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

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Ready to pack for Shikoku, Japan? If you're planning to go to Shikoku, here is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Shikoku, Japan

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

What to wear/what to pack for Shikoku, Japan

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

If you visit Shikoku during January, you are likely to see that it can be brisk and extremely rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 40 and 50% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain almost every day of the month and snow occasionally.

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

February

If you are traveling to Shikoku in February, you will notice that it is brisk and extremely rainy. Expect it to rain most days. Daytime temperatures are in the low 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.

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things recently, 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you find the correct kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • 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 surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

March

If you visit Shikoku during March, you are likely to see that it can be chilly and extremely rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain almost every 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Shikoku. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate 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 huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change 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

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

April

April is balmy and extremely 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage 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 Shikoku. 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 protection, 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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you get the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply 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 locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

May

In May, Shikoku is mild and extremely rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 70s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Shikoku, 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.

  • 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 constantly 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 Shikoku. 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 surcharges with this

  • 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 that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

June

If you go to Shikoku in June, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature and extremely rainy. Expect it to rain almost every day. Daytime temperatures are in the high 70s F (mid 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 protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to find the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

July

July for Shikoku is pretty consistently hot and extremely rainy. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

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. Ensure that you pick the right type. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

August

August in this region can be sweltering and extremely rainy. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s 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 airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Shikoku. 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 protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you find the right type. Most adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

September

If you go to Shikoku in September, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot and extremely rainy. Expect it to rain almost every day. 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Shikoku. 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 airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

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 choose the correct kind. Most adapters available are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

October

In October, Shikoku is warm and extremely rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 70s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Shikoku, with most of the days of the month having rain. In October, humidity reaches as high as 60%.

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 Shikoku. 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 constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to pick the correct type. A lot of adapters available are simply 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 appropriate 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 large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

November

If you visit Shikoku during November, you may see that it can be chilly and extremely rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% 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 peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to get the correct type. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

December

In December, Shikoku is relatively cool and extremely rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 50s F (low 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Shikoku, with most of the days of the month having rain. In December, humidity reaches as high as 50%.

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 always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Shikoku. 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 belongings.

  • 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

What to do in Shikoku, Japan

Shikoku, Japan's fourth largest island, is a beautiful destination that offers a unique cultural experience to all visitors. The island is made up of 4 prefectures - Ehime, Kagawa, Kochi and Tokushima - each offering its own unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Here, we'll explore some of the top tourist attractions in Shikoku that you should consider visiting.

1. The 88 Temple Pilgrimage

The 88 Temple Pilgrimage is the most famous attraction in Shikoku. It is a journey that takes visitors to 88 Buddhist temples located throughout the island. The pilgrimage has been around for over a millennium, and it is believed that it will bring good fortune and enlightenment to those who complete it. Visitors can start and end the pilgrimage at any temple and travel by car or foot.

2. Ritsurin Garden

Ritsurin Garden is a beautiful and captivating landscape located in Takamatsu, Kagawa prefecture. A combination of natural beauty and man-made landscape make this garden a popular attraction. It was built during the 17th century and has remained a popular destination for tourists since then.

3. Kochi Castle

Kochi Castle, also known as the "Castle of the Watchtower," is one of the few remaining castles in Japan that is still in its original form. Located in Kochi City, the castle is known for its beauty and history. Visitors can learn about the castle's history and the role it played in the island's history through informative displays found in the castle's museum.

4. Naruto Whirlpools

The Naruto Whirlpools are a natural phenomenon located off the coast of Tokushima prefecture. These whirlpools are created by the tidal current that passes through the Naruto Strait. Visitors can take a boat tour to experience firsthand the beauty and power of these natural whirlpools.

5. Dogo Onsen

Dogo Onsen is one of the oldest hot springs in Japan, dating back over 1,000 years. Located in Matsuyama, Ehime prefecture, Dogo Onsen has been a popular bathhouse for Japanese royalty and citizens alike. Visitors can experience the luxury and comfort of hot spring baths while also exploring the historical architecture and culture of the bathhouse.

Shikoku is an island rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. These top tourist attractions are just a few examples of the many wonderful experiences you can have while visiting the island. Whether you're looking to explore the beautiful natural landscapes or steep yourself in Japanese history and culture, Shikoku has something for everyone.

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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