Inside Kyoto

A Kyoto Travel Guide

Packing List For Japan 2024

Use my comprehensive packing list for Japan to ensure you’ve got everything you need to make your Japan trip hassle free.

Ryoan-ji Temple Lake, Kyoto

Minimize your pre-trip stress with my comprehensive packing list for Japan. Travelling light is always ideal, and you don’t need to bring much with you to cover almost any situation in Japan. Where a product is mentioned below, I’ve linked to Amazon.com for reference (all links are affiliate links).

Travel Essentials For Japan

  • Planning a trip to Japan can seem overwhelming. However, if you break it down into 10 steps, you’ll find that it’s pretty easy. See our step-by-step Japan Trip Planning Guide for essential tips.
  • Passport: Make sure it has at least six months validity and one empty page.
  • Visa: Many nationalities can enter Japan without needing to arrange a visa in advance, but it’s best to check ahead. See Do I Need A Visa For Japan for more details.
  • Flight tickets: Even in this day of electronic ticketing, it’s helpful to have a paper copy to refer to and show airport staff. If you are still researching flights to Japan, check a flight comparison site as a useful way to compare multiple airlines’ flight times and prices
  • Hotel reservations: Having a print out is helpful for hotel staff as well as for yourself. If the hotel provides an address in Japanese, this is useful for taxi drivers. Also, you’ll be asked to fill in your first night’s hotel address in your landing card before immigration, so a printout is handy. Book Japan hotels online at Booking.com and Agoda.com
  • If you’re going to do a lot of train travel in Japan, consider buying a Japan Rail Pass. See my article Japan Rail Pass: Is It Worth It? for more detailed info. If you decide you need one, you can buy a Japan Rail Pass directly online .
  • Credit Cards and Debit Cards: VISA and MasterCard are widely accepted in Japan – American Express not so much. Ensure you tell your bank before you leave your home country that your card may be used in Japan. Also bring an ATM debit card to withdraw Japanese yen from your checking account. See Getting Money In Kyoto for more information – it’s pertinent to the whole country.
  • Make a copy of all your passport and credit card details: Use your cellphone to take photos of your passport photo page and the back and front of your credit cards. Email them to yourself in Gmail or other internet accessible email account. Now you have all the details and emergency numbers if you should lose your cards or passport.
  • Wifi and SIM Card access: It’s easy to get your own data-only SIM card in Japan and also find public free wifi in Japan. Read our in-depth guide about Japan esims, physical sim cards and pocket wifi . See also our comprehensive guide to the Internet in Japan for tourists .
  • Japan Maps: There’s still no quicker way to get a sense of the big picture than looking at a hardcopy map. For Japan, the best commercially available maps are made by Periplus. The Periplus Tokyo map is the best English-language map of Tokyo, and their Kyoto map is the best English-language map of Kyoto. Likewise, the Periplus Osaka map is the best English-language map of Osaka. If you want an all-country map, I recommend their Japan map . You will not find anything better in English.
  • Guidebook: Having a real guidebook can be useful in tandem with online information – plus it’s handy to browse on the plane. My recommendations are Lonely Planet Japan for the whole country and Lonely Planet Kyoto City guide if you’re just visiting Kyoto and around. Yes, I’m biased, because I’ve worked on both books.

Travel Insurance For Japan

Considering travel insurance for your trip? World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 adventure activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more.

Luggage For Kyoto

Japan is incredibly easy to get around with public transport that’s super efficient and well organized. A wheelie suitcase and day backpack will suffice for most trips, assuming you’re sticking to the cities not going overnight hiking or on other adventure excursions into the wilderness proper. There are storage lockers at Kyoto Station (and other stations) big enough to store a large suitcase for a day if you need to stash luggage after checking out of your Kyoto accommodation. If you need to store luggage for longer, there’s a luggage storage office below Kyoto Station.

Clothes For Japan

Depending on what time of year you go to Japan, it can very hot or quite cold, or somewhere in between, so it pays to think ahead. See my Best Time To Go To Kyoto page for a rundown of what to expect from the weather month by month in Kyoto – I’ve written similar guides for Tokyo and Osaka , too. Obviously, research ahead of time about the likely conditions before you arrive.

  • The classic travel advice applies – wear layers and use breathable fabrics. Cotton and linen are good, as are more modern heat-wicking clothing fabrics used by UnderArmor and other sporting brands, especially in the summer months. These fabrics are especially good for underwear and designed for both sexes. Denim is not so good as it’s heavy and holds moisture. You are likely to be doing a lot of walking, so you want to be as comfortable as possible.
  • Similarly, make sure you have some lightweight comfortable walking shoes . Unless you intend on doing some of Kyoto’s more demanding hikes , you really don’t need to bring heavy hiking boots etc. And, if you’re like me, you might be happy doing even those hikes in running shoes.
  • A lightweight fleece is a great item to have even in summer months simply to keep you warm on airplanes and other travel situations where the air conditioning can be arctic and beyond your control.
  • A quick drying towel packs down super small but can be extremely useful as an extra towel for hair drying etc.
  • Pack everything using travel cubes – they organize your clothes so you can access everything near instantly.

Toiletries And Sundries

Having a well-stocked toiletries bag can save you a lot of inconvenience and discomfort wherever you travel. In Japan, you can restock from the ubiquitous convenience stores like 7-11, Lawson and Family Mart. For pharmacies, you will find large pharmacies all over town, particularly around train stations. They carry Japanese versions of most over-the-counter medicines and pharmaceutical products. If you speak slowly, you can usually get your point across when asking for help finding things.

  • Shower gel, shampoo, toothpaste and don’t forget your toothbrush
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses and hat, especially during spring and summer. It can get very hot. Be sure to get sunglasses that properly filter harmful UV light rather than just look good. For sunscreen, go for a 30 SPF or above.
  • Painkillers (see important note below)
  • Cold/flu medicine, lozenges for sore throats, anti-histamines for hay fever (see important note below)
  • Tampons and sanitary pads
  • Razors and foam or gel
  • A travel First Aid kit , particularly plasters for blisters, cuts etc
  • Decent toiletry bag to keep everything organised. The roll-up style you can hang from the back of a door is particularly useful.

Important Note Regarding Bring Your Own Medicines Into Japan

Please note that Japanese customs can be very strict regarding the importation of some relatively common drugs, including any opioids, psychotropics, tranquilizers, and certain antihistamines. They can also be strict regarding medical equipment like syringes. If you have any doubts, refer to the following links:

  • Japanese Ministry Of Health: Information for those who are bringing medicines for personal use into Japan
  • Embassy Of Japan In Australia Advice (links to PDF)

Electronics For Japan

  • No doubt you’ll bring your cellphone so remember the charger and charger cable and also ensure you have a universal adapter so you can plug it into Japanese style plug sockets. Japan uses a two-prong plus without the third pin (the ground pin), so you will need an adapter if you want to use three-prong plugs. If you forget them, they are available at electronics shops in Japan.
  • If you’re bringing a tablet or Kindle or laptop, same advice applies: remember the charger!
  • You can easily get a data-only Japanese SIM card for your phone which will be much cheaper than roaming on your existing SIM although you can do that too. See our comprehensive guide to the Internet in Japan for tourists .
  • Your cellphone is likely the single most expensive item you will have with you during your travels. Make sure it’s protected from drops and knocks by getting a robust cellphone case. The Otterbox range of cases are a good example of protective covers that will save a phone from falling on sidewalks, kitchen floors etc.
  • Japan is so photogenic you might want to pack more power than just your cellphone camera. You can get add-on lens for your cellphone that provide zoom, wide angle and fish eye lens capabilities. Getting one of the Canon compact cameras is also worth considering if you want a dedicated camera.

Check Hotel Availability

Destination, check-in date, check-out date.

Booking.com

Long-Haul Flights To Japan

If you’re flying to Japan from the USA, Europe or Australia, you have some long flights ahead of you. (See Kyoto Airport Transport and Tokyo Airport Transport and Osaka Airport Transport pages for info on getting to and from Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka airports). Make yourself as comfortable as possible with these tips:

  • If you’re coming from the USA, have TSA approved luggage Locks .
  • A travel pillow can make a big difference to your comfort and ability to get some sleep on the plane
  • Having a passport cover to protect your passport and stash all your paperwork in while you’re moving through the airport is worthwhile
  • Wherever you travel in the world, it’s wise to not keep all your cash, credit cards and other valuables in one place on your person. Separate them into different pockets and consider a travel neck pouch too.
  • Cut down on your time going through security queues by minimizing metal items on your person. A belt with a plastic belt buckle can be a real timesaver
  • The aforementioned lightweight fleece is good to have to keep you warm
  • Airplane cabins dry out your skin and can irritate allergies: consider bringing anti-histamine tablets to avoid hayfever-like sneezing (although see note above re importing drugs into Japan) and also moisturizer to keep your skin from feeling dry
  • Noise cancelling headphones are worth the hefty price tag to block out the airplane engines
  • A Kindle reading device is a great way of bringing hundreds of books or use the Kindle app on your tablet or phone
  • Audiobooks – Audiobooks are a great way to make the most of travelling time and also shut out the noise of airplane and airport environments. Audible offers a free trial and has thousands of best-selling audiobooks to access and download. See my list of my favorite books about Japan if you need some inspiration.
  • TV Show Downloads – You can download a wide selection of TV shows and movies to your mobile device with Amazon’s Prime Video service , letting you watch them anywhere without any kind of internet connection – perfect for plane journeys. See my list of my favorite movies, TV shows and documentaries about Japan if you want some ideas on what to watch.
  • It’s worth noting that Amazon sometimes gives away Kindle devices and noise-cancelling earphones on their Amazon Giveaways page. The Giveaways page has hundreds of offers giving away different items, some quite expensive, in return for a small task like watching a short video or signing up for a newsletter. However, many items have no requirement at all – you simply click a button and see if you won the item or not. Unfortunately Amazon Giveaways are only open to people with a USA shipping address but if you live in the US, it’s worth checking for some free stuff that might enhance your holiday.

Travelling with Kids In Japan

Japan is a great place to travel with children: It’s safe, clean and filled with fun things for children to do. Be sure to bring any medicines that children might need from home. Also, bring a couple of English books for them if you like to read to them before bed. If you forget, you can buy English-language children’s books at major bookstores in Japan, including Maruzen in Kyoto . For more details on travel with children in Japan, see our Kyoto with Children page.

Kyoto Vacation Checklist

  • For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
  • Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
  • You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto , Kyoto to Osaka and Kyoto to Tokyo
  • Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
  • See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
  • Buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Kansai International Airport (for Osaka and Kyoto) or Tokyo's Narita Airport . Or rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
  • Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
  • If you're making frequent train journeys during your visit, you might save money with Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
  • A prepaid Suica card makes travelling around Kyoto easy – here's how
  • World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world

Kyoto District Map

japan trip checklist

  • Central Kyoto
  • Northwest Kyoto
  • Northern Higashiyama
  • Southern Higashiyama
  • Downtown Kyoto
  • Kyoto Station Area
  • South East Kyoto

Disclosure: InsideKyoto.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com and amazon.co.uk. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

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The Ultimate Japan Packing List

We rounded up the essentials you’ll want to bring to Japan no matter the season.

japan trip checklist

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Travel + Leisure / David Hattan

Planning a trip to the Land of the Rising Sun? Japan is a geographically diverse — and truly stunning — island. Its regions span all types of terrain and climates from snowy peaks to black sand beaches so it’s important to know the most essential items to pack and what to leave behind. Luckily, we’re here to help by providing recommendations and all of the tips and tricks you need to know for packing for this destination, including helpful insights from Kenny Onishi, the general manager of Japan for Intrepid Travel DMC. Keep reading to see our top picks, and to learn more about the dos and don’ts for visiting.

Packing Checklist for Japan

Even if you’re traveling in the winter, Onishi recommends bringing a light load with you: “In general, I think it's best to pack light and the reason for this is that often travelers do use public transportation in Japan.” While there are elevators and escalators for accessibility in train and bus stations, Onishi stresses that if you’re moving around from city to city, bringing small luggage will be beneficial for getting around. To help with packing less, Onishi explains that you can leave behind basic amenities like shampoo, conditioner, and even pajamas depending on your accommodations. “Most hotels, I'd say at least three-star and above, will always have sleep attire ready for you,” he says. “So, most of them will have some type of pajamas or one of those nighttime kimonos to wear but you’ll want to check with your accommodation beforehand.” The same goes for other toiletry items like toothbrushes, razors, toothpaste, and shower caps.

Here are the items we’d recommend you do bring on your next trip to Japan.

Clothing for Women

  • Best Top: Madewell Poplin Puff-sleeve Cutout Crop Top
  • Best Pants: Maeve The Colette Cropped Wide-leg Pants
  • Best Skirt: Quince 100% Washable Silk Skirt
  • Best Dress: Everlane The Daytripper Shirtdress
  • Best Rain Coat: Athleta RainOut Sutro Trench
  • Best Jacket: Abercrombie & Fitch Traveler Bomber Jacket

Clothing for Men

  • Best Top: Cuts AO Curve-hem Tee
  • Best Pants: Bonobos Original Stretch Washed Chino
  • Best Shorts: VRST Men's 7-inch Resort Short
  • Best Rain Coat: Vuori Palisades Rain Jacket
  • Best Jacket: Everlane The Organic Cotton Herringbone Utility Jacket
  • Best Walking Shoes: Olukai Lī ‘Ili Sneakers for Women and Men

Accessories

  • Best Travel-size Umbrella: Goothdurs Automatic Mini Travel Umbrella
  • Best Coin Purse: Travelon Rfid Blocking Clip Stash Pouch
  • Best Travel Pillow: Cabeau The Neck's Evolution TNE S3 Travel Pillow
  • Best Sunglasses: Costa Sullivan Sunglasses

Luggage and Bags

  • Best Carry-on Backpack: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L
  • Best Carry-on Suitcase: Herschel Heritage Hardshell Carry-on Luggage
  • Best Toiletry Bag: Calpak ​​Small Clear Cosmetics Case
  • Best Crossbody Purse: Lioscre Small Sling Crossbody Bag

The current style in Japan is minimalist-chic which is perfect for traveling lightly. You’ll want to pack just a few tops and bottoms that can be mixed and matched throughout your trip to maximize space and not stand out too much. Of course, you’re welcome to wear what makes you feel the most comfortable and confident but the style in Japan is a bit more modest and elevated so you’ll likely see both men and women dressed in business-casual attire as everyday clothing.

Madewell Poplin Puff-Sleeve Cutout Crop Top

It’s important to bring tops that can be worn with several different outfits like this versatile Madewell blouse. The lightweight cotton material is ideal for Tokyo’s humid weather conditions but the simple top can easily be paired with a jacket or cardigan for cooler temperatures. Pair the blouse with high-waisted pants or a flowy skirt and you have yourself a stylish outfit for visiting temples or dining at restaurants.

Maeve The Colette Cropped Wide-Leg Pants

Anthropologie

While jeans are certainly not a bad option, these Maeve wide-leg pants are far more comfortable and boast an elevated look. The fabric is super stretchy and comfortable so you can go straight from the long-haul flight to sightseeing in style and comfort. Best of all, the pants come in a variety of colors and sizes (including petite, tall, and plus options) so you can stock up on several pairs before your trip.

Quince Washable Silk Skirt

The everyday clothing style in Japan is a bit more upscale than in the U.S. so bringing a silk midi skirt like this one from Quince is perfect for both day and night outfits. This mulberry silk midi skirt comes in nine colors including several muted neutral colors that can be dressed up or down. Plus, the skirt is machine-washable so you can give it a quick wash in between wears during your trip.

Everlane The Daytripper Shirtdress

Many women opt for flowy or slightly oversized clothing in Japan so this Everlane Shirtdress fits right in with the current trends. The asymmetric style has a high-low design so the back of the dress sits below the knee and the front part should rest just above the knee for a modest-yet-stylish look. It can also be paired with boots or tights on colder days, making it a versatile staple for most seasons in the country.

Best Rain Jacket

L.l. bean meridian hooded raincoat.

It can rain in all of Japan’s regions , especially during the monsoon season in June and July, so you’ll want to pack a lightweight rain jacket just in case. This longer raincoat from L.L. Bean isn’t as sporty as traditional rain gear so it’s easy to pair it with your daily outfits. Made with waterproof TEK2.5 fabric, this jacket will keep you perfectly dry and it comes in several stunning colors like light green and a silvery white shade.

Best Jacket

Abercrombie & fitch traveler bomber jacket.

Abercrombie & Fitch

It depends on which part of Japan you’re visiting (spoiler: every region is beautiful ) and when but you can’t go wrong with a water- and wind-resistant jacket in the spring, summer, and fall like this sleek bomber from Abercrombie & Fitch. You may want a thicker jacket for winter but for most seasons, this bomber will keep you warm and protected without feeling restrictive.

Similarly to planning outfits for women, men can keep it fairly simple as well by bringing several staple pieces of men's travel clothing to be mixed and matched. Generally, you’ll want to avoid any clothing that is tattered so investing in some nicer T-shirts, pants, and shorts is the best route to go. In terms of outerwear, you’ll want to pack a rain jacket and/or a windbreaker, and several overshirts or shackets to tie together an outfit when the weather conditions are wet or chilly.

Cuts AO Curve-Hem Tee

Although this T-shirt from Cuts comes at a higher price point, it’s worth it for the high-quality materials that will hold up against multiple wears throughout the duration of a trip. The fabric is made with wrinkle-resistant materials so you can toss the shirt in your luggage while traveling throughout Japan and pull it out looking good as new. Plus, it comes in tons of earthy colors making it easy to pair the top with any bottoms. Trust us, you’ll want to buy several for your trip since they’ll last way longer than your typical cotton tees.

Bonobos Original Chinos

A pair of pants that are both comfortable and nice-looking can be hard to come across but these Bonobos chinos check all of the boxes. The cotton blend pants have a two-percent stretch so you can sit comfortably on a long-haul flight or walk up the 1,368 steps to get to the famous Kotohira-gu Shrine. With over 10 color options in sizes 28 to 54 (in slim, athletic, straight, tailored, slim taper, and skinny cuts), we love that the brand is size-inclusive to fit a wide range of body types.

Best Shorts

Vrst men's 7-inch resort short.

If you’re traveling throughout Japan in the summer , you’ll likely run into both rain and high temperatures. These lightweight and quick-dry shorts from VRST could not be more perfect for any weather conditions thanks to the versatile fabric that can be worn in and out of water. The material has UPF 30 protection and it’s wrinkle-resistant so you won’t have to worry about crumpled clothing on the go.

Vuori Palisades Rain Jacket

Traveling to Japan in June or July? A rain jacket is a must-pack item for visiting during the wet season so this Vuori rain jacket will be a lifesaver. The recycled three-layer fabric is completely waterproof and the fit of the jacket is a slimmer athletic style so you don’t have to compromise style for functionality. It’ll match your chino pants or resort shorts and pairs nicely with a variety of shoes for even more versatility.

Everlane Organic Cotton Herringbone Utility Jacket

For effortless style, this Everlane utility jacket is the perfect outer layer for completing an outfit. The lightweight cotton material and boxy shape are an ideal combination for a comfortable jacket that still looks sharp. It comes in green, white, and navy blue making it easy to pair with a T-shirt underneath in the summer or a sweater in the fall.

Depending on the length and season of your trip, one or two pairs of shoes is all you need, especially for packing lightly. We recommend bringing one or two pairs of comfortable and waterproof walking shoes that are versatile enough to be worn with pants, shorts, skirts, or dresses. “You'll be doing a lot of walking as well. Mushy, wet shoes are really uncomfortable so bringing anything waterproof will be very handy,” Onishi advises. Generally, you won’t see too many people in Japan wearing sandals unless it’s very warm out and flip-flops are frowned upon for entering shrines or temples.

Best Walking Shoes for Women and Men

Olukai leather sneakers.

It’s hard to beat the style and comfort built into these minimalist Olukai sneakers. The men’s style is nearly identical to the women’s pair with both boasting the brand’s signature drop-in heel feature so you can easily slip in and out of the shoes. This is ideal for going into temples and shrines or eating at restaurants where you’ll need to take off your shoes. Plus, the ultra-cushioned footbed is removable and washable so after a long day of sightseeing, you can toss the cushions into the wash to breathe extra life into the shoes during your trip as well as before and after.

Since the goal is to pack lightly, we’re keeping the list of essential accessories to a minimum so you don’t bring too many unnecessary items. According to Onishi, it would be wise to bring your own compact umbrella, although you can always buy one in Japan if the weather takes a turn. “It does rain a lot,” he explains, especially in the summer and fall. “I personally bring a waterproof jacket plus an umbrella.” In addition to bringing accessories to combat the weather, we recommend packing a coin purse to hold your loose cash and coins to stay organized on the go and a pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes from the bright sun.

Best Travel-size Umbrella

Goothdurs automatic mini travel umbrella.

Onishi recommends bringing a compact umbrella, along with a raincoat, to combat the inclement weather while traveling around Japan. “Usually typhoons start from around August to October so I guess throughout the whole summer until mid-autumn, it's always nice to bring rain gear,” he said. This travel-size umbrella folds down to just 8.5 inches tall so it can easily fit in a backpack, purse, or pocket when needed.

Best Coin Purse

Travelon rfid blocking clip stash pouch.

Having cash on hand while traveling throughout Japan is helpful even though a lot of places take cards. The Japanese currency, yen, uses paper cash as well as coins so you’ll want to have a coin pouch or small purse on hand to store all of your 100, 50, 10, 5, and 1-cent coins. This small pick comes with a carabiner clips to easily attach the pouch to your bag for convenient access.

Best Travel Pillow

Cabeau tne s3 travel pillow.

While it depends on where you’re embarking from, it’s likely that you’ll be on a long-haul flight to get to Japan, so a good travel pillow is a must to help you get some shut-eye. If you’re flying from the West Coast, the flight is about nine hours and it’s about 14 from the East Coast. This ultra-plush neck pillow from Cabeau folds down into a compact carrying case and can be clipped to a backpack or placed inside without taking up too much space in a backpack.

Best Sunglasses

Costa sullivan sunglasses.

Dick's Sporting Goods

A pair of sunglasses is an essential accessory for both fashion and functional purposes. These Costa Sullivan sunglasses have a simple square shape that is versatile for anything from hiking to sightseeing. There are six frame colors to choose from with the option of gray or copper lenses so you can design your next favorite pair of polarized shades.

If you’re planning on traveling to other cities in Japan besides Tokyo, you’ll want to think carefully about the type of luggage you want to schlep around. The most portable piece of luggage you can use is a carry-on backpack that boasts the same capacity as a suitcase but offers the portability of a backpack. Of course, you can use a carry-on suitcase, but we recommend using a smaller one that is easier to maneuver. When it comes to smaller bags like purses, opt for a compact and smaller bag like a trendy fabric crescent bag that has a bit more style than a sporty fanny pack.

Best Carry-on Backpack

Cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

For itineraries that include stops in cities outside of Tokyo like Kyoto or Osaka, the most portable piece of luggage is Cotopaxi’s Allpa 32L backpack. It’s our favorite carry-on backpack we’ve tested since it can fit the same amount as a typical suitcase but it can be tossed over the shoulders and carried as a backpack for superior portability. There are tons of pockets for staying organized and it has a clamshell-style opening so you can pack all of your essentials with ease.

Best Carry-on Suitcase

Herschel heritage hardshell carry on luggage.

Backpacks aren’t for everyone when it comes to traveling so if you’re looking for a compact suitcase, this one from Herschel is a great option. It’s small yet spacious with two main compartments to fit enough outfits for a two-week trip. Plus, its smaller size is ideal for flying on airlines with more restrictive carry-on dimension requirements such as WestJet or United.

Best Toiletry Bag

Calpak mini cosmetics case.

One of the best ways to pack lightly for Japan is by bringing as few toiletry items as possible. It’s customary for hotels and Airbnbs to have a large selection of toiletries like shampoo, toothbrushes, combs, and more readily available to guests. However, since you’ll likely still need to pack specific toiletries, this small, clear cosmetic case from Calpak makes it easy to see what you’ve packed thanks to the transparent material. It has a clamshell design so you can pack the case flat or folded up as well.

Best Crossbody Purse

Lioscre small sling crossbody bag.

Crescent bags are wildly popular in both Japan and the U.S. right now and this under-the-radar Amazon bag is the perfect travel accessory for storing your wallet, passport, and other small items. It’s made with wrinkle-resistant nylon so it can be folded up and tucked away in a suitcase for long-haul flights without getting crumpled and the capacity is large enough to fit all of your travel essentials without feeling too bulky.

Japan has four distinct seasons and it’s important to pack according to season along with the basic essentials in our list above that you can bring no matter the time of year. In addition, Onishi explains “the weather is dependent on the location as well. So the northern island of Hokkaido , which is closer to Russia, [gets] cold and with the southernmost island, Okinawa, you'll probably get that sort of Southeast Asia weather so it's relatively warm.” The weather in any part of the country can change rapidly so you’ll want to bring a variety of outfits to be prepared for changing weather conditions. 

Packing layers and clothing that can be mixed and matched is the best way to be prepared for any weather while still packing lightly. “In spring or autumn, it can be cold, it can be warm so T-shirts, long sleeves, windbreakers are always nice. Thinner, down jackets come in handy as well,” Onishi shares. And, in the summer, the air conditioning inside can be very cold to combat the heat and humidity so Onishi recommends bringing a shawl or light jacket indoors since you may get cold.

Generally, there are no hard and fast rules about what you can and can’t wear in Japan but to be respectful of the culture, there are several clothing items you could leave out of your packing list. “Especially in the Western countries, people just wear leggings or yoga pants just out on the street [and] that's not normal in Japan,” Onishi explains, noting that modesty is a prominent but evolving part of the fashion culture in the country. If you’re planning on visiting a traditional onsen (hot spring) you can leave your swimsuit at home since it’s customary to enter the water  nude. “So, kind of going back to my initial comment about packing lightly — I wouldn't bring a swimsuit, unless you know that you're going to a pool or to a beach,” Onishi says. In addition, you can leave behind outlet adapters if you’re coming from the U.S. since Japan uses the same Type A and B outlets.

