What to Pack & Prepare for Your Japan Trip

Your passport needs at least 6 months of remaining validity at entry. Check this before booking flights—Japan's immigration system flags passports with less than 6 months remaining.

Document	Required?	What You Need to Know
Passport	Mandatory	Must be valid 6+ months beyond entry date
Visa	Depends on nationality	Check visa requirements. Many countries get 90-day visa waiver.
Flight confirmation	Mandatory	Return or onward ticket required to enter Japan
Accommodation details	Required for landing card	First night address sufficient
Travel insurance	Strongly recommended	Medical costs are steep. Bring both digital and printed copies.
JR Pass voucher	If pre-purchased	Exchange for actual Japan Rail Pass at JR office after arrival

Visit Japan Web: This online system lets you complete immigration and customs procedures before arrival. It's optional but highly recommended—most airlines no longer distribute paper forms, and the QR code system moves you through airport processing significantly faster. Register at least a day before departure.

Travel insurance isn't optional. Medical care costs are steep for visitors, and evacuation can exceed $50,000. Insurance also covers trip cancellations and lost baggage.

You need connectivity in Japan. Google Maps, translation tools, and transit apps are essential for navigation. Three options exist: eSIM, physical SIM card, or pocket WiFi—each with different setup complexity and cost curves depending on trip length.

Choose based on your situation:

Option	Best For	Cost (7 days)	Setup	Data	Key Advantage	Key Disadvantage
eSIM	Solo travelers, modern phones	¥1,500-¥3,500	Instant QR code activation	3-20GB, some unlimited with throttling	No physical pickup/return	Phone must be unlocked & eSIM-compatible
Physical SIM	Older smartphones	¥2,000-¥4,000	Remove home SIM, insert Japan SIM	3-20GB	Works on older devices	Risk losing home SIM card
Pocket WiFi	Families, groups, multiple devices	¥4,000-¥8,500	Turn on & connect via WiFi	Unlimited (no daily caps)	Connects 5-10 devices	Extra device to carry/charge, airport return required

Check if your phone is unlocked before choosing SIM or eSIM. Pocket WiFi works regardless of lock status.

Japan isn't cashless. Despite modernization, cash remains essential for daily activities.

Payment Type	Where It Works	Why
Cash only	Small restaurants, izakayas, temples/shrines, local shops, street vendors, some taxis, traditional accommodations	Systems too small for card processing, or prefer cash tradition
Cards accepted	Major hotels, department stores, chain restaurants (McDonald's, Starbucks), convenience stores	Modern POS systems, corporate infrastructure
IC cards (Suica/PASMO)	Trains, vending machines, convenience stores, some taxis	Prepaid rechargeable cards—not credit cards, loaded with cash

Getting cash: Convenience store ATMs accept foreign cards 24/7. Most reliable option.

ATM fees:

ATM Location	Fee per Transaction
7-Eleven/Seven Bank	¥0 (Mastercard) / ¥110-¥220 (Visa)
Japan Post/FamilyMart	¥110-¥220
Lawson	¥110

Your home bank may charge additional international withdrawal fees.

Daily cash needs by travel style:

Travel Style	Daily Cash Amount	What It Covers
Budget	¥5,000-¥8,000	Ramen meals, convenience store food, local restaurants, temple admissions, basic transportation top-ups
Mid-range	¥10,000-¥15,000	Sit-down restaurant meals, izakaya dinners, taxis, shopping, attraction tickets, guided experiences
Comfort	¥20,000+	Multiple restaurants daily, frequent taxis, premium experiences, impulse shopping, cushion for emergencies

IC cards (Suica/PASMO): Load these rechargeable cards with cash for trains, vending machines, and convenience store purchases. Not a replacement for cash, but reduces how often you need bills.

Exchange currency before arriving or at the airport. Bring small denominations—many places struggle to break ¥10,000 notes.

