Kyoto guide
🇯🇵 Packing List
What to pack for Kyoto
In January, Kyoto is typically cold, expect showers (1°C to 9°C). Pick the month you travel and the list changes with it.
Kyoto essentials
- Modest outfits that cover shoulders and knees for town and religious sites
- Sarong or shawl for temple visits
Documents
- Photo ID
- Passport (valid 6+ months)
- Visa / e-visa printout
- Return / onward flight tickets
- Travel insurance policy
- Hotel booking confirmations
- Passport-size photographs (2-4)
- Photocopies / phone photos of passport and tickets, stored separately
Clothing
- Casual day outfits
- One smart-casual outfit for dinners
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Warm insulated coat
- Thermal base layers
- Warm hat, gloves and scarf
- Warm socks
- Light rain jacket or poncho
- Compact umbrella
- Undergarments and sleepwear
- Enough outfits for 7 days (6 sets)
- Layered outfits you can add or remove as the day warms
Toiletries & health
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, and toiletries
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Personal medication with prescription
- Basic first-aid: band-aids, painkillers, ORS
- Hand sanitiser and wet wipes
- Lip balm and moisturiser for cold, dry air
- Insect / mosquito repellent
- Excellent standards. Nishiki Market great for snacking. Street food safe.
Electronics
- Phone and charger
- Power bank
- Camera (optional)
- Power adaptor: Type A/B plugs (US-style), 100V.
Money
- Debit / credit cards
- Local currency: Japanese Yen (JPY)
- Cash common. More traditional than Tokyo.
Local know-how
- Local SIM: Rent pocket WiFi or buy SIM at Kyoto Station.
- Some tourist shops overpriced
- January highlights: Hatsumode (first shrine visit); Toka Ebisu