When it comes to entering sacred spaces like temples or shrines, there are dress codes that are encouraged but not always heavily enforced. While it’s generally frowned upon to wear sandals, tank tops, or shorts, no one will likely say anything to you in more touristy areas like Kyoto and Tokyo, Onishi shares. If you’re planning on visiting an onsen , be sure to look up the policies on tattoos, as it’s very common for people with tattoos to not be allowed in a public onsen. Some will allow tattoos if they are covered with special bandages that you can find in pharmacies in Japan, or if the resort offers them, but it’s important to respect the rules. You may end up needing to reserve a private onsen if you have large tattoos that can’t be covered.

The currency used in Japan is called yen which consists of both paper cash and coins. The bills are in the thousands and the most common coins you’ll use are 50 and 100 pieces but there are also one, five, and 10 coins, too. You can typically order yen ahead of time through most U.S. banks or use an ATM when you arrive, although you may encounter fees so it’s always smart to convert currency ahead of time.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

T+L commerce writer Anna Popp writes the majority of the team's tested articles and she participates in nearly every travel test. Anna spent nearly two weeks traveling throughout Japan in May 2023 and she chatted with Kenny Onishi , the general manager of Japan for Intrepid Travel DMC to get tips and tricks for packing for and visiting this destination.

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Japan Packing List: 50+ Things You Can’t Forget (+FREE checklist)

Home » Blog » Japan » Japan Packing List: 50+ Things You Can’t Forget (+FREE checklist)

We’ve created the perfect Japan packing list that has the essentials (many of which you might not think about) and what you should NOT pack for a trip to Japan. We’re also sharing what to wear in Japan for all seasons as well as tons of practical tips!

Kumano Kodo Trail Japan

Determining what to pack for a trip to Japan can be overwhelming. 

We know because we’ve traveled to Japan several times and understand that you want to have all the essentials without overpacking . Striking that balance can be tough, even for the most seasoned of travelers.

We’ve created a Japan packing list with all the items you should definitely bring. Some of these items are specific to Japan travel and I bet there are some things on this list you haven’t even thought of!

We’re also sharing packing tips we’ve learned after several trips to Japan as well as what NOT to bring .

Psst! Before we dive in, I want to mention that we created a Japan packing checklist that you can download (totally free!) so you’re sure you don’t forget anything. It has everything on this list and more, so don’t forget to grab your copy!

Japan Packing Guide

  • Travel essentials for Japan
  • What NOT to pack for Japan

Packing tips for Japan

Japan Packing List Mobile Banner

Free Japan Packing Checklist

Be sure to grab your (totally free!) copy of our exact Japan packing list . 

Simply enter your email and you’ll get it sent to your inbox right away. Plus, we’ll send you our top Japan tips so you can plan the perfect trip!

Psst! See all the exact items we recommend in one place on our Amazon Storefront .

1. Passport

You might be saying duh , but you’ll want to triple check that you have your passport packed before leaving for the airport! 

Insider tip: We like keeping our passports in a cover (like this one ) so that we can keep arrival documents and important business cards together. 

2. Japan Rail Pass

Japan Rail Pass

If you choose to get a Japan Rail Pass for your trip, you will need to have the physical copy packed with you. 

Important: You cannot get the Japan Rail Pass inside Japan, so it needs to be delivered to you before your trip.

Wondering if the Japan Rail Pass is worth it for your trip? This J-Rail guide goes over all the details so you can decide if it will save you money or not.

3. Travel Insurance 

Just as with any trip, you will definitely want to get travel insurance. 

Japan is an especially important destination to get an insurance policy for since accommodation and flights are generally on the more expensive side. You want to be sure you’re covered in case of an emergency.

We have an entire guide that goes over how to choose the best policy for you in detail. 

Our personal advice: We recommend getting your insurance policy as soon as you start making your accommodation and flight bookings.  

4. Credit cards

You will absolutely use credit cards in Japan. But before you pack your entire wallet, here are some things to consider:

  • Choose cards with zero foreign transaction fees
  • Bring at least 2-3 credit cards so you have back ups in case one doesn’t work
  • Visa cards are notorious for not working in much of Japan (ours worked sometimes but not all the time)
  • We had good luck with American Express and MasterCard 
  • Our personal recommendation: We’ve been using a Charles Schwab debit card for this reason since 2014 and we absolutely love it!

Read more about our personal credit card recommendations !

5. Japanese yen

Japanese yen coins in Japan

First things first: You will 100% need Japanese yen on your trip in Japan. While much of the country operates with credit cards and electronic payment systems, there are still lots of small shops or attractions that only take cash.

That said, we personally never get cash at home for our trips . (We haven’t since 2014.) This is because when you get foreign currency from your home bank, you pay a commission fee. 

To avoid this and to get the best rate on foreign currency (no matter where in the world we are), this is what we do instead:

  • Immediately after landing and getting our luggage, we find an ATM . Airport arrivals areas always have them. Note: Do NOT go to a currency exchange counter because they charge commission. ATMs give you the best exchange rate.
  • We withdraw as much cash as we’d like using our Charles Schwab debit card (which reimburses all ATM fees). Note: Since we get the best rate and do not pay any ATM fees, we don’t feel the need to withdraw large sums at a time. We simply get as much as we need for the next couple of days so we’re not traveling with tons of cash.  

Good to know: Getting a small amount of Japanese yen from your home bank isn’t a bad idea if it makes you more comfortable. However, after many years of traveling and crunching the numbers, we feel that going directly to an ATM after landing (with the right card) is the best way to get currency.

6. Coin purse 

(optional)  

Coin purse Japanese yen

It’s worth pointing out that in Japan, many coins are worth large sums of money. For example, the ¥100 coin is worth roughly $0.70 and the ¥500 coin is worth more than $3. 

You will wind up with way more coins than you’re used to – trust me! Since they’re worth a lot, you don’t want to lose them in the bottom of your bag or your pocket. 

A small zipped coin bag is a must, in our opinion! 

If you don’t have one at home, you can plan to buy one in Japan as they are a popular Japanese souvenir . Just be warned that they can get quite expensive! We looked around for several days before we found one that was under $10.

If you want to get one before your trip, this one is simple and inexpensive.

Japan luggage subway train

Put some thought into what type of bag you will travel with in Japan.

Most Japanese travelers have hard-sided suitcases , so if you don’t want to stand out this can be a good option. 

Our personal experience: We’ve traveled in Japan with both backpacks and suitcases, and each has its perks. Carrying suitcases up and down stairs at train stations is not fun. But getting on a crowded train with a large backpack can be cumbersome and make you stick out.

Our recommendation: On our most recent trip to Japan, we packed our belongings in our Away suitcase (size: “The Medium”). It worked really well, I would just advise you not to choose the largest size. It will be very difficult to move around with, especially in crowded areas. 

8. Capsule wardrobe

What to wear in Japan bamboo forest

When packing clothes, we recommend thinking about them as a capsule wardrobe. That way, you can create lots of different outfits using some of the same items . 

This will ensure you’re prepared for all different weather and occasions without overpacking .

Thinking about what to wear in Japan can be a little overwhelming – we’ve been there! We actually created a whole guide to what clothes to pack for Japan (plus, what not to wear!) to make it easier.

9. Packing cubes

We’re big fans of packing cubes no matter what type of trip we’re going on. We’ve tried a lot of brands, but this is our favorite .

Not only do they help keep our things organized , but they compress your clothes a bit, giving you a more efficiently-packed suitcase.

10. WiFi device or SIM card

Japan Pocket WiFi Device eSIM Computer

Trust me when I say you will need access to the Internet in Japan for translating menus, getting directions, and looking up random words. 

Before your trip to Japan, determine how you will get Internet access. The two most popular ways are either with a WiFi hotspot device or through an eSIM . 

They each have benefits, so we created a guide to choosing between a WiFi device and a SIM card that should help make this decision easier! 

Whichever you choose, you must set it up before your trip, so don’t forget about it when you’re packing.

11. Virtual Suica, ICOCA, or Pasmo card

Suica app statue Tokyo Japan

Let me first explain what these are:

Suica, ICOCA, and Pasmo are all public transit cards in Japan . These work on the Tokyo subway and bus systems as well as in many big cities around Japan.

In the past, they each had slightly different coverage areas. However, today, they are more or less identical so it really doesn’t matter which one you choose .

These used to be physical cards that you could purchase once you arrived in Japan (usually inside a konbini , or convenience store). Today, this is also a virtual card that you can load onto your phone’s wallet. 

It is incredibly convenient because you can simply tap your phone on the turnstile and the app will seamlessly track your ride. This eliminates the need to use a machine to purchase a ticket and then slip said ticket into the proper slot.

It is much easier, takes less time, and won’t hold up a line behind you. Trust me, you need this.

Good to know: You don’t even need to open the wallet on your phone before tapping. Your balance will show up in a notification so you know when you’re running low. You can easily top off from your phone.

We recommend getting a virtual transit card before your trip. That way, you can hop on public transportation immediately upon arrival (aka the cheapest and easiest way to get around). 

How to get a Suica card:

  • Simply open the “wallet” on your phone and search for one of these transit cards. Personal experience: We personally got Suica, but any will do. (In the past, we’ve used a physical ICOCA card.)
  • Connect a credit card to the app. In our experience, our Visa cards did not work (FYI Visa often doesn’t work in Japan). Our American Express cards worked fine.
  • Select an amount of money you’d like to add to the virtual card. You can always see your balance and it is easy to top off, so don’t worry too much about the amount.
  • Everyone in your travel group needs to have their own virtual card loaded in their phone.

Traveling with kids? Children 6 and under ride the subways for free. If you are traveling with a child who does not have a phone, you’ll need to purchase a physical card (from a convenience store in Japan) that they can tap. There is a child rate for kids 7-11 years old, while 12 and up is the adult fare.

12. Apps for Japan 

Best Japan Travel Apps

Before your trip, be sure to download a few key apps to your phone so they’re ready to go when you arrive. This way, you won’t use up data or have to connect to WiFi in order to use them.

We have a round up of the best Japan travel apps , but here are 2 you will definitely use:

  • Google Translate (download the Japanese language pack)
  • GlobeConvert: convert prices in Japanese yen into your home currency with real time exchange rates

13. Universal outlet adapter

Universal outlet adapter

You will want to make sure you have the correct outlet adapter so that you can charge your electronics while traveling in Japan.

Japan has a similar outlet plug to North America ( see what it looks like here ). But you may need an adapter for some of your devices with three prongs. 

We personally use this adapter . It has options for countries all over the world, making packing super simple no matter where we’re going. 

It also has several USB ports so you can charge multiple devices at the same time.

Do I need a converter?

I always used to get adapters and converters mixed up. So let’s first get clear on the difference between them:

  • Adapter: a device that changes the plug design so it fits in the outlet of the country you’re visiting
  • Converter: changes the voltage of the device you are charging so that it doesn’t damage the components 

Many large electronics have a built-in converter these days. Things like laptops have this integrated into the charging cord, so you won’t need to worry about plugging it in. 

Items that you may need a converter for are hair devices (like a hair dryer), or electronic toothbrushes. 

Insider Tip: If you use a hair straightener or curling iron, we recommend choosing one made for travel ( like this one ) because it is compact and also adapts to the country’s voltage without a converter.

We personally don’t travel with converters very often anymore. The only device we’d need it for is our electric toothbrushes. They last for about 2-3 weeks on one charge, so we usually just go without charging it on our travels. However, whether you choose to bring a converter or not is a personal choice. It will depend on what electronics you plan on packing. 

14. Power bank

Power bank charging phone

While traveling in Japan, you’ll likely be out exploring for most of the day. This means you’ll be far away from your hotel and any place to charge your phone (or other electronics). 

Don’t let it die ! Pack a portable power bank so you can recharge on the go.

We’ve been traveling with this exact power bank for years (since 2015!). It’s on the heavier side as far as power banks go. But we love that it has the capability to charge our phones multiple times before needing to be charged itself. 

15. Comfortable shoes 

What to wear in Japan shoes

There are few other places in the world where we’ve walked as much per day as we have in Japan. You will definitely want to bring shoes that are comfortable, and break them in before your trip.

In addition to being comfortable, I’d highly recommend you choose shoes that come on and off easily . While traveling in Japan, you will need to take your shoes on and off often, when you enter some restaurants, in ryokans, in anyone’s home, inside temples and shrines… you’ll be doing this multiple times per day, so avoid shoes that are difficult to get on and off.

Personal recommendation: 

Before our most recent trip to Japan, we both splurged on Kizik shoes. (NOT sponsored and we paid for them with our own money, FYI.)

Kizik shoes

They aren’t exactly cheap but oh my goodness, they were game changers: 

  • They’re super comfortable: We walked more than 20,000 steps several days on our trip, and these shoes were great!
  • We could literally just slip them on and off in an instant. This was the biggest selling point for me.
  • They look nice: Japanese people tend to look very “put together” (including their footwear). I loved that these shoes actually look nice and are functional. 

Ben was the most skeptical because he’s a frugal man at heart. But on the second day of our trip (after the 27th time taking them on and off), he leaned over to me and said, 

“Okay, I’m glad you convinced me to get these shoes.”

I didn’t even rub in the fact that I WAS RIGHT because I was just happy that I didn’t have to wait for him to lace up his shoes for the next 3 weeks of our trip!

  • Here is the pair I have : I love that I could wear them with pants and skirts – they really go with everything!
  • This is the pair Ben has : It is sneaker-level comfort but has an elevated look. I also love this pair of men’s shoes that looks a little “dressier”.

I only share this because, just like Ben, I truly think you’ll love this suggestion. And I hope you think of me when you’re slipping your shoes on and off like a pro on your trip!

16. Nice socks

While we’re talking about feet… make sure you pack nice socks. Leave that ratty pair with the hole in the toes at home! (You know which ones I’m talking about!)

They don’t have to be anything fancy, but since you’ll be removing your shoes often, you don’t want to expose old, holey socks. It’s kind of a cultural no-no .  

Insider tip: Japan is a great place to get socks with fun prints as a souvenir (as long as your feet aren’t super large, as the sizes tend to be smaller than in Western countries).

Traveling in summer? You may also want to keep a pair of ankle socks in your daypack on days when you’ll be wearing sandals. This can be nice to put on if you go into a restaurant where shoes must be removed or in a temple setting.

17. Water bottle

Tap water is safe to drink in Japan, so you’ll want to fill up instead of wasting single use plastic bottles . 

This bottle is insulated to keep it cold and has a built-in straw for easy drinking.

Psst! We have more ideas for how you can reduce single-use plastics on your travels.

18. Toiletries

Toiletries bag

Here’s the thing… any Japanese hotel you stay at – whether a budget-friendly capsule hotel or a high end ryokan – will provide basic toiletries , like shampoo, conditioner, razors, a comb, and often even more items.

It can be tempting to just use those instead of bringing your own toiletries. While you technically can do this, we recommend against it because it creates an incredible amount of single-use plastic waste . We think bringing our own toiletries is just a small thing we can do to lessen our footprint. And we encourage you to do the same if you can!

Alternatively, if you’re big into skincare, you may want to plan on buying full size products when you arrive in Japan as the country is known for amazing and affordable products. 

I’d recommend doing some research before your trip and coming up with a plan for which items and brands you want to buy because it can be a little overwhelming. This way you can still turn down the single-use toiletries (and save plastic waste!), and you can bring home some amazing Japanese products.

Insider Tip: We pack our favorite toiletries in a bag like this one to make sure everything stays organized, which is important especially in pocket-sized bathrooms that are common in Tokyo.

19. Mosquito repellent

If you’re traveling to Japan during the summer , you’ll want to pack mosquito repellant as they can be quite bad in some areas. 

20. Camera gear

Chureito Pagoda Arakurayama Sengen Park Fuji Japan

These days, smartphones are perfectly adequate for many travelers when it comes to taking photos. However, if you fancy yourself a photographer, you won’t want to miss out on bringing your equipment to Japan as there are so many photo opportunities around the country.

Be warned that the popular photo spots often have tons of crowds and it can be difficult to really set up a shot. However, if you like more unique locations or perspectives, you’ll love having your camera with you.

Our recommendation: You’ll likely want to bring a travel tripod as well as a lens cleaning pen or kit, for starters.

Psst! Before your trip, read up on our favorite travel photography tips .

21. Travel umbrella 

Three Houses Viewpoint Shirakawa-go Japan

No matter what time of year you’re traveling to Japan , there’s a good chance you’ll encounter at least some rain on your trip.

Rain coats aren’t all that common in Japan because everyone – and I mean everyone! – uses umbrellas.

You can find umbrellas for sale (usually for pretty cheap) really easily, so if you don’t have one you like at home you could plan on picking one up in Japan.

However, if you already have one you like ( this is our favorite travel umbrella ), why not just pack it so you’re prepared and you don’t have to buy things you don’t actually need!

22. Eye mask

Shoji Japan

If you’re a light sleeper who needs the room to be pitch black in order to get a good night of shut eye, you will want to add an eye mask to your Japan packing list.

Many traditional ryokans and guesthouses feature shoji , or screens with a transparent paper, as room dividers. They are beautiful, but when placed in front of windows, they can let a lot of light in. 

If you think this will bother you, pack an eye mask so you’re guaranteed a blackout room no matter where you sleep.

23. Hand sanitizer & handkerchief

As amazing as Japanese toilets are, we have been surprised to find that a lot of public restrooms in Japan don’t have soap dispensers or anything to dry your hands with.

We recommend bringing a small bottle of hand sanitizer so that you are able to freshen up after using public toilets. This is my personal favorite hand sani!

Some Japanese people carry a small towel with them for drying their hands in public restrooms, so you could bring one like this in your daypack if you’d like. 

24. Bluetooth headphones

Having a pair of headphones is super handy on public transportation so you can use your phone without disturbing anyone. 

Being on the Tokyo subway is kind of an interesting experience – they are often packed with people yet so quiet you could hear a pin drop . It’s almost uncomfortable having a conversation with your travel partner because people just don’t really talk on public transport. This goes for long distance trains too.

If you plan to be on your phone to watch a show or just browse social media, you need to pack a pair of headphones so you don’t disturb others.

This pair of bluetooth headphones is inexpensive and has great reviews.

Having a Kindle loaded with books is a great way to stay entertained on long haul train rides (and your flight to Japan). 

While we love physical books, nothing can beat how lightweight Kindles are. Plus, you can load it with a bunch of Japan books so you learn more about the country and culture in which you’re traveling.

Books about (or set in) Japan:

  • Rice Noodle Fish
  • Memoirs of a Geisha
  • Hitching Rides with Buddha
  • A Tale for the Time Being
  • Strange Weather in Tokyo
  • Convenience Store Woman

26. Crossbody bag or small daypack 

Where to stay in Tokyo | Asakusa Tokyo Japan

Don’t forget to pack a bag that you’ll carry during your day outings . 

If you’re anything like us, there will be several days where you’re away from your hotel from morning until after dinner.

  • This is a nice sized crossbody bag for women
  • This is a nice unisex daypack

You’ll want something large enough to carry a water bottle, snacks, and other essentials; but you don’t want it to be so large that it gets in the way on public transport or in crowded places.

27. Sunscreen & sunglasses

Bring sun protection for when you’re out and about!

While you can find sunscreen in drugstores in Japan, a lot of it has skin lighteners in it, so we much prefer bringing our own from home . 

These are my personal favorite sunglasses!

28. Hair clip 

Japan onsen

A large claw clip is essential for people with long hair (like me!) when bathing in an onsen .

It is considered unsanitary for your hair to touch the water , so a claw clip is the perfect solution for easily holding it up and out of the way.

29. Healthy snacks

Healthy snack RXBar

Avoid getting hangry by packing some of your favorite healthy snacks from home.

What about picking up snacks from Japanese convenience stores?

Good question! I love konbini (convenience stores) as much as the next person, but in my opinion, there’s a real lack of healthy, shelf-stable protein-packed options . 

You’ll find things like onigiri, chips, hard boiled eggs, and candy easily. But if you’re like me and want something a little healthier when the hanger starts to strike, I recommend bringing a small stash from home. 

Here’s what we packed: 

  • RX Bars (or similar)
  • Dried fruit (without added sugar)

Good to know: You cannot bring dried meat, like beef jerky, into Japan.

30. Aeropress

Aeropress coffee in Japan

If you’re a coffee-lover like us, don’t sleep on this item! 

While Japan’s coffee scene is quickly growing in popularity and you can find some excellent cafes around the country, many don’t open until 10 a.m. or even later. 

If you like to start your morning with a caffeine boost, it can be hard to find a coffee shop that is open early . 

Our personal experience: With the exception of one hotel and one Airbnb on our most recent trip, no other accommodations had coffee makers. We were so happy we packed our travel Aeropress because it got lots of use on this trip! 

31. Jet lag pills

Jet lag pills

If you are flying from afar (like the United States or Europe), we recommend bringing these homeopathic jet lag pills . Follow the instructions and take them every two hours on your flight to lessen the effects of jet lag . 

We’ve been using these for a couple of years now and while they don’t completely eliminate jet lag, we think they definitely help!

32. Small microfiber towel

(optional) 

Japan foot bath

All hotels will provide towels , but if you plan to visit a lot of onsen during your trip, you may want to bring a small quick-drying towel for this purpose. 

All major onsen will have towels available, but you typically have to pay to rent them . If this is something you’ll only be doing once or twice, it won’t be a big deal. However, if you plan to visit several, it can add up. 

Additionally, if you want to go to any countryside onsen that isn’t developed (more like a hot spring), you will want to have your own towel so you don’t have to drip dry naked!

33. Prescription medication & first aid

This should be kind of an obvious one, but be sure to pack any medication you normally take (whether prescription or otherwise). 

While you can find common meds in a Japanese pharmacy, it’s better to be prepared so you don’t have to go out and search when you’re feeling under the weather. Plus, you’ll know how much to take and how your body reacts to the type of medication you use at home.

There is an important asterisk here… Japan has pretty strict regulations when it comes to some medications that are over-the-counter in other countries. Some of the meds you’ll need to be wary about bringing include inhalers as well as some allergy and sinus medications .

Read up on the details so you know what medications you’re not allowed to bring in Japan, and what amounts of each are deemed acceptable.

34. Immunity boosters

While we’re talking about medicine, we typically like to bring some vitamin C tabs or spray , or other immunity boosters when traveling (especially when really long haul flights are involved).

In the couple days leading up to our flight, we like to grab some immunity shots ( like these ) from the grocery store to help give our systems a little boost.

35. Blister bandages

You’ll be doing a lot of walking in Japan – trust us – so you will want to be sure you have blister care packed. 

Bring a sheet of moleskin (and a way to cut it) or blister bandages to prevent painful feet.

36. Menstrual products

It’s a good idea to bring your favorite menstrual products (pads, tampons, menstrual cup , etc.) from home as they can be hard to find in Japan (especially tampons). 

37. Deodorant

Good deodorant is very difficult to find throughout much of Asia . This includes Japan. 

We use only natural deodorant (and are pretty particular about the type), so we always try to bring enough for our entire trip. 

On our most recent visit to Japan, we nearly ran out of deodorant and ended up buying the only stick we could find from a pharmacy. Spoiler alert: We did not like it, and it wound up in the trash after our trip.

Learn from our mistake: If you wear deodorant, bring enough for your whole stay in Japan.

38. Travel size stain remover

In general, Japanese people pride themselves on looking put together. Don’t let a stain from slurping ramen on day 1 ruin your wardrobe for the remainder of your trip.

We always travel with a Tide pen for easily fixing stains on the go . This is especially important when traveling with a toddler (if you know, you know!).

Lately, we’ve also been packing a small travel-sized squeeze bottle which we fill with Puracy , our favorite all-natural stain remover that I swear always gets the stain out! We keep this in our toiletry case in case the Tide pen doesn’t do the trick and we need extra power!

39. Bike shorts for under skirts

Teamlab Planets Tokyo Japan

Long, flowy skirts are very popular with women in Japan and make a great choice for wearing in most seasons. They are comfortable and can be dressed up or down. 

If you plan to wear skirts during your trip, I’d highly recommend also packing a pair of compression or bike shorts to wear underneath. You’ll be walking a lot and this will prevent chafing . Plus, it’ll feel more comfortable when you’re sitting on public transport. 

These are my all-time favorite (affordable) bike shorts!

Hot tip: If you plan to visit teamLab Planets or Borderless and will be wearing a skirt, you’ll definitely want to wear bike shorts underneath because there are mirrors on many of the floors so people will be able to see up your skirt. There are shorts you can borrow free of charge, but it’s a lot more comfortable to have your own.

40. Laundry bag

One thing a lot of first-time travelers to Japan don’t know is that many hotels have laundry facilities , making it super easy to do a load of washing on your trip. This means you can pack lighter , which is a huge win!

We also always pack a laundry bag to keep our dirty clothes separate from our clean ones.

Optional: Laundry detergent sheets

Now, here’s something important to know: Many washing machines in Japan actually have detergent built into the cycle or detergent for sale. 

However, if you’re sensitive to scents or just want to be sure you have detergent (a good idea if you’ll be staying at an Airbnb), bringing a few sheets of laundry detergent can be a good idea. It takes virtually no space, after all. These are the laundry sheets we use and bring on most of our trips. 

That said, this won’t be for everyone. If you know your itinerary is packed and you really can’t see yourself doing laundry on your trip, skip this one!

41. Air Tags

If you plan to use a luggage transfer service in Japan, we recommend placing an Air Tag in each suitcase you will have transferred. This will allow you to keep an eye on your luggage and see where it is en route to your hotel.

Jump here to learn more about the luggage transfer service.

42. Stuffable shopping tote bag

We always travel with a stuffable tote bag for the inevitable souvenir or snack purchases.

This one packs up super small and makes it easy to refuse single-use plastic bags .

