What to Pack for Japan

Documents and Money

• Passport (6+ months validity recommended)
• Printed copies of hotel bookings and JR Pass exchange order
• Credit card with no foreign transaction fee
• Cash (yen) or plan to withdraw at 7-Eleven ATM on arrival
• International Driving Permit if renting a car

Technology

• Phone with eSIM capability (or plan for pocket WiFi)
• Power bank — long days on transit drain batteries fast
• Type A plug adapter if from UK/Europe/Australia
• Camera and spare memory cards

Clothing

• Comfortable walking shoes — you’ll walk 15,000–25,000 steps per day
• Easy slip-on shoes for temples and traditional restaurants
• Layers — Japan has significant temperature variation between regions and seasons
• Modest clothing for temples (shoulders and knees covered)
• Compact umbrella or rain jacket

What to Buy in Japan

Available everywhere, often cheaper: umbrellas, toiletries (excellent quality Japanese products), socks, sunscreen, snacks.

What NOT to Pack

• Large suitcase — accommodation storage often limited, trains crowded
• Too many clothes — coin laundry ¥200–300/wash everywhere
• Excessive medications — Japanese pharmacies are excellent