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So you’re heading to Japan! You’ve booked the flight, marked your calendar, and you’ve been counting down the days until your trip. A country with rich history, insanely delicious food, futuristic cities, and stunning natural beauty, you’re about to have the most incredible experience.
But before the adventure begins, it’s time to pack. Whether you’re traveling solo or joining U30X for a small-group trip around Japan, follow this complete Japan packing guide to pack with ease and feel fully prepared. This list covers all the essentials plus my insider tips to help you make the most of your time in Japan.
Japan Trip Inspiration
Reading this blog because Japan is on your travel bucket list? It was for me! I just got back, and it completely exceeded every expectation. From matcha to meditations, U30X’s trip is so well-designed to introduce you to the best of Japan.
Read my full Japan trip recap here!
Let’s Go Over:
- What To Pack
- Luggage & Bags
- Clothes
- Seasonal Items
- Shoes
- Accessories
- Toiletries
- Japanese Fashion Norms
- What To Pack In Your Carry-On
- What To Carry With You In Japan
- Things To Avoid Packing For Japan
- Leaving Space For Souvenirs
What To Pack For Japan
Follow this packing checklist for all the essential items you’ll need for your trip.
Luggage & Bags
Small suitcase - When I travel, I always try to pack light. It makes moving around so much easier, and it means I have less laundry to do between trips. U30X’s trip is just over a week long, so I believe in your ability to avoid overpacking. I usually carry on my suitcase on the way there and then check it on the way home, thanks to my growing souvenir collection.
Daypack - There is so much to see in Japan, so your days will be long (in the best way possible). You’ll go from hiking through shrines, to slurping noodles, to exploring the busiest shopping districts. You’ll want a small daypack for everything in between. Insider Tip: Japan is incredibly safe, so you don’t need to stress about people trying to pickpocket your daypack.
Small Purse or Crossbody Bag - I like to switch to a smaller bag before heading out for dinner and drinks. It gives you more freedom to see where the night takes you… perhaps a karaoke bar or two?
Clothes
Pants - Bring a mix of cute pants for city adventures and comfy pants for travel days. Even if the weather says it will be hot, you will still want to pack a pair of pants for your days in the mountains surrounding Mount Fuji.
Shorts - Summer in Japan is very hot! Shorts are acceptable to wear in all the major cities.
Tops - A mix of short-sleeve and long-sleeve tops is ideal. I always try to pack a mini capsule wardrobe where my tops and bottoms mix and match, so I have more outfit options with less clothing.
Insider Tip: Japan has a growing fashion scene, making it a great place to do some shopping!
Dresses & Skirts - Japan is a very picturesque country, so feel free to dress up a little bit. You’ll definitely get an Instagram-worthy shot! Locals always look sharp and put together.
Socks, Bras, & Underwear - If you’re planning to wear sandals, carry socks with you for entering temples. I always overpack this category, but there are opportunities for laundry throughout the trip.
Pajamas - All of the accommodations have A/C and heaters, so you can adjust the temperature of the room to your sleeping comfort.
Rain Jacket - We had misty weather, so carrying around a lightweight rain jacket was helpful. Remember, Japan is an island in the Pacific, so the weather can change quickly.
Lightweight Sweater or Sweatshirt - Even in summer, it’s wise to bring an extra layer for colder nights in the mountains or heavily air-conditioned trains.
Seasonal Items
Japan is a popular destination year-round, so no matter when you choose to go, you’ll have a great time! It sees an increase in tourists in April for the spring cherry blossoms and in October for fall foliage. I went in October and particularly enjoyed our time in the mountains. The weather in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka stays mild for most of the year, so unless you’re planning to venture into the countryside, you won’t need too much seasonal gear.
Hat & Sunglasses - The Japanese care about protecting their face from the sun (it’s probably why they all have gorgeous skin), so embrace the local culture and pack a hat.
Mini Fan - During the rainy season, Japan becomes incredibly humid (RIP my hair). I was jealous of the women on my trip who were smart enough to pack fans.
Dry Wicking Shirts - On the topic of humidity, be prepared to sweat.
Jacket - Check the temperature before you go and plan accordingly.
Hat, Scarf & Mittens - If you go in winter, you’ll want this option. You will not need these for fall or spring.
Shoes - You will hit your step goal in Japan! Choose comfort over fashion when selecting your footwear. My group also agreed that the streets can get slippery in the rain, so make sure you pick shoes with good grip.
Sneakers - You will need to remove your shoes to enter temples, tea houses, guesthouses, and anyone’s home. Slip-on shoes or zip-off sneakers will be your best friend! My group laughed at how many white sneakers were on the shelves of temples. Took us a second to figure out which pair belonged to whom.
Sandals - Even in October, we had 80°F+ temperatures.
Flip Flops - You may want a pair of flip flops for the onsen and public spa.
Insider Tip: It is respectful to take off your shoes when entering someone’s home. Pack a pair of house shoes or slippers to wear around your guesthouses.
Accessories
Adapter & Converter - Japan uses Type A outlets.
Reusable Water Bottle - The tap water in Japan is safe to drink, and there are lots of places to refill your bottle. Travel sustainably!
Plastic Bag - There are limited public trash cans in Japan. It’s common for people to carry their trash all day and throw it out at home. I like to have a small plastic bag in my daypack to store my trash.