43. Small gifts from home ( omiyage )

Nagomi Visit Tokyo Japan

This is purely optional , and isn’t something we have ever personally packed on our trips to Japan. However, we might do so in the future.

Omiyage is the Japanese word meaning “small gift, or souvenir” . More specifically, omiyage are local or regional products that represent a place. It is customary for Japanese people to pick up these small gifts (often food items) on their travels to give to their friends, family, and colleagues.

Some travelers choose to bring some small items that represent their home country to give to people they meet in Japan. It is not at all expected that you travel with omiyage , and with the exception of a couple of experiences, we haven’t felt like it would have been necessary or even appropriate to give something.

That said, if you know you will be interacting with local people or have special experiences booked, you may choose to bring something. 

On our most recent trip to Japan, we dined with a local family in Tokyo through a program called Nagomi Visit (highly recommend this experience!). It was such a wonderful evening connecting with this Japanese couple and we would have loved to return their kindness with a small gift. There were also a couple of guest house hosts that were especially kind to our daughter who we would have liked to thank with a small gift. 

If you choose to bring omiyage, make sure they are small and don’t easily break. You probably only need a few.

Some ideas are: 

  • Candy, snack, or food item from your home country (individually wrapped)
  • Trader Joe’s spices or reusable bags (apparently these are a hot commodity in Japan!)
  • Small magnet, pencil, pin, eraser that represents your home

Traveling with a baby or toddler?

family in Japan

If you’re traveling to Japan with a little one, here are a few more things to think about packing:

44. Nursing cover

Nursing cover Japan airplane

If you’re breastfeeding, you’ll want to be sure to pack a nursing cover (even if you don’t use one at home). Many mothers in Japan breastfeed their children, however, doing so in public without a cover isn’t something you’ll often see. 

In big cities, like Tokyo and Osaka, you’ll see nursing rooms at train stations and such, but outside of these areas it can be hard to find a place to nurse in private. So for these situations, you’ll definitely want to bring a nursing cover.

45. Compact stroller

Stroller Japan

If you have a young child, you’ll definitely want to bring a stroller to Japan. 

It’s especially helpful when you’re exploring big cities and aren’t able to get back to your hotel for nap time. If your little one can sleep in the stroller you’ve bought yourself lots more time to see the city.

If your stroller has a basket on the bottom it can be a great way to carry things throughout the city, too.

We have this super compact travel stroller that we love. It worked really well for our trip to Japan, and we’d highly recommend it.

Insider tip: While strollers are essential for traveling in Tokyo with a baby or toddler, it’s not without its struggles. To make getting through the subway easier, use the “wheelchair accessible” filter on Google Maps so that you get directions to the nearest elevators. That said, know that you’ll likely still have to carry it up and down a few stairs or up escalators at some point. 

46. Baby carrier

Shibuya Crossing Tokyo Japan

While we think a stroller is essential, there are certainly some places and activities where a baby carrier is much easier. 

For instance, if you plan to walk the Nakasendo Trail (highly recommend!), a baby carrier works great! We brought our daughter – who was about 2 years old at the time – on this trail and this carrier was great.

47. Toddler snacks

Toddler oatmeal mix for travel

If you’re traveling with a young child, I personally recommend bringing a decent amount of your favorite snacks from home. This isn’t to say you can’t find snacks for your baby or toddler in Japan – you certainly can – but I personally didn’t find there to be as many healthy options as I was hoping.

At convenience stores, you can get bananas, hard boiled eggs, onigiri, and yogurt. At supermarkets, you can find a bit more variety and there is a “baby” section, however I found the things like crackers, pouches, and yogurt have lots of sugar and other ingredients I’m not crazy about. 

Japanese toddler pouch

So to balance things out, I was happy I brought some of our favorite snacks from home:

  • Mama Chia pouches are one of our favorites (we get them at Costco)
  • Justin’s almond butter packets
  • Date & almond butter bars from Trader Joe’s
  • Freeze dried strawberries
  • Smoothie melts
  • Simple Mills seed flour crackers & sweet thins
  • Outside of your hotel, it can be difficult to find breakfast options in some areas, especially Western-style breakfast (and even more so early in the morning). 
  • We brought a large bag of oatmeal mix from home (oats + coconut milk powder + chia seeds + freeze dried fruits + cinnamon + powdered peanut butter + a little bit of coconut sugar). 
  • Anytime our daughter got hungry, we just needed to add a little bit of water, which was super simple!

Of course, she ate all sorts of food on our trip too, but it was nice to have some easy snacks on hand.

48. Diaper bag fanny pack

Kegon Falls Japan

When I saw this diaper fanny pack I was a little hesitant (because it ain’t cheap!), but I went ahead and splurged before our Japan trip and I’m so happy I did. It made changing diapers on the plane a breeze, and I wore it each day instead of a purse . 

It’s super cute and goes with everything and nothing about it screams “diaper bag”! I love that it made it easy to bring only what we needed each day instead of lugging around a backpack.

Tip: Make sure you add on the belt extended at checkout (it’s free but you have to physically add it to your cart). You need this in order to wear it like a crossbody bag, which is how I prefer to wear it. 

Renting a car in Japan?

Car rental Japan Fuji

If you’re planning on making your visit a road trip (yay – we have a whole guide to renting a car in Japan !), there are a few specific items you don’t want to forget.

Insider Tip: Measure your luggage to ensure it will fit in the car you are renting. Many of the cars in Japan have incredibly tight space in the trunk.

49. International Drivers Permit

International Driver's Permit IDP

All foreigners who want to rent a car in Japan will need an International Drivers Permit. Period. You can’t rent a car without this.

50. Phone mount 

Google Maps Offline Japan

Most cars in Japan have the capability to connect your phone to a screen where a map and directions show up. 

If you prefer to see directions on your phone (instead of relying on whatever set up the car has), you can pack a mount for your phone .

51. Car window screen 

Car window screen

If you are traveling with a child, we recommend bringing a window sock like this one to keep the sunlight out of their eyes. 

Our personal advice: We like this type of window covering because it packs up really small and doesn’t leave gaps in the window where sun gets in. That said, it darkens the window and takes a bit of getting used to so we recommend driving with it at home for a few days first to see if it’ll work for you.

Skiing in Japan?

Planning a winter trip to experience the famed Ja-Pow?! Don’t forget your winter gear essentials!

52. Ski gear and outerwear

If you are only planning to ski one day and you’re not die hard, you may get by just fine with rentals . Just be sure you know what outerwear is available to rent (ie. snowpants, winter jacket, mittens, helmet, etc.), as well as what sizes are available. You may decide to do a mix of bringing some from home as well as using rentals. 

Alternatively, if this will be a big ski trip for you, start gathering the essential gear you’ll need as well as the proper luggage to transport it all.

Insider Tip: If you’re bringing your own skis or board, you’ll likely want to utilize a luggage transportation service so you don’t have to lug all your gear on the trains and public transport.

What NOT to pack

Anime & Manga Japan

Here are a few things you can leave out of your suitcase:

Too many things for the flight

I understand that many people will be flying great distances to get to Japan and you want to be prepared to have a comfortable flight. However, I’d highly recommend against packing a ton of stuff that will only be useful on the airplane, like a neck pillow, headphone adapters, foot hammocks, etc. 

The flight is such a short portion of your trip and personally, I’d rather save room for essentials and souvenirs to bring home. Plus, have I mentioned how important it is to pack light?! Instead, pack things like mints, lip balm, hand sanitizer, moisturizer, etc. in a small bag so they’re easily accessible on the flight (aka an “airplane kit” if you will). 

shoes off in Japan

All hotels in Japan have slippers or indoor shoes. We packed our travel slippers on our most recent trip to Japan (because we wanted them at our next destination), but they didn’t get any use in Japan since we had them at each accommodation.

Drones are widely banned throughout Japan . If you really want to bring it, read up on the (very strict) regulations here .

We’ve packed ours on two Japan trips (as we were traveling to more destinations both times), but we were only able to use it once, in the middle of a multi-day hike in the wilderness . Every other place we considered taking it out had signs banning drones.

If you choose to bring a drone, know that you may not ever get to use it (that was the case on our most recent trip). And respect the rules. Never use it in areas where it is not allowed.

Large towel

All hotels will provide a towel so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own. The exception to this is if you plan to visit a lot of onsens during your trip and don’t want to have to rent them each time, you could pack a small quick-dry towel.

Onsen in Japan

When soaking in onsen in Japan, it is considered unsanitary to wear a bathing suit , so you must soak naked. I have seen some undeveloped onsen (like a hot spring) in which bathing suits are allowed, but these are very few and far between. 

If you’re staying at a hotel with an actual pool or going to the beach, this is different, but you won’t need a bathing suit for most trips to Japan.

Revealing clothing

I’m all for dressing in a way that makes you feel comfortable. However, I’d personally recommend avoiding low cut tops and tight clothing because it will attract unwanted attention. 

Shoes that aren’t comfortable for walking

I’m starting to sound like a broken record, but you’ll be walking a ton . Put extra thought into the shoes you pack and only bring ones you’ll feel comfortable walking in all day long!

It isn’t common for Japanese people to wear fragrances. I’d recommend not wearing perfume or cologne when you know you’ll be in crowded places, like the subway in Tokyo (or just leaving it at home). 

It’s also frowned upon to wear fragrance when you’re dining because it can interfere with your eating experience (as well as those around you). This is especially important in sushi restaurants and higher-end dining in Japan. 

Alternative: An essential oil roller can be a good compromise as a way to freshen up without the scent being too strong. Even so, try not to do this before dining or using crowded public transportation.

train travel in Japan Tokyo Metro

When you are packing for your trip to Japan, keep these tips in mind:

1. Pack light

I’ll say it once, I’ll say it again… Pack as light as possible! You’ll be carrying your luggage in and out of trains, on subways, and through city streets. Imagine doing that with huge suitcases and duffle bags. It will put a huge damper on your trip.

Pack the essentials, plan to do laundry, and know that you can buy many things in Japan (if you feel like you forgot something).

2. Know about luggage transfer service

Japan luggage transfer service

This service can be great for some travelers, but be sure you fully understand how it works before you count on it…

There are luggage transfer companies in Japan that make it possible to have your suitcases transported for you so you don’t have to bring it on subways or on trains.

There are 2 ways they do this:

  • Same-day, same city transfer: This is helpful if you arrive in a city and don’t want to bring your suitcases all the way to your hotel. You can drop the luggage off at a transfer counter at the airport or train station and they can transport your suitcase within the city that day.
  • Next-day, different city transfer: If you are traveling between cities in Japan, these transfer services can bring your luggage from one city to the next. The catch is that it won’t arrive until at least the next day. Also, this service is only available between the larger cities in Japan, so it won’t be possible everywhere. 

Our experience: Personally, we’ve never used this service because we had a more off-the-beaten-path itinerary so the transfer service wasn’t available to these places. Also, we didn’t like the idea of parting with our bags for an entire day. Packing all our clothes and items for the day/night seemed like a lot more work than it was worth. We purposely packed light to begin with so that we didn’t feel the need to rely on this service. Sure, there were a couple of times it would have been helpful, but overall, we think packing light is a better plan. 

3. Leave room for souvenirs

What+to+Buy+in+Japan+Ceramics+Bowls+and+Cups

Japan is one of my favorite places in the world to buy souvenirs from. There are truly so many special things you can bring home, whether it be a handmade fan, your own set of chopsticks, clothing, spices, a Japanese chef knife, artwork, ceramics, matcha, a kimono… I could go on and on and on.

In fact, I already did in our guide to the best things to buy in Japan .

My point is that you will definitely want to get some souvenirs. Don’t pack your suitcase so full that you don’t have room to bring anything home with you.

Some travelers even bring a duffle bag squished down that they can expand to hold all the souvenirs they buy. In theory, it is a good idea, but personally, I don’t love this because you end up having another entire bag to carry around with you. I’d rather pack extra light and fill the empty space with my new finds!

4. Bring only comfortable walking shoes

I cannot stress enough the importance of packing only comfortable shoes . 

You will regret bringing that cute pair that just isn’t all that comfortable. Save your feet and the space in your suitcase and leave them at home!

More resources for traveling in Japan

We have TONS of resources on travel in Japan and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Ultimate Japan Travel Guide  for all the answers to your most burning questions, or read some of our favorite articles below!

  • Best Time to Visit Japan: When to Go & When to Avoid
  • Japan Rail Pass: Where to Buy & Is It Worthwhile?
  • Renting a Car in Japan: Essential Driving Tips You Need to Know!
  • Japan Travel Cost: Exactly How Much is a Trip to Japan?
  • One Week in Japan: Best Itinerary for Your First Visit
  • Expert Tips for Visiting Japan (Dos and Dont’s!)
  • Japan Pocket Wifi vs. Japanese SIM Card: Review & Comparison
  • Best Japan Travel Apps
  • Foods to Eat in Japan: Guide to Japanese Cuisine
  • Helpful Japanese Words & Phrases to Know for Traveling in Japan 

Be sure to download our  complete packing list for Japan !  It’s packed with good suggestions and  insider tips  to help plan your Japan trip. And it’s completely  FREE , so why not!?

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Home » Travel » Destinations » Comprehensive Japan Travel Checklist for First Time Visitors

Comprehensive Japan Travel Checklist for First Time Visitors

Ultimate Japan Travel Checklist - train with cherry blossoms around track

If you’re traveling to Japan for the first time, you’re probably feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety. Planning a trip to Japan can be overwhelming, especially if you haven’t done much international travel! Luckily, I’m here to share my personal Japan travel checklist to help you prepare for the trip of a lifetime.

Tokyo Asakusa Shrine during cherry blossom season should be on everyone's Japan travel checklist

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My very first international trip was two weeks in the Land of the Rising Sun. I made it my mission to learn how to prepare for a trip to Japan, from reading travel guides–Abby Denson’s Cool Japan Guide is amazing–to watching etiquette videos.

Since then, I’ve visited Japan four times (I may have an addiction…), and I’ve refined this Japan travel checklist to reflect everything I’ve learned.

Have you booked your accommodation?

This checklist is meant for the month or so leading up to your Japan trip. But if you still haven’t booked your accommodation, do it ASAP!

Hotels fill up quickly during the busy seasons, especially with the recent shutdown of Airbnbs and other property rentals. If you want to stay in an affordable, well-located place, you should book as soon as you know your itinerary.

I’ve always used Booking.com when traveling to Japan . They have tons of options, from capsule hotels to high-end ryokans. Plus, you don’t have to worry about the language barrier when researching amenities or making requests.

Essential Japan Travel Checklist

  • Order your Japan Rail pass

Plan what to wear in Japan

Create a list of what to take to japan, book local tours for a more authentic experience, purchase advance tickets to japan’s popular attractions, buy travel insurance before you leave for japan, read up on japan travel etiquette, share your itinerary with an emergency contact, order your japan rail pass.

Japan train on tracks surrounded by cherry blossom trees.

One of my favorite things about Japan is its fast, well-connected rail system. You can visit a ton of cities in a short amount of time thanks to the shinkansen  (bullet train), and even semi-remote areas have a regional train station.

However, it’s not exactly cheap to travel this way. A one-way shinkansen ticket from Tokyo to Kyoto costs around $120 USD. Add in a few day trips from Tokyo , and you’re looking at hundreds of dollars in public transit costs.

Fortunately, Japan has an amazing solution to help visitors explore the country easily and affordably: the Japan Rail Pass .

The Japan Rail Pass gives you unlimited rides on all JR train lines, including the shinkansen! It even works on the JR-operated Tokyo metro lines, like the popular Yamanote line, as well as the Narita Express and certain bus routes.

It also saves you time as well as money. Instead of buying individual tickets for each journey, you simply put the pass through the ticket slot at the turnstile and grab it from the other side as you walk through. It’s even easier now that the pass serves as a ticket instead of being a document that you need to show a gate attendant.

RELATED: 12 Easy Day Trips from Kyoto

The JR pass comes in 7, 14, and 21 day increments. You’ll receive a voucher in the mail that you exchange for your pass at any JR office (all the Japan airports have one). You can choose to activate it as soon as you exchange it, or request a later start date.

I always suggest figuring out your itinerary and doing the math to see if the JR pass is worth it. Personally, I will buy a pass even if it costs up to $20 more than individual tickets, because I like the convenience.

You can’t purchase a JR pass once you’re in Japan, so be sure to order it before you leave.

Order your Japan Rail Pass now!

Girl feeding deer in Nara Japan during autumn.

It drives me crazy to read Japan packing tips that tell you what to wear in Japan by season. Japan is a huge country with climate zones ranging from tropical island to snowy mountain!

Instead of packing for Japan by season, you need to pack for the weather in each region you’re visiting. You might start out in Osaka in late spring, where you don’t even need a jacket during the day, and finish your trip hiking in Nagano, where you need a winter coat. Check the forecast for every area on your itinerary before packing!

Still in the planning phases of your trip? Check out my comprehensive itinerary for 10 days in Japan or this 6 day Osaka-Kyoto-Nara itinerary !

Be advised that warm weather in Japan comes with a big dose of humidity . It’s best to choose lightweight, breathable fabrics to stay cool during days that can reach 30°C/86°F. June through July is tsuyu , the rainy season, so keep that in mind when choosing a jacket and footwear.

Outside of Hokkaido and mountainous regions, cold weather in Japan is fairly mild , with temperatures rarely dipping below freezing. That being said, you’ll be spending a fair bit of time sightseeing outdoors, so a good weatherproof jacket, gloves, and warm base layers are essential.

Finally, Japan is a somewhat conservative country when it comes to dress. If you plan to visit shrines and temples, you should have your shoulders and midriff covered.

Wearing and removing shoes in Japan

In Japan, it’s common to remove your shoes and replace them with slippers when entering historic buildings, certain restaurants, and people’s homes. Always wear a comfortable, easy-to-remove pair of shoes when sightseeing in Japan, along with a good pair of socks (no holes!).

Warm weather packing list for Japan

  • Lightweight rain jacket – This breathable Columbia jacket comes with me on every trip
  • Comfortable shoes – Classic white Adidas go with everything
  • Rain boots – My Sperry’s are shorter and easier to pack than traditional rain boots
  • T-shirts/lightweight tops
  • Jeans/trousers
  • Undergarments – Preferably cotton
  • Moisture-wicking socks – I wear cushioned athletic socks to keep my feet dry and comfy

Cold weather packing list for Japan

  • Weatherproof coat – My 3-in-1 Patagonia parka is weatherproof, works for all seasons, and has a lifetime warranty
  • Walking boots -You’ll need quality waterproof boots if hiking through mud or snow
  • Warm, comfortable shoes
  • Long sleeve base layers – Merino woo l is best for insulation and moisture-wicking
  • Undergarments
  • Wool socks – These cushioned SmartWools are comfy and odor-resistant

Check out my hiking gear guide if you’re planning to have some outdoor adventures in Japan’s beautiful nature!

Save me for later!

Essential Japan Travel Checklist - train under cherry blossom tree and Nagoya castle with red leaf tree

Aside from clothes, there are a few other must pack items for Japan. This is not a country where you can just show up with a passport and your toothbrush. If you want to be fully prepared for a great trip, be sure these items make it on your Japan travel checklist.

Essential Japan travel documents

  • Passport and tourist visa*
  • Proof of onward travel
  • Japan Rail Pass exchange voucher
  • Accommodation addresses and contact info
  • Car rental or airport transfer reservations
  • International driving permit
  • Color photocopy of your passport

Japan Immigration and Customs Process

Currently, Japan allows visa-free entry for tourists from 68 countries, including the US, Australia, and most of Europe. Citizens who aren’t on the list of visa-free countries must apply for a tourist visa at their local embassy or consulate.

The plan was for Japan to move their tourist visa application process online in April 2020, and start issuing e-Visas for foreign citizens who require them. Unfortunately, this has been delayed due to the current state of international travel.

Recently, Japan introduced a streamlined process for visitor entry that you should complete online in advance of your trip. These online forms replace the physical disembarkation card and customs declaration as well as provide test/vaccination proof, so you can more quickly enter the country.

I recommend completing this using your smartphone so that you can take screenshots of the various QR codes and approval screens and show them to the staff, just in case you have poor or no internet connection inside the airport.

Japan travel accessories

Pocket wifi and/or sim card.

You’ll be relying heavily on Google Maps and other online apps to travel around Japan. Many western phones will not work on the Japanese cellular data network, so you’ll need a Japanese SIM card or pocket WiFi for mobile data.

Getting a Japanese SIM card is ideal if your phone is an international model (i.e. unlocked). All of the major airports in Japan have counters and even vending machines where you can pick up a pre-loaded Japan SIM card to use during your trip.

If you can’t or don’t want to deal with switching SIM cards, you can use a pocket WiFi instead. It uses mobile data to generate a small hotspot for you and your travel companions to use on the go.

Reserve your pocket WiFi for pickup or delivery in Japan!

Travel adapter

Universal Travel Adapter Good news for Americans: Japan uses Type A and B plugs with 110v, which is the same as the US! For everyone else, you’ll need to buy an adapter to use your electronics in Japan. Grab a universal adapter with multiple USB ports that you can use time and time again.

Anker PowerCore 10000 I never travel without my Anker PowerCore. A dead phone battery is my worst nightmare in any foreign country, especially Japan. It also comes in handy when binging Netflix on long train rides.

Neck pillow

Cabeau Evolution Neck Pillow Having a great neck pillow is essential for surviving long flights to Japan. I’ve tried a few, and this one by Cabeau is by far the best. It also rolls up into a compact bag that easily attaches to your personal item!

Sony Active Noise Cancelling Headphones Don’t let chatty neighbors or crying babies leave you feeling jetlagged! Sony’s large ear cups, wireless connection, and active noise cancellation make these the perfect choice for long flights.

Wallet with coin purse

Travelon RFID Blocking Wallet Cash is still king in Japan, and you’ll end up with a lot of yen coins during your trip. Be sure to bring a coin purse, or a wallet with a change pocket.

Silicone Travel-Sized Bottles Most Japanese hotels provide decent quality body wash, shampoo, and lotion. But if you use conditioner or a special shampoo, remember to bring it from home. I use these airline-sized silicone bottles for my liquid toiletries, and they’ve lasted through dozens of international trips.

The nice thing about Japan is that there are convenience stores on every corner, so you won’t have to walk far if you need to pick up a few personal items. However, they likely won’t carry the brands that you have at home. Also, feminine products tend to cost more in Japan than western countries like the US.

Here are the toiletries I always bring to Japan:

  • Toothpaste and toothbrush
  • Conditioner
  • Moisturizer
  • Basic makeup

If you’re looking for a great personal item bag, I highly recommend this toiletries organizer . My mother-in-law gave me one for Christmas, and it keeps all of my supplies easily accessible! I also love that I can hang it up in the bathroom so it doesn’t take up the limited counter space.

RELATED: Ultimate Long Haul Flight Survival Guide

The best luggage for Japan travel

Girl packing Setout backpack with cubes, the best luggage for Japan travel to hold everything from your Japan travel checklist.

Japan is not a country where you want to be hauling around tons of luggage. Trains and metros are crowded with little to no storage space, and it’s easy to get turned around when traveling even short distances.

Thus, I suggest embracing minimalist packing for Japan, and opting for a travel backpack rather than a rolling suitcase.

I’ve been traveling exclusively with my 40L Tortuga Setout , and it’s been marvelous.

The Setout is a suitcase-style, front loading travel backpack that’s also carry-on sized. At 40L, it can easily fit everything on this Japan travel checklist. In fact, I regularly pack for a week of travel using just this backpack and a personal item!

I’ve taken the Setout on planes, trains, buses, and crowded streets with ease. The padded hip belt and adjustable chest straps also make it super comfortable to wear on long walks.

If your Japan itinerary involves traveling to multiple cities, it can get annoying to unpack and re-pack every time you move. With the Setout, you can leave everything in the bag without worrying about wrinkles or digging around for socks buried at the bottom.

I especially love that the bag is designed differently for men and women. Being able to actually use a backpack chest strap has been a real game-changer.

Order your Setout Backpack now!

Other useful things to bring to Japan

  • Duffel bag for souvenirs: We brought this collapsible duffel bag in our suitcase and filled it with a crazy amount of Japanese souvenirs .
  • Hand sanitizing wipes: Many public restrooms you’ll find at shrines and other outdoor attractions don’t have hand soap.
  • Handkerchief: These same public restrooms also don’t have hand dryers, so a handkerchief is essential.
  • Prescription medications: Make sure they are in the original bottle accompanied with the prescription!
  • Yen: Always bring enough yen to get you from the airport to your accommodation! You never know if your cards will have issues in Japan.

Nagano Japan snow monkey with baby at Jigokudani onsen.

Exploring Japan is like eating a cake. While the surface level–the frosting–is attractive and delicious, there’s a deeper layer waiting to be savored. Unfortunately, the language barrier and cultural customs make it hard for foreigners to go beyond the outer layer.

To truly experience the best of Japan and its unique culture, you should book at least one local tour for your trip. I use Get Your Guide  as well as Magical Trip to easily find and book my international tours.

Here are some popular experiences to add to your itinerary:

  • Shinjuku walking tour + secret bars of Golden Gai
  • Participate in a tea ceremony in Kyoto
  • Evening walk in Kyoto’s Gion “Geisha” district
  • Eat you way around Osaka’s Kuromon Market
  • Snow monkeys and cherry blossoms with a private guide

RELATED: 14 Must Eat Foods in Japan (and Where to Find Them)

Two women in yukata walking through Fushimi Inari shrine torii gate path.

Tourism is one of the biggest industries in Japan, with over 30 million international travelers visiting in 2019. With those kinds of numbers, it’s no surprise that ticket queues can get really long, especially during the busy seasons.

Having been to Japan in spring of 2023, it’s clear that travelers are returning in full force and long lines are becoming the norm once more.

There are also a few attractions, like the Studio Ghibli Museum, that require advance bookings and have limited visitor slots each day.

