What to bring to Japan
Photo by Anete Lūsiņa on Unsplash
Your pre-flight packing list
Planning a trip to Japan is an exciting endeavor, but a struggling, time-consuming process for some… Here are some important factors to consider while planning your Japan trip:
Here is your 8-step Japan travel checklist:
Visa Requirements & Travel Insurance
Begin studying basic Japanese
Pocket Wi-Fi or E-sim
Download SUICA, PASMO, ICOCA app
Ride to and from the airport
Currency and cash
Japan Rail Pass… worth it?
Have your passport with you at all times
Book accommodation and activities in advance
Pack medicine
1. Visa Requirements
Let’s get this one out of the way. Check if you need a visa to enter Japan. The visa regulations vary depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit, so it's crucial to research and apply well in advance if necessary.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellation or interruption, lost baggage, and other unforeseen circumstances. This will provide peace of mind during your trip and protect you from unexpected expenses. Anything can happen!
2. Begin studying basic Japanese
English is not widely spoken in Japan, especially your local mom and pop shops. However, most hotels at the front desk will always have an English speaking staff available. Consider learning a few basic from my list of recommended studying materials, language tools, influencers that I find helpful! (Article)
Or watch my very cringe lesson videos on my YouTube channel How to order at a restaurant in Japan This is how I got started on social media! Check out my viral video that college professors and Japanese teachers around the world use in their classrooms: Hiragana Song
3. Pocket Wi-Fi or E-sim
Where would we be without Google Maps?! I use a pocket wifi from Japan Wireless, which I let my tour guests use, so they can save on their wifi usage. It can hook up to 10 devices. Upon purchase, you can get the pocket wifi mailed to your requested address or pick up at the airport. Then, drop it off at the red post box before entering the security gate.
This works for all of Japan nation wide.
An e-sim is way better than a SIM card IMO. I recommend this more than a pocket wifi. iphone 14 and on don’t have a SIM card reader anyway. There is no risk of losing your original SIM card! iPhones can have a max up to about 10 esims. I am currently using two esims (docomo and AT&T).
Advantage: Avoid standing in line at the airport like everybody else. You can purchase the e-sim from Japan Wireless from your home country and scan/activate the QR code using a different device or on printed paper and begin your journey the moment you land! No calling tho, just internet.
4. Download SUICA, PASMO or ICOCA app on your phone
The actual card is no longer available for purchase, but it’s still usable if you have it (my mom still uses her card). Download it on your mobile app, link it to your credit card and tap up if you need more $$. I personally use Suica. They are all the same.
It’s like a debit card. You can use it at the convenience stores, vending machines and some shops.
However, if you prefer a card. Klook still has some available, plus this package includes a one-way limousine bus ride from Haneda Airport. More info: SUICA IC CARD ON KLOOK (while supplies last).
5. Ride to and from the airport
You’ve landed, got your bags and wifi… now what?
From Narita Airport… Narita Express or Keisei Skyliner is a cheap option for those coming from Narita Airport. However, purchasing the tickets is very confusing. Great if you are traveling solo or with a group of 2-3 people who packed light or those who used takuhaibin, next-day luggage delivery service. One large suitcase can cost about 3000-5000 yen depending on weight and distance. It costs about 2500 yen to ship from Narita Airport to anywhere in Tokyo. Very cheap!
From Haneda Airport… Train (Keikyu Line) about 480 yen, 25 minute commute: Transfer at Shinagawa for onward travel on JR lines | Train (Tokyo Monorail) about 680 yen, 25 minute commute:Transfer at Hamamatsuchō for onward travel on JR lines
Reserve an airport taxi: Ride in style. This is worth it if you are traveling with a group of 5-7, especially multi-generational members (seniors, kids, teens etc.) or people from the music or production industry who travel with a lot of expensive equipment. It’s safe to travel with the equipment just in case things don’t get lost or damaged.
Pick your van: a HI-ACE or an Alphard.
I use this service when I have a tour group of 6 or more people. I use the 6 hour all day service which is so handy when the guests have several stops they want to go. Another benefit is that they can leave their shopping bags in the van.
6. Currency and Cash
Japan predominantly operates on cash, and not all establishments accept cashless payments, especially in smaller towns and mom and pop shops. Ensure you have sufficient Japanese yen (JPY) for your daily expenses. At least 20,000 yen per person. Exchanging currency at airports and machines at the hotels are not recommended since they know you’re desperate. Instead, withdraw money from ATMs at convenience stores with just a little processing fees (depending on your card benefits).
7. Japan Rail Pass… worth it?
Yes ONLY if you are:
Staying close to a station that uses the JR Lines. For example, if you are staying in Shinjuku or anywhere on the Yamanote Line, you are mostly likely to use JR Lines to get to places.
Planning to use the bullet trains (Shinkansen) and JR specific buses.
Japan Rail Pass increased their prices in 2023, but it’s still a bang for your buck. It offers unlimited travel for a specific period and can provide cost savings if you plan to visit multiple cities. Tourists have a huge advantage. Since I am a local resident, I don’t have this benefit.
8. Have your passport with you at all times
If you plan to go shopping tax-free.
Duty-Free (department stores and at the airport)
Bic Camera
Certain shops in tourist areas or city centre
A photocopy passport or photo on your phone will not be accepted. After purchase, you can collect your document to place in your passport at the Tax-free counter (ask the cashier where it is located). You have 3 days to claim it. Japan has a 10% consumption tax, so depending on your purchase and time, it might be worth saving!
9. Book accommodation & activities in advance
Research and book accommodations/ activities well in advance, particularly during peak travel seasons post COVID-19 restrictions. Japan offers a range of options, from traditional ryokans (inns) to air bnbs to modern/luxury hotels. Choose the type that suits your preferences and budget.
Check out my hotel reviews:
For activities, check out Klook and use my promo code: CYBERBUNNYKLOOK
Shibuya Sky Tickets (via Klook)
Tokyo Sky Tree (via Klook)
10. Pack medicine
In addition to your prescribed medicine from home…
Pain relievers in Japan are not as strong as the ones you’re used to (Aleve, Ibuprofen, Tylenol)
Diarrhea pills (What if the raw fish or fish guts did not sit right with you?)
Food poisoning (I once ate left over sushi the next morning and had massive food poisioning and was out the whole day)
Cough drops (is there a specific one you like? Pack it.)
Zantac (reduces asian glow) this is hard to find at most drug stores. So this is handy for those who don’t like their face getting red during those crazy drunk nights.
Pack extra! (eye contacts + eye solution, insulin pens/pumps + needles + test strips + sensors etc.) As a type-1 diabetic, I’d hate to spend weeks on vacation without knowing my blood sugar levels! Trust me… I’ve done it before and it was not fun on my kidneys.
Alcohol hand sanitizer (the generic free to use ones are available everywhere in Japan) All my tour guests are prepared with one, but feel free to leave it at home… it’s one less thing to pack. Unless there’s a scented one you really like.
Hope this helps!
By considering these factors and preparing in advance, you'll be better equipped to make your Japan trip an unforgettable experience.
Safe travels! <3 CB
