Japan Packing List
What to pack for a trip to Japan. Cultural considerations, seasonal tips, and essential items for exploring Tokyo, Kyoto, and beyond.
Japan is a fascinating blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity. Packing for Japan requires some cultural consideration and practical planning. From temple visits to high-tech toilets, this guide ensures you're prepared for everything Japan has to offer.
🌡️ Climate & Weather
Japan has four distinct seasons. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer mild weather. Summer (June-August) is hot and humid with a rainy season in June. Winter (December-February) is cold, especially in the north.
What to Pack for Japan
👘 Clothing Essentials
- Comfortable walking shoes (you'll walk a lot!)
- Slip-on shoes (for temples, restaurants)
- Layers for variable weather
- Modest clothing for temples
- Socks without holes (you'll remove shoes often)
- Compact umbrella
- Light rain jacket
- Packable down jacket (winter)
🎌 Cultural Must-Haves
- Small towel/handkerchief (many restrooms lack paper towels)
- Cash in yen (Japan is still cash-heavy)
- Coin purse (you'll get lots of coins)
- Portable WiFi or SIM card
- Japanese phrasebook or translation app
- IC card for trains (Suica/Pasmo)
🎒 Day Bag Essentials
- Foldable shopping bag (stores charge for bags)
- Portable charger
- Small garbage bag (few public trash cans)
- Tissues (for public restrooms)
- Hand sanitizer
- Sunscreen
- Fan (for summer)
📱 Tech & Electronics
- Power adapter (Type A/B, same as US)
- Portable WiFi or local SIM
- Camera
- Phone with offline maps
- E-reader for long train rides
- Noise-canceling headphones
💊 Health & Safety
- Any prescription medications
- Basic first aid kit
- Motion sickness medicine (for bullet trains)
- Allergy medications
- Pain relievers
- Insect repellent (summer)
📄 Documents
- Passport (valid 6+ months)
- Travel insurance documents
- JR Pass (if purchased)
- Hotel reservations printed
- Emergency contact info
- Credit cards (Visa/Mastercard work best)
Packing by Season
Spring
Cherry blossom season (late March-early April) is stunning but crowded. Pack layers as temperatures vary. Allergy sufferers should bring antihistamines.
Summer
Hot and humid! Pack light, breathable fabrics and a portable fan. The rainy season (tsuyu) in June requires waterproof gear. Stay hydrated.
Autumn
Perfect weather with beautiful fall colors (November). Light layers work well. Less crowded than cherry blossom season.
Winter
Cold, especially in northern regions. Pack warm layers, a good coat, and hand warmers. Great for onsen (hot springs) and skiing.
🎌 Cultural Tips & Etiquette
- Remove shoes indoors - Always take off shoes when entering homes, temples, ryokans, and some restaurants
- Carry cash - Many places don't accept cards, especially outside major cities
- Bow to greet - A slight bow is respectful; no need for deep bows as a tourist
- Don't eat while walking - It's considered impolite; find a spot to sit
- Tattoos may restrict onsen access - Some traditional baths prohibit visible tattoos
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