To save yourself time and disappointment, book tickets for these popular attractions before you go to Japan:

  • Studio Ghibli Museum (Yes, Lawson convenience store is the official vendor!)
  • teamLab Planets skip-the-line tickets
  • Tokyo Skytree skip-the-line tickets
  • Mount Fuji and Hakone Boat Tour

Red bridge over gorge in Japan park during autumn.

Whether you’re going to Japan for a few days or a few weeks, I always recommend buying travel insurance. You probably spent thousands of dollars on your Japan trip. But it only takes one injury, family emergency, or cancelled flight to derail your vacation (and your bank account).

This is especially true if you plan to hike outside of major cities, where emergency medical treatment and transport can be costly.

While there are kiosks inside Haneda and Narita airports where you can buy travel health insurance upon arrival, it’s best to take out a policy before traveling so that you’re covered from the minute you start your journey.

Japanese kaiseki meal on stone plate.

Am I supposed to bow when saying “thank you”? What are shopkeepers yelling when I walk in the door? Where are all the trash cans?

These are all common questions that first time travelers to Japan ask after they arrive. If you’re from a western country, you might find Japanese etiquette confusing and a little intimidating. But with a bit of advanced reading, you’ll do just fine.

Here are a few things to know before you go:

  • Don’t eat or drink on public transit unless you’re riding the shinkansen
  • Always offer up your public transit seat to young children, the elderly, and pregnant women
  • Don’t blow your nose in public
  • Prepare to carry your trash and recycling around, as street bins are limited
  • Many onsen (Japanese hot spring baths) do not allow guests with tattoos, so use this list to find ones that do
  • Never leave your chopsticks sticking out of food or use them to pass food around, as these are similar to Shinto funeral rites
  • Read my full guide on things to avoid in Japan as a traveler

Tokyo Shibuya Crossing with light trails and people waiting to cross the street.

The last item on this Japan travel checklist is for your personal safety. Once you figure out your travel plans and accommodation, send the details to a trusted friend or family member. This is extremely important if you’re traveling to Japan solo , but best practice for all types of travelers.

I also recommend signing up for emergency travel alerts if your government offers it. Americans can enroll in the US STEP program , which will send you email and/or text alerts if you’re traveling to an area with severe weather or other hazards.

And if you’re still planning your trip to Japan, here are a few ideas for your itinerary:

  • 25 Famous Things to do in Japan
  • 15 Amazing Places in Japan Off the Beaten Path
  • 3 Ways to Spend 5 Days in Japan
  • Ultimate Nara Day Trip Guide
  • 2 Day Kyoto Itinerary
  • 5 Reasons to Visit Nagano
  • Check out my Japan archives for even more ideas!

I hope you found my travel to Japan checklist helpful! For more insider travel tips, subscribe to my newsletter below.

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Sightsee & Sushi

What to Really Pack for Japan: The Complete Travel Checklist

Are you planning a trip to Japan?

You will see many general advice online on what to pack for Japan travel, from overstuffed high fashion wardrobe to minimalist capsule wardrobe. But the packing list for travelers visiting Japan is unique. At most basic level, two (2) things will dictate what you will pack for your trip: 1) Where in Japan you are traveling and 2) The weather you’d expect during your stay. Once this is determined, it will make packing lighter and much more manageable.

Travelers in Japan should expect rain at any time of the year, except when they visit Hokkaido. For detailed weather forecasts and earthquake information, go to Japan Meteorological Agency’s website at https://www.jma.go.jp/en/yoho/

What Should You Wear And Not Wear In Japan?

By now, you should be aware of the Japanese culture and traditions. A good traveler prefers not to look like a tourist in Japan and instead try to blend in. That is, at least as much as a foreigner can in a nearly homogeneous society. Leave your flip flops at home as they are considered very unstylish and underdressed by Japanese people unless you are going to the beach. However, in a somewhat weird contradiction, Crocs or foam clogs are considered perfectly acceptable.

Dressing inappropriately in public won’t work with Japanese people. In fact, Japan has strict dress code for many occasions. For women, avoid wearing spaghetti straps or blouses, or shirts with a plunging neckline. Avoid showing your shoulders when visiting temples or shrines. For men, wear a blazer or jacket when going to a restaurant or nightclub, especially if you plan to go to a fine dining restaurant or an upscale sushi bar. Some may tell you it’s okay since you are a foreign tourist, but Japanese people will respect you more if you abide if you dress appropriately. Avoid wearing all black. It’s strongly associated with funerals.

How To Pack Light in Japan

We all want to pack light when we travel so that our luggage doesn’t weigh us down as much as possible. Packing light also makes unpacking easier at the end of our journey.

Below are some tips to save space and weight in your luggage:

  • Leave your chunky or heavyweight sweaters and scarves at home. Cashmere sweaters and pashmina scarves are wonderful alternatives. They’re incredibly thin and lightweight for the level of warmth they offer.
  • For flexibility, pack a pair of black travel pants made of cotton and elastane fabric. They’re lightweight and dry out faster compared to jeans.
  • When packing your clothes, use the roll-out and put them in packing cubes like these ones to keep them compact and organized allowing for more luggage space.
  • When traveling between transitional seasons, pack a versatile jacket called 3-in-1 such as an interchangeable waterproof jacket with a removable liner that’s usually a fleece.
  • Only pack two pairs of shoes, dress shoes and your most comfortable walking shoes.

How To Travel Hands-Free in Japan

Most hotels in Japan have a check-in time of 3-4 p.m. If it’s an Airbnb or budget accommodation, they will often not allow you to store your bags. So you have three options to avoid walking around with all your luggage:

  • Luggage forwarding service . If you can’t pack light and have several pieces of luggage, you’re in luck. You can have your luggage delivered from the airport to your hotel, the same-day. Every airport in Japan has a luggage forwarding service or TA-Q-BIN, as the Japanese call it. Just look for the red sign, “Hand-Free Travel,” as they are the ones that will deliver the same day. Make sure the luggage being forwarded doesn’t have the items you need for traveling. The cost varies between ¥1,000-¥3,000 per bag, depending on the size and weight.
  • Coin lockers . Coin lockers are everywhere in Japan but can always be found at train stations. They come in small (¥300), medium (¥400), and large size (¥500-¥800), though the per-day prices may vary.
  • Luggage storage service . Another option is to   leave your luggage at the Voyagin Office in Shibuya. There’s no size restriction. Their prices may change, and if it’s during the off-season, it can drop to ¥500 per day, so make sure to check the  current price here .

Top 5 Essentials For Your Japan Packing List

There are specific instances that are somewhat unique to Japan that you’ll undoubtedly encounter. Above all, pack light and bring the most comfortable pair of slip-on walking shoes. You’ll understand more later as we progress, so let’s take a closer look.

  • The right luggage.  A backpack or a duffel is the best luggage for travel in Japan. You can easily carry it up and down the stairs and at train and bus stations. Backpacks are preferred because you are going to encounter a lot of stairs in Japan. But if you need wheels to save your back, it’s best to get a wheeled backpack. Japanese trains and buses don’t have much space for large pieces of luggage, so if you have a backpack, please take it off when boarding and place it between your feet or on the overhead storage rack. An enormous suitcase will also take up a lot of precious space in your hotel rooms, which are small compared to western hotels. So pack light! Only take one piece of check-in luggage and a carry-on for your items. We have a guide to help you pick the best bags for you  here .
  • A pair of comfortable shoes . When traveling in Japan, you’re going to walk a lot! Take your most comfortable pair of casual shoes for sightseeing, preferably with memory foam. They are beneficial in relieving pain and soreness. If you are traveling during the spring and summer seasons, take a waterproof pair. Many places in Japan also require you to take your shoes off, such as  genkans  (the entrance of a home),  izakayas  (Japanese bars), restaurants, ryokan  (traditional Japanese inns), and temples. Slip-on shoes or simple-laced shoes will serve you well in these situations, so make sure your socks don’t have holes in them. Our favorite slip-on shoes are from the Skechers Go Walk series . Many tourists who traveled to Japan swore by the Skechers brand as well. If you plan to go to a fine dining restaurant or a business occasion, take your dress shoes.
  • A portable hotspot device or data SIM card . We cannot emphasize enough how important it is to have a reliable internet connection while traveling in Japan. If you haven’t reserved a portable hotspot device, book it here . If you’re traveling solo and short-term, it’s cheaper to get a data SIM card.
  • Cash . Despite being a very high-tech nation and being the host country of the 2020/21 Summer Olympics, Japan still relies heavily on cash for many transactions. Quick tip: Withdrawing cash from ATMs in Japan gives you a better rate than exchanging your currency for Japanese yen. After getting your luggage and getting through customs, make sure to pull out money inside the airport. You can withdraw cash from Japan Post ATM (JP Bank) and inside convenience stores such as 7-11, Lawson, Family Mart, or Ministop.
  • A prepaid IC card . Buying a reloadable prepaid IC card will make your travel in Japan so much easier and convenient. The primary purpose of IC cards is to avoid getting tickets from a ticket machine every time you ride a train. So you can simply swipe and go. You can use it to pay for buses and taxis and even some vending machines and convenience stores. You can purchase either a PASMO (by Tokyo Metro) or Suica IC card from any central train station. The initial cost is ¥1,000 (¥500 for card creation fee and the remaining ¥500 is ready for use). The ¥500 will be refunded if you return the card to the station office.

Japan Document Checklist

Due to the ever-changing circumstances and frequent travel updates for Coronavirus (COVID-19) travel restrictions , please follow the most recent directions from the Japanese Embassy in your country.

  • A valid passport and visa . Check your passport if it’s valid for at least 6-months and has a couple of blank pages. You should check with the  Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan website  if your nationality requires a Japan visa.
  • Travel insurance . COVID-19 has created a new normal for travelers, and in many countries, they make travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage mandatory. Before the pandemic, my US friends have used and recommended  RoamRight . But in these changing times, it’s best to speak with your local travel agent to see which travel insurance provides COVID-19 coverage.
  • Flight tickets . If you’re planning on showing your flight tickets through your mobile, make sure you have downloaded a copy on your phone.
  • Hotel or Airbnb reservations . If you’re riding a taxi, it’s good to have your hotel’s address in Japanese. It’s also important to remember the nearest train station to your hotel so you’ll know where to go upon landing. Lastly, depending on where you’re coming from, having a hotel reservation could make your immigration time a bit smoother.
  • Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) . If you are traveling extensively in Japan for 7, 14, or 21 days, consider buying a JR Pass online. You can only buy the JR Pass outside Japan and through an authorized online distributor. To activate and use it, you need to exchange your email voucher at a JR office at the airport or main train stations. To learn more about JR Pass and whether it’s for you or not,  click here .
  • Airport to hotel transfer reservation . If you don’t have the JR Pass, book your transfer from the airport to your hotel. Not only will it save you time and money, but it’ll make your arrival easy and hassle-free. It’s more comfortable and convenient to take a shuttle transfer from the airport rather than train based on our experience. These shuttles will drop you off directly at your hotel or a train station near your hotel.
  • Debit cards and credit cards . To save money, bring a credit card that doesn’t have foreign transaction fees. And a debit card that reimburses international ATM fees. Make sure to contact your bank about your travel plans to avoid disruptions with your card.
  • Passport and credit card photocopies . In case of emergencies like losing your passport or credit cards, it’s good to have copies of your passports and credit cards in your email or on your phone. All you have to do is take a picture of your passport’s bio page and your credit card’s front and back photos using your phone. Do this for your entire family traveling as well.
  • Confirmation tickets in Japan . If you book tours or activities, make sure to save the confirmation email on your phone or have it printed out if required by the travel agency. In Tokyo, we highly recommend booking a Mt. Fuji day tour, local food tours, tickets to Ghibli Museum, or Grand Sumo Tournament. If you’re visiting Universal Studios Japan in Osaka, it’s essential to book your tickets online as they sell out quickly at the gate.
  • International Drivers Permit . If you plan to rent  a car  or  go-karting , you need an International Drivers Permit or a Japanese driver’s license to drive in Japan.

Gadgets and Electronics

  • Electronics . Tablets, mobiles, laptops, cameras, etc., do not check these in. Get a carry-on bag that is big enough for your electronics but still within your airline’s requirement. Check out a list of international  flight-approved carry-on bags here  or consider an underseat luggage.
  • e-Reader . Carrying books will only increase the weight of your luggage. An e-Reader such as a Kindle would allow you to read your favorite books. That’s if you find the time too!
  • Power plug adapter . Japan uses Type A and Type B plugs and sockets, just like in the U.S. and Canada. If you’re not from North America, get a universal power adapter, preferably with Type A & B sockets, we recommend  this one .

Personal Care and Toiletries

  • Vitamins and supplements . If you have one.
  • Jet lag remedies . These jet lag relief pills are beneficial if you’re coming from a different time zone.
  • Prescription medications . Some common prescriptions and over-the-counter drugs in the United States are illegal in Japan. Notable decongestants such as Sudafed and stimulants such as Adderall are illegal. It does not matter if you have a valid U.S. prescription for a medicine/drug illegal in Japan: if you bring it with you, you risk arrest and detention by the Japanese authorities. For more information, ​ click here ​.
  • Toiletries . I’ll leave this up to you since each individual varies. If you have a preferred choice of shampoo, conditioner, body wash, deodorant, etc., it is best to bring it with you. It is not likely that you would find the same brand in Japan. It may also be challenging to find similar products because the ingredients are in Japanese. For liquids, pack them into squeezable TSA-approved leak-proof travel containers like  this one .

Long-Haul Flight Essentials

  • Packable travel pillow . Check out this  best-selling packable travel pillow here .
  • Noise-canceling headphones or earphones . For added comfort, you can get a pair of noise-canceling headphones  like this .
  • Lip balm . I find the travel-sized petroleum jelly works best than Chapsticks.
  • Effective hand sanitizers . Bring a travel size one.

Optional Items But Recommended

  • Coin purse . You can easily find these in 100 yen stores in Japan, but if you already have one, bring it with you as you will get a lot of coin change.
  • Power bank . Your mobile phones are going to be running throughout the day because of continuous connectivity. Power banks are expensive in Japan and only provide a small mAh capacity, so get it from your home country. Our favorite power bank is this  one . You may also consider the  newer model  with an enormous mAh capacity.
  • Collapsible water bottle . Tap water in Japan is safe to drink, and you can find drinking fountains pretty much everywhere. Taking them with you is not only good for the environment, but you will save you a ton of money during your sightseeing journey in Japan. Collapsible water bottles are affordable in Walmart and Amazon.
  • A spare packable bag . To avoid buying additional luggage while in Japan, which can be expensive, make sure to pack a spare bag. Souvenirs, Japanese instant noodles, milk tea, weird Kit Kat favors, and  chuhai  — if you fall in love with Japan’s flavors or culture, you will need extra storage space! To view our recommended duffle bags, click here .

What Not To Bring To Japan

  • Meat products, plants, fruits, and vegetables.
  • Firearms and pocket knives.
  • Illegal drugs and narcotics. For more information,  click here .
  • Umbrella. These are very cheap to get in convenience stores in Japan.

RELATED READ :

  • The Best 10-Day Japan Itinerary For A First-Timer
  • Best Time To Visit Japan

4 thoughts on “What to Really Pack for Japan: The Complete Travel Checklist”

How can a get a copy of the pdf printable packing list shown at the top of this article? 🙂 <3

I would also recommend Oyraa app! Used it a lot to call interpreters to get help when making inquiries to non English-speaking administrations, which can be quite life-saving, in addition to being cost-effective. Hope this may help!

I recommend water bottle too! Preferably, the one that’s packable and with filtration to improve taste. I got mine from an outdoor store. We saved a lot of money in Japan!!

Hey, you’re right! It saved us a lot of money too. I’ll go ahead and update this checklist!

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  • Travel Tips

The Ultimate Packing Checklist: 9 Essentials to Bring for Your Japan Trip

japan trip checklist

  • Chisa Nishimura

Now that you've built up your travel itinerary, it's time to start packing your suitcase. But do you know what to bring for your Japan trip? While you'll naturally pack essential items like your wallet and passport, other must-haves depend on the destination's weather, culture, and infrastructure. Of course, this means your packing list will change depending on where you're going. Keep reading to discover what items are absolutely necessary for an amazing sightseeing journey to Japan!

Check out our writers’ top Japan travel ideas!

This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

1. Japan Is a Cash-Based Society, So Bring Some Cash!

Barring convenience stores and large commercial facilities, stores and restaurants in Japan typically do not accept any other form of payment except for cash, so it is essential that you carry some when travelling in the country. It might seem risky in your home country to carry lots of cash with you, but rest assured that Japan is a rather safe country to travel in.

Places that do accept credit card payments will normally only accept JCB, Visa, and Mastercard, but recently more places are starting to accept other kinds of credit cards, as well as other forms of electronic payment such as PayPay and LINE Pay.

If you need to withdraw Japanese yen from your overseas bank account while in Japan, use the ATM at a post office or Seven-Eleven. You can also exchange 12 different currencies into Japanese yen using Smart Exchange, a currency exchange machine that's installed in approximately 400 locations all across Japan. All of these spots are registered in Google Maps, so it is easy to find out where your nearest one is.

▼ Japan Post Bank English: https://www.jp-bank.japanpost.jp/en/ias/en_ias_index.html

▼ Japan Post Bank ATM Finder English: https://www.jp-bank.japanpost.jp/en/ias/en_ias_app.html

▼ Seven-Eleven ATM English: https://www.sevenbank.co.jp/intlcard/index2.html

▼ Smart Exchange English: https://smartexchange.jp/

2. Japan Rail Pass Is a Must-Have If You Plan to Travel All Around Japan

The Japan Rail Pass is an extremely useful item that allows international tourists to explore as much of Japan as they want at a set price. It is offered by the country's biggest railway company Japan Rail (JR), which has train lines all the way from Hokkaido in the north to Kyushu in the south, as well as shinkansen (bullet train) lines, buses, and even ferries.

To attain this pass, you have to meet one of the following conditions:

・If you are a foreign national , you must show proof that you are entering Japan as a "temporary visitor" for short-term sightseeing purposes. ・If you are a Japanese national living overseas , you must show your Japanese passport and proof that you have lived overseas for 10 consecutive years or more. This proof needs to come from the Japanese embassy in the foreign country where you live.

Here's how much it costs:

・7-Day Pass: Adults 29,110 yen / Children (6-11 years old) 14,550 yen ・14-Day Pass: Adults 46,390 yen / Children (6-11 years old) 23,190 yen ・21-Day Pass: Adults 59,350 yen / Children (6-11 years old) 29,670 yen

For more information on the JR Pass, check out our guide and the official website below.

▼ JAPAN RAIL PASS (JR Pass) Japanese: http://japanrailpass.net/index.html English: http://japanrailpass.net/en/index.html

3. Consider Purchasing or Renting a Portable Wi-Fi Router or SIM Card

There are many public places in Japan that offer free Wi-Fi, including train stations, airports, convenience stores, fast food chains, and cafes. However, Japan is still lagging behind other countries when it comes to this, leading to complaints about how inconvenient it is.

For this reason, we recommend tourists purchase portable Wi-Fi routers or SIM cards. With either of these options, you are limited by how much data you decide to purchase, so there is no worry about the possibility of overspending on data roaming. You'll still be able to enjoy using the Internet whenever you want, without having the option limited to whether free Wi-Fi is available or not!

All this said, upcoming events like the 2019 Rugby World Cup, 2020 Tokyo Olympics, and Osaka's Expo 2025 are pushing Japan to make great strides towards improving its free Wi-Fi infrastructure so that it can accommodate the expected growth in foreign tourists over the next few years.

Companies are also releasing new services to help the country cope with the influx of tourists. One such example is Japan Connected-free Wi-Fi, a smartphone app that helps you easily discover and connect to free Wi-Fi spots all across Japan. It is free and available in 16 different languages, including English and Chinese, so why not test out just how useful it is by installing it for your next Japan trip?

▼ Japan Connected-free Wi-Fi Japanese: http://www.ntt-bp.net/jcfw/ja.html English: http://www.ntt-bp.net/jcfw/en.html

Check out our writers’ top Japan travel ideas!

4. Stay Connected by Always Carrying a Portable Charger or Two

You'll almost definitely need to use your phone often when travelling in order to look up information, figure out how to get somewhere, and so on. However, even in big cities like Tokyo and Osaka, there aren't that many places where you can charge your devices. Look over your travel plans one more time and make sure to carry a portable power bank (or two) if you plan to be out for the whole day!

5. Avoid Ruining Your Electronics by Bringing Along the Right Power Adapter

Voltages can differ depending on the country, so you absolutely can't forget to bring a power adapter to power your mobile phones, portable chargers, and other electronics! Specifically, make sure you get the A type adapter, which is set at 100V and has two straight prongs. If you happen to forget to bring an adapter, you might be able to find one at a local electronics store, but it can be a hassle when you're not used to shopping in a foreign country.

6. Bad Weather Won't Ruin Your Plans as Long as You Carry a Travel Umbrella

Japan's unique geographic location means that it has a rainy season (June to July, depending on the region) and a typhoon season (July to October), resulting in a yearly average precipitation level of 1,718mm. This is two times the world average of 880mm! The rain can get especially bad during typhoon season, with torrential rainstorms and unexpected pours. This is where having a travel umbrella can come in really handy!

Forget your umbrella? Japanese umbrellas have incredible function and design, so they are often purchased by foreign tourists for their own use or as a souvenir. You can find them sold everywhere, from your nearest convenience store to large shops like Tokyu Hands.

7. Let Your Smartphone Save the Day with These Useful Apps

Don't let your travel plans get ruined by bad weather or a natural disaster! Since Japan is a country that often gets torrential rains, typhoons, and other bad disasters, you'll want to arrive with smartphone apps installed for all kinds of situations. Pick up "Weather Japan" for weather info and "Safety Tips" for alerts on natural disasters. They both support multiple languages, including English!

▼ Weather Forecast App "Weather Japan" http://weatherjapan.guide/

▼ Natural Disaster Info App "Safety Tips" Japanese: https://www.mlit.go.jp/kankocho/news08_000277.html English: http://www.mlit.go.jp/kankocho/en/index.html

8. The Surprisingly Useful Handkerchief/Towel

Japanese washrooms come equipped with soap, but there are plenty of places that don't offer paper towels, so you should make sure to bring a handkerchief or towel with you. You'll also need it when you wash your hands at the temizuya (Shinto ablution pavilion) of shrines and temples to cleanse your body before making a prayer. Most tourist spots will sell handkerchiefs in unique local designs, so why not purchase one as a souvenir as well?

9. Last but Not Least, Let's Talk About Clothes!

There's a lot to think about when it comes to clothing choices for your Japan trip.

For starters, most regions of Japan have four distinct seasons. That might sound easy to prepare for, but thanks to the archipalego stretching a long distance from north to south, there can be a 20-30°C (68-86°F) temperature gap between regions, as they fall under different climate groups. For example, Hokkaido in the northernmost corner of Japan is known for its subarctic climate, while Okinawa to the very south is a part of the subtropics. This means that in the winter, Hokkaido can reach below freezing point, while regions like Okinawa only ever get down to a breezy spring temperature of 15°C (59°F)!

On top of all this, daytime and nighttime temperatures can wildly vary during the spring and summer seasons in Japan. To accommodate for this, you will want to bring something with long sleeves such as a flannel shirt, cardigan, or jacket. As for the summer, bring along a thin shawl or cardigan to help you make it through the cold of the air conditioning in places like department stores and train carriages. Finally, when it comes to winter in Japan, you should not forget to bring along a coat, muffler, mittens, and knitted cap if you are travelling anywhere apart from Okinawa, as oftentimes it will stay near or under 0°C (32°F) for several days in a row.

While you can certainly show up to Japan without having prepared anything in advance, you'll run into far fewer problems just by bringing the items mentioned above. We hope you found this short guide useful and that you'll have a wonderful time sightseeing around Japan!

If you want to give feedback on any of our articles, you have an idea that you'd really like to see come to life, or you just have a question on Japan, hit us up on our  Facebook ,  Twitter , or  Instagram !

The information in this article is accurate at the time of publication.

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Chisa

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Expert Tips for Your Japan Packing List

As you prepare for your trip, you’ve finally turned your attention to your Japan packing list.

Fortunately, preparing for Japan can be surprisingly easy, but before you travel make sure to keep these essential packing tips in mind! Some of these suggestions are obvious, but others may surprise even experienced travelers.

We’ve also included some of our favorite travel gear, in the hopes that it will make packing a bit more fun and easier for you. After all, packing can be one of the most enjoyable — or dreaded! — aspects of preparing for a big trip.

Here is your 8-step Japan travel checklist:

  • Bring shoes that are easy to slip on and off
  • Pack as lightly as possible
  • Use takuhaibin , Japan’s luggage-forwarding service
  • Bring formal and casual clothes
  • Get Japanese yen: you’ll need it!
  • Handle visas, passports, and travel insurance
  • Don’t forget essential extras: pocket Wi-Fi, hand sanitizer, and more
  • Leave room in your luggage to shop in Japan

Tatami mat room Japan

1. Bring shoes that are easy to slip on and off

No, you don’t need to wear geta .

But unless you enjoy untying and lacing your shoes every few minutes, the best shoes for Japan are ones you can slip on and off easily.

Many places in Japan – including ryokans (traditional inns) , temples , and some izakayas  and restaurants – require you to remove your shoes.

As a rule of thumb, if you see tatami  mats, you’ll need to take off your shoes. In these cases, it’s also considered somewhat impolite to be barefoot, so if needed bring a pair of socks with you.

Read more about Japanese etiquette tips and taboos .

Speaking of socks, make sure yours are hole-free! If needed, stock up on high-quality socks at one of Japan’s ubiquitous sock shops.

Depending on your itinerary, it’s usually also wise to bring comfortable walking shoes. Tokyo  is a surprisingly walkable city, and for places like Kyoto  there’s often no better way to explore than on foot.

top 5 japanese words and phrases traveler with luggage 1140x760

2. Pack as lightly as possible

Packing lightly is a useful skill for travel to any country, but in the case of Japan it is especially worth noting. Navigating Japan is much  easier when you have a small, easily portable bag or suitcase.

