Ultimate Packing Guide: Japan
Travel Essentials
✅ Passport – Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.
✅ Student ID – Some attractions offer student discounts, so bring your university ID.
✅ Flight Tickets & Travel Documents – Keep both digital and printed copies.
✅ Health Insurance & Emergency Contacts – Carry a copy of your health insurance details and emergency contact numbers.
✅ Cash & Credit Cards – Japan is a cash-friendly society; have yen (JPY) on hand for smaller transactions. You can pull out cash at an ATM upon arrival (be wary of atm fees and foreign transaction fees)
✅ Metro Card (Provided by World Walker upon arrival) – This will be your primary way to navigate Tokyo and Kyoto’s transit systems.
Clothing & Footwear
March in Japan can be cool, especially in the mornings and evenings. Layering is key!
General Clothing:
✅ Light to medium-weight jackets – A warm layer for early mornings and evenings.
✅ Long pants or skirts – Comfortable for walking and modest for cultural sites.
✅ Sweaters or cardigans – Ideal for layering.
✅ Casual outfits – For city exploration and professional events.
✅ Smart-casual outfit – For the professional development mixer and group dinner.
✅ Comfortable walking clothes – For hikes and long sightseeing days.
✅ Kimono-friendly underclothing – If participating in the kimono rental.
✅ Sleepwear –
Shoes:
✅ Comfortable walking shoes – Essential for exploring Tokyo and Kyoto and for the Fushimi Inari Shrine dawn hike.
✅ Slip-on shoes – Convenient for places where you’ll need to remove footwear (e.g., tea ceremony, temples).
✅ Dress shoes – If you plan to attend upscale events or dinners.
Toiletries & Personal Care
✅ Deodorant & body wipes – Keep fresh throughout busy days.
✅ Travel-size shampoo & conditioner – Hotels may provide, but bring your own if you have a preference.
✅ Toothbrush & toothpaste
✅ Feminine hygiene products – Bring your preferred brands.
✅ Moisturizer & lotion – Cooler weather can dry out your skin.
✅ Basic medications – Pain relievers, allergy medicine, motion sickness pills. See below regarding prescription medications.
✅ Hand sanitizer & disinfectant wipes – The last thing you want is to get sick on your Spring Break!
✅ Sunscreen (SPF 30+) – Protect your skin from UV exposure.
✅ Lip balm with SPF – Prevent dryness in cool weather.
Tech & Accessories
✅ Power Bank – Keep your phone charged while out and about.
✅ Smartphone & Charger – Essential for maps, communication, and translation apps.
✅ Headphones or Earbuds – Useful for flights and transit.
✅ Camera or Smartphone with Good Camera – Capture the stunning scenery.
✅ Small Backpack or Crossbody Bag – Useful for daily excursions.
✅ Refillable Water Bottle – Stay hydrated while exploring.
✅ Notebook & Pen – Great for jotting down insights during cultural and professional activities.
Miscellaneous
✅ Phone CHarger Adapter – Japan uses Type A and Type B plugs (same as the US), bring your normal adapter.
✅ Small First Aid Kit – Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers.
✅ Snacks – Japan has amazing convenience store options, but packing snacks for the flights is a must.
✅ Eye Mask & Earplugs – Helpful for sleeping on flights or in noisy environments.
✅ Foldable Tote Bag – Useful for shopping or carrying extra items.
✅ Copies of Itinerary & Important Contacts – Keep a printed and digital version.
What NOT to Bring
❌ Large amounts of cash – Japan is safe, but it’s best to carry what you need and use a card when possible.
❌ Bulky luggage – You’ll be using public transportation; pack light and use a suitcase with wheels.
❌ Heavy coats – March is cool but not freezing; layering is better than one thick coat.
❌ Drones – Restricted in most tourist areas.
❌ Illegal Substances & Prescription Medications Without Documentation – Japan has strict drug regulations. Bring only necessary prescriptions with proper documentation.
❌ Universal Travel Adapter – Japan uses Type A and Type B plugs (same as the US), bring your normal adapter.
Final Reminders
Double-check your luggage, ensure you have all necessary items, and pack light to make your travels easier. Leaving extra space in your luggage to account for potential souvenirs for friends in family is often a good idea.
Japan is an amazing destination filled with cultural wonders—get ready for an unforgettable experience! If you have any last-minute packing questions, don’t hesitate to ask. Safe travels, and see you in Japan!