Japan's weather extremes demand strategic packing. Temperature isn't the only factor—humidity and indoor/outdoor gaps matter more.

Season	Temperature	Key Challenge	What to Pack
Spring (Mar-May)	10-25°C	Morning/afternoon temp swings, increasing rain	Light jacket, long sleeves, compact umbrella, walking shoes
Summer (Jun-Aug)	22-32°C	70-80% humidity, rainy season (early Jun-mid Jul), indoor AC blasts	Lightweight breathable clothes, sunhat, sunscreen, umbrella, extra shirts, bug spray
Autumn (Sep-Nov)	10-26°C	Typhoon season (Sep peak), cooling temperatures	Light sweater/fleece, windbreaker, scarf, umbrella
Winter (Dec-Feb)	2-12°C (Tokyo)	Regional extremes (Hokkaido freezing, Okinawa warm), heated indoors	Warm coat, heat-tech layers, gloves, beanie (for Tokyo; check destination)

Summer humidity is the real challenge—70-80% makes 28°C feel oppressive. After the rainy season (June 7-July 19 in Tokyo), extreme heat continues through August. Indoor spaces blast AC, creating 10°C+ temperature swings between outside and inside.

Summer packing is tactical, not just about clothing. The summer in Japan guide covers cooling tools locals actually use (portable fans, gel sheets, UV umbrellas), regional escape options, and how to structure days around heat avoidance.

Regional differences are extreme in winter: Tokyo stays mild (2-12°C), Hokkaido drops below freezing with heavy snow, Okinawa remains warm (15-20°C). Check your specific destination.

Footwear matters: Expect 15,000-20,000 steps daily. Comfort trumps style. Bring slip-on shoes—temples, traditional restaurants, and some accommodations require shoe removal. Lace-up shoes become tedious when visiting multiple temples.

Japan uses 100V electricity with Type A/B plugs (same as US, different from Europe/UK/Australia).

What you need: Modern devices (phones, laptops, tablets) handle 100V automatically—check your charger's label for "100-240V" input range.

Older devices (hair dryers, curling irons) may not support 100V and could malfunction or overheat.

Plug adapter requirements by region:

Your Region	Japan Uses	Adapter Needed?	Notes
US/Canada/Taiwan	Type A/B (same as yours)	No	Plugs fit directly
Europe	Type A/B	Yes	Bring Type C/E/F → Type A/B adapter
UK/Ireland	Type A/B	Yes	Bring Type G → Type A/B adapter
Australia/New Zealand	Type A/B	Yes	Bring Type I → Type A/B adapter
Universal	Type A/B	Works but unnecessary	Single-country adapters are cheaper/smaller

Portable battery: Essential. Public charging stations barely exist in Japan. Long days of walking, navigation, photos, and translation drain batteries fast. Bring a 10,000mAh+ portable battery.

Hotels and cafes provide USB charging ports if you forget adapters.

Japan customs enforces strict import rules. Violations result in confiscation, fines, or entry denial.

Item Category	Specific Examples	Consequence if Found
Meat products	Raw meat, cooked meat, jerky, sausages, canned meat	Immediate confiscation, possible fine
Fresh produce	Fruits, vegetables, plants, seeds	Immediate confiscation
Prohibited medications	Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed, Actifed), amphetamines (Adderall, Vyvanse), codeine (above limits), all cannabis/CBD	Confiscation + possible arrest + entry denial
Counterfeit goods	Fake designer items, pirated media	Confiscation, fines up to ¥10,000,000, possible prosecution
Endangered species products	Ivory, certain leather goods, protected wildlife items	Confiscation, heavy fines, criminal penalties

Critical medication note: Valid prescriptions don't matter in Japan. If a medication is prohibited, customs will confiscate it and you risk arrest. Check Japan Customs website before packing any prescription medication.