Most travelers in Japan rely heavily on Japan’s comprehensive and easy-to-use railway networks , but unfortunately Japanese trains and train stations do not cater especially well to travelers with a lot of luggage.

How do we define “a lot of luggage”? Anything more than a small rolling suitcase (airplane carry-on size) and a backpack or duffel.

Japanese train stations are often quite crowded, and to make matters worse they often don’t have as many elevators or escalators as you might wish. This is true in major cities, and even more so in rural areas.

The shinkansen (bullet train) typically has a small dedicated area for suitcases, but this space must be reserved in advance of travel. On the other hand, the shinkansen’s overhead space is just right for small carry-on sized suitcases.

As for other (non-shinkansen) trains in Japan: while some do have some space overhead for small bags, many have none at all.

For all of these reasons, we recommend traveling either with a small rolling suitcase or backpack, if at all possible.

Not willing or able to pack light?

You’re in luck!

Japan has a wonderful luggage-forwarding service that will make traveling through Japan a breeze, even with loads of luggage.

Read more about luggage forwarding below.

Bullet train passing Mt. Fuji Japan

3. Use takuhaibin , Japan’s incredible luggage-forwarding service

We know not everyone can or wants to pack light.

Fortunately for heavy packers, Japan’s incredible luggage-forwarding system  (known as takuhaibin , or takkyubin ), means you don’t have to.

“ Hands-free travel ” is a fast, reasonable, and very reliable service that allows you to easily and efficiently send suitcases from hotel to hotel, or even to the airport.

While in some instances same-day forwarding is possible for a premium, delivery between most destinations within Japan takes one or two nights.

This means spending a night or two without your main luggage. In cases like this, we usually recommend “skipping” a destination, and traveling for a day or two with just a small overnight duffel or backpack.

Even though some travelers are hesitant to part with their main suitcase, it can certainly be worthwhile — especially when traveling to remote locations.

Not only can traveling in rural Japan be a hassle with a large suitcase (see the section above!), it can also be very freeing to travel lightly while exploring Japan’s countryside.

For example, if you’re going to a ryokan in the countryside , you won’t need much anyway, since you’ll probably spend most of your time in yukata (Japanese-style robes)!

If you’re traveling with another person, consider sharing the delivery service with a traveling partner. This way you can keep one “shared” suitcase (that you forward from hotel to hotel), and a smaller bag to easily carry with you from destination to destination.

Map Japan angle

How to use Japan’s luggage forwarding

Taking advantage of luggage forwarding is easy! The front desk at most hotels and ryokans can make the arrangements for you — just make sure to let them know a day or more in advance. Giving them proper notice ensures they can make the arrangements for you in good time.

The price depends on factors such as luggage size (dimensions and weight) and destination, but you can typically expect to pay around US $15-$30 per suitcase. If your bag exceeds weight limits, you may need to separate your items into multiple bags.

If you’re staying in budget accommodations (or in a private home, for example), you’ll need to make the arrangements yourself.

One option is to do so at a conbini  (convenience store). Or, refer to the informative websites of Yamato Transport  or Luggage-Free Travel , which both specialize in luggage-forwarding services.

While luggage forwarding is a fantastic service – and very reliable, as most Japanese services are  – please make sure to use it at your own risk.

THINKING OF BECOMING A LIGHT PACKER?

Here are a couple of our favorite bags for traveling around Japan:

  • Personally, I like Minaal bags. I have this one from 2016, and have used it for long trips to Japan and elsewhere successfully. Check out their travel gear .
  • Another solid option is the Samsonite Freeform Hardside Spinner 21. You can buy it on Amazon here .
  • A classic, some travelers swear by the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45. See all their bags here .

japan packing list

4. Style & fashion: what to wear

You don’t need to go out and buy a new wardrobe for your trip to Japan. In fact, we recommend the opposite.

If anything, leave space in your luggage so you can go shopping in Japan, where you will find some of the most unique and best-quality fashions in the world.

Tokyo is renowned as a shopper’s paradise (these Tokyo neighborhoods  are a great place to start), but you’ll find great cutting-edge and vintage styles throughout the country, particularly in other cultural centers such as Kyoto and Osaka , and even in smaller towns like Onomichi .

Even though fashion standards in Japan are generally quite high, this doesn’t necessarily  mean you have to dress up.

People in Japan tend to take care when it comes to appearance, but you will find a huge variety of eclectic styles, ranging from chic to very casual. In a sense, it is comparable to what you might find in places like New York, London, or Paris.

If you enjoy dressing casually, you should be fine in almost all situations – from dining out to a trip to the Ghibli Museum . Although, of course if you have a special occasion (for example, a party or special dinner), then you should dress accordingly.

Typically, formal attire is not required, outside of formal or business situations. For example, even at most high-end Japanese restaurants , jackets and ties are not required for men. However, we certainly recommend using your best judgment and dressing respectfully.

Aside from formal western-style restaurants (keep in mind that Japan has incredible French and Italian cuisine!), which may require jackets for men, most high-end restaurants have simple, common-sense dress code regulations: no baseball caps, flip flops, shorts, etc.

As for the weather?

harajuku cat street shibuya tokyo japan large

Packing for the weather: the seasons in Japan

Japan is famous for the beauty of its four very distinct seasons, and it is essential to pack accordingly.

This is a good general overview of month-by-month temperatures in Japan  — and we also recommend our detailed post on the seasons & when to visit Japan  — but because each year varies, the best thing to do is check weather forecasts a couple of weeks before your trip.

If you’re traveling to various parts of Japan, make sure to check the forecast for each place you’ll be visiting, as the weather can vary dramatically between different parts of the country.

As seasons go, spring  and fall  are particularly fickle, so around these times of year we recommend bringing layers. The weather in spring and autumn can vary widely from day to day, with conditions ranging from warm (even hot) and sunny, to wet and bone-chillingly cold .

5. Japanese yen: you’ll need it!

Japan is a very cash-oriented society.

Even though an increasing number of shops and restaurants do accept credit cards, you’ll probably need more cash than you’re used to — especially when traveling in rural areas.

Luckily, Japan is very safe!

To save time on the ground, consider getting some Japanese yen before you arrive. Even if your local bank doesn’t have yen on hand, they can probably order some for you.

But don’t worry if you land in Japan without yen. You can exchange currency at the airport, or withdraw Japanese yen from an ATM in the airport.

It’s worth noting that while some banks in cities can exchange currency, it’s not generally as easy to find currency exchanges in Japan as it is in many other countries.

Read more in our article about cash, credit cards, and ATMs in Japan .

6. Visas, passports, and travel insurance

Citizens of many countries  don’t need a visa for short stays related to tourism, but to be extra safe please make sure you double-check with the Japanese Embassy or Consulate.

As for passports, it’s always wise to ensure your passport has at least 6 months’ validity from your trip end  date, or you may not be able to travel (this applies to many countries).

Similarly, it’s generally good practice to make sure your passport has at least 2-4 blank visa pages. In some cases, this may be strictly required.

We’re also very strong proponents of comprehensive travel insurance . Sad to say, emergencies truly have a way of happening at the most unexpected times, and we’ve seen numerous trips cancelled (or interrupted) by completely unforeseeable circumstances.

mobile phone cell phone iphone boutique japan 1140

7. Essential extras: pocket Wi-Fi, hand sanitizer, and more

Here are a few other things we recommend you add to your Japan packing list:

  • Pocket Wi-Fi device : Even if this doesn’t sound essential to you, we highly recommend renting a pocket Wi-Fi device (i.e., mobile hotspot). Wi-Fi in Japan is not nearly as widespread as most people imagine it will be (read more in our full post on Wi-Fi and mobile in Japan ). Even if you don’t plan to check email or upload photos, being able to use Google and Google Maps while out and about exploring is invaluable! We recommend pre-arranging a pocket Wi-Fi device through PuPuru ( order here ) or Ninja WiFi ( order here ).
  • Handkerchief or small towel & hand sanitizer : As wonderfully clean as Japan is, public restrooms often lack soap and/or hand towels (most Japanese people carry their own handkerchief).
  • Travel adapter : Most of Japan’s electrical outlets are 2-pronged “Type A” (100 Volt, 50-60 Hz), so if you have a device with a 3-pronged or European/UK-style plug, you may need a travel adapter. You can buy one on Amazon here . Many electronic devices (such as mobile phones, tablets, laptops, etc.) already have transformers, which means you may not need a converter, but make sure to check your items’ voltage requirements. Read here for more about electricity in Japan .
  • For a relaxing flight : Sleep mask ( here’s one from Amazon ) and rosewater mist.
  • Small gifts from home : Small local gifts are wonderful for giving to guides and other people you meet along the way. Tipping is not common in Japan , but thoughtful gifts are always appreciated. Gifts representative of your local region or country are especially loved, e.g., a famous local product or local artisanal product.

smartphone google maps 1140 1140x1140

8. Leave space for some shopping!

Japan is a shopper’s paradise.

Even travelers who typically dislike shopping often end up making unexpected purchases.

Because it may be impossible to resist the level of craftsmanship and incredible variety of unique items — from beautiful crafts to handmade clothing, and futuristic electronics — we always recommend leaving extra space in your luggage.

Even if you don’t plan to shop for yourself, you’ll find innovative and high-quality gifts for friends and family back home.

Sample 7-Day Japan Itinerary Packing List

We believe your Japan itinerary  should be a reflection of your personal sense of adventure and style, and that no two travelers (or trips!) are alike.

Naturally, deciding what to pack for Japan will depend on your itinerary, but we hope this sample packing list gets you started!

  • Small rolling suitcase or Minaal bag (see above)
  • Shirts, pants, undergarments, and socks (make sure they don’t have holes, as you’ll be taking off your shoes a lot)
  • Shoes that slip on and off easily
  • Other clothes (dependent on season)
  • Toiletries (toothbrush, etc.)
  • Japanese yen (can also be obtained in Japan)
  • Pasmo transport card (can be obtained in Japan for first-timers)
  • Pocket Wi-Fi (you can order here and pick it up on arrival in Japan)
  • Laptop (and charger)
  • Smartphone (and charger)
  • Adapter if needed
  • Noise-canceling headphones for flight
  • Headphone adapter jack for in-flight entertainment system (just in case)
  • Pen (for customs and immigration cards)
  • Business cards
  • Omiyage (small gifts, i.e., souvenirs from home)

We hope our Japan travel tips help you prepare for your trip!

If you are looking to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Japan, we have resources that can help. Start by checking out our sample travel itineraries  and learning about our process  of crafting customized trips for travelers seeking unique, authentic experiences.

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Phenomenal Globe Travel Blog

Japan Packing List: Essential Things To Pack For Japan

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: March 13, 2023

Categories Japan , Packing lists and travel products

japan-packing-list-guide-phenomenalglobe.com

Japan is one of my favorite countries in the world and we've taken several trips to different regions of Japan.

From bustling major cities like Tokyo , Kyoto , and Osaka to off-the-beaten-path locations in Japan such as Hokkaido , the Japanese Alps , Koyasan , and Shikoku.

Japan is a large country with four distinct seasons as well as different climates in the various regions, which can make deciding on your Japan packing list quite a challenge!

Japan packing list: everything you need to know

Mount Fuji Japan in autumn

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We're very grateful when you use our links to make a purchase:-).

In this post you can find detailed information about the Japan travel essentials to bring with you, based on our own experiences traveling around this beautiful country.

Versatility is key when it comes to packing for Japan!

It's not uncommon for temperatures to be 20°C or more apart between the different prefectures in Japan.

For example, when we make a road trip in Hokkaido in April, there was still snow on the mountain tops, temperatures during the night were below 0 and we even needed cloves!

However, when we flew south a week later, the temperatures in Kyoto were a comfortable 25 degrees and we walked around in t-shirts and shorts.

Average temperatures in Japan

Here are the average temperatures throughout the year for several of the main hotspots in Japan.

Each season in Japan has its own charm. A visit in Spring is the best option for those who want to see the cherry blossoms.

Summers are hot and humid (so stay away from the bigger cities) and great for hiking on Hokkaido and in the Japanese Alps .

Fall brings spectacular autumn colors and the winter months are a great option if you love skiing (and if you want to visit the famous Sapporo snow festival).

That being said, it's important to pack appropriately to make sure you've got a comfortable trip!

The perfect Japan travel packing list for any season

Backpack or suitcase.

Packing List For A RTW Trip - what to pack for a long term trip - packing for unlimited travel

During our first trip to Japan, we actually went camping and we brought a tent, sleeping bag, and other camping gear. It was just the two of us (my husband and myself) and we were backpacking Japan on a budget .

That's why we both carried one backpack and one daypack , which held everything we needed (including all our camp gear) while still weighing in at less than 15kg each.

We traveled to a lot of off-the-beaten-path locations where it would have been inconvenient to log around with a large suitcase.

So when choosing between a backpack and a suitcase, consider carefully where you'll be spending most of your time in Japan.

Will you mainly be visiting cities? In that case, a suitcase is a better option. We also brought a suitcase for our second trip to Japan, as we had a lot more luggage because we were traveling as a family, with our then 1-year-old son.

Below you can find my recommended bags and suitcases.

japan trip checklist

If you decide on bringing a backpack, don't forget to buy a flight bag to protect it during transport. All the loose straps of your backpack can easily get caught on a luggage belt or between a train door, etc.

Zipping your backpack in a flight bag streamlines and protects your bag and keeps it clean.

Packing cubes

I love using packing cubes as it makes it so much easier to keep my stuff organized! Especially now that we travel with our kids, it can be a nightmare to (quickly) find what you are looking for inside an unorganized suitcase.

Not with packing cubes! I usually have one or two for myself, one for my husband, and one for each of our kids.

I have packing cubes in different sizes, the smaller ones I use for toiletries and other small things while the bigger ones are perfect for clothes.

The cubes not only help to keep our stuff organized, but they also make it easier to utilize all the space in our suitcase and backpack efficiently.

Versatile clothes and comfortable shoes

Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route

As mentioned before in this post, accounting for all sorts of weather is key when considering which things to pack for a trip to Japan.

Here the magic word is layers . For example, during winter, it can be very cold outside in Tokyo. However, when you step into the MRT or into a souvenir shop, you'll quickly begin to feel uncomfortably hot and you'll be glad to remove a layer (or two).

On the other hand, in summer it's hot and humid outside but with air-conditioned public transport, convenience stores (like Family Mart and 7-11), and department stores, you may actually find yourself freezing in your breezy summer dress.

Therefore, it's a good idea to pack layers for your Japan trip. Here are my Japan packing tips for clothes to bring on your trip:

  • Down jacket (comfortably warm but packs really small)
  • One or two pairs of skinny jeans
  • A hoodie or warm sweater
  • A couple of t-shirts
  • A vest top (too much cleavage is considered inappropriate so keep this in mind when considering what to wear in Japan)
  • A couple of shorts and skirts
  • A nice dress for an evening out
  • Enough pairs of underwear

You will be walking a lot during your Japan trip so I recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes !

japan trip checklist

  • Lightweight sneakers (with a proper footbed)
  • Pretty sandals or something sturdier, like the Teva Tirra . I wear my Teva's all the time, they may not be very fashionable but they are very comfortable and they give proper foot support. In my experience, sandals are the perfect footwear when exploring cities in Japan during warmer weather. Also, you'll be taking your shoes off often in Japan (whenever entering a temple or a home) and sandals are easy to take off (and put back on).
  • A pair of flip flops

Things to pack when hiking in Japan

If you intend to do a lot of hiking and outdoor activities during your Japan trip as we did, I recommend packing the following items.

  • Hiking boots (make sure to break these in before your trip to avoid blisters)
  • Hiking socks
  • Hiking pants  
  • Merino hiking shirt (Merino clothes are not cheap but in my opinion, they are worth every penny, they are light, warm, and dry and don't smell)
  • Lightweight rain jacket to keep you dry on rainy days (though hopefully, you won't experience many)

If you only plan on exploring Japan's beautiful cities you won't need these things.

Admiring the view in Kamikochi Japanese Alps

Here is what I usually bring on my trips.

  • Ecofriendly deodorant
  • Contacts and glasses
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Solid shampoo bar (shampoo and conditioner are usually provided in Japanese hotel rooms as well as in the onsen so you may not actually need your own shampoo)
  • Make-up and make-up remover
  • Sunscreen lotion
  • Hand sanitiser
  • Items you need for medical care (painkillers, band-aids, etc)

Electronics

  • Travel adapter

Shibuya crossing in Tokyo from above

Documents and money

  • Debit cards ⇒  look into which bank is best for you, overseas transaction fees add up if you are on the road for a long time! I recommend having 2 cards from different banks, so if one doesn’t work in Japan, you’ve got another one.
  • Credit cards ⇒  essential for booking flights. As with debit cards, it can be smart to apply for 2 credit cards, just for peace of mind and to make sure you don’t run into any issues.
  • Cash ⇒ while I recommend bringing bank cards, Japan is still very much a cash society. There are plenty of places where you can't pay by card so make sure you always carry enough cash, especially in more rural areas with fewer ATMs.
  • International drivers permit ⇒ If you plan on renting a car you will need an international driver's permit based on the 1949 Geneva Convention model)
  • Japan rail pass ⇒ read more below
Note: if you plan on covering long distances in Japan within a short period of time, I highly recommend buying the Japan Rail Pass . This pass gives you unlimited trips on most of the famous JR bullet trains, JR buses, and several other lines. You can choose a pass valid for 7, 14, or 21 consecutive days. While the JR Pass offers great value for money and its the easiest way to get around Japan, it may not always be the most economical option for your trip. It's worth calculating the costs of your itinerary to Japan with and without the rail pass to see which option is best for you. You can use Hyperdia to check the costs of your intended Japan itinerary and decide whether or not the JR Pass is worth the money for your trip.

Bullet train Japan

Small emergency kit

You always hope you won't have to use these items but it's smart to carry them with you anyway.

  • Hand sanitizer
  • Painkillers
  • Motion sickness pills
  • Re-hydration sachets
  • Plasters/Band-Aids
  • Betadine antiseptic

Other essential things and miscellaneous items

  • Scarf (my #1 travel item and one of the first things I pack)
  • Lonely Planet Japan
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Gifts from your home country to give to people you meet along the way (this is very common in Japan and is highly appreciated by accommodation hosts, tour guides, and other people who provide a service for tourists).

Additional items for your Japan winter packing list

Japan in winter is beautiful but you do need to pack some extra stuff if you want to stay comfortable. Here are my recommendations for winter travel in Japan:

  • Winter coat
  • Thermal underwear (such as this merino wool long-sleeved thermal shirt  and  merino leggings )

Japan packing checklist (downloadable PDF)

Wondering what to pack for Japan? This Japan packing list will help you pack all Japan travel essentials and includes a printable packing checklist. #Japan #packinglist #travel

Here is a convenient printable pdf that you can use as your packing for Japan travel checklist. Download it for free below!

Plan your Japan trip like a pro with these tools: ✅ Get a Japan Railpass to save lots of time and money. ✅ Rent a car for your Japan road trip via Rentalcars.com . ✅ Stay connected with Airalo Japan offer . ✅ Plan your journey with the Japan Lonely Planet . ✅ Find the best hotel deals on Booking.com . ✅ Join the best tours in Japan via Klook . ✅ Travel safely and get reliable travel insurance from Safety Wing .

What to pack for Japan: in conclusion

I hope this Japan packing checklist will help you prepare for your trip to Japan. Please let me know if you have any questions about this comprehensive packing list, you can leave a comment below or send me a message .

Also read my other Japan posts for more Japan travel inspiration!

Wondering what to pack for Japan? This Japan packing list will help you pack all Japan travel essentials and includes a printable packing checklist. #Japan #packinglist #travel

This post was updated in February 2023.

Saturday 23rd of February 2019

May I know when was your trip in Hokkaido? In what season?

Sunday 24th of February 2019

Hi! My trip to Hokkaido was in Spring, at the end of April and start of May 2016 to be exact:-)

Saturday 4th of February 2017

You are right - I would never think of Japan as a camping destination! I am a solo hiker/camper myself and would love to hike in Japan one day! btw - i can recommend a Vango Blade 200 for a comfortable 2 person budget tent if you wanted to change :) It's probably smaller than yours, but weighs only 2kg and is no where in price range of the fancy-shmancy ultra-light ones! :)

Great trip!

Sunday 5th of February 2017

Thanks for the advice about the Vango, I'll check it out for our next camping trip:-). Japan is great for hiking, but keep an eye on the season as many hikes will be closed a large part of the year because of snow (on Hokkaido many only open in June!).

japan-travel-checklist

Ultimate Japan Travel Checklist: What to Bring, Buy, and Book

Ready to visit Japan? As one of the top travel destinations in the world, with a rich history, culture, and landscapes, there's a lot to see and do during your stay. Making the most of your trip can be exciting, if not a little daunting, especially for first-time visitors. 

You might be asking yourself what to take with you, what you should spend your money on, and what experiences or activities to book. To help you prepare and to help make your trip memorable and as hassle-free as international travel can be, we've put together the ultimate Japan travel checklist.

While there are a few things to keep on top of, after a bit of preparation, all that's left to do is explore the beauty of Japan and what it has to offer.

Before you leave 

japan-travel-checklist

Passport and visa: Starting with the essentials, you’ll need to ensure you have a valid passport and the necessary visas to enter Japan.

Flights: The sure way of making your trip a reality is by booking flights to get there! While most major airlines fly to both Narita and Haneda, consider flying to Haneda Airport for a convenient starting point closer to downtown Tokyo.

Japan Rail Pass: We highly recommend buying a Japan Rail Pass for most visitors planning to move through different cities and prefectures. This pass allows unlimited travel on most JR trains, including the bullet train, within the validity period. You can purchase one of these online before entering Japan or after you arrive. Other passes for particular regions such as Kyushu Pass and Tohoku Pass exist.

Travel Insurance: This one is important to ensure you’re covered for possible travel incidents, from luggage loss to physical injury/ accidents, especially if you’re planning for adventure. You’ll need to book insurance before you arrive in Japan, giving you peace of mind during your trip.

Accommodation: From budget hostels and business hotels to traditional Japanese ryokan inns and luxury hotels, many accommodation options cater to your needs. Book your hotel in advance, especially if traveling during peak season. For some tips on what and where to book, we’ve got you covered:

  • Japan’s Art Islands and Where to Stay
  • The Best Hotels in Osaka for under $150
  • The Best Hotels in Japan for Under $150
  • Japan's Best Design Hotels
  • 7 Hotels in Tokyo with Amazing Views
  • A Guide to Tokyo’s Best Capsule Hotels
  • 7 Best Hotels Near Tokyo Station

Experiences: Given the popularity of certain attractions and tours, it’s worth getting an advance booking to secure your spot. For ideas, from amusement parks, cultural activities, and more, see the Rakuten Travel Experiences available in Tokyo , Kyoto , Osaka and Okinawa .

What to bring

Credit cards and cash: Access to an international travel wallet or credit card can make withdrawals and payments a lot easier. While most metropolitan areas accept credit cards, locations such as small family-owned restaurants or temples might only accept cash. So it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases and in case of emergencies.

Electric adapter and power bank/mobile battery: Japan has different power outlets than many other countries, so be sure to bring a travel adapter (or grab one at the airport) to charge your electronic devices. While you’re on the go, a mobile battery will help ensure you don’t run out of juice when you need to check for locations or translations. 

Camera: Don’t forget this one! Take a camera with you to capture all the beautiful landscapes, places, and moments you’ll be sure to see or experience on your trip. Of course, you can also buy a camera once you arrive too. 

Comfortable walking shoes: With all the shrines, nature spots, and cultural destinations to explore, you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking during your trip. It’s worth having a pair of comfortable shoes you can wear all day. If you plan on hiking, which is worthwhile given the abundance of magnificent mountains in Japan, bring a pair of hiking shoes with you as well. 

Right clothes (and layers) for the weather: The temperature and climate vary quite significantly across Japan’s four seasons. Here are some suggestions; lightweight clothing to keep you cool and comfortable during the hot and humid summer; layers that can be added or removed during spring and autumn; and warm insulated clothing for the cooler winter months. 

Japanese phrasebook or translator app: While there are certainly staff, guides, and locals who can speak English, it’s best not to assume that everyone can. If you’re a first-time visitor or don’t know much Japanese, it’s worth learning a few handy phrases (especially for directions or emergencies) to get by.

Suitcase space: Although it’s easy to overpack when you’re trying to ensure you have everything you need, it’s a good idea to leave some suitcase space so you have room for souvenirs on the way back!

What to buy

japan-travel-checklist

While you’re traveling, you’ll most likely spot more than a few things you’ll want to purchase to take home with you as a keepsake or to gift to others. In fact, it’s common in Japanese culture to buy omiyage (souvenirs) for friends, family, and colleagues when you travel. 

We recommend looking at unique and high-quality souvenirs that you can only buy in Japan, such as traditional textiles, and ceramics, as well as unmistakable snacks or drinks. 

  • Omamori: These small good luck charms are sold at many temples and shrines. 
  • Snacks and candy: Some popular options include Pocky, Kit-Kats in unusual flavors, and rice crackers (of course there are many more, but they’ll need to be dry or packaged to take on the plane). 
  • Cosmetics and skincare: Try out some of the best skincare products produced in Japan. 
  • Japanese Tea: You can find high-quality Japanese tea including green tea, matcha, and roasted houjicha tea at specialty shops and department stores.
  • Alcohol: Try some rice wine sake as well as distilled shochu and whisky, and pick out a bottle or two to take back with you. 

We recommend purchasing heavier items, such as sake bottles or ceramics, toward the end of your trip to save you carrying things around for most of your trip. There’s also the option of shipping things back if it comes down to it. 

What to book

japan-travel-checklist

Restaurants: From kaiseki course meals, teppanyaki grilled meat, fine dining sushi and everything in between, Japan is known for its amazing cuisine. It’ll be worth making reservations for popular restaurants in advance.

