Fleece
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Extra socks
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: this one
-
Jacket or coat
-
Standard footwear
-
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants will be vital in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We recommend:
If you go to the Otaru Music Box Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
May
May in Otaru is crisp and extremely rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Standard footwear
-
Dresses
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Pants or jeans
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
Extra socks
-
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These are vital in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We recommend:
If you go to the Otaru Music Box Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
June
In June, Otaru is balmy and very 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 Otaru, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In June, humidity reaches as high as 80%.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Dresses
-
Standard footwear
-
Extra socks
-
Pants or jeans
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These are essential in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We like:
If you go to the Otaru Music Box Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
July
If you vacation in Otaru during July, you will probably see that it is a perfect temperature and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (mid 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:
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Sandals
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Bug repellent
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Light skirts
-
Extra socks
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants are essential in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We suggest:
If you go to the Otaru Music Box Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
August
If you visit Otaru during August, you might notice that it is a perfect temperature and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 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 most days.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Bug repellent
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Extra socks
-
Light skirts
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Sandals
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants will be vital in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We recommend:
If you go to the Otaru Music Box Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
September
If you visit Otaru during September, you are likely to find that it is balmy and extremely rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 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 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain most days.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Dresses
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
Pants or jeans
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Extra socks
-
Standard footwear
-
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These can be vital in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We like:
If you go to the Otaru Music Box Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
October
October in Otaru is cool and extremely rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain most days. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 60% to 70% range on average.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
Dresses
-
Extra socks
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Standard footwear
-
Pants or jeans
-
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants will be a lifesaver in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We recommend:
If you go to the Otaru Music Box Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
November
November in Otaru can be very chilly, somewhat snowy and very rainy. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 30s F (single digits C) to 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Fleece
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Extra socks
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best is: this
-
Jacket or coat
-
Standard footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For traveling to Otaru, we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A wind resistant umbrella
This is essential in this type of weather. This one is a great choice.
If you go to the Otaru Music Box Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
December
Traveling to Otaru in December, you will notice that it is very cold and extremely snowy. Expect it to rain about a third of the time and snow nearly every day this month. Daytime temperatures are in the 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Sweaters
-
Insulated water bottle
Our choice:
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Lip balm
Our favorite option: here
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Gloves
-
Heavy jacket
-
Cold weather footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, you should bring snow boots. For travel to Otaru, a great option is these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A wind resistant umbrella
This is worth investing in for this weather. This one is a perfect option.
If you go to the Otaru Music Box Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Activities for Otaru, Japan
Here are some activity recommendations and activity-specific packing tips for Otaru.
Check out our guides for these other locations: Kanata, Ontario, Canada, Slovenj Gradec, Slovenia, Barpali, India, Riverside County, California, United States of America, Tadcaster, England, United Kingdom, Timaru, New Zealand, Brownsville, Washington, United States of America, Erongarícuaro, Michoac, Mexico, Skippack Village, Pennsylvania, United States of America, Staraya Russa, Russia, and Machias Seal Island, New Brunswick, Canada.