Essential Japan Travel Guide: What to Bring on Your Trip (2024 Edition)
Planning a trip to Japan? Here's a list of essential items to bring for a smoother, more enjoyable experience.
Contents
Travel Essentials: What to Bring to Japan
Transportation Essentials
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JR Rail Pass
A must-have for unlimited train travel, including shinkansen (bullet trains). Purchase it before arriving in Japan as it’s not available locally. If you plan to visit multiple cities, the pass pays for itself quickly. -
Pocket Wi-Fi Router
Free Wi-Fi is limited in Japan, so renting a pocket Wi-Fi device ensures reliable internet access. These can be reserved in advance and picked up at the airport. -
International Driver’s Permit
Required for renting vehicles or participating in activities like go-kart tours in cities. Even if you don’t plan to drive, it’s handy for unique experiences. -
Download the GoTaxi App
While public transportation in Japan is excellent, downloading ride-hailing apps like GoTaxi or Uber can be a convenient backup, especially late at night or in less accessible areas. GoTaxi is widely used in Japan and connects you to local taxis, while Uber is available in select cities like Tokyo and Osaka.
Money Matters
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Cash
Japan is still a cash-centric society. Many smaller shops and restaurants don’t accept cards, so carry enough yen for daily expenses. Exchange money at banks or authorized locations in Tokyo or Osaka for the best rates. -
Compact Luggage
Trains and hotel rooms often have limited space. Use small, manageable luggage and consider carrying a daypack for excursions. Luggage forwarding services are also widely available if needed.
Clothing and Accessories
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Comfortable Walking Shoes
Exploring Japan involves a lot of walking, so pack comfortable, durable footwear. Larger sizes may be hard to find locally. -
Seasonal Essentials
- Summer: Bring mosquito repellent, sunscreen, lightweight clothing, and breathable shoes for the humid weather.
- Rainy Season: A rain jacket or umbrella is essential from mid-June to mid-July.
- Winter: Layered clothing and a good moisturizer to combat dry air from heating systems.
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Easy-to-Remove Shoes
Many indoor spaces require shoes to be removed. Slip-on shoes save time and hassle. -
Kimono-Friendly Clothing
For kimono experiences, pack a V-neck T-shirt or tank top for a smoother fit under the traditional garments.
Health and Personal Care
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Medication and Supplements
Japanese over-the-counter medicines are often milder than those in other countries. Bring any essential medications, vitamins, or supplements from home. -
Moisturizer
Air-conditioned rooms can be very dry, especially in winter. Pack a trusted moisturizer as Japanese product labels may be hard to understand. -
Dry Shampoo and Deodorant
These items are less common in Japan, so bring your preferred brands if you rely on them. -
Feminine Hygiene Products
Options in Japan might differ in size or type from what you’re accustomed to. Bring your preferred products to ensure comfort.
Food and Dietary Needs
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Diet-Specific Snacks
Gluten-free and Halal options are limited in Japan, and many soy sauces contain gluten. Bring snacks or alternatives to accommodate your diet. -
Allergy and Dietary Notes
Print out allergy or dietary restriction notes in Japanese to simplify communication in restaurants where English isn’t widely spoken.
Technology and Connectivity
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Universal Power Adapter
Japan uses 100V two-pin outlets. Travelers from the U.S. won’t need a voltage converter, but others should check their devices. -
Entertainment and Offline Tools
Download movies, books, apps, and offline maps (like Maps.Me) to make your flight and stay more enjoyable.
Extras for Convenience
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Travel Insurance
Secure travel insurance before your trip. While Japan’s healthcare is affordable, insurance ensures peace of mind. -
Travel Towel
Handy for outdoor activities, even though most hotels provide towels. -
Small Gifts from Home
Small tokens like candy or charms are appreciated by Japanese hosts, who value hospitality and gestures of thoughtfulness.
Additional Tips
- Museum Tickets: Some popular museums in Japan, especially special exhibitions or limited-time events, require tickets to be purchased in advance. Tickets for museums like the Ghibli Museum or TeamLabs are extremely hard to get and sell out quickly, so you’ll need to book them at least ONE MONTH in advance to secure your spot.
- Amazon Japan: Forgot something? Use Amazon Japan (available in English) for next-day delivery to your hotel.
- Luggage Forwarding: Lighten your load by using this convenient service to send bags ahead to your next destination.
Tips for Cultural Etiquette
Japan places a high value on politeness and respect. Understanding the cultural nuances can enhance your travel experience and help you avoid awkward situations.
1. Important Words
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Two essential Japanese phrases to know are Sumimasen (su-mi-ma-sen) and Arigatou Gozaimasu (a-ri-ga-tou go-zai-ma-su).
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Sumimasen means "Excuse me," "Pardon," or "Sorry." It's a versatile phrase often used to get someone’s attention, such as calling a server at a restaurant or asking for help when you're lost at a station. It’s also appropriate for apologizing in situations like accidentally stepping on someone’s foot or bumping into them.
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Arigatou Gozaimasu is a polite way to say "Thank you." It’s commonly used to express gratitude in formal or everyday situations.
2. Bowing and Greetings
- Bowing is a common form of greeting and showing respect. A slight bow is sufficient for casual interactions, but deeper bows are reserved for formal situations.
- When addressing someone, use “san” after their name, regardless of gender. (For example: Alex-san, Johanna-san)
2. Shoes Off Indoors
- It’s customary to remove your shoes before entering homes, traditional inns (ryokan), and some restaurants. Slippers are usually provided.
4. Public Behavior
- Avoid loud conversations on public transportation.
- Eating or drinking while walking is generally frowned upon, although it’s acceptable near vending machines or food stalls.
5. Gift Giving
- If visiting someone’s home, bring a small gift (called omiyage), such as snacks or regional specialties. Always wrap gifts neatly and present them with both hands.
6. Tipping is Not a Thing
- Tipping is neither expected nor customary in Japan. Exceptional service is considered part of the job, and leaving money on the table can be confusing. Instead, try giving some omiyage if you want to show gratitude.
Currency and Money Tips
Japan is a cash-oriented society, although credit cards are becoming more widely accepted.
1. Currency Basics
- The Japanese currency is the yen (¥). Coins come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, and 500 yen, while bills come in 1,000, 5,000, and 10,000 yen.
2. Cash is King
- Always carry cash, especially when visiting rural areas or small businesses. Convenience stores and vending machines, however, often accept contactless payments like Suica or PASMO cards.
3. Where to Exchange Money
- Exchange currency at banks, post offices, or authorized exchange counters at airports. ATMs in convenience stores like 7-Eleven, Family Mart and Lawson also accept international cards.
4. Small Change Matters
- Keep a small coin pouch for daily transactions. Many places rely on exact change, and coins are frequently used.
Japan is a destination that captivates visitors with its blend of history, culture, and modernity. By respecting its customs, preparing with the right essentials, and being mindful of practicalities like currency and transport, you’ll be set for an unforgettable journey.
Have a great trip! Or as they say in Japan, "Itterasshai!"