Language Lessons: Learning some basic Japanese phrases can make your trip much more enjoyable and allow you to communicate more effectively with locals. Consider booking a language lesson or downloading a language-learning app before your trip.

Admission to Museums and Galleries: We recommend booking popular attractions such as  teamLab Planets Tokyo or Ghibli Museum ahead of time so that you don’t miss out.

Ready to go?

For inspiration and local tips, explore and bookmark some of our itineraries and guides, like 3-Day Kanazawa Itinerary for First-Timers , Best Things to Do in Yokohama , and The Best Osaka Day Trips .

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Japan travel checklist

Japan Travel Checklist for Planning Japanese Trips & Travel

As unique as it is stunning, friendly, and welcoming, a trip to Japan is unlike anywhere else that you’ve been before.  Certain things are done differently in Japan to other places that you may have visited.  Here are our recommendations and tips for things that you need to do before you go to Japan.  Welcome to our Japan Travel Tips and Japan Travel Checklist.

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED AND AFFILIATE LINKS MORE INFORMATION IN  OUR DISCLAIMER

You’re going to want to read the specifics in this article – there’s a lot of information here – and then download the checklist that you can use to ensure that you’ve got ALL the details ready for your trip to Japan. Click Here and I’ll send you the checklist and a few other useful bits and pieces that will help with your trip to Japan.

1. Check the Entry Requirements for Japan

This, as for other countries, is the number 1 requirement prior to traveling to Japan, and it should be number one on your traveling to Japan checklist.   Check well before you travel to see if you need a visa to enter Japan.   And then check to see how long you are allowed to remain in the country.

As British Citizens, we can stay up to 90 days without a visa.  We always check with the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office.  Here are some key links for what your entry requirements are for Japan.

  • Canada Entry Requirements for Japan – no visa needed, a 90-day stay allowed
  • USA Entry Requirements for Japan –  no visa, 90 days stay allowed
  • UK Entry Requirements for Japan – no visa, 90 days stay allowed
  • Australia Entry Requirements for Japan – no visa, 90 days stay allowed
  • New Zealand Entry Requirements for Japan – no visa needed, 90 days stay allowed

While it is more usual to pre-book accommodation in Japan than in any other country, if by some chance you do NOT plan to travel in this way, then you will need to book your first night accommodation. If you have not booked your first night, as a minimum you will need to have a hotel or hostel name & address in order to complete the immigration and customs forms on arrival in Japan.  We recommend using booking.com to book your accommodation in Japan.

2. Ensure that you’ve completed the forms for Japan Web – and got your QR Codes

The Japanese Government requires that you complete THIS FORM . It’s essentially a form with details for customs and immigration. There are full instructions on the website from Japanese government and immigration.

The Visit Japan Web has three parts:

  • immigration information – disembarkation card information
  • customs information and
  • tax-exemption section

You’ll need to generate the QR codes and you WILL have to show them at customs and at immigration. So download them to your device. If you’re worried about your device not having enough battery life left, then take a printout of the QR codes.

3. Ensure you have Proof of Onward Travel to enter Japan

Japan is one of the countries that requires proof of onward travel. 

This essentially means you need to have a flight (or ferry) booked out of the country. Japanese immigration WILL and DO check this.

Proof of onward travel is EASY if you’re going to Japan for a two-week vacation and flying home again, but if you’re on a longer trip, and you don’t exactly know what specific date you’re leaving. If this is you, then take a look at Onward Ticket – a company formed by Digital Nomads to give you a PDF ticket and a valid PNR for your transit through immigration.  It’s an excellent idea, a great price, and a super service > get it here!

This is especially important for your Japan trip checklist if you’re arriving by ferry and don’t have an outbound flight booked!   It’s likely that your travel to Japan will be scheduled, but on the off chance that you have an open-ended date, then you’ll need to buy a refundable flight ticket.

If you are flying into Japan, then you will be denied access to your flight unless you have a confirmation of an onward ticket out of the country.  This is because the airline is responsible for getting you out of the country again if you’re refused entry.  It’s recommended that you have an airline ticket out of the country.

The easiest way to organize proof of onward travel is to book a flight with a carrier or supplier that lets you cancel within a certain period.  Expedia lets you do this .  We have more on providing proof of onward travel here when we really don’t know when or how we want to leave a country.

You can also use a service like Onward Ticket – a company formed by Digital Nomads to give you a PDF ticket and a valid PNR for your transit through immigration.  It’s an excellent idea, has a great price, and a super service > get it here!

4. Sign up for Foreign Travel Advice About Japan

Wherever you live, your government will provide advice for foreign travel.  This is key for your Japan travel planning and could be very pertinent to your safety and security while traveling.  In the UK this is the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, the FCDO.  When you sign up for notifications, and the government policy about a certain country or area changes, then you’ll get notified automatically by email.   Check out their advice.

Japan_foreign_travel_advice

You’ll probably be the first to know if trouble breaks out around you, but the FCDO is pretty good at letting you know if there’s anything else to be aware of and somewhere you should NOT be going to.

Japan Foreign Travel Advice From Your Government

  • UK Government Advice on Travel to Japan
  • US Government Advice on Travel to Japan 
  • Australian Government Advice on Travel to Japan 
  • New Zealand Government Advice on Travel to Japan
  • Canada Government Advice on Travel to Japan

It’s key that you take heed of the advice that your government gives.  If something does go wrong and you need consular assistance, then this may not be forthcoming if you have gone against specific advice.  More importantly, your travel insurance will likely be voided, you need to check with your insurance provider for this information.

japan trip checklist

5. Traveling to Japan with Medications

Japan has very strict rules that relate to the import and carrying of prescription medication.  Even if you have been taking your medication for a long time, or even if it is legal in your home country, it does not mean that it will be legal in Japan.  We recommend that you carry a letter from a doctor detailing your medical condition and outlining your prescribed medication.

The list of substances that are forbidden includes some over-the-counter painkillers like those containing codeine, and Vicks inhalers.  It is usual to be allowed to carry 30 days of medications.  If you are in any way concerned, then check with Japan’s  Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare  for more information.

6. Consider Travel Insurance for Japan

We did a lot of hiking on our first trip to Japan. And we had to consider the altitude of the hikes. The summit of Mount Fuji is 3776 meters, for instance. It’s something you’ll need to check as to whether your travel insurance covers you. I wrote here about what we considered before taking out insurance for our visit to Japan.

Climbing Fuji Altitude insurance

7. Pre-Book Your Accommodation in Japan

This is another traveling to Japan checklist item that you will NEED to enter the country. Immigration will ask you for the address of where you are staying (for the first night).

So make sure you have the address written down, or on your phone as you head to immigration.

The Japanese culture is to pre-plan both travel and accommodation.  In that way, more than in any other country – and ESPECIALLY during holiday periods – you’ll find it a requirement to pre-book your accommodation in Japan.   Luckily, there are many options available to pre-book on booking.com.

You should book WELL ahead of time (ASocialNomad readers, on average prebook their Japanese accommodation a minimum of 6 months in advance for their Japanese trips!!)

If you are traveling during the following holiday periods, then you will need to be very organized.

Japan Holiday Times – book well in advance

  • January 1 – New Year’s Day
  • January 15 – The Coming of Age Day
  • February 11 – The National Foundation Day
  • March 21 – the Vernal Equinox
  • April 29 – Green Day
  • May 3 The Constitution Memorial Day
  • May 5 – Children’s Day
  • July 20 – Maritime Day
  • September 15 – The Respect for the Aged Day
  • September 23 – the Fall Equinox Day
  • 2nd Monday in October – Health Sports Day
  • November 3 – Culture Day
  • November 23 – Labour Day
  • December 23 – The Emperor’s Birthday

You may also find accommodation booked out during the Japanese Cherry Blossom season.

8. Write Down your Hotel Addresses in Japanese

Especially if you’re getting off an international flight then you’ll want to write your accommodation address in Japanese.   Japanese lettering can be bewildering at first – and if you do get lost and can’t find your hotel or hostel, then having this in writing will allow anyone to help you.

Japan law and regulations require that foreign visitors provide detailed information when checking in at a hotel or hostel.  This may include the copying of your passport.

9. Plan how you will get from the airport to your hotel

Japan can be somewhat bewildering for the first-time visitor.  Be sure to work out how you’ll get from the airport or ferry port to your hotel on your first day. This could be as easy as picking up a JR Pass and getting on a train. Or pre-booking a transfer at the airport.

BEST WAY TO TRAVEL

Car Icon

Book an Airport Transfer in Japan

Flight get in late? Take all the stress of sorting out trains, prebook, and prepay for a transfer. Arrive at your hotel a whole lot quicker and relax!

10. Buy a JR Pass for Travel in Japan

Japan has a superb train network.  Most (not all) of that train network can be utilized after buying the JR (Japan Rail) Pass, which once purchased allows you to travel in a reserved seat for free.  The Japan Rail Pass is of excellent value.

OPTION #1 BUY THE CHEAPEST JR PASS

Buy Japan Rail Pass from Klook

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  • Buy Regular or Business Class Pass
  • Buy 7 day, 14 day or 21 day Japan Rail Passes

Train travel in Japan is fast or super-fast, exceedingly clean, punctual and amazing.  But we understand it’s not for everyone.  Even with the JR Pass, it can be beyond some budgets.  Buses are cheaper in Japan but will take a LOT longer (up to 5 times longer in some cases). You can check transport options and booking in Japan with 12goAsia.

11. Wi-Fi in Japan is ok, but not everywhere!

Generally, you’ll find internet access in Japan to be very good.  Every hostel, hotel, and apartment that you stay at will probably have it.   And it will usually be free.  That said, you won’t always find that the cafes and restaurants that you go to will have Wi-Fi.  You might want to consider getting a local sim, pocket wifi Japan or a portable Wi-Fi unit for your travels.  

Local sim cards in 2024 in Japan are cheap, easy to use – and so easy to pick up at the airport when you arrive. Save your precious time in Japan, preorder a Japanese SIM or mobile hotspot , and collect it at the airport so that you’re connected right from the start.

12. Download and use a VPN in Japan

We always travel with a Virtual Private Network (VPN).  We fire up our VPN when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks to ensure that no one is snooping on our data when we’re booking things, looking at our bank account, or paying bills.

It also lets you do things that might be blocked geographically.  Like watching Netflix or the BBC.   We recommend ExpressVPN, which we’ve used in some of the world’s most difficult countries to access the internet – check it out here. This link will give you up to 49% off RRP or 3 months for free!

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Best VPN for Travel

Our Best Buy VPN is ExpressVPN – it has unparalleled privacy, performance, a large number of servers, and a GREAT price too. 

There are no reports that the Japanese government blocks access to certain websites, other than a few manga piracy sites, but we’ve found that cloaking our location can help us with some useful things like finding cheaper flights.

As you’re likely to be connecting to the public Wi-Fi in hotels, hostels, and the like, you’ll also want to fire up your VPN before you put any passwords, banking details, or credit cards into whatever site you’re using.

We’re always super conscious of our data security – and ALWAYS use a VPN – you can get up to 49% off RRP – or 3 months for free with this link to the VPN that we use – ExpressVPN.

13. Plan ahead for your Cash and Payment needs in Japan

Japan is still primarily a cash-based society, so you’ll want to plan ahead for how you’ll pay for your accommodation, your transport, your activities, and your food and drink.  Check out our post on Japanese ATMs, fees, and charges here.

#1 TIP FOR CASH & CARDS

Wise card

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Get a WISE Card to take to on your travels. Two free ATM withdrawals per month, plus free to use to pay by card with zero foreign transaction fees.

14. Take the Right Plug Adapter to Japan

The voltage in Japan is 100 volts.  North America is 120 volts, and Europe, Australia, and New Zealand have 230 or 240 volts.   The most common electric socket that you will find is a 2-pin one. 

I wrote a guide to the best power adapter for Japan that includes the types of plugs, and sockets that you’re likely to find. Read it here.

SK Ross

Best Japan Travel Adapter

This fabulous adapter will cover you  no matter where you’re from. And it’ll cover you wherever you’re going to.

This is the best adapter for travel to Japan.

Most electrical equipment from North America will work fine without an adapter, but check the voltage range.  If your plug type is different to Japan you will need to buy an adapter.  You will find it difficult to buy an adapter for British, Europe, and other countries in Japan.  Bring one from home, you can buy one here.

15. In Japan plan to carry ID at all times

It is the law in Japan that you carry your ID with you at all times.  There can be hefty fines if you do not.  Keep your passport safe and carry it in a safe place.  Japan is very safe to travel in, but if you’re not used to carrying your passport at all times you really don’t want to leave it behind in a strange place!

We tend to carry a laminated copy of our passports, especially if we are hiking, and want to make sure that all our valuables are secured.  We tend to leave our passports locked in our portable safe in our hotel rooms.

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Best Portable Travel Safe

This fabulous portable travel safe is big enough for laptops, phones, cameras, and a whole lot more. It packs flat and secures to just about anything!

16. Plan for Mosquitos and Bugs

Check with your government and healthcare advisor about the risks of traveling to Japan.  It is generally very low risk.  There was an outbreak of dengue fever while we traveled in Japan and rabies is present in bats in Japan, but is usually of little concern to most travellers.

And remember just because you’re traveling in Japan which is a non-malarial area doesn’t mean that there aren’t mosquitos.  There are mosquitos in Japan and travelling in summer means that you will be more prone to bumping into them.  If you’re prone to being bitten (like Sarah), then stock up on mosquito repellent and wear appropriate clothing to protect yourself.

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Best Small Travel Towel

The Mountain Warehouse microfibre towels are the best-damned towel that you can fit in the palm of your hand. 

17. Visiting Japan if you have a criminal record

If you are visiting Japan and have a criminal record then we’d advise that you check with the Japanese consulate closest to you and confirm whether you require a visa to travel to Japan with a criminal record.

You will be asked to answer the question on your passenger card on entry to Japan if you have even been convicted of a crime.  If you answer yes, then you will be taken aside and questioned.  You may be refused entry to Japan.   Many foreigners, the most famous of whom are probably Paris Hilton and Paul McCartney have been refused entry in the past because of prior convictions.

18. Apps & Websites to Use in Japan

There is a short list of apps and websites that will aid your trip to Japan massively.  Installing them on your device of choice and learning how to use them before you get to Japan will help you immensely.  You’re going to want to focus on using apps that work well offline, so that you don’t chew through any data allowances you might have.

Download and Install Google Translate – and the Japanese Dictionary

While you’ll be able to communicate – at least basically – with most people in the more touristy areas of Japan, it definitely helps to be able to translate to some extent.  Even if it means you’re just looking at the label of a bottle of sake in the supermarket!

Google Translate works very well with Japanese and it’s well worth downloading the Japanese dictionary for offline use when you’re traveling in Japan.

  • Download Google Translate for iOS
  • Download Google Translate for Android

Bookmark this site to find ATMs in Japan

Finding ATMs that you can use with a foreign card can be tough, although its getting better.   ATMs provided by Seven Bank let you withdraw cash with international cards.  You’ll find Seven Bank ATMs inside the 7-11 convenience stores in Japan.  Bookmark this site so you’ll always be able to find your nearest ATM in Japan.

Read our post about Japanese ATMs and Currency Exchanges here

Download the XE currency converter to use in Japan

While you’re downloading apps for travel to Japan get yourself the XE currency converter app .  Japanese Yen is one of the currencies you can track and work out how much or how little you’re paying for things.  Even if you don’t have internet access XE will give you the exchange rate from your last internet connection.

  • Download XE Currency Converter

Use Google Maps or Maps.me when traveling in Japan

If you use Google Maps then be sure to save the map for offline use.  GPS positioning will still work even if you don’t have access to the internet.  We like to have a backup and tend to use maps.me as well as Google Maps.  Sometimes the content is the same, sometimes it’s different and it’s good to see an alternative point of view!

Maps.me  is just one of the resources that we use when planning a Trip.

Download Line to Use in Japan

While WhatsApp may be the app of choice across the South American continent it is Line that is primarily used in Japan.  Line is similar to WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger or weChat in China. Line has about 218 million users across Japan, Thailand, and Taiwan.

  • Download Line for IOS
  • Download Line for Android

NHK World TV

This app is provided by the public broadcaster.  It is free and can be set up to receive emergency notifications – in English – about tsunami warnings, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and weather-related incidents.  You’ll need to turn on push notifications to ensure you get them!

  • Download NHK World TV for Android
  • Download NHK World TV for IOS

19. Tell your bank that you’re going to Japan

You’ll likely be pre-planning your accommodation and travel when you travel in Japan and therefore paying for it ahead of time, on a card.  Make sure you have a card that doesn’t charge you for foreign currency transactions.  Or if it does make sure it’s a low rate.

Be sure to tell your bank that you’re traveling to Japan and ensure that you have plenty of funds for your trip.

20. Use a Pasmo or Suica Card in Japan

Pasmo and Suica cards are electronic transport cards that can be pre-charged.  If you are taking multiple short trips on metro area JR Trains and subways, you can use these cards to save time and money on buying individual tickets.    They’re like the London Oyster card of Japan.

You can buy them at ticket vending machines in bus stations, subway stations, and train stations.  You can pick up preloaded ones with values from ¥1,000 to ¥10,000, with the ¥500 deposit included in the price.

You can also use these cards to make purchases from some stores and vending machines.

21. Prebook your visits to attractions in Japan

For many people traveling to Japan is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and maximizing your time there is seriously important.  You don’t want to be sat on WiFi trying to figure out where to go next, you want to be out there experiencing it.  On our first month-long trip to Japan, we were up and ready to go at 06:30 EVERY SINGLE DAY to make the most of it (we slept for days in Vietnam afterward!!).

Arranging what you want to do and where is absolutely key to your experience and making the most of your time here. Equally, you’ll want to take advantage of any skip-the-line tickets, to make sure you’re not spending your vacation stuck in line!  Here are some of the best experiences we recommend pre-booking in Japan.

Best Experiences to Prebook for Your Japan Trip

  • Visit the Mitaka City Studio Ghibli Museum in Tokyo and experience all the magic of Hayao Miyazaki’s classic movies! Last-minute tickets are available here!
  • One Day Mt Fuji, Hakone, and Lake Trip – awesome views, amazing trip, and the best way to see a whole lot in one day!  Book tickets now!
  • Extremely unique to Japan – head to a Sumo stable and watch morning training – this incredible experience will be a once-in-a-lifetime trip!  Book now to avoid disappointment!
  • Prebook this incredible Maiko makeover in Kyoto – an incredible experience you’ll never forget!  Book now!
  • Organize this Gion, Kyoto, night-walk ahead of time and you’ll get behind the scenes to see what really happens in Gion! 

Best Skip the Line Tickets to Prebook for your Japan Trip

  • Tokyo Disneyland pick up and skip the line tickets – book here
  • Skip the line at Tokyo’s tallest tower the Tokyo Skytree – plus get discount tickets here!
  • Get timed access to certain rides and areas with the Osaka Universal Studios skip-the-line tickets available here

Best Cultural and Food Experience in Japan

We just love taking cooking classes and so the experience by AirKitchen, is for us, incredible.  You not only get to learn local recipes (and take them away with you), but you do this in a private home, so you get serious cultural immersion in Japan as well!  Here are the best cooking classes you can prebook in Japan.

Make your own noodles in Tokyo – this is one of the highest-rated cooking classes in Japan – and it’s well worth it!  you’ll not only make your own noodles but also gyoza too – an incredible experience don’t miss out!

22. Try to Learn a Few Key Words of Japanese

If you’re using a translation app, then you’ll likely pick up a few words of Japanese as you travel around.  You’ll make a lot more friends and get a lot more smiles if you can manage a few simple words from the get-go.  Here are a few Japanese phrases to get you started:

  • Hello – Kon’nichiwa
  • Goodbye – Sayōnara
  • Excuse me – Sumimasen
  • Please – Onegaishimasu
  • Thank you -Arigatou gozaimasu (or just Arigato)
  • To ask for the bill just make an “X” with your index fingers!

Although you can travel to Japan without a word of Japanese, the people of the country are friendly and unfailingly polite.  A few phrases will steer you well.

23. Can You Drink Tap Water in Japan?

Another absolutely key item for your checklist for traveling to Japan. 

Yes.  Japan’s tap water is drinkable. 

It is reliable and well-maintained.  There is no high level of minerals to upset tummies.  That said, we recommend that you travel with a reusable water bottle to minimize your purchases of single-use plastics.

We also carry filter water bottles, in order that when we’re hiking, we can safely drink from stream and river water.  Check out our guide to filter water bottles here .

24. If you Smoke in Japan be aware of where you can

Smoking on the streets of Japan is forbidden.  There are specific areas where smoking is allowed and if you smoke outside of these areas is extremely disrespectful and offensive.  That said, there are bars, restaurants, and specific cars on trains where you can smoke.  Check the signs.

25. Secure Your Valuables with a Portable Safe.

Japan is generally very, very safe.  And we never felt insecure or that our valuables were at risk at all.   However, we always use a Pacsafe portable safe when we travel.  It secures our laptops, passports, cash, and other valuables.  It’s a wire mesh-lined safe that we attach to something solid in our room, apartment, or even a tree when we’re snorkeling.  For us, it’s a key item to put on your checklist for Japan trip planning. Our guide to portable travel safes is here.

26. Getting a Portable Wi-Fi in Japan

Roaming costs to Japan are very expensive from North America and Europe.  Organizing a portable Wi-Fi unit to collect on your arrival will ensure that you get great coverage, and easy access to real-time translating on your phone.  You’ll be able to connect all your devices to this unit and use it for internet access, cheap calls, Skype access, or whatever it is that you need to do.

You can rent these once you arrive in Japan, but they are cheaper to arrange PRIOR to your trip.

27. Tipping in Japan

I’ll make this easy.  There is no tipping in Japan. Period.  None.     That’s right.  Never leave a tip in Japan, it is not part of Japanese culture and can be considered to be insulting.  That’s great, it means you’ll have more money to spend on experiences, food, drinks.  Go on, splash out, and book yourself a fancy Ryokan stay now!

28. Taking Photographs in Japan

It goes without saying that you’re going to want to take a lot of photographs in Japan (and you’ll probably want to ensure that you have some backup SD cards to store all your photos on).  There are some key considerations that you’ll want to take into account when taking photos in Japan.

  • There is no law about taking photographs of people in public places. It is the publishing of those photographs on the internet where the law comes in. You’ll need to ask permission to post the photograph unless it was taken at a public event.
  • If photography is forbidden in a certain area, then there will be a sign with a camera crossed out. If in doubt, always ask.
  • Selfie sticks are banned in some places (Woohoo!) including the JR West train stations. If you’re at all unsure ask.

28. Traveling with Tattoos in Japan

It is entirely possible to travel to Japan with Tattoos.  Tattoos are not illegal in Japan, the issue is slightly more complex.  You will rarely see Japanese people with exposed tattoos.  They tend to be covered for social and cultural reasons.

Visible tattoos are banned in certain places – like onsens, ryokans, and gyms.  If you have tattoos and plan on traveling to Japan, then we recommend reading this guide.

29. Driving in Japan

Traffic in Japan drives on the left. (Yee ha, says the Brit in me).  Signposting on roads is generally only in Japanese and if you don’t understand the language you will seriously struggle.  Traffic around cities, especially Tokyo is very congested.   There is little to no legal roadside parking.

The traffic laws in Japan detail that every driver is held responsible in the event of an accident, therefore Japanese Compulsory Insurance is mandatory for all owners and drivers.

You will also need an international driver permit issued by your home country prior to arrival in Japan

The National blood-alcohol level is 0.03 percent.  If you are stopped for driving under the influence of drinks or drugs your license will be confiscated.  If you are found guilty of this offense, then you could be subject to up to 15 years in prison, longer if you cause injury or death.

30. What You Need to Know About Shoes in Japan

Shoes are typically not worn inside many buildings in Japan.  Oh, I don’t mean that you’re going to walk into a store and have to take your shoes off, but it’s well worth getting used to looking out for shoes at the entrance to buildings.  If there are shoes there, then it means you should remove yours before entering.

In many cases you will be given a separate pair of “indoor shoes” or sandals to wear inside, this is especially the case if you’re staying in a ryokan.  Although you do NOT want to wear any footwear on the tatami mats!  (for more on the etiquette of Ryokans, check out our guide here ).

If you are buying new shoes specifically for your trip – consider that you may be taking your shoes on and off a lot and laces may prove to be much more irritating than you’d ever thought possible.

31. Take Hand Sanitiser to Japan

Japan is very clean.  Super, super clean.  Public toilets may sometimes be squat toilets, but they are also generally clean.  They do not, however, usually have either hot water or soap with which to wash their hands.  Stay healthy, take hand sanitizer with you.

32. Take a Garbage Bag with you

It was an anti-terrorism measure in 1995 that started the trend of the removal of public garbage bins.  Following an attack by a terrorist gang on the Tokyo metro with explosives being left in garbage cans, public garbage cans were removed.  You will need to take your trash back to your accommodation with you.  National Parks also follow this and have a pack it in, pack it out rule.

33. The Seasons in Japan

Japan is in the northern hemisphere and has four different seasons

  • Spring:  March to May
  • Summer:  June to August
  • Autumn:  September to November
  • Winter:  December to February.

However, the temperature and weather differ immensely between different locations in Japan.  Check your weather and pack accordingly.  Layers ALWAYS win.

We hope you’re enjoying this stage of planning your Japan trips and that this travel to Japan checklist helps you with that.  