Medication quantity limits:

Medication Type	Maximum Quantity Allowed	Import Certificate Required?
Prescription medications	1 month supply	No (within limit)
Over-the-counter medications	2 months supply	No (within limit)
Vitamins/supplements	4 months supply	No (within limit)

Exceeding these limits requires a Yunyu Kakunin-sho (import certificate) obtained 2-5 weeks in advance from Japanese health authorities.

Bring medications in original packaging with prescriptions or doctor's letters in English.

Duty-free limits:

Item	Non-Residents	Residents	Age Restriction
Alcohol	3 bottles (760ml each)	3 bottles (760ml each)	20+ only
Tobacco	400 cigarettes OR 100 cigars OR 500g tobaccoPLUS 200 Japanese cigarettes	200 cigarettes OR 50 cigars OR 250g tobaccoPLUS 200 Japanese cigarettes	20+ only
Other goods	¥200,000 total market value	¥200,000 total market value	All ages

Declare items exceeding these limits on your customs form. Failure to declare results in penalties.

Download these before departure—airport WiFi is crowded and slow.

Category	App	Key Feature	Why You Need It
Navigation	Google Maps	Download offline maps, real-time transit directions with platforms	Essential for getting anywhere
	NAVITIME or Japan Official Travel App	Japan-specific transit schedules	Backup when Google Maps fails
Translation	Google Translate	Camera feature scans menus/signs in real-time	Menu reading, sign translation
	Offline phrasebook (printed card)	Basic phrases without internet	Backup when connectivity fails
Communication	LINE	Japan's dominant messaging app	Some businesses only communicate via LINE
Utilities	Currency converter (XE)	Real-time exchange rates	Track spending in home currency
	Safety Tips Japan	Emergency alerts, disaster info	Critical for earthquakes/typhoons
Optional	Tabelog	Restaurant discovery	For advanced travelers who read Japanese

Even with all these tools downloaded, first-time visitors often find Tokyo's transit system overwhelming. Station signs, platform changes, and rush hour navigation create decision fatigue. Some travelers prefer to experience Tokyo without the navigation burden, letting a guide handle logistics while they focus on experiencing the city.

Certain behaviors cause real problems or embarrassment in Japan. These aren't optional cultural niceties.

Tipping: Don't tip. Ever. Tipping in Japan offends service workers and suggests their wages are insufficient. Servers will chase you down to return "forgotten" money. This includes restaurants, taxis, hotels, and guides.

Situation	Rule	Why It Matters
Trains (local)	Stay quiet. No phone calls. Whisper conversations. Priority seating for elderly/pregnant/disabled only.	Noise = social violation. Will get stares/confrontation.
Trains (eating)	No food/drink except water on local trains. Shinkansen allows eating.	Local trains are commuter spaces. Food smells = rude.
Escalators	Stand left (Tokyo), stand right (Osaka/Kansai)	Blocking the walking side causes congestion.
Shoe removal	Remove at temples, ryokan, traditional restaurants, homes. Look for genkan (entrance shoe racks).	Wearing outdoor shoes inside = extreme disrespect.
Queueing	Never cut lines. Never crowd forward. Wait your turn.	Line cutting = aggressive social violation.
Eating while walking	Generally frowned upon. OK at festivals, tourist areas (Asakusa), some shopping streets. When unsure, stop to eat.	Residential areas/trains = not acceptable. Can draw confrontation.
Trash disposal	Carry trash until you find bins (convenience stores have them outside).	Public bins barely exist. Littering = serious offense.
Onsen	Most ban tattoos (some allow small ones with patches). Wash before entering. Never put towel in water. Never bring soap to soaking area.	Tattoos = yakuza association. Not washing first = contaminating bath.
Chopsticks	Never stick upright in rice (funeral symbolism). Never pass food chopstick-to-chopstick (funeral ritual). Rest on holder/plate edge.	Death symbolism = extremely offensive.

Even with preparation, navigating cultural expectations in real-time can feel stressful. Many first-time visitors find that a private guide provides real-time cultural context that makes cultural differences feel manageable rather than intimidating.

