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

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

Contents

When to go to Sounkyo Onsen, Japan

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

What to wear/what to pack for Sounkyo Onsen, Japan

Already know when you're traveling?

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

What to wear/what to pack for Sounkyo Onsen, Japan by month

January

January here is biting cold and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 20s F (single digits below 0 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Sounkyo Onsen. 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 things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent 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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to choose the necessary type. Many adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

February

If you are traveling to Sounkyo Onsen in February, you will notice that it can be bitter cold. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 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 constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate 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 little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Sounkyo Onsen. 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 voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you find the necessary type. Most adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

March

In March, Sounkyo Onsen is very cold. Temperatures routinely are in the 30s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the high 10s F (single digits below 0 C). This is also a rainy time for Sounkyo Onsen, with a few 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 airports frequently losing things 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 Sounkyo Onsen. 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 things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice 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 careful to find the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

April

If you are traveling to Sounkyo Onsen in April, you will notice that it can be brisk. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Sounkyo Onsen. 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 always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

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 surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you find the correct type. Many adapters available online are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

May

May in Sounkyo Onsen is crisp. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C) to 60s F (high 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.

  • 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 Sounkyo Onsen. 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 luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the right type. Most adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. 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

June

In June, Sounkyo Onsen is balmy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 70s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Sounkyo Onsen, with a few 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Sounkyo Onsen. 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 things recently, 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 stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the necessary type. Many adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

July

If you go to Sounkyo Onsen in July, you will notice that it is warm. Expect it to rain regularly. 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Sounkyo Onsen. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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 right kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

August

August in Sounkyo Onsen is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Sounkyo Onsen. 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 voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to get the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust 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 excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice 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

September

If you go to Sounkyo Onsen in September, you will notice that it is balmy and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s 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 Sounkyo Onsen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • 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. Check that you get the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

October

October in Sounkyo Onsen is cool. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • 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 Sounkyo Onsen. 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 belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to find the correct type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy 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 locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

November

November here can be brisk and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find 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 Sounkyo Onsen. 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

  • 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

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to choose the right kind. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

December

December in Sounkyo Onsen can be extremely cold and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 10s F (single digits below 0 C). It tends to rain about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Sounkyo Onsen. 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • 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 pick the correct type. Many adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

What to do in Sounkyo Onsen, Japan

Sounkyo Onsen is a popular resort town located in the northern region of Japan, renowned for its rich natural beauty and peaceful ambiance. Nestled within the Daisetsuzan National Park, Sounkyo Onsen is the perfect destination for visitors looking to explore the natural wonders of Japan while enjoying rest and relaxation in the midst of breathtaking scenery. Here are some of the top tourist attractions to check out during your visit to Sounkyo Onsen.

1. Sounkyo Gorge: The Sounkyo Gorge is a spectacular natural wonder that offers stunning views of towering cliffs, rocky outcrops, and cascading waterfalls. The gorge is accessible by cable car, which takes visitors up to the top of Mount Kurodake, where they can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

2. Kurodake Ski Resort: The Kurodake Ski Resort is one of the top skiing destinations in Japan, offering a range of slopes for skiers of all levels. Located at the base of Mount Kurodake, the resort boasts scenic views of the surrounding mountains and ample snowfall during the winter months.

3. Ginga Falls and Ryusei Falls: The Ginga Falls and Ryusei Falls are two of the most beautiful waterfalls in Japan, located just a short hike away from each other. The Ginga Falls are so named because they resemble the shape of the Milky Way, while the Ryusei Falls are known for their impressive height and the mist they create as they crash into the pool below.

4. Sounkyo Ice Waterfall Festival: Held annually during the winter months, the Sounkyo Ice Waterfall Festival is a stunning display of ice sculptures, lanterns, and other winter-themed attractions. Visitors can enjoy ice slides, ice sculptures, and hot springs during the festival, which draws crowds from all over the world.

5. Daisetsuzan National Park: Daisetsuzan National Park is a sprawling natural park that covers nearly 2,300 square kilometers of land. The park is home to numerous hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and wildlife, including bears, foxes, and deer.

6. Sounkyo Ropeway: The Sounkyo Ropeway is a cable car that takes visitors up to the top of Mount Kurodake, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The ride takes approximately 10 minutes each way and is a must-do activity for visitors to Sounkyo Onsen.

In conclusion, Sounkyo Onsen is an ideal destination for travelers looking for a serene, natural escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its stunning natural beauty, exciting winter activities, and relaxing hot springs, visitors are sure to find something to love about this charming resort town.

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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