Travel Tips for Exploring Japan

  • Considering travel insurance for your trip? World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 adventure activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more.
  • Get online immediately with an eSIM for Japan
  • Take the right POWER ADAPTER to Japan
  • Download and install a VPN BEFORE you travel to Japan > discount coupon here
  • Read our guide to the Japan Rail Pass here
  • You can buy JR Passes from Klook > check details here
  • Or buy JR Passes from JRailPass here. (delivery in 24-48 hours including to your hotel in Japan)
  • Want to know what its like at a Maid Cafe? Here you are
  • Read about experiencing Sumo Practice in Japan
  • Read about staying in a Ryokan town in Japan
  • Learn to cook Japanese food in Chef’s kitchens in Japan
  • Read about ATM fees in Japan here.
  • Save money in Japan with a Wise debit card
  • Find the right accommodation for you via Booking.com
  • Book an incredible ryokan experience in Japan

Final Words on Japan Travel Checklist

Japan, perhaps more than any other country requires a degree of pre-planning for your visit. Prebooking accommodations, activities, and tours is not just required because of the availability, but also because of the cultural norms here. It’s imperative especially if you are traveling at peak periods.

We receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using our affiliate links. We do not represent World Nomads. This is not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

ASocialNomad is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.co.uk, and amazon.ca. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases .

japan trip checklist

Sarah Carter

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One thought on “ Japan Travel Checklist for Planning Japanese Trips & Travel ”

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japan trip checklist

I travel a lot and I chose Surfshark because of it’s price, one of the minuses I have encountered is that I couldn’t try it out in the free trial, they do on the other hand have a 30 day money back policy. Since the price was so low I decided to give it a try in the end. So far so good.

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The Tokyo Chapter

JAPAN: A PRE-TRAVEL CHECKLIST

JAPAN: A PRE-TRAVEL CHECKLIST

Here is a little little list to check off before travelling, or even while beginning to plan your trip, to Japan. I really hopes this Japan Pre-Travel Checklist of mine helps new and frequent travellers.

If you like pre-travel checklists like this – I think that you will also love my blog post where I tell you exactly what to pack in your suitcase for a trip to Japan.

ロ Have I packed the “good” socks ? (so that when I’m asked to take off my shoes a little toe isn’t poking through?)

ロ  Do I know a way to find the closest toilets at all times – especially if someone in your group has IBS?

ロ For the same reasons, have I packed easy on and off shoes ?  (even many restaurants, shrines and temples require shoes off so lots of laces and buckles will quickly become a pain.)

ロ   If travelling to Japan with a child who requires nappies / diapers , have I packed 3-4 days worth? ( Nappies / Diapers are not as easy to find in the big cities as you might imagine so this can help a frantic rush on the first day.)

ロ  What are the current rules for masks – especially when it comes to children?

ロ If travelling with a baby, do I have a baby carrier packed? Do I have a stroller packed ? 

ロ If I’ve booked a hotel in Japan with a swimming pool ,  have I checked that it’s open for months other than July & August?   And have I checked that the pool admission costs are included in the room rate?

japan trip checklist

ロ If I have tattoos , have I used the tattoo-friendly Japan website to check the onsen, public bath, swimming pool rules of the areas I’m visiting?

ロ    Have I downloaded the Japan Travel app (the free version is just fine)  for interactive railway maps, Japan Rail Pass optimized routes,  offline search options?

ロ       Have I checked that my medication is actually allowed in Japan?   ( Japan is VERY strict about prescription and over the counter medications so it’s best to check.). For example, last i checked some prohibited medicines include US bought tylenol cold,  nyquil, actifed, sudafed,  advil cold & synis,vicks inhaler… The list changes all the time so it’s best to check which medication is allowed – for very specific questions it’s best to contact your closest Japanese consulate in your home country or the Japanese Ministry of Health Labour and Welfare website.)

ロ       Have I looked into pre-purchasing a Japan Rail Pass or other national rail passes created specifically with tourists in mind? 

japan trip checklist

ロ    Have I measured my feet in centimetres if I plan to buy shoes so I know my size ?  Also, if I’m travelling with children do I know their height and weight in kgs and cms?  ( This is useful when buying children’s clothing and also helpful if looking to ride amusement park rides at Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo Disneysea .) *Please note that the new section of TOKYO DISNEYSEA ( Tangled and Frozen and Peter Pan section called “Fantasy Springs” is opening on June 6th. If you decide to visit in June it can go one of two ways 1) If you are a hard core Disney fan and don’t mind waiting hours and hours – you could be one of the first people to enter this new section 2) The other areas of Tokyo Disneysea MAY be (no guarantee) less busy at this time before the focus with crowds will be on the new section so it could be a win-win if you deliberately avoid that new section *Either way – tickets will be hard to get for this time (especially as annual passport holders will be all dying to go) so please remember to book early!

japan trip checklist

ロ        If I require shoes larger than 28cms, have I bought enough of my own to last the trip? ( It is possible to buy slightly bigger shoes but they are not found everywhere so it’s best to be prepared.)

ロ        If travelling with a baby or toddler, have I packed any items to help me baby-proof my Japanese accommodation?

ロ        Have I sorted travel insurance ?

ロ        Have I sorted booked an animal cafe (such as a pig cafe )?

ロ        Have I sorted t ransportation to and from the airport in Japan?

ロ        Have I downloaded Google Translate to help with reading food and beauty product labels, menus and any rules or instructions in Japanese? ( If you’d like some shortcut food label tips, you may like this information on Japanese convenience stores. )

ロ       Have I checked that cultural sites and smaller businesses are open if I intend to sight-see on a Monday or Tuesday? ( it’s best to check, and check again if heading out the day after a national holiday too.)

ロ.       If I have my heart set on seeing Mt Fuji , have I researched different locations to get the best view ( and potentially best photo)? 

ロ  If catching up with friends in Japan, have I planned a gift for them? (Gifts are customary and are usually edible  – it’s best to have a bag or a box of sweets – all served within the box as a single serving/portion if possible.) 

ロ  Have I got a portable/pocket wifi option , a sim card or package with my phone provider?  (Free wifi isn’t always available.)

ロ         Have I got a power bank for back up charging my phone? ( Companies like Japan Wireless will provide you with a rechargeable power bank when you rent portable wifi OR you can buy a battery operated power bank for around 2000 yen at any convenience store in Japan.  This is especially handy for long travel days or a day away from your accommodation like a day at Tokyo Disneyland  (also note: there is zero free wifi at Tokyo Disneyland.) I have a discount link for 25% off for a Japan Wireless purchase – it’s an affiliate link for me where I receive a small kick back at no additional cost to you.) 

ロ         Have I planned for some possible later starts while in Japan ? ( Many sightseeing spots and even some coffee shops don’t open until 10 or 11AM)

ロ        Have I downloaded the Ecbo app to help work out where in Japan I can store my luggage?

ロ        Have I told my bank I will be overseas so my cards don’t freeze? Have I worked out the most affordable way to withdraw cash while in Japan? ( Japan is moving to more and more electronic payments but you will still need cash way more than you think. ) 

ロ       Is my suitcase Japan-ready? ( Most locals in Japan travel with a hard case suitcase on 4 wheels. This doesn’t mean you have to – but it sure does make life much easier when rolling through big stations etc. See here for my recommendations when it comes to what kind of suitcases/luggage is best for a trip to Japan.   Also, backpacks on a train – well , especially when you are wearing them- can be seen as bad manners. Also, did you know that you can easily and affordably courier your luggage between cities while you travel within Japan? )

japan trip checklist

ロ  Where will I buy an extra light bag if I over-shop a bit while I’m there?  Don Quixote can be found in most Japanese cities, is open 24 hours a day and is very reasonably priced.

ロ        Have I packed the international electrical adapters ? This is what a Japanese power point looks like.  ( Also, worth noting that Japan uses 100V so thinks like hairdryers from overseas may barely blow a puff of warm air at a time.)

ロ        Have I packed my favourite types of toiletries such as deodorant, tampons, toothpaste –  as many international brands are not readily available?

ロ       Have I got a plan for how to communicate best in the instance that I don’t seem to be understood well at one point?  ( Hint: these are the communication tips for Japan travel that have worked for me in the past if you’d like some ideas… If you’d prefer to go more hard core and are thinking about learning conversational Japanese – this is what I would do, personally, if I was starting from scratch again.  Please note: if you are simply travelling in Japan I don’t believe you need to be at a conversational level to get by.)

ロ       Have I downloaded a hiking app ? There is an English support app called YAMAP for hiking routes and downloadable maps.

ロ      Have I thought about what kinds of  Japanese souvenirs I’d like to bring home for family or friends ? ( If you have children to buy for, these are my regular Japanese souvenir go-to gifts for kids . ) 

japan trip checklist

ロ.   If I’m trying to remain quite healthy and wanting to find healthy snacks easily in Japan, do I know what my convenience store options are?   ( Hint : here are snacks to easily grab on the go and here are some sit down Tokyo restaurant options which are piled high with vegetables. )

japan trip checklist

ロ.      If I only have one day for Tokyo Disney, which park, Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo Disneysea , is best for me?  ( Note: they are both amazing in their own ways… so it depends which types or rides, vibes, characters you like most, ages and heights of those attending.. I wrote this with a list of what you can find at each Tokyo Disney park in order to help make the best decision possible.) Please note that it is NOT possible to buy tickets for Tokyo Disneyland or Disneysea at the gate.  This is why their crowd prediction calendars are so accurate. See here for where to buy Tokyo Disneyland tickets. 

ロ.      If I go to Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo Disneysea , would I like to stay at one of the Tokyo Disneyland hotels?  ( Tokyo Disney Resort is only 30-4o mins from the centre of Tokyo but I know many people who like to stay at an official hotel anyway.  We have stayed at the Tokyo Disneyland Hotel before and I wrote about it here.    If you’d like to stay next to/ near  Tokyo Disneyland at a more affordable price, these are some of my other hotel recommendations.

japan trip checklist

ロ        Have I made a plan for if I ( or my children ) get really sick while I’m in Japan? 

ロ          Do I know what to do if there is an earthquake while I’m in Japan? 

ロ.        If it’s my first time on a long haul flight with children , have I packed accordingly? Got enough “treats” to keep them entertained?

ロ.         Even while in Tokyo, do I want to still make sure I get to see more traditional gardens and cultural spots?

japan trip checklist

ロ.     Will I need to access nappy / diaper changing facilities while in Japan?  Will I need to access rooms for breastfeeding or heating up baby food ?  (If this is the case, I recommend downloading the MamaPapaBaby app . )

ロ.  And where can I buy baby food in Japan? 

ロ.     If crowded trains freak me out, have I planned most of my train travel outside of 7am-10am and 4:30pm-8pm on weekdays?  (It’s a bit different for bullet trains as you can book seats etc but the big stations will still be busy with foot traffic.)

ロ What time of year is best for me to travel to Japan? I have written a blog post on the advantages of travelling to Japan during certain seasons. 

You may also enjoy:

What to pack for japan: month by …, when is train rush hour in japan, for families of 5 or more: japan hotels, kurashiki with kids, see what we’re up to.

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japan trip checklist

Random Japan

Japan Travel Checklist – Things To Know Before You Go

japan travel checklist

Konnichiwa! Using a little of my experience and a lot of research, I created the following Japan travel checklist so you will ensure your trip to Japan goes as smooth as possible.

Affiliate Disclaimer: I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Remember to adapt this checklist to your family’s specific needs and preferences. Enjoy your trip to Japan!

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

  • Travel Destinations

Japan Travel Checklist For Planning Japanese Trips & Travel

Published: September 8, 2023

Modified: January 3, 2024

by Arliene Caudle

  • Tech & Gear
  • Travel Guide
  • Travel Tips

japan-travel-checklist-for-planning-japanese-trips-travel

Introduction

Welcome to the mesmerizing world of Japan, a country that seamlessly blends traditional charm with modern innovation. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene landscapes of Kyoto, Japan offers a myriad of experiences that will leave you in awe. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or a foodie seeking culinary adventures, there’s something for everyone in this captivating destination.

Japan is known for its rich cultural heritage, highlighted by its ancient temples, beautiful gardens, and historical landmarks. However, it’s also a country that embraces technological advancements and is renowned for its futuristic cities and cutting-edge innovations.

Before embarking on your journey to Japan, there are a few essential things to consider. This travel checklist will guide you through the key aspects of planning your Japanese trip, ensuring that you have a seamless and memorable experience.

Whether you’re visiting Japan for the first time or returning for another adventure, this checklist will assist you in navigating crucial aspects such as visa requirements, travel insurance, transportation options, accommodation choices, and more. Additionally, we’ll provide insider tips on local customs and etiquette, must-see attractions, delicious cuisine, and budgeting tips to make the most of your trip.

So, let’s dive into the world of Japan and uncover the incredible experiences that await you in this captivating country!

Visa Requirements

Before embarking on your journey to Japan, it’s essential to check the visa requirements for your country of residence. In general, Japan requires visitors from most countries to obtain a valid visa before entering the country. However, there are exceptions for certain nationalities, including visa exemption programs for short-term stays.

If you are from a country that is part of the visa exemption program, you can stay in Japan for up to 90 days without a visa. This allows for a hassle-free visit, whether it’s for tourism, business meetings, or visiting friends and family. However, it’s crucial to ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Japan.

For those who do require a visa, the process and requirements may vary depending on the purpose of your visit. Japan offers different types of visas such as tourist visas, business visas, student visas, and work visas, among others. It’s advisable to check with the nearest Japanese embassy or consulate in your country for specific details and visa application procedures.

When applying for a visa, you will typically need to provide documents such as a valid passport, completed visa application form, a recent passport-sized photograph, and proof of your travel itinerary, including flight reservations and accommodation details. Some visa categories may require additional documents such as invitation letters, sponsorship letters, and proof of financial stability.

It’s important to note that visa processing times can vary, so it’s recommended to apply well in advance of your planned departure date to Japan. It’s also advisable to have travel insurance in place that covers any unforeseen circumstances or emergencies during your stay.

Overall, ensuring that you have the necessary visa requirements sorted before your trip will help to make your journey to Japan smooth and stress-free. So, be sure to check the specific regulations based on your nationality and plan accordingly to obtain the appropriate visa for your visit to this enchanting country.

Travel Insurance

When planning your trip to Japan, one crucial aspect that should not be overlooked is purchasing travel insurance. Travel insurance provides protection and peace of mind in case of unexpected events such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, or delayed flights.

While Japan is generally a safe country for travelers, accidents and unforeseen circumstances can happen. It’s essential to have adequate insurance coverage to handle any unexpected expenses that may arise during your trip.

Medical emergencies can occur at any time, and foreign medical bills can be quite expensive. Having travel insurance ensures that you are covered for medical treatment, hospitalization, and emergency medical evacuation if required. Additionally, it may provide coverage for prescription medications and emergency dental treatment.

In the event of trip cancellations or interruptions due to unforeseen circumstances such as illness, natural disasters, or flight cancellations, travel insurance can reimburse you for pre-paid expenses, including flights, accommodations, and activities. This coverage can save you from significant financial losses.

Lost or damaged luggage is another potential inconvenience during travel. With travel insurance, you can be reimbursed for the value of your lost or damaged belongings, allowing you to replace your essentials without bearing the full cost.

When selecting travel insurance for your trip to Japan, it’s important to consider the coverage limits, benefits, and exclusions of the policy. Look for a policy that provides comprehensive coverage for medical expenses, trip cancellation/interruption, baggage loss, and personal liability.

Before purchasing travel insurance, make sure to review the policy terms and conditions carefully. Pay attention to any pre-existing medical condition exclusions or specific requirements for coverage. It’s advisable to compare multiple insurance providers to find the best policy that fits your needs and budget.

Whether you’re exploring the vibrant streets of Tokyo, hiking in the beautiful Japanese Alps, or indulging in delicious cuisine, having travel insurance will give you peace of mind throughout your journey. It ensures that you can focus on enjoying your trip to the fullest, knowing that you are protected against unexpected situations.

Currency Exchange

When traveling to Japan, it’s important to be prepared with the local currency, which is the Japanese Yen (JPY). While credit cards are widely accepted in many establishments, it’s still a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller vendors, local markets, and transportation fares.

There are several options for currency exchange in Japan. Here are the most common methods:

  • ATMs: Japan has an extensive network of ATMs, and you can easily find them in convenience stores, post offices, and banks. Look for ATMs with international service signs or those affiliated with major credit card networks such as Visa, Mastercard, or Cirrus. Keep in mind that not all ATMs in Japan accept foreign cards, so it’s advisable to check with your bank to ensure compatibility.
  • Currency Exchange Counters: You can find currency exchange counters in airports, major train stations, and some hotels. These establishments offer competitive exchange rates, but be aware that they may charge a commission or service fee.
  • Currency Exchange Services: Various currency exchange services are available throughout Japan, including those operated by banks and specialized exchange companies. These services typically offer competitive rates and may have longer operating hours compared to traditional banks.

Before exchanging currency, it’s advisable to compare rates and fees, as they can vary depending on the service provider. Additionally, check with your bank for any foreign transaction fees or charges that may apply when using your credit or debit card in Japan.

It’s also important to note that smaller establishments, especially in rural areas, may only accept cash payments. To ensure a smooth transaction, always carry smaller denominations of Japanese Yen with you.

If you find yourself with excess Japanese Yen at the end of your trip, you can convert the currency back to your home currency at airports, currency exchange counters, or through online currency exchange platforms.

Having the local currency available during your trip to Japan will make your transactions more convenient and provide peace of mind, especially in locations where credit card acceptance may be limited. So, be sure to plan for your currency exchange needs before you embark on your Japanese adventure.

Transportation

When it comes to getting around in Japan, the transportation system is highly efficient, punctual, and extensive. From bustling cities to remote countryside areas, there are several transportation options available to help you explore the country comfortably and conveniently.

Here are some of the key modes of transportation in Japan:

  • Trains: The Japanese railway system, known as the Japan Rail (JR) network, is renowned worldwide for its punctuality and extensive coverage. It connects major cities, towns, and tourist destinations throughout the country. The Shinkansen, or bullet train, is an iconic symbol of Japan and offers high-speed travel between major cities, making it an efficient and convenient option for long-distance journeys.
  • Subways and Buses: In large cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, the subway and bus systems provide convenient transportation options for navigating within the city. These networks are well-connected, with signs and announcements available in both Japanese and English, making it easy for tourists to get around.
  • Taxis: Taxis are readily available in urban areas and can be hailed on the street or found at taxi stands. While taxis can be more expensive compared to other modes of transportation, they are a convenient option, especially for late-night travel or when carrying heavy luggage.
  • Rental Cars: If you prefer more flexibility and independence, renting a car is a viable option. However, keep in mind that driving in Japan follows the left-hand traffic system, and road signs are primarily in Japanese. Additionally, parking can be limited and expensive in urban areas.

It’s important to note that Japan offers various transportation passes that can provide cost savings for travelers. The Japan Rail Pass is a popular choice for international visitors, offering unlimited travel on JR trains, including the Shinkansen, for a set duration. Other regional passes and subway passes are also available, providing unlimited travel within specific areas or subway lines.

When planning your transportation in Japan, it’s advisable to consider factors such as distance, cost, and convenience. Researching routes and schedules in advance will help you make the most efficient use of your time and budget during your stay in Japan.

Overall, Japan’s transportation system is well-regarded for its efficiency and convenience. Whether you’re traveling within the city or exploring different regions of the country, you have a range of options to choose from to ensure a seamless and enjoyable travel experience.

Accommodation

When it comes to finding accommodation in Japan, you’ll be spoilt for choice with the diverse range of options available to suit every budget and travel preference. From luxury hotels to traditional ryokans and budget-friendly hostels, you can find accommodations that cater to your needs throughout the country.

Here are some popular accommodation options in Japan:

  • Hotels: Japan boasts a wide selection of hotels, ranging from internationally renowned chains to unique boutique accommodations. In major cities, you’ll find luxury hotels with modern amenities and excellent service. Business hotels are also prevalent, offering comfortable rooms at a more affordable price.
  • Ryokans: Traditional Japanese inns, called ryokans, provide a unique and authentic experience. These accommodations typically feature tatami-matted rooms, futon beds, communal baths, and delicious kaiseki meals. Ryokans are an excellent choice for those seeking a traditional Japanese ambiance and hospitality.
  • Minshukus: Similar to ryokans, minshukus are traditional Japanese guesthouses run by local families. They offer a more intimate and homely atmosphere, providing the opportunity to experience Japanese culture and interact with locals.
  • Hostels: Perfect for budget-conscious travelers, hostels in Japan offer affordable dormitory-style accommodations with shared facilities. They are a great option for solo travelers or those looking to meet fellow travelers.
  • Capsule Hotels: These unique accommodations are known for their compact sleeping quarters, where each guest has their own private capsule. Capsule hotels are a popular choice for solo travelers or those looking for a unique and cost-effective experience.
  • Apartments and Guesthouses: Renting an apartment or guesthouse is another option for longer stays or for those who prefer a more independent and self-catering experience. Many platforms offer vacation rentals and guesthouses that provide a home-away-from-home feeling.

When booking your accommodation, it’s advisable to consider factors such as location, proximity to public transportation, amenities, and reviews from previous guests. Popular online travel agencies and booking platforms can assist in finding and comparing accommodation options based on your preferences.

In Japan, it’s important to be aware of the concept of tatami mat rooms, traditionally used in ryokans and some hotels. These rooms have a different layout and require guests to remove their shoes before entering. Staying in a tatami mat room provides a unique experience and is a cultural aspect to embrace during your stay in Japan.

Regardless of your choice of accommodation, hospitality and customer service are highly valued in Japan. The staff are typically friendly, polite, and attentive to ensure a comfortable and memorable stay.

With a wide array of accommodation options, you can find the perfect place to rest and rejuvenate after exploring the wonders of Japan.

Communication

Staying connected during your trip to Japan is important for convenience, safety, and keeping in touch with family and friends. Fortunately, Japan is known for its advanced communication infrastructure, offering various options for staying connected throughout your journey.

Here are some key aspects to consider for communication in Japan:

  • Mobile Data and SIM Cards: To access the internet and make calls, getting a SIM card or a pocket Wi-Fi router is a popular choice. SIM cards can be purchased at airports, electronics stores, or online before your trip. Pocket Wi-Fi routers can also be rented, providing internet access for multiple devices.
  • Public Wi-Fi: Japan has an extensive network of free Wi-Fi hotspots available in major cities, airports, train stations, and popular tourist areas. Look for networks labeled “Japan Free Wi-Fi” or “Free Wi-Fi,” and follow the registration process to connect.
  • Travel Apps: Downloading useful travel apps on your smartphone can enhance your experience in Japan. Apps like Google Maps, Japan Official Travel App, and translation apps can assist with navigation, language translation, and finding local attractions.
  • Internet Cafes: Internet cafes, known as “manga cafes” or “game centers,” provide a unique experience where you can access the internet, play games, and relax in a comfortable environment.
  • Public Phones: While the use of public phones has declined with the popularity of mobile phones, you can still find them in public areas, train stations, and convenience stores. Some phones accept coins, while others require prepaid phone cards, which can be purchased at convenience stores.

It’s worth noting that language may pose a communication challenge. While English is commonly spoken in major tourist areas and establishments, it’s beneficial to learn a few basic Japanese phrases or carry a phrasebook for assistance. Japanese locals appreciate the effort to speak their language and are often willing to help with any communication difficulties.

If you need to make international calls during your stay in Japan, it’s advisable to use internet-based calling services such as Skype, WhatsApp, or FaceTime, as traditional phone calls can be expensive.

Remember to check with your mobile service provider regarding international roaming charges and data plans before your trip. Some providers offer travel-specific packages that can help reduce costs while providing access to data and calling services.

With the various communication options available in Japan, staying connected and navigating the country becomes convenient, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.

Japan experiences diverse climates throughout the year, influenced by its geographical location and topography. It’s important to understand the weather patterns of the specific region you plan to visit in order to pack appropriate clothing and plan your activities accordingly.

Here are some key aspects to consider regarding the weather in Japan:

  • Four Seasons: Japan experiences distinct four seasons – spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Each season has its own unique characteristics, offering different experiences and opportunities for exploration.
  • Spring (March to May): Spring in Japan is famous for cherry blossom season, with pink sakura flowers adorning parks and streets. It’s a beautiful and popular time to visit, but also tends to be crowded. The weather is mild, with temperatures gradually warming up.
  • Summer (June to August): Summers in Japan are generally hot and humid, particularly in central and southern regions. Coastal areas provide some relief with ocean breezes. Be prepared for occasional rainfall and typhoons in certain regions during the summer months.
  • Autumn (September to November): Autumn is a pleasant season in Japan, characterized by mild temperatures and stunning foliage colors. It’s a popular time for outdoor activities and experiencing the natural beauty of Japan’s parks and gardens. The weather becomes cooler as the season progresses.
  • Winter (December to February): Winters in Japan vary depending on the region. Northern regions and mountainous areas experience heavy snowfall, making them popular destinations for winter sports. Central and southern regions have milder winters, but temperatures can still drop, especially in the evenings.

It’s important to note that weather conditions can vary within different regions of Japan, so it’s essential to check the specific forecast for your destination and plan accordingly. Bringing appropriate clothing layers and rain gear is advisable to ensure comfort and preparedness for any unexpected weather changes.

In addition to seasonal variations, Japan has a wide range of climates due to its long north-south geographical stretch. Hokkaido in the north experiences colder temperatures compared to Okinawa in the south, so make sure to consider the specific climate of your chosen destination.

Throughout the year, it’s a good idea to monitor weather updates and be prepared with suitable clothing and accessories. Pay attention to any weather warnings or advisories issued by local authorities, especially during extreme weather events.

By understanding the weather patterns and packing accordingly, you can fully enjoy the beauty of each season and make the most of your time exploring Japan’s diverse landscapes and cultural attractions.

