Updated on January 17, 2020 by Asher Fergusson

The most important items to pack for a Japan vacation

Japan is one of my favorite countries in the world. It has a climate, a culture, and a history all its own, so be prepared for a truly unique and memorable experience.

Most travelers to Japan do a variety of activities, so it’s important to pack smart and to avoid taking anything you don’t need or forgetting anything you do!

Below you’ll find the top 17 items, what to wear in Japan, what NOT to bring, and I also include FAQs to help you understand the cultural dos and don’ts. Plus I have a bonuse guide to the custom of gift-giving which may be unfamiliar to new travelers to Japan.

1) Jet Lag Relief Pills – Don’t let the long flight to Japan and time change weigh you down. Jet lag can put a serious dampener on your trip, so you should try to prevent it if at all possible. This natural jet lag relief (with no drug interactions) will help you prevent it before it happens, and can also help treat it after the fact if needed.

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2) Universal Power Adapter – You can get away with plugging US-style two-pronged cords into Japanese outlets, but any devices you may bring that require three prongs (such as laptops) won’t work. It’s a good idea to bring a universal adapter to prevent any trouble and then you’ll be able to also use it if you travel to any other countries.

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3) Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger – You’ll be out and about taking part in activities and seeing sights all day, so you really don’t want to be obligated to return to your accommodations if one of your devices runs out of “juice.” This portable charger holds multiple charges so you can use it several times before having to plug it back in. It uses standard USB charger cables, and it can be actively charging your phone, camera, or other device even while tucked away in your bag when you’re on the go.

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4) Comfortable Slip-on Shoes: Women’s and Men’s – You’ll find yourself stepping in and out of your shoes a lot in Japan, so it’s worth it to bring shoes that don’t require lacing up! Visiting temples, homes, inns and even restaurants will require you to take off your shoes. A good thing to keep in mind is: if you see “tatami mats” on the floor, that means you should remove your shoes. (FYI Flips flops are also a “no-no”, and it’s considered rude to go barefoot in someone’s home, so make sure you bring a pair of socks in your bag.) If you are planning to visit bigger cities like Tokyo you will also want something super comfortable for walking.

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5) Neck Wallet Passport Pouch – It’s a very good idea to keep your ID documents on you when you’re traveling, and it’s also best to keep your money and credit cards stored safely in a place where they can’t be accessed by pickpockets. A passport pouch a.k.a neck wallet is nice because it can be concealed beneath your clothing, out of sight and away from danger. It also helps you avoid looking like a tourist since it stays hidden until you’re ready to take it off.

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6) Travel insurance for Japan – This is a no-brainer. I’ve had too many overseas experiences where I or friends have had baggage stolen, hotels canceled, or have had an unexpected medical emergency that otherwise would have had us paying out of pocket. World Nomads insurance is an inexpensive, easy way to make sure your trip doesn’t double in cost just because of an unfortunate incident. I can’t recommend it enough and it’s really affordable.

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7) Comfortable Cute Clothing – Japanese culture is more modest than that of the West. Women generally cover their shoulders even in the summer, and a level of propriety is expected when visiting people or spiritual places. A cute, comfortable, and casual dress like this one is perfect to bring. In summer months it will keep you cool — but won’t show off too much skin.

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8) Activated Charcoal – Japan’s food scene is incredible, but it’s also full of a lot of uncooked fish. Add that to the stress of travel, and stomach upset is a common problem. Activated charcoal is a very effective and natural way to shorten the duration of food poisoning or traveler’s diarrhea. It works by naturally absorbing toxins in your system so that you can get back to enjoying your travels. I have found it incredibly helpful, and I even use it when I’m not traveling.

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9) Vetelli Toiletry Bag – This supple and simply gorgeous toiletry bag makes me feel so fancy when I use it. I ended up choosing this one after a long and exhaustive search for a good toiletry bag. Finding the right balance between affordability, luxury, and utility can be tricky! This bag is the bees knees, and will serve you well while traveling by keeping your toiletry items orderly and contained.

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10) Stylish Raincoat – A raincoat will definitely be important in Japan, as will a bit of style and class. This raincoat will serve you well, and will keep you feeling and looking good. It’s also not excessively heavy like some trench coats, so don’t worry about adding too much weight to your luggage.

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11) Virtual Private Network (VPN) – In countries like China, the internet is highly restricted and monitored, so VPNs are required if you’d like to enjoy unrestricted access, but fortunately Japan allows fairly comprehensive access once you get connected.

What you should absolutely use a VPN for, however, is the extra layer of data security it adds. After having my credit card number stolen on an unsecure WiFi at my Airbnb I’ve learned the hard way why you need this for travel! A good VPN like NordVPN will give you a private “shield” of data encryption with the touch of a button. Plans are very affordable, so it’s well worth it.

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12) Travel Towel – Did you know that many Japanese restrooms don’t offer a method for drying your hands? That’s where having a compact towel comes in very handy. This one is compact, super absorbent, and quick to dry so that you don’t have to worry about carrying around a damp cloth in your daybag. It also comes in very handy if you find the towels at your accommodation less than ideal.

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13) Deodorant Wipes: Women’s and Men’s – Traveling and days out exploring make many travelers, including myself, feel sticky and unclean. Many bathrooms in Japan have no way to wipe hands or faces, so unless I can take a shower right away I sometimes have to feel uncomfortably dirty for a while. I have found that deodorant wipes are a life-saver in these scenarios. These ones are smooth and lightly scented, plus they’re good for sensitive skin.

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14) Nice daybag – You’ll need to have a bag with you to carry the things you’ll need each day, and it’s more fun in a place like Japan to have one that looks nice. This small tote is big enough to hold the items you need – camera, phone, water bottle, etc. – but small enough to be cute and unobtrusive.

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15) Warm Pajamas! – Many places are without central heating – the traditional architecture and minimalist style are key parts of Japanese culture, and so it’s not surprising that certain “extras” are not widely available. Since it can get cold at night during any season, I recommend bringing a warm pair or two of pajamas so that you can remain comfortable at night.

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16) Cotton Scarf – Cotton is the ideal travel fabric. A cotton scarf can keep you plenty warm but can also