Shiga, 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 Shiga, Japan? If you're planning to go to Shiga, I have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Shiga
- Important essentials for Shiga
- Activities for Shiga
- Shiga in January: weather and what to pack
- Shiga in February: weather and what to pack
- Shiga in March: weather and what to pack
- Shiga in April: weather and what to pack
- Shiga in May: weather and what to pack
- Shiga in June: weather and what to pack
- Shiga in July: weather and what to pack
- Shiga in August: weather and what to pack
- Shiga in September: weather and what to pack
- Shiga in October: weather and what to pack
- Shiga in November: weather and what to pack
- Shiga in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Shiga, Japan
Based on the climate and weather in Shiga, Japan, the best time to go is May. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Shiga, Japan
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Shiga, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Shiga, Japan by month
January
January in Shiga can be very chilly. 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:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Warm pants or jeans
Light gloves or mittens
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best is: this
Jacket or coat
Fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing things 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 Shiga. 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.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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 step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to find the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.
Travel neck pillow
A good option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
February
February is brisk. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains once in a while.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: this one
Warm pants or jeans
Fleece
Jacket or coat
Light gloves or mittens
Extra socks
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We like:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
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 stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing bags these days, 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 Shiga. 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.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to pick the necessary kind. Most adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
March
If you vacation in Shiga during March, you might see that it is crisp. Temperatures tend to hover around the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 30s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain sometimes.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Warm pants or jeans
Light gloves or mittens
Jacket or coat
Fleece
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: here
Extra socks
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We like:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Shiga. 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.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to get the correct kind. A lot of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
What we like 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. Save money with this
April
If you are traveling to Shiga in April, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s F (high 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Pants or jeans
Light jacket or fleece
Light and heavy skirts
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Shiga. 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 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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you pick the right type. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.
Travel neck support pillow
A good option is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
May
Traveling to Shiga in May, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Light skirts
Short pants or heavy shorts
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Sunscreen lotion
Extra socks
Breathable footwear or sandals
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
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 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 stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Shiga. 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.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you choose the right type. Many adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
Travel pillow
An excellent option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges 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
June
June in Shiga is pretty consistently hot and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion
Short pants or heavy shorts
Extra socks
Light skirts
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Bug repellent
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing things these days, an AirTag can find 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 Shiga. 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.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to find the necessary type. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
A great choice is this one
July
July in Shiga can be sweltering. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) to low 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Loose-fit shorts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and cool you.
Skirts
Waterproof sandals
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can keep you cool and protect you from skin damage:
Bug repellent
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also removes dangerous contaminants:
thisSunglasses
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We like:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good value.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Shiga. 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.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
A good option 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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.
August
August is constantly hot. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and help you stay cool.
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and guard against the sun:
Loose-fit shorts
Bug repellent
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also filters harmful contaminants:
thisSunglasses
Skirts
Waterproof sandals
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: 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 Shiga. 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.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to find the right type. Most adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
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. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
What we like is this one
September
September in Shiga is really hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) to 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Skirts
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against skin damage:
Sunglasses
Loose-fit shorts
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also removes harmful contaminants:
thisSunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and keep you cool.
Bug repellent
Waterproof sandals
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Safety + Security
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 Shiga. 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 luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
A good option is this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you pick the right kind. Many adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties 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
October
If you go to Shiga in October, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Breathable footwear or sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Sunscreen lotion
Light skirts
Extra socks
Sandals
Short pants or heavy shorts
Bug repellent
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Shiga. 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 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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to find the necessary type. A lot of adapters available are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
What we like is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
November
If you are traveling to Shiga in November, you will notice that it is crisp. Expect it to rain once in a while. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (high 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Pants or jeans
Light jacket or fleece
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light and heavy skirts
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
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 airlines frequently 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 Shiga. 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.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change 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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel neck pillow
A good option is this one
December
December in Shiga can be brisk. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Fleece
Light gloves or mittens
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: this
Jacket or coat
Extra socks
Warm pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These are vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find 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 stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Shiga. 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.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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. Check that you pick the correct type. Most adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
A great choice is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
What to do in Shiga, Japan
Shiga, located in the Kansai region of Japan, is a prefecture known for its scenic beauty, historic temples, and traditional crafts. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or just love nature, Shiga has something for everyone. Here are some top tourist attractions that you should not miss on your visit to Shiga.
1. Lake Biwa
Lake Biwa, Japan's largest freshwater lake, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Shiga. The lake is surrounded by mountains and offers stunning views that change with the seasons. Visitors can take a boat tour or rent a bike to explore the area around the lake. There are also plenty of hot springs and ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) nearby where you can relax and enjoy the stunning lake scenery.
2. Hikone Castle
Hikone Castle, located in the city of Hikone, is one of Japan's few remaining original castles. Built in the 17th century, the castle is known for its intricate architecture, stunning gardens, and historic artifacts. Visitors can explore the castle's interior and climb the steep stairs to the top of the main keep for panoramic views of the surrounding area.
3. Enryakuji Temple
Enryakuji Temple, located on Mount Hiei, is one of the most important and historic Buddhist temples in Japan. Founded in the 8th century, the temple complex includes over 150 buildings spread out over three main areas: Todo, Saito, and Yokawa. Visitors can explore the temple's historic buildings, hike along the mountain trails, and experience the serene beauty of the ancient forest.
4. Miho Museum
If you are interested in art and culture, be sure to visit the Miho Museum, located in the town of Shigaraki. The museum houses a collection of over 2,000 artifacts from around the world, including ancient Chinese pottery, Egyptian art, and Japanese samurai armor. The museum itself is a work of art, designed by world-renowned architect I.M. Pei to blend seamlessly with the surrounding natural environment.
5. Higashi Omi Kurokabe Square
For a taste of traditional Japanese crafts, visit Higashi Omi Kurokabe Square in the city of Higashi-Omi. The square is known for its black-tiled storefronts and for its shops that specialize in traditional Japanese crafts such as pottery, glassblowing, and lacquerware. The area is also home to several cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a meal or a cup of tea while admiring the surrounding scenery.
In conclusion, Shiga has something for every kind of traveler. With its stunning natural scenery, historic temples, and vibrant arts and crafts scene, Shiga is a must-visit destination in Japan. Consider adding Shiga to your travel itinerary the next time you plan a trip to Japan.
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: Brighton, Michigan, United States of America, Central Maranhão, Maranhão, Brazil, Batusangkar, Indonesia, Lander, Wyoming, United States of America, Columbiana, Ohio, United States of America, Eagle River, Alaska, United States of America, Hacketstown, Ireland, Lake Atitlán, Guatemala, Onslow, Western Australia, Australia, Ein Gedi, Israel, and Reedsport, Oregon, United States of America.