Packing Essentials

When preparing for your trip to Japan, it’s important to pack wisely to ensure that you have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable journey. Here are some essential items to consider including in your packing list:

  • Weather-Appropriate Clothing: Japan’s climate varies throughout the year, so pack clothing suitable for the season and your planned activities. Lightweight and breathable fabrics are ideal for summers, while warmer layers and a jacket are essential for cooler seasons. Don’t forget to pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring.
  • Adaptor and Converter: Japan uses a different electrical outlet and voltage system compared to many countries. Be sure to pack a universal adaptor and converter to charge your electronic devices safely.
  • Travel Documents: Bring all necessary travel documents, including your passport, visa (if required), travel insurance details, and copies of important documents like your itinerary and accommodation reservations.
  • Medications and First Aid Kit: If you take prescription medications, ensure you have an adequate supply for the duration of your trip. It’s also a good idea to bring a basic first aid kit containing band-aids, pain relievers, antiseptic ointment, and any personal medications or items you may need.
  • Travel Toiletries: While many accommodations provide basic toiletries, it’s helpful to bring your own travel-sized toiletries, including shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, and a toothbrush. Don’t forget any specific skincare items you may require.
  • Travel Money: In addition to carrying a small amount of local currency, it’s advisable to have a travel money option such as a credit card or debit card. Notify your bank or credit card company about your travel plans to prevent any issues with transactions.
  • Travel Accessories: Some useful travel accessories to consider bringing include a portable charger for your electronic devices, a lightweight and foldable umbrella for unexpected rain showers, a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated, and a travel neck pillow for long journeys.
  • Language Guidebook or App: While English is spoken in many tourist areas, having a language guidebook or translation app can be useful for communication and navigating local customs.

Remember to pack within the weight and size limits set by your airline, as well as any restrictions on liquids or sharp objects in your hand luggage.

It’s also a good idea to pack a small bag or backpack for day trips, which can carry your essentials while exploring, along with a portable umbrella, snacks, and a refillable water bottle.

As you plan your packing list, consider the specific activities and destinations you have in mind. Researching the weather conditions and cultural norms of the places you’ll be visiting will help you pack efficiently and ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip to Japan.

Local Customs and Etiquette

When visiting Japan, it’s important to be aware of the local customs and etiquette to show respect for the culture and make a positive impression. Japanese society values politeness, harmony, and consideration for others. Here are some key customs to keep in mind:

  • Bowing: Bowing is a common form of greeting and showing respect in Japan. When meeting someone, it’s customary to bow slightly, with the depth of the bow depending on the situation.
  • Removing Shoes: In many Japanese homes, traditional inns (ryokans), and even some restaurants and temples, it’s customary to remove your shoes and wear slippers or provided indoor footwear. Be attentive to signs or cues indicating shoe removal.
  • Respect Personal Space: Japanese people value personal space, so it’s important to avoid unnecessary physical contact or standing too close to others. Try to be mindful of personal boundaries, especially in crowded areas or public transportation.
  • Queuing: Japan is known for its orderly queuing system. When waiting in line for public transport, entering a restaurant, or purchasing tickets, be patient and respectful of those who arrived before you.
  • Table Manners: When dining in Japan, it’s customary to say “itadakimasu” before starting a meal and “gochisousama deshita” after finishing to express gratitude. Slurping noodles is considered acceptable and indicates that you are enjoying the meal. Also, avoid leaving your chopsticks sticking upright in a bowl of rice, as it resembles a funeral ritual.
  • Gift-Giving: Giving and receiving gifts is a common practice in Japan. When presenting a gift, use both hands and show appreciation for the gesture. It’s also customary to bring omiyage, small souvenirs or gifts, when visiting someone’s home or workplace.
  • Quiet and Respectful Behavior: Japanese culture places value on maintaining a peaceful and harmonious coexistence. Keep noise levels low in public spaces, such as trains and buses, and refrain from speaking loudly on your phone.
  • Public Display of Affection: Unlike some Western cultures, public displays of affection, such as kissing and hugging, are generally not common in Japan. It’s advisable to show restraint and be mindful of cultural norms in public settings.

It’s also worth noting that while many Japanese people are forgiving of cultural differences and understanding towards foreign visitors, making an effort to observe local customs and etiquette will be appreciated.

By familiarizing yourself with these customs and demonstrating respect for the local culture, you’ll have a more enriching and immersive experience in Japan, fostering positive interactions with locals and leaving a lasting impression.

Health and Safety

Japan is considered a safe country for travelers, with low crime rates and a well-developed infrastructure. However, it’s important to prioritize your health and safety during your trip. Here are some key considerations:

  • Travel Insurance: Before traveling to Japan, ensure that you have travel insurance that covers any medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or other unforeseen events. Familiarize yourself with the policy coverage and keep a copy of the insurance details easily accessible.
  • Healthcare Facilities: Japan has excellent healthcare facilities and a high standard of medical care. English-speaking doctors are available in major cities and tourist areas. Carry a list of any necessary medications, along with their generic names, in case you need to seek medical assistance.
  • Emergency Services: The emergency hotline in Japan is 110 for the police and 119 for an ambulance or fire services. Operators may not speak English fluently, so it may be helpful to have the address or the assistance of a local for translation purposes.
  • Stay Hydrated: Japan can have high temperatures and humidity, especially during the summer months. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, especially when engaging in outdoor activities or spending extended periods outside.
  • Food and Water Safety: Overall, Japan maintains high standards of food and water safety. It is generally safe to consume tap water and eat street food. However, it’s recommended to exercise caution when dining at smaller or temporary food stalls and to ensure that food is properly cooked.
  • Emergency Preparedness: Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures and the location of emergency exits in hotels, public transportation, and crowded areas. Stay updated on any travel advisories or alerts issued by your embassy or the local authorities.
  • Natural Disasters: Japan is prone to natural disasters such as earthquakes, typhoons, and tsunamis. Be aware of the emergency protocols in place and follow instructions from local authorities if any such event occurs.
  • Personal Safety: While Japan is generally safe, it’s important to practice common sense precautions. Keep an eye on your belongings, particularly in crowded areas, and be cautious of your surroundings, especially at night.

It’s advisable to check with your healthcare provider about any recommended vaccinations or health precautions before traveling to Japan. Carry any necessary medications, along with a basic first aid kit, in case of minor injuries or illnesses.

By prioritizing your health and safety, staying informed, and taking necessary precautions, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Japan.

Must-See Attractions

Japan offers a wealth of magnificent sights and attractions that showcase its rich history, natural beauty, and cultural heritage. From ancient temples and serene gardens to bustling cityscapes and breathtaking landscapes, here are some must-see attractions to include in your Japan itinerary:

  • Tokyo: Japan’s vibrant capital is a bustling metropolis that blends traditional and futuristic elements. Visit the iconic Tokyo Skytree for panoramic views, explore historic districts like Asakusa and Ueno, and immerse yourself in the energy of neighborhoods like Shinjuku and Shibuya.
  • Kyoto: Known for its temples, shrines, and traditional culture, Kyoto is a must-visit city. Admire the stunning golden pavilion of Kinkaku-ji, explore the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of torii gates, and stroll through the beautiful Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
  • Hiroshima: Pay a visit to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum to learn about the tragic history of the atomic bombing and find hope for peace. Take a ferry to Miyajima Island to see the famous floating torii gate and experience the serene beauty of Itsukushima Shrine.
  • Nara: Visit Nara, home to several ancient UNESCO World Heritage sites. Witness the majestic Todai-ji Temple, which houses the giant bronze Buddha statue, and encounter friendly deer in Nara Park.
  • Hakone: Experience the beauty of Mount Fuji and relax in hot springs in Hakone. Take a scenic boat ride on Lake Ashi and ride the Hakone Ropeway for breathtaking views of the surrounding volcanic landscape.
  • Osaka: Explore Osaka’s vibrant food scene and entertainment districts like Dotonbori and Shinsekai. Visit Osaka Castle, a magnificent symbol of the city’s history, and enjoy thrilling rides at Universal Studios Japan.
  • Hokkaido: Head to Japan’s northernmost island for stunning natural beauty. Explore the picturesque landscapes of Furano and Biei, soak in hot springs in Noboribetsu, and enjoy outdoor activities in Hokkaido’s national parks.
  • Nikko: Discover the cultural and natural treasures of Nikko, including the awe-inspiring Toshogu Shrine with its intricate carvings, exploring the beautiful Nikko National Park, and witnessing the vibrant colors of the autumn leaves.
  • Miyajima: Located near Hiroshima, Miyajima Island is known for the iconic Itsukushima Shrine and its floating torii gate. Take a stroll surrounded by stunning natural beauty and encounter friendly deer along the way.

These are just a few examples of the incredible attractions waiting to be explored in Japan. Whether you’re drawn to historical landmarks, breathtaking scenery, or vibrant city life, Japan offers something for every traveler to discover and cherish.

Before visiting these attractions, be sure to check their operating hours and any entry requirements, as well as any seasonal events or festivals that may enhance your experience.

Local Cuisine

Japan is a paradise for food lovers, with its distinct culinary traditions and a wide array of delicious dishes to savor. From sushi and ramen to tempura and takoyaki, here are some highlights of Japan’s local cuisine:

  • Sushi: Indulge in the world-renowned Japanese delicacy of fresh, raw fish and vinegared rice. Sushi comes in various forms, including nigiri, maki rolls, and sashimi, offering a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
  • Ramen: Slurp your way through a steaming bowl of ramen, a popular Japanese noodle dish. Choose from different broth bases, such as soy, miso, or tonkotsu, and enjoy the variety of toppings, including sliced pork, green onions, and marinated eggs.
  • Tempura: Sample light and crispy tempura, which consists of battered and deep-fried seafood, vegetables, and shrimp. Pair it with a dipping sauce and savor the contrast of textures.
  • Takoyaki: Try these savory octopus balls, typically made with a batter containing diced octopus, green onions, and other ingredients. They are cooked in a special mold and topped with takoyaki sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes.
  • Kaiseki: Experience the art of kaiseki, a multi-course traditional Japanese meal featuring seasonal and meticulously prepared dishes. It showcases the elegance of presentation and the harmony of flavors.
  • Okonomiyaki: Enjoy this savory pancake-like dish made with cabbage, batter, and various toppings, such as pork, seafood, or vegetables. It’s commonly cooked on a griddle and served with okonomiyaki sauce and mayonnaise.
  • Yakitori: Savor skewered and grilled chicken, vegetables, or other meats at a yakitori restaurant. These flavorsome bites are often enjoyed with a side of cold beer or sake.
  • Sukiyaki: Delight in a communal hot pot dish featuring thinly sliced beef, tofu, vegetables, and noodles cooked in a flavorful soy-based broth. Dip the ingredients in a beaten raw egg for added richness.
  • Mochi: Indulge in sticky and chewy rice cakes called mochi. They come in various flavors and fillings, from traditional red bean paste to matcha and fruit flavors.

Don’t forget to explore regional specialties as you travel throughout Japan. Each area has its own culinary treasures, such as Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, Osaka-style takoyaki, and the seafood delights of Hokkaido.

When dining in Japan, be mindful of local customs. Slurping noodles is considered a sign of enjoying the meal, and it’s customary to say “itadakimasu” before eating and “gochisousama deshita” after finishing to express gratitude to the chefs and the quality of the meal.

Japanese cuisine is also known for its emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients, so try to sample local produce and seafood while you’re there. Don’t hesitate to venture into local eateries, street food stalls, and markets to discover hidden culinary gems.

With its exquisite flavors, meticulous preparation, and diverse dishes, experiencing Japan’s local cuisine is an essential part of immersing yourself in the country’s rich cultural heritage and culinary traditions.

Japan is a shopper’s paradise, offering a wide range of unique and high-quality goods. Whether you’re looking for traditional crafts, trendy fashion, electronics, or local delicacies, here are some shopping experiences to explore during your trip:

  • Department Stores: Visit iconic Japanese department stores like Mitsukoshi, Isetan, and Takashimaya, where you’ll find a vast selection of fashion, cosmetics, household goods, and gourmet food items.
  • Shopping Streets: Explore vibrant shopping streets known as “shotengai” or “shoutengai.” Places like Nakamise Shopping Street in Tokyo, Shinsaibashi in Osaka, and Higashiyama in Kyoto offer a mix of traditional shops, street food, and local specialties.
  • Electronics: Japan is famous for its cutting-edge technology and electronic gadgets. Akihabara in Tokyo is the go-to district for electronics, gaming, and anime-related merchandise.
  • Traditional Crafts: Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Japan by shopping for traditional crafts like ceramics, pottery, lacquerware, textiles, and woodwork. Visit areas known for specific crafts, such as Arita for porcelain or Kanazawa for gold leaf products.
  • Unique Souvenirs: Find unique souvenirs to bring back home, such as traditional Japanese fans, kokeshi dolls, yukata robes, or decorative items like shoji screens and Japanese tea sets.
  • Malls and Shopping Complexes: Explore modern shopping malls and complexes like Ginza Six in Tokyo, Daimaru in Osaka, or Canal City in Fukuoka. These offer a wide range of international and Japanese brands, entertainment facilities, and dining options.
  • Food and Drinks: Don’t miss the opportunity to sample and purchase local food specialties and beverages. In cities and towns, you’ll find food markets, sweet shops, and sake breweries, offering a delightful culinary experience.
  • Antiques and Flea Markets: For vintage finds and unique treasures, explore antique shops and flea markets like Tokyo’s Oedo Antique Market or Kyoto’s Kobo-san flea market.

When shopping in Japan, keep in mind the concept of “omiyage,” which refers to the practice of bringing back souvenirs for friends, family, and colleagues. Look for beautifully packaged regional treats or small gifts as thoughtful tokens of appreciation.

Don’t forget to take advantage of tax-free shopping opportunities for international visitors. Look for stores displaying a “Tax Free” sign and present your passport at the time of purchase to receive a tax refund.

Remember to check import regulations and restrictions in your home country for any items you plan to purchase, especially for food products and antiques.

Whether you’re seeking the latest trends, traditional crafts, or unique local products, shopping in Japan offers a delightful mix of modernity and tradition, making it a memorable part of your travel experience.

Language Basics

While traveling in Japan, having a basic understanding of the Japanese language can greatly enhance your experience and communication with locals. Here are some language basics to help you navigate your way:

  • Greetings: Saying “Konnichiwa” (hello) or “Ohayou gozaimasu” (good morning) is a polite way to greet someone. “Arigatou gozaimasu” (thank you) is a common expression to show gratitude.
  • Excuse Me: When trying to get someone’s attention or navigating through a crowded area, saying “Sumimasen” or “Sumimasen desu” (excuse me) is polite and effective.
  • Numbers: Learning numbers can be useful for shopping, ordering food, or asking for directions. Start with basic numbers like ichi (one), ni (two), san (three) and so on.
  • Basic Phrases: Knowing phrases like “Eigo ga hanasemasu ka?” (Do you speak English?) and “Wakarimasen” (I don’t understand) can be helpful when seeking assistance or clarification.
  • Restaurant Etiquette: When dining out, saying “Osusume wa nan desu ka?” (What do you recommend?) can help you discover local specialties. Learning food-related words like sushi, ramen, or tempura can make ordering easier.
  • Directions: Familiarize yourself with words like “migi” (right), “hidari” (left), “mae” (front), “ushiro” (behind), and “itsu desu ka” (when is it?). These will assist you in asking for directions or locating landmarks.
  • Polite Phrases: Adding “san” as a suffix after someone’s name (e.g., Tanaka-san) is a polite way to address them. “Sumimasen, ___ o onegaishimasu” (Excuse me, please give me ___) is a polite way to make requests.

While English is spoken in many tourist areas, making an effort to speak basic Japanese phrases is appreciated and can enhance your interactions with locals. Japanese people are generally patient and understanding, so don’t be afraid to try.

Carrying a travel phrasebook or using translation apps can be useful for more complex conversations or when faced with language barriers. It’s also helpful to have the name and address of your hotel written in Japanese characters to show taxi drivers or ask for directions.

Remember to approach conversations with a polite and respectful demeanor. The word “kudasai” (please) can be added to requests for a more courteous tone, such as “Toire wa doko desu ka, onegaishimasu?” (Where is the restroom, please?).

Embrace the opportunity to learn and use basic Japanese phrases, as it shows respect for the local culture and can lead to memorable and meaningful interactions with the people you meet.

Helpful Apps and Websites

Technology can greatly enhance your travel experience in Japan, providing valuable information, navigation assistance, and language translation. Here are some helpful apps and websites to make your trip smoother:

  • Google Maps: This widely-used mapping app is invaluable for navigating Japanese cities and finding directions to your desired destinations. It provides real-time transportation options, walking directions, and estimated travel times.
  • Japan Official Travel App: Developed by the Japan National Tourism Organization, this app offers comprehensive information on local attractions, transportation, and events. It also provides helpful travel tips and suggestions for each region.
  • HyperDia: For navigating Japan’s extensive train and public transportation system, HyperDia is an essential app. It provides train schedules, routes, and fare information to help you plan your journeys efficiently.
  • Google Translate: Language translation is made easier with the Google Translate app. It can translate written text, speech, and even images, helping you communicate and understand signs, menus, and other important information.
  • TripAdvisor: This popular travel website and app offers user-generated reviews and recommendations for hotels, restaurants, attractions, and more. It can help you discover hidden gems and make informed decisions during your trip.
  • Tabelog: Known as “Japan’s Yelp,” Tabelog is a website and app that provides user reviews and ratings of restaurants in Japan. It’s a valuable resource for finding local dining options and discovering popular dishes.
  • JR East Train Info: If you’ll be traveling around the eastern region of Japan using JR trains, the JR East Train Info app is a convenient resource. It offers train schedules, fares, and platform information, ensuring a smooth train journey.
  • JNTO Official Travel Guide: The Japan National Tourism Organization’s website (japan.travel) is a wealth of information for planning your trip. It provides in-depth resources on destinations, attractions, culture, events, and transportation.
  • Yomiwa: For those learning Japanese or needing assistance with reading signs and menus, Yomiwa is a handy app that can recognize and translate Japanese characters using your smartphone’s camera.

Before your trip, it’s useful to download these apps and ensure you have access to reliable internet connectivity. Many of these apps also offer offline functionalities, allowing you to access information even without an active internet connection.

In addition to apps, websites like Japan-Guide.com and local tourism board websites provide valuable insights, travel tips, and itineraries to help you plan your journey.

Embrace the convenience of these apps and websites to optimize your itinerary, stay connected, and make the most of your time exploring the beauty and culture of Japan.

Budgeting Tips

Traveling to Japan can be an amazing experience, but it’s important to plan your budget wisely to make the most of your trip. Here are some budgeting tips to help you navigate your expenses and make your money go further:

  • Research and Plan: Before your trip, research the average costs of accommodation, transportation, meals, and attractions in the areas you plan to visit. This will give you an idea of how much to budget for each aspect of your trip.
  • Time Your Visit: Consider visiting Japan during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) when prices for flights and accommodations tend to be more affordable. Avoid peak travel periods, festivals, and public holidays when prices may be higher.
  • Transportation Passes: Look into transportation passes like the Japan Rail Pass or regional passes that offer unlimited travel on trains, buses, and subways. These can provide cost savings, especially if you plan to do a lot of traveling within a specific region or across multiple cities.
  • Eat Like a Local: While Japan offers a wide range of dining options, including high-end restaurants, you can still enjoy delicious and affordable meals. Look for local eateries, food stalls, and set menu options (teishoku) that offer good value for money. Convenience stores (konbini) also offer a variety of affordable and tasty food options.
  • Stay in Budget Accommodations: Consider staying in budget-friendly accommodations like hostels, guesthouses, or capsule hotels, which provide basic amenities at a lower cost. You can also save money by booking accommodations in advance or taking advantage of last-minute deals.
  • Free Attractions: Japan offers many attractions and experiences that are free or have minimal entrance fees. Enjoy exploring city parks, visiting shrines and temples, attending local festivals, and taking in the natural beauty of public spaces.
  • Tax-Free Shopping: Look for stores that offer tax-free shopping for international visitors. Keep your receipts to claim tax refunds at the airport before you depart Japan. This can give you some extra savings on your purchases.
  • Souvenir Shopping: Set a budget for souvenirs and consider shopping at local markets, street stalls, or discount stores. Look for unique and affordable items like traditional snacks, stationery, keychains, or handmade crafts.
  • Plan and Prioritize: Make a list of the attractions and experiences you don’t want to miss and allocate your budget accordingly. Prioritize spending on your must-see sights and allocate a separate budget for other discretionary expenses.

Don’t forget to keep track of your expenses throughout your trip and make adjustments if necessary. Consider using a budgeting app or keeping a travel expense journal to help you stay organized.

By carefully managing your budget and making conscious choices, you can enjoy a rewarding and affordable trip to Japan without compromising on experiencing the beauty and culture of the country.

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IMAGES

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COMMENTS

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  2. Packing List For Japan 2024

    See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan. Buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Kansai International Airport (for Osaka and Kyoto) or Tokyo's Narita Airport. Or rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router. Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals.

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  4. Japan Packing List: 50+ Things You Can't Forget (+FREE checklist)

    Whichever you choose, you must set it up before your trip, so don't forget about it when you're packing. 11. Virtual Suica, ICOCA, or Pasmo card. Suica, ICOCA, and Pasmo are all public transit cards in Japan. These work on the Tokyo subway and bus systems as well as in many big cities around Japan.

  5. Comprehensive Japan Travel Checklist for First Time Visitors

    Essential Japan Travel Checklist. Order your Japan Rail pass. Plan what to wear in Japan. Create a list of what to take to Japan. Book local tours for a more authentic experience. Purchase advance tickets to Japan's popular attractions. Buy travel insurance before you leave for Japan. Read up on Japan travel etiquette.

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    But the packing list for travelers visiting Japan is unique. At most basic level, two (2) things will dictate what you will pack for your trip: 1) Where in Japan you are traveling and 2) The weather you'd expect during your stay. Once this is determined, it will make packing lighter and much more manageable.

  7. The Ultimate Packing Checklist: 9 Essentials to Bring for Your Japan Trip

    1. Japan Is a Cash-Based Society, So Bring Some Cash! Barring convenience stores and large commercial facilities, stores and restaurants in Japan typically do not accept any other form of payment except for cash, so it is essential that you carry some when travelling in the country. It might seem risky in your home country to carry lots of cash ...

  8. Expert Tips for Your Japan Packing List

    Here is your 8-step Japan travel checklist: Bring shoes that are easy to slip on and off; Pack as lightly as possible; Use takuhaibin, Japan's luggage-forwarding service; ... Travel adapter: Most of Japan's electrical outlets are 2-pronged "Type A" (100 Volt, 50-60 Hz), ...

  9. The Only Japan Packing List You'll Ever Need

    The Ultimate Japan Packing List and Travel Checklist. Keeping the above considerations in mind, here's a detailed Japan packing list: Japan Travel Essentials. Remember all your basic everyday items, such as your travel documents, ID, wallet, and money. Passport (be sure it has 6 months or more left before it expires)

  10. Japan Packing List: Essential Things To Pack For Japan

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  11. Ultimate Japan Travel Checklist: What to Bring, Buy, and Book

    To help you prepare and to help make your trip memorable and as hassle-free as international travel can be, we've put together the ultimate Japan travel checklist. While there are a few things to keep on top of, after a bit of preparation, all that's left to do is explore the beauty of Japan and what it has to offer.

  12. Japan Travel Checklist for Planning Japanese Trips & Travel

    Pre-Book Your Accommodation in Japan. Japan Holiday Times - book well in advance. 8. Write Down your Hotel Addresses in Japanese. 9. Plan how you will get from the airport to your hotel. 10. Buy a JR Pass for Travel in Japan. 11.

  13. Ultimate Checklist for your Trip to Japan

    If I was in your shoes and lucky enough to be heading off for Japan soon, this would be my checklist. Next stop, Japan! Trip and Transport Information. When packing, often the things that get most overlooked and undervalued are the documents and items that allow you to travel in the first place. That makes them the best place to start with your ...

  14. JAPAN: A PRE-TRAVEL CHECKLIST

    JAPAN: A PRE-TRAVEL CHECKLIST. Here is a little little list to check off before travelling, or even while beginning to plan your trip, to Japan. I really hopes this Japan Pre-Travel Checklist of mine helps new and frequent travellers. If you like pre-travel checklists like this - I think that you will also love my blog post where I tell you ...

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    Special Entry Requirements: Check the latest requirements for entry due to Covid and/or any other reason through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan. Travel Insurance: Consider getting travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.; Flights: Book your flights well in advance to get the best deals.Keep electronic or physical copies of your tickets.

  16. The Ultimate Japan travel Checklist & japan packing list

    Before Going To japan travel checklist. Get passport with 6+ months validity. Buy Japan Rail Pass 1 month before voucher and exchange orders. Reserve pocket WiFi or SIM/ Esim card for pickup. Purchase your Suica/Pasmo card for pickup at the airport. Order yen cash from bank or currency exchange.

  17. Essential Japan Travel Checklist for First Time Visitors

    Travel Documents. Passport (and visa if needed) Japan Rail Pass exchange voucher. Contact information of your accommodation. Car rental and local airport reservations. International driving permit if you rent a car. A color photocopy of your passport and visa.

  18. PDF Japan Travel Checklist

    Japan Travel Checklist. JAPAN 7caDd C/tecétut Passport and Visa: Ensure they are valid for the duration of your stay. Travel Insurance: It's crucial for unforeseen circumstances. Flight and Accommodation: Book everything and keep these easily accessible. Payment Methods: Local currency and credit cards. Power Adapter: Japan uses Type A and B ...

  19. What to Pack for Japan? 19 Things You Haven't Thought Of

    This guide to what to pack for Japan will cover…. What to pack for Japan: Travel essentials. Japan Rail Pass. Suica Card. Visa & Visit Japan Web Service. Passport Wallet. Printouts of pre-booked activities. Wifi device or SIM card. Packing cubes.

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    This travel checklist will guide you through the key aspects of planning your Japanese trip, ensuring that you have a seamless and memorable experience. Whether you're visiting Japan for the first time or returning for another adventure, this checklist will assist you in navigating crucial aspects such as visa requirements, travel insurance ...

  21. Japan Winter Travel Checklist

    This is your must-have packing list for a 7-10 day trip to Japan. From the essentials, gear, clothing (winter), tech, to medicines list. ... Guides Asia Japan Packinglist Travel Checklist. RC. Travel digital creator and maker. I share my travel experiences as visual itineraries and guides, complete with maps, tips and recommendations. ...