Ready for your big trip to Japan? Maybe you already have the whole schedule planned, but what about what you’re packing into your suitcases?
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Japan is one of those destinations many dream of visiting. Such a faraway country with a culture so radically different from the Occidental travelers. Those differences are what make Japan a unique trip, but make it a bit more difficult to make your packing list. What clothes should I wear? Is it okay if my belly is peaking out in this T-shirt? What documentation do I need to have with me? It’s normal to ask yourself all those questions, but don’t worry. We’ve prepared a full list with all the items you might need.
Special considerations for your packing list for Japan
- Pack shoes that are easy to take off: You might already know it, but Japanese people are really strict about not taking the outdoor shoes indoors. This applies in places like temples, shrines, traditional ryokan inns, and some restaurants.
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Bring your smaller bags: Japanese culture puts a lot of thought and effort into being considerate while in public, and bulky bags can be quite a hassle to have around, especially if you’re moving on the metro system.
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Keep small trash bags: It might seem contradictory that in such a clean country, it can be so hard to find a trash bin. Of course, you can’t just toss it in the streets, so you’ll be carrying it with you. Tote bags can also be a lot of help if you’re out shopping, since in Japan is hard to find disposable shopping bags.
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Bring small gifts and souvenirs: This is essential, especially if you’re visiting family or friends in Japan. Japanese people have a very strong culture of gift giving, and it is considered rude to visit someone’s home empty-handed. It doesn’t have to be much, snacks, magnets, and postcards from your city are perfectly fine, but try to pack them beautifully.
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Pack light and smart: This is essential if you’re moving from one place to another in Japan. Japanese trains don’t have much luggage space, so carrying a giant suitcase it’s going to be a total hassle.
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Bring your own makeup: Essential if you’re a dark skinned person. Many brands in Japan won’t have your skin color in mind, so if you forgot something, you’ll have to do without it.
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Bring a laundry kit: This way, you can pack half of the clothes and still have clean underwear throughout your travel. You should also choose neutral colors for the clothes, that way you have more combinations with fewer items.
Essential Items to Bring for your trip to Japan
Documents
You need to have your passport, of course, and your visa up to date if it applies. Check the policies before you travel, but most countries offer a visa-free entry for 90 days. You’ll need the confirmation of your flight; it works if you have it digitally, but just in case, is a good idea to have a printed copy. This also applies to your hotel reservations, car rental, and any prepaid attraction or tour. If you’re planning on using the public transport system a lot, you should consider buying the Japan Rail Pass, and if you’re renting a car, bring your International Driver’s Permit with you.
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Money
A very important item on your list. While you’re in the bigger cities, you can use your card for almost everything, especially if it’s a Visa or Mastercard. But if you’re going a bit more off the grid, you better change some of your dollars into yen and keep them in cash. In small restaurants, temples, and rural areas, you are expected to pay in cash. You can do the exchange in the airport right when you arrive, but you can also use the 7-Eleven ATMs for convenience.
Important Electronics
You’ll need your smartphone, of course, with its charger. If you use your phone a lot and don’t want the risk of its battery running out, then pack a portable power bank as well. Now that you have your phone in your hand, it’s a good idea to download a translation app and try to choose one that can work even offline. If you come from a country that doesn’t use Type A/B plugs, 100V, you should find and pack a universal travel adapter.
You can also add your headphones to your electronics list; bonus points if they’re noise canceling. Remember that in Japanese culture, the public spaces tend to be quiet, and making any kind of noise on train rides is frowned upon. If you’re planning to visit many landscapes and have a bit of a professional interest in photography, you should also bring your camera.
And finally, the last—but definitely not least—of all the electronics and gadgets you’ll need for your Japan trip. Technically, you don’t have to pack it, since it doesn’t even exist in physical form, but you’ll still need an eSIM. With Yoho Mobile, you can skip the high roaming fees and the hassle of tracking down a SIM card after you land.
Even better? Yoho Mobile’s latest promotion lets you grab a free eSIM for Japan, so you can test their service without any extra costs during your travels. Just activate it before you go or once you land, and you’re good to go.
Oh, and just for reading this article, you get 12% off your next purchase with coupon code YOHO12, no matter where you’re traveling in the world. Not bad for a few clicks.
Clothing
The clothes you’ll need to pack for your travel to Japan will depend heavily on the season you’re going to. Japan has a very marked difference between seasons, with extremely cold and snowy winters, and hot, humid summers.
What to pack for the Summer
The summer in Japan can be harsh. It’s really humid and hot, so you’d better pack lightweight and breathable clothes. You can wear shorts and tank tops, but do not visit temples or Japanese homes in them. Opt for more modest clothing if you don’t want to be seen as a rude tourist. Don’t forget your hat and sunglasses. The sun can be quite strong, so a UV-protective umbrella or sunshade can be incredibly useful, and if you’re planning to do lots of walking outdoors, a portable fan and cooling wipes will make a huge difference.
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What to pack for the Winter
As much as the summer is hot, the winters in Japan can be cold. It’s a beautiful season, with the whole landscape covered in snow, but you’d better be prepared if you want to enjoy it fully. Try to pack clothes that will keep you warm but are versatile. Choose layers over bulky clothes so you can adjust easily. Thermal layers and underwear are a great idea, and you can add a warm coat or a jacket. Remember to pack the good socks and add your waterproof shoes or boots. Finally, you can pack your accessories. Don’t underestimate how much your hat, gloves, and scarves can help you stay warm without taking up all the space in your suitcase.
What to pack for the Spring and Autumn
These are probably the best seasons to visit Japan. The weather is a lot milder and the temperatures aren’t as extreme. Packing layers is still a good idea, since some days can be a bit chillier than others. In general, stay with comfortable and breathable clothes, but be prepared for sunny days as much as for rainy days.
Toiletries
If you’re a seasoned traveler, you already know what to add here, and you probably even have a small pouch with everything sorted out. Just keep it simple and add only the essentials. Your toothbrush and toothpaste, shampoo and conditioner, a bar of soap, your shaving kit, and some travel tissues and hand sanitizer. Don’t forget the deodorant, since this will be hard to find in Japan. You can also add your favorite moisturizer and lip balm, as well as your sunscreen.
Finally, you should also add a small first-aid kit. Nothing fancy, just the bare minimum. Remember to include any medication you need to take, best if it’s on its original packaging and with a doctor’s note.
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