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

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

Contents

When to go to Shiraoi, Japan

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

What to wear/what to pack for Shiraoi, Japan

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

January in Shiraoi is very cold and extremely snowy. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits C), although night temperatures can dip into the single digits F (10+ below zero C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Shiraoi. 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 frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the correct kind. A lot of adapters on sale are just plugs and require your devices 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

If you go to the Ainu Museum Poroto Kotan, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

February in Shiraoi is very cold and extremely snowy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 10s F (single digits below 0 C), with a few days below 5 F (10+ below zero C). It snows almost every day of the month. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 60% to 70% range on average.

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 constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: 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 Shiraoi. 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 pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you choose the correct type. A lot of adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you go to the Ainu Museum Poroto Kotan, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

If you are traveling to Shiraoi in March, you will notice that it can be extremely cold and extremely snowy. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month and snow almost every day. Daytime temperatures are in the 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 always losing things these days, 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.

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to choose the necessary type. Many adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you go to the Ainu Museum Poroto Kotan, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

April in this region can be very chilly and very rainy. Temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains about two thirds of the time and snows 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 bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Shiraoi. 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 repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you 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 pillow

    An excellent option 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. Make sure to pick the right type. The majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • 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

If you go to the Ainu Museum Poroto Kotan, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

May in Shiraoi is crisp and extremely rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C) to 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage 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 Shiraoi. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the necessary kind. A lot of adapters available are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts 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

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

If you go to the Ainu Museum Poroto Kotan, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

June in Shiraoi can be chilly and very rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 50s F (single digits C). It tends to rain most days. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 70% to 80% range on average.

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 Shiraoi. 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 luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to pick the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you go to the Ainu Museum Poroto Kotan, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

If you go to Shiraoi in July, you will notice that it is mild and very rainy. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Shiraoi. 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 always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice 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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you go to the Ainu Museum Poroto Kotan, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

If you visit Shiraoi during August, you may see that it is a perfect temperature and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (high 10s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Shiraoi. 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 repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to choose the right type. The vast majority of 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 works in most locations.

If you go to the Ainu Museum Poroto Kotan, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

September in Shiraoi is mild and extremely rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to find the right type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • 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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to the Ainu Museum Poroto Kotan, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

October in Shiraoi is relatively cool and extremely rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 50s F (single digits C) to high 50s F (mid 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Shiraoi. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • 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 right kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers 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 places.

If you go to the Ainu Museum Poroto Kotan, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

If you are traveling to Shiraoi in November, you will notice that it is pretty cool, somewhat snowy and very rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time and snow about half of the time. 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Shiraoi. 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 repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • 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 choose the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

If you go to the Ainu Museum Poroto Kotan, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

December here can be extremely cold and extremely snowy. Temperatures average in the 30s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month and snows 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.

  • 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 Shiraoi. 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 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • 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. Check that you pick the correct kind. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to the Ainu Museum Poroto Kotan, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Shiraoi, Japan

Shiraoi, located in the southwest of Hokkaido, Japan, is a town famous for its Ainu culture and heritage. With a population of just over 20,000, it is a perfect destination for tourists who want to explore traditional Japanese culture and history. Shiraoi has a wide range of tourist attractions, including historical landmarks, natural wonders, and cultural experiences. Here is an overview of some of the top tourist attractions in Shiraoi, Japan.

Shiraoi Ainu Museum

The Shiraoi Ainu Museum is a world-renowned museum that was built to protect and preserve the culture and traditions of the Ainu people, Japan's indigenous people. With its collection of Ainu artifacts, arts, and crafts, including clothes, hunting tools, houses, and religious ceremonies, it is a fascinating place for visitors to discover and learn about Ainu culture.

Lake Poroto

Lake Poroto is a beautiful lake located on the outskirts of Shiraoi town. It is famous for its crystal-clear water and majestic scenery. Visitors can enjoy a variety of water activities like boating, fishing, and swimming during the summer months.

Shiraoi National Park

Shiraoi National Park is a must-visit natural attraction in the area. The park covers an area of 248 hectares and is home to a wide range of flora and fauna. Visitors can trek through the park's pristine nature trails, witness the rich biodiversity of the region, and see the beautiful waterfalls and scenic views.

Shiraoi Horse Race Track

The Shiraoi Horse Race Track is Japans only Native breed horse racetrack. The racetrack hosts horse racing events where native breed horses of Hokkaido compete with each other. This attraction is a must-visit for people interested in horse racing and the local Japanese culture.

Shiraoi Kumagusu Minakata Memorial Hall

The Minakata Kumagusu Memorial Hall is located near the Poroto Lake. It is dedicated to one of Japan's most outstanding naturalists, Kumagusu Minakata. The hall contains many of Kumagusu's scientific discoveries, writings, and artwork, including his famous "Minakata Mandala."

Shiraoi Yakatajima

Shiraoi Yakatajima is another popular tourist attraction in the town. It's a small island that is located at the center of Poroto Lake. Visitors can experience the beautiful scenery surrounded by the lake, fish breeds that populate the lake, and observe the native species of Japanese birds that live in the island.

In conclusion, Shiraoi is a gem of a destination in Hokkaido with its picturesque scenery, traditional heritage, and vibrant culture. With its diverse range of tourist attractions, Shiraoi has something for everyone. Whether you are interested in nature, traditional culture, or history, visiting Shiraoi will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on you. It is one of the best places to experience the true essence of Japan's indigenous culture and heritage.

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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