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

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

Contents

When to go to Shimonoseki, Japan

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

What to wear/what to pack for Shimonoseki, Japan

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

Traveling to Shimonoseki in January, you will notice that it is brisk. Expect it to rain occasionally. Daytime temperatures are in the 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 bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things recently, 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Shimonoseki. 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

  • Plug 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 plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you go to Chofu Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

February can be brisk. Temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Shimonoseki. 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel voltage adapter

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

  • 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 go to Chofu Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

March in this region is pretty cool. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Shimonoseki. 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 neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you pick the necessary type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. 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 excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you go to Chofu Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

April in Shimonoseki can be chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain a bit less than 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, 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.

  • 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 Shimonoseki. 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 support pillow

    A top rated pillow is 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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to find the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

If you go to Chofu Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

May is mild. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Shimonoseki. 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 penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to find the right kind. Many adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Chofu Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

If you go to Shimonoseki in June, you will notice that it is warm and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the 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 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 always losing things 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 Shimonoseki. 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • 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 pick the correct kind. A lot of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

If you go to Chofu Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

In July, Shimonoseki is extremely warm and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 80s F (high 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 60s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Shimonoseki, with several of the days of the month having rain.

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 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Shimonoseki. 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to choose the necessary type. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Chofu Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

If you vacation in Shimonoseki during August, you will probably see that it can be sweltering. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 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.

  • 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 stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Shimonoseki. 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 pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to find the right type. The vast majority of adapters on sale 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 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 go to Chofu Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

If you vacation in Shimonoseki during September, you might find that it is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 60s F (low 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Shimonoseki. 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 always losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you pick the right type. The majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • 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 go to Chofu Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

October in Shimonoseki is balmy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 60s F (high 10s C) to 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.

  • 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 Shimonoseki. 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 always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • 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. Save money with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to get the correct type. Many adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to Chofu Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

If you vacation in Shimonoseki during November, you may notice that it is cool. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Shimonoseki. 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 stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things these days, 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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • 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 adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to pick the correct type. Most adapters available online are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

If you go to Chofu Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

December in Shimonoseki can be very chilly. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average 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.

  • 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 Shimonoseki. 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 constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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 huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you get the correct type. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Chofu Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Shimonoseki, Japan

Shimonoseki is a small city in Yamaguchi Prefecture, located in western Japan. It is known for its picturesque scenery, rich history, and famous seafood cuisine. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Shimonoseki that you should add to your itinerary.

1. Karato Market

Karato Market is one of the most popular seafood markets in Japan. It is a great place to sample the fresh seafood that Shimonoseki is famous for, including blowfish, squid, and various shellfish. You can also find souvenirs, snacks, and sake at the market. Karato Market is open from early morning until mid-afternoon, although some stalls close earlier.

2. Akama Shrine

Akama Shrine is a Shinto shrine located on a hill overlooking the Kanmon Strait. It was established in 710 and is dedicated to Emperor Antoku, who died at the Battle of Dan-no-ura in 1185. The shrine is also famous for its cherry blossom trees, which bloom in late March and early April. Visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the strait from the shrine's observation deck.

3. Kanmon Pedestrian Tunnel

The Kanmon Pedestrian Tunnel is a 780-meter-long tunnel that connects Shimonoseki with Moji in Fukuoka Prefecture. It was opened in 1958 and was the first underwater tunnel in Japan. The tunnel is accessible by foot or bicycle and offers a unique perspective of the Kanmon Strait. The tunnel is free to use and is illuminated at night.

4. Kaikyo Yume Tower

Kaikyo Yume Tower is a 153-meter-tall observation tower located near Shimonoseki Station. It offers a panoramic view of the city and the Kanmon Strait. The tower has three observation decks, including a glass-floor observation deck at a height of 143 meters. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of restaurants and souvenir shops on the lower levels of the tower.

5. Hinoyama Park

Hinoyama Park is a park located on a hill in the center of Shimonoseki. It offers a panoramic view of the city and the Kanmon Strait. The park is also famous for its cherry blossom trees, which bloom in early April. There is a cable car that takes visitors to the park's observation deck, as well as a hiking trail that leads to the top of the hill.

In conclusion, Shimonoseki is a charming city with a rich history and natural beauty. If you are planning a trip to western Japan, be sure to add Shimonoseki to your list of must-see destinations. With its delicious seafood, stunning scenery, and unique attractions, you're sure to have a memorable experience in this hidden gem.

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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