Tohoku, Japan: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2023]
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Ready to pack for Tohoku, Japan? If you're planning to go to Tohoku, this is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Tohoku
- Important essentials for Tohoku
- Activities for Tohoku
- Tohoku in January: weather and what to pack
- Tohoku in February: weather and what to pack
- Tohoku in March: weather and what to pack
- Tohoku in April: weather and what to pack
- Tohoku in May: weather and what to pack
- Tohoku in June: weather and what to pack
- Tohoku in July: weather and what to pack
- Tohoku in August: weather and what to pack
- Tohoku in September: weather and what to pack
- Tohoku in October: weather and what to pack
- Tohoku in November: weather and what to pack
- Tohoku in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Tohoku, Japan
Based on the climate and weather in Tohoku, Japan, the best time to go is August. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Tohoku, Japan
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Tohoku, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Tohoku, Japan by month
January
January here is frigid, extremely snowy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 30s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains regularly and snows most days.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sweaters
Warm pants or jeans
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice:
thisTravel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.Gloves
Heavy socks
Such as:
Lip balm
Our favorite option: this
Heavy jacket
Cold weather footwear
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Tohoku, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
A windproof umbrella
This is something you need here. This one is a great choice.
Ski accessories
Tohoku has some famous skiing If you plan to ski, we also suggest:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
A vaccine card and passport protector
Vaccine cards frequently become worn. This vaccine card and passport protector protects your vital documents and can also be tracked by AirTag if lost.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly 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 Tohoku. 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.
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
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you find the correct kind. Many adapters currently sold 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 locations.
Travel pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
February
February here is frosty, very snowy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 30s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time and snows most days.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Heavy socks
Such as:
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite:
thisHeavy jacket
Warm pants or jeans
Travel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.Lip balm
Our pick: here
Gloves
Sweaters
Cold weather footwear
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Tohoku, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
A windproof umbrella
This is something you need here. This one is a great choice.
Ski accessories
Tohoku has some excellent ski slopes If you plan to ski, we would suggest:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
A vaccine card and passport protector
Vaccine cards can wear away. This vaccine card and passport protector protects these documents and can also be tracked via AirTag if lost.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Tohoku. 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 large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you find the correct type. Many adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.
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 versatile choice is this one
March
Traveling to Tohoku in March, you will notice that it can be brisk, 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 low 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Lip balm
Our pick: this one
Insulated water bottle
Our choice:
thisHeavy socks
Such as:
Travel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.Gloves
Heavy jacket
Sweaters
Warm pants or jeans
Cold weather footwear
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For traveling to Tohoku, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
A windproof umbrella
This is worth investing in for this weather. This one is an excellent option.
Ski accessories
Tohoku has some good skiing If you plan to ski, we would suggest:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
A vaccine card and passport protector
Vaccine cards may wear away. This vaccine card and passport protector protects your documents and can also be tracked via AirTag if lost.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Tohoku. 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.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
Our fave is 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. Avoid penalties with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the necessary kind. Many adapters available are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.
April
If you are traveling to Tohoku in April, you will notice that it is cool and very rainy. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 50s F (low 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light gloves or mittens
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best is: here
Warm pants or jeans
Jacket or coat
Extra socks
Fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We suggest:
Health
A vaccine card and passport protector
Vaccine cards can get worn. This vaccine card and passport protector protects these most important documents and is trackable via AirTag if lost.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Tohoku. 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 frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
What we like is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the right kind. A lot 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 get destroyed. This one works in most countries.
May
If you go to Tohoku in May, you will notice that it is balmy and very rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 60s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light and heavy skirts
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Dresses
You can find some great options here
Light jacket or fleece
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Pants or jeans
Extra socks
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We like:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly choice.
A vaccine card and passport protector
Vaccine cards often become worn. This vaccine card and passport protector protects your vital documents and can also be tracked via AirTag if lost.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
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.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Tohoku. 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 find it anywhere anywhere: 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
Travel neck support pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to get the correct type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
June
June in Tohoku is warm and very rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Sandals
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sunscreen lotion
Bug repellent
Light skirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
Short pants or heavy shorts
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We like:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
A vaccine card and passport protector
Vaccine cards often wear out. This vaccine card and passport protector protects your documents and can also be tracked via AirTag if lost.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Tohoku. 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 protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the necessary kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy 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 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
Travel neck support pillow
What we like is this one
July
If you vacation in Tohoku during July, you might notice that it is pretty consistently hot and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 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 about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Breathable footwear or sandals
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light skirts
Short pants or heavy shorts
Sandals
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
A vaccine card and passport protector
Vaccine cards frequently wear away. This vaccine card and passport protector protects these vital documents and can also be tracked via AirTag if lost.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can 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 Tohoku. 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
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the right kind. Many adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.
Travel neck support pillow
Our favorite is this one
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
August
If you visit Tohoku during August, you might notice that it is hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also cleans contaminants:
thisSunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Loose-fit shorts
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against skin damage:
Sunglasses
Skirts
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
A vaccine card and passport protector
Vaccine cards often wear away. This vaccine card and passport protector protects these important documents and can also be tracked by AirTag if lost.
Safety + Security
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 help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Tohoku. 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.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to find the correct kind. Most adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
A great choice is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
September
September in Tohoku is warm and very rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C) to low 70s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Sunscreen lotion
Light skirts
Extra socks
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Short pants or heavy shorts
Sandals
Breathable footwear or sandals
Bug repellent
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These are vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We recommend:
Health
A vaccine card and passport protector
Vaccine cards can get worn. This vaccine card and passport protector protects your vital documents and can also be tracked by AirTag if lost.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Safety + Security
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 locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
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 Tohoku. 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
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
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.
Travel neck support pillow
A versatile choice is this one
October
October for Tohoku is chilly and very rainy. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (high 10s C) during the day. It rains about two thirds of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light jacket or fleece
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Light and heavy skirts
Extra socks
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Pants or jeans
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
A vaccine card and passport protector
Vaccine cards may become worn. This vaccine card and passport protector protects your vital documents and is trackable via AirTag if lost.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Tohoku. 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 things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to pick the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
November
If you visit Tohoku during November, you will probably find that it is pretty cool and extremely rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 50s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain most days.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light gloves or mittens
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best is: this one
Warm pants or jeans
Jacket or coat
Extra socks
Fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These are a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We like:
Health
A vaccine card and passport protector
Vaccine cards can wear away. This vaccine card and passport protector protects these documents and can also be tracked via AirTag if lost.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
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.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Tohoku. 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 things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to pick the correct kind. The majority of adapters for sale now 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 should work in most areas.
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 pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
December
December can be brisk, somewhat snowy and very rainy. Temperatures average in the high 30s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains most days and snows about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: this one
Jacket or coat
Warm pants or jeans
Light gloves or mittens
Fleece
Extra socks
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Tohoku, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
A wind resistant umbrella
This is important here. This one is an excellent choice.
Ski accessories
Tohoku has some excellent skiing If you plan to ski, we also recommend:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Health
A vaccine card and passport protector
Vaccine cards may wear away. This vaccine card and passport protector protects these important documents and is trackable by AirTag if lost.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent value.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Tohoku. 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 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 neck support pillow
A great choice is this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to choose the right type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

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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