Japan provides many items better than you can pack them.

Item Category	What Japan Provides	What You Should Bring
Toiletries	Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothbrush, toothpaste (most hotels)	Prescription medications (full supply), preferred brands, specialty items
Laundry	Coin laundry (¥300-¥500/load), many hotels have machines	Nothing—wash as you go
Water/drinks	Vending machines everywhere	Nothing—don't carry bottles all day
Umbrellas	¥500 at any convenience store	Optional—easy to buy if forgotten
Basic needs	24/7 convenience stores (toiletries, snacks, phone chargers, OTC meds)	Specialty items not available
Luggage	Takkyubin and other luggage solutions (¥2,000-¥3,000/bag, next-day)	Small mobile bag for train travel

Critical exceptions:

• Prescription medications: Require Japanese doctor in Japan. Bring full supply.

• OTC medications: Available but different formulations/dosages than Western versions.

• Accommodation variation: Business hotels and Western chains provide standard amenities. Check ahead for hostels/Airbnbs.

Hiking (Mt. Fuji, Kumano Kodo, Day Hikes)

Item	Why
Waterproof hiking boots (broken in)	Trails get muddy and rocky. New boots = blisters.
Rain jacket + pants	Mountain weather changes fast. Afternoon rain is common.
Layers (not cotton)	Summits are 10-15°C colder than trailheads. Merino or synthetic only.
Headlamp	Mt. Fuji sunrise climbs start at night. Essential.
Trekking poles	Optional but helpful on steep descents. Can rent at Fuji trailheads.
Snacks and water	Mountain huts sell food at premium prices (¥500+ for a bottle).

Business Trips

Item	Why
Dark suit (navy or charcoal)	Japanese business dress is conservative. Black suits read as funeral attire.
Multiple white shirts	Sweat happens, especially summer. One per day minimum.
Dress shoes that slip on/off	Building lobbies often require shoe changes. Laces slow you down.
Business cards (100+)	Exchanged at every meeting. Running out is embarrassing.
Meishi holder	Never put cards in back pocket or write on them. Dedicated case required.

Temple and Shrine Visits

Item	Why
Slip-on shoes	You'll remove shoes repeatedly. Laces become tedious.
Socks without holes	You'll be barefoot or in socks on temple floors. Holes are embarrassing.
Modest clothing	Shoulders and knees covered for major temples. Not strictly enforced but respectful.
Small bag for shoes	Some temples provide bags; some don't. Carrying your shoes happens.
¥100 and ¥5 coins	Offerings use these denominations. ¥5 (go-en) sounds like "good connection."

Beyond customs restrictions, these items waste space or cause problems:

Item	Why to Leave It
Full-size toiletries	Hotels provide them. Convenience stores sell everything else cheap.
Multiple guidebooks	Phone apps do more. One physical book maximum if you must.
Formal evening wear	Japan is casual after work. Even nice restaurants don't require jackets.
Bulky towels	Hotels provide them. Travel towels are unnecessary weight.
Too many shoes	Two pairs maximum: walking shoes and one other.
Laptop (for tourism)	Phone handles everything. Laptops add weight without benefit.
"Just in case" clothes	Japan has Uniqlo, convenience stores, and 100-yen shops. Buy if needed.
Jewelry/valuables	Japan is safe, but why risk it? Leave expensive items home.
International plug converter (if US)	Your plugs fit directly. Everyone else needs adapters, not you.
Voltage converter	Modern electronics handle 100V. Check your charger label.

Airlines (International to Japan)

Most airlines flying to Japan follow similar baggage rules, but check your specific carrier.

