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

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

Contents

When to go to Sendai, Japan

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

What to wear/what to pack for Sendai, Japan

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

If you go to Sendai in January, you will notice that it is pretty cool. Daytime temperatures are in the high 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Sendai. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you choose the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you check out a temple, such as Ōsaki Hachiman Shrine, wear:

If you go to The Museum of the Forest of Depths of the Earth, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

February in Sendai is cold. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 30s F (single digits C) to low 40s 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 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 airlines frequently losing things nowadays, 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 Sendai. 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 neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you choose the necessary kind. Most adapters available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. 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 amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you check out a temple, such as Ōsaki Hachiman Shrine, wear:

If you go to The Museum of the Forest of Depths of the Earth, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

March in Sendai is pretty cool. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C). It tends to rain sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Sendai. 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 neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to choose the correct type. Many adapters 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 work in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you check out a temple, such as Ōsaki Hachiman Shrine, wear:

If you go to The Museum of the Forest of Depths of the Earth, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

If you are traveling to Sendai in April, you will notice that it is chilly. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • 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 pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you find the correct type. The vast majority of adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

If you check out a temple, such as Ōsaki Hachiman Shrine, wear:

If you go to The Museum of the Forest of Depths of the Earth, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

May for Sendai is cool. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day. It rains sometimes.

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things recently, 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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the correct type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you check out a temple, such as Ōsaki Hachiman Shrine, wear:

If you go to The Museum of the Forest of Depths of the Earth, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

If you go to Sendai in June, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain regularly. 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.

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Sendai. 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

  • 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. Take care to get the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you check out a temple, such as Ōsaki Hachiman Shrine, wear:

If you go to The Museum of the Forest of Depths of the Earth, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

July for Sendai is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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 Sendai. 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you get the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply 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 work in most areas.

  • 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 check out a temple, such as Ōsaki Hachiman Shrine, wear:

If you go to The Museum of the Forest of Depths of the Earth, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

If you are traveling to Sendai in August, you will notice that it is extremely warm. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines 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 Sendai. 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.

  • 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 excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • 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. Take care to choose the right kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

If you check out a temple, such as Ōsaki Hachiman Shrine, wear:

If you go to The Museum of the Forest of Depths of the Earth, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

If you vacation in Sendai during September, you might notice that it is warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (mid 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain regularly.

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 things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Sendai. 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 penalties with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. 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 neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you check out a temple, such as Ōsaki Hachiman Shrine, wear:

If you go to The Museum of the Forest of Depths of the Earth, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

October in Sendai is mild. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about a third 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 little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage nowadays, 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 Sendai. 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to get the necessary kind. Many adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for 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

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

If you check out a temple, such as Ōsaki Hachiman Shrine, wear:

If you go to The Museum of the Forest of Depths of the Earth, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

November in Sendai is crisp. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Sendai. 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 huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • 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. Be careful to find the right kind. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you check out a temple, such as Ōsaki Hachiman Shrine, wear:

If you go to The Museum of the Forest of Depths of the Earth, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

December in this region is brisk. Temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits C) during the 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 airlines frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you pick the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

If you check out a temple, such as Ōsaki Hachiman Shrine, wear:

If you go to The Museum of the Forest of Depths of the Earth, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Sendai, Japan

Sendai is a vibrant and bustling city on the east coast of Japan's Honshu island. With its beautiful scenery, rich history and culture, delicious cuisine, and lively nightlife, Sendai is a popular tourist destination that offers plenty of attractions and activities to suit all tastes.

Here are the top tourist attractions in Sendai:

1. Sendai Castle: Also known as Aoba Castle, this historic castle was built in 1602 by the famous daimyo Date Masamune. Although the castle itself was destroyed during the Meiji Restoration, you can still visit the impressive foundation stones and ruins of the castle tower in the lush and picturesque park that surrounds it.

2. Zuihoden: Zuihoden is a beautiful shrine dedicated to Date Masamune, with an array of intricate and ornate buildings and sculptures that you can explore. The architecture is a mix of traditional Japanese and Chinese styles, and the surrounding gardens are exquisite.

3. Matsushima Bay: Matsushima Bay is famous for its beautiful islands, rocky shores, and amazing views of the sea. Take a boat tour or stroll along the pathways to enjoy the scenery, visit one of the many temples and shrines nearby, or indulge in some of the local seafood delicacies.

4. Jozenji-dori: This trendy, tree-lined street is known for its boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants, and it is a popular destination for shoppers and foodies alike. The street is beautifully lit up at night, giving it a magical, romantic atmosphere.

5. Osaki Hachimangu Shrine: This famous shrine is dedicated to the god of war, and it is a popular destination for visitors who wish to experience a traditional Japanese festival. The shrine holds regular events throughout the year, including archery competitions, parades, and other cultural and religious ceremonies.

6. Sendai Mediatheque: If you're interested in art and architecture, don't miss Sendai Mediatheque. This stunning building, designed by Pritzker Architecture Prize winner Toyo Ito, houses a library, performance spaces, and exhibition galleries. The building itself is a work of art, with its sleek, modern design and natural light-filled interior.

7. Yama-dera: Yama-dera is a stunning temple complex located high up in the mountains, surrounded by breathtaking views of the countryside. The journey up to the temple is a little challenging, but it's worth it for the incredible vistas and peaceful, zen-like atmosphere.

Whether you're a history buff, a culture lover, a foodie, or just looking for some beautiful scenery, Sendai has something to offer everyone. Plan your trip today and discover the magic of this fascinating city!

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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