Umbrella - It’s a good idea to pack one. I had mine in my daypack and used it briefly almost every day.
Portable Charger - Your phone battery will drain quickly with all the photos you are going to take.
Optional Camera
Optional Sleepmask & Earplugs
Snacks - Vegetarians & vegans only! Japan has amazing food, so if you have no dietary restrictions, you’ll be happy. If you’re a vegetarian like me, you may find having a few granola bars helpful. For more on the food in Japan, read that section of my trip recap.
Toiletries
You don’t need any special toiletries for Japan. Pack as you normally would and use this list to make sure you don’t forget anything.
Tissues & Hand Sanitizer - Most public bathrooms in Japan were spotless! They all had bidets and buttons to play music or heat the toilet seat (the US could never), but it’s still always good to be prepared with tissues and hand sanitizer.
Sunscreen - You’ll spend all day outside bopping from shrine to shrine.
Toothbrush & Toothpaste
Shampoo, Soap, Conditioner - If you prefer your own over the hotel options.
Makeup
Small First-Aid Kit - Band aids, Advil/Tylenol, throat lozenges, motion sickness tablets, etc.
Prescription Medications - Always pack in your carry-on with the original label.
Glasses or Contacts
Japanese Fashion Norms | Things To Keep In Mind When Putting Together Outfits
As a tourist, it’s your responsibility to respect the values of the country you’re visiting. Plus, I always think it’s fun to try different styles. It may not be your preferred style, but it will go a long way dressing with cultural norms in mind.
Conservative - Japan has a very respectful culture. You’ll observe how polite everyone is, and how much respect they show their elders. These values also reflect fashion. Keep this in mind when packing, and maybe leave the plunging necklines at home.
Fashion Forward - The younger generation in Japan has great style! Ask your guide for recommendations on where to do some shopping. Feel free to dress up and try some fashion-forward styles.
Neutrals - You’ll see locals wearing a lot of black, white, grey, and tan. You won’t see many loud colors or patterns.
What To Pack In Your Carry-On
Packing a carry-on is an art. Here is everything you need for a comfortable flight, to get through customs, and to start your trip with success. It’s a long flight, but so worth it!
Passport - You won’t get far without this!
Travel Documents - Travel insurance, copies of your passport and credit card, and a list of accommodations you will be staying at (customs may ask for it).
Wallet - You can withdraw ¥ Yen from the ATMs in any 7-Eleven. Grab a snack while you’re there!
Insider Tip: I would recommend starting with the equivalent of $300 USD in Yen. Depending on your spending habits, you may need more, but there are lots of 7-Elevens throughout your trip. Make sure you have enough Yen left to tip your guide at the end of the trip.
New to international travel? Here’s your guide to handling foreign currency like a pro.
Headphones
Compression Socks - For long-haul flights, I love my compression socks. It’s also a good practice to get up and move around throughout the flight.
Prescription Medications
Something To Entertain Yourself - A book, downloaded Netflix series, a crossword puzzle, a crochet kit – whatever’s your jam.
Snacks - Sometimes the only thing that gets me through a long flight is a sweet treat.
Sweatshirt
Change of Clothes - A travel best practice is to always have a change of clothes with you in case of a flight delay or a delayed suitcase.
What To Carry With You In Japan | Your Ultimate Day Pack
Japan has so much to see and do! It’s probably why it’s becoming such a popular travel destination. One of my favorite days had us biking along a river, taking a meditation class led by a monk, wandering around a golden temple, finding the highest rated matcha latte, window shopping, and then having group dinner and drinks. That’s a lot of variety for one day, so you have to know what to carry with you!
- Passport
- Reusable Water Bottle
- Wallet with cash and a credit card
- Sunscreen
- Hand Sanitizer
- Tissues
- Plastic bag for trash
- Optional rain gear
Things To Avoid Packing For Japan
Here are a few things you could consider cutting from the packing to save space.
Leggings - You won’t see locals wearing leggings outside of the gym.
Mini Skirts & Micro Shorts - Remember, Japan is a very respectful country.
Bathing Suit - You won’t need one for the U30X itinerary. If you decide to soak in a thermal onsen or visit a Japanese spa, the cultural norm is to be naked in private facilities.
Check out our guide to Osaka, written by our Manager Tim!
Leaving Space For Souvenirs
I know it feels odd to think about the end of your trip before you’ve begun, but when you’re packing, make sure to leave space for all the souvenirs you’ll bring home. Japan has so many unique souvenirs, I guarantee you’ll be happy not to have to sit on your suitcase to zip it. Our group each got something special, from new sneakers to custom rings and Japan scented perfume. Here are a few of the souvenirs I brought home (for inspiration!)
- Matcha kit complete with bowl, whisk, and spoon
- Lots of matcha powder
- Japanese hairpin (goodbye claw clip)
- Wasabi & sake flavored KitKats
- Pokemon gummy snacks
- Good luck tokens
- Skincare from Don Quijote
- Anime playing cards
Final Thoughts
You’re about to have the trip of a lifetime. Don’t you just love that pre-trip excitement? Now that the packing is handled, all that’s left to do is show up and make memories you’ll talk about forever.
And if you’re the type who reads this entire guide without having anything booked yet… I see you! I respect the prep. But it’s time to stop researching and start traveling. Book your spot on U30X’s 9-Day Japan Trip and let’s make it happen.
