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

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

Contents

When to go to Otaru, Japan

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

What to wear/what to pack for Otaru, Japan

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

January in this region is frigid and extremely snowy. Temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C) during the day. It snows 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you get the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the Otaru Music Box Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

If you go to Otaru in February, you will notice that it is frosty and extremely snowy. Expect it to snow almost every day. Daytime temperatures are in the low 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • 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 airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you find the right kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit the Otaru Music Box Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

March in Otaru is 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 C) to high 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:

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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.

  • 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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you get the necessary kind. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you visit the Otaru Music Box Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

In April, Otaru is pretty cool and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 50s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Otaru, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In April, humidity reaches as high as 70%. Additionally, it is breezy.

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 these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little 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.

  • 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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 sure to get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

If you visit the Otaru Music Box Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

In May, Otaru is crisp and extremely rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C) and regularly jump into the 60s F (high 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Otaru, with most of the days of the month having rain. In May, 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.

  • 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 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.

  • 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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you choose the right type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

If you visit the Otaru Music Box Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

June here is mild and very rainy. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day. It rains 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 frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the right kind. Many adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit the Otaru Music Box Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

Traveling to Otaru in July, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature and very rainy. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 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.

  • 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 nowadays, an AirTag can 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 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you choose the right kind. The majority of adapters currently available are just 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 places.

  • 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 excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

If you visit the Otaru Music Box Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

If you visit Otaru during August, you might find that it is warm 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:

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 frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you find the necessary kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit the Otaru Music Box Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

If you are traveling to Otaru in September, you will notice that it is mild and extremely rainy. Expect it to rain most days. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (low 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly 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 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.

  • 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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to choose the right type. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • 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

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

If you visit the Otaru Music Box Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

October in Otaru is chilly and extremely rainy. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day. It rains 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: 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 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you get the correct type. A lot of 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 get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

If you visit the Otaru Music Box Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

If you visit Otaru during November, you may notice that it can be brisk, somewhat snowy and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time and snow 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.

  • 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 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.

  • 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 recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to find the right type. Many adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the Otaru Music Box Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

December for Otaru is frosty and extremely snowy. Temperatures average in the 30s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains regularly and snows 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 little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find 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 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you find the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit the Otaru Music Box Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Otaru, Japan

Otaru is a beautiful port city located in the northwestern part of Japan. Famous for its romantic atmosphere, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Hokkaido. Otaru is full of history and is known for its glasswork, herring fishery, and canal. Here are some of the top attractions to visit when you're in Otaru.

1. Otaru Canal

The Otaru Canal is one of the most famous tourist destinations in Otaru. In the past, it was used to transport goods to and from the city. Nowadays, the Otaru Canal is used for boat tours that offer visitors a chance to see the city's architecture and waterways. The canal is lit up at night, which creates a romantic and tranquil atmosphere.

2. Otaru Music Box Museum

The Otaru Music Box Museum is a must-visit attraction for those who love music boxes. The museum showcases a vast collection of music boxes, including antique music boxes from the 19th century. Visitors can also create their own music box that has a unique Japanese touch.

3. Sakaimachi Street

Sakaimachi Street is a bustling street filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants. It has a charming atmosphere with several restored buildings that date back to the Taisho period. The street is known for its glasswork, antiques, and sweets. This street is also perfect for sightseeing photography.

4. Shukutsu Observatory

The Shukutsu Observatory is located on a hill and provides a stunning view of the ocean and the surrounding landscape. The observation deck is accessible by car or bus and is popular during the summer as tourists enjoy the view of the glimmering Sea of Japan.

5. Nikka Whisky Distillery

The Nikka Whisky Distillery is a famous whisky distillery that produces some of Japan's most popular whiskies. The distillery also provides a tour that takes visitors through the production process of whisky. The tour includes tasting the brand's various whiskies.

Conclusion

Otaru, Japan, is a perfect destination for anyone looking to experience the unique history and culture of Japan. From the charming canal to the Sakaimachi Street bustling with shops, cafes, and restaurants, to the stunning view from the Shukutsu Observatory, Otaru offers visitors an unforgettable experience. A visit to the Nikka Whisky Distillery or the Otaru Music Box Museum will undoubtedly make your trip more memorable.

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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