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Kanazawa packing list

Everything you actually need for Kanazawa, and nothing you don't — with notes on what's specific to this destination.

Photo by moreau tokyo on Unsplash

Kanazawa, Japan packing list

14 items across 5 categories — 10 marked essential.

Clothing

  • Comfortable walking shoesEssential
    You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore its many gardens and historic districts.
  • LayersEssential
    Kanazawa's weather can change rapidly, especially between spring and fall.
  • Smart casual outfits
    For dining at higher-end restaurants or visiting more formal establishments.

Electronics

  • Power bankEssential
    Useful for keeping your devices charged while out exploring all day.
  • Universal travel adapterEssential
    Japan uses Type A and B plugs, with a voltage of 100V.

Health & Safety

  • Personal medicationsEssential
    Pharmacies can be difficult to navigate without Japanese language skills for specific items.
  • Hand sanitizerEssential
    Convenient for use when out and about, especially before snacks.
  • Small first-aid kit
    For minor scrapes or blisters from extensive walking.

Cultural & Practical

  • Small backpack or day bagEssential
    To carry daily essentials while exploring.
  • Reusable shopping bag
    Many shops charge for plastic bags.
  • Cash (Japanese Yen)Essential
    While card acceptance is growing, many smaller shops, restaurants, and attractions are cash-only.
  • Phrasebook or translation appEssential
    While tourist areas have some English, many everyday interactions benefit from basic Japanese phrases.

Weather-Specific (Spring/Fall)

  • Umbrella or lightweight rain jacketEssential
    Kanazawa experiences significant rainfall throughout the year.
  • Scarf
    Can provide extra warmth on cooler spring or fall days.

Destination-specific tips

  • •Tap water in Kanazawa is safe to drink.
  • •Consider purchasing a Kanazawa City Loop Bus day pass for convenient travel between major sights.
  • •Many traditional ryokans and some restaurants require you to remove your shoes before entering; pack socks.
  • •While major credit cards are accepted in larger hotels and department stores, always have cash for smaller establishments and local markets.

Plan the rest of your Kanazawa trip

Itinerary, hotels, activities — all in one place.

Plan my Kanazawa trip →Day trips from Kanazawa

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