Airline	Checked Bag Weight Limit	Checked Bag Size Limit	Carry-On Weight	Carry-On Size
JAL	23 kg (50 lbs) per bag	203 cm total dimensions	10 kg (22 lbs)	55×40×25 cm
ANA	23 kg (50 lbs) per bag	158 cm total dimensions	10 kg (22 lbs)	55×40×25 cm
US carriers	Typically 23 kg (50 lbs)	Typically 158 cm	Varies	Varies
European carriers	Typically 23 kg (50 lbs)	Typically 158 cm	Often 7-10 kg	Varies

Notes:

• Number of free checked bags depends on your ticket class and route—check your booking
• Overweight bags (23-32 kg) incur fees of ¥6,000-¥10,000+ per bag
• Sports equipment (skis, golf bags) often allowed up to 32 kg on JAL
• JAL enforces the 23 kg limit strictly at check-in

Shinkansen (Bullet Trains)

The shinkansen has specific luggage rules that catch travelers off guard.

Bag Size (Total Dimensions)	Rule	What to Do
Under 160 cm	No reservation needed	Store in overhead rack, behind seat, or at your feet
160-250 cm	Must reserve "Seat with Oversized Baggage Area"	Book when purchasing ticket (no extra charge for baggage)
Over 250 cm or 60 kg	Not permitted	Use luggage forwarding service

How to measure: Add length + width + height. A typical large suitcase (75×50×30 cm = 155 cm) fits under the limit. Extra-large suitcases (80×55×35 cm = 170 cm) require the oversized baggage reservation.

If you forget to reserve: ¥1,000 fee charged on board, and you must store in designated area if space available. During peak travel, you may be refused boarding.

Exempt items: Sports equipment (skis, surfboards), musical instruments, and wheelchairs don't require reservation even if over 160 cm—but must stay under 250 cm/60 kg.

Local Trains and Buses

Transport	Practical Limit	Reality
Local trains	No official limit	Rush hour (7-9am, 5-7pm) with large luggage is miserable. Narrow aisles, packed cars, stairs.
Airport express (Narita/Haneda)	Designed for luggage	Dedicated luggage areas. No issues with large bags.
Highway buses	Usually 1 large bag + 1 carry-on	Cargo hold for large bags. Keep valuables with you.
City buses	Not luggage-friendly	Avoid with anything larger than a daypack.

The Japan Solution: Luggage Forwarding

Large luggage and Japan's trains don't mix well. The local solution: Takkyubin (luggage forwarding).

• Cost: ¥2,000-3,000 per bag
• Speed: Next-day delivery between most destinations
• How: Drop off at hotel front desk, convenience store, or train station counter
• Services: Yamato (black cat logo), Sagawa, Japan Post

Send your large bag from Tokyo hotel to Kyoto hotel. Travel with just a daypack. Bag arrives next day. This is how Japanese travelers manage—and why you see so few people wrestling suitcases through train stations.

For detailed storage options, see our Tokyo luggage storage guide.

Mistake	Why It's a Problem	Consequence
Over-packing	Hotel rooms are 10-15m², train luggage storage limited	Suitcase won't fit in room, train travel becomes burden
Large wheeled suitcase	Train stations have stairs without elevators, narrow escalators, rush hour crowds	Physical struggle, delays, frustrated locals
No bag for shoes	Temples require removing/carrying shoes	Awkward carrying or damaged shoes
Only ¥10,000 notes	Small shops and vending machines can't break large bills	Unable to make purchases, declined transactions
Wrong regional coat	"Winter" varies: Tokyo (2-12°C) vs Hokkaido (below freezing) vs Okinawa (15-20°C)	Uncomfortable, need emergency purchases
Wrong voltage electronics	Older hair tools may not support Japan's 100V	Device malfunction, overheating, ruined appliance
No cash backup	Many places don't accept cards	Unable to eat, enter temples, use taxis
No portable battery	Public charging doesn't exist, long days drain batteries	Dead phone by afternoon, lost navigation/translation

Japan rewards preparation, but the preparation itself can feel like work. For travelers who want to experience Japan without extensive planning, private tours handle connectivity, navigation, and cultural context so you arrive with just the essentials.

This guide is published by Hinomaru One, a Tokyo-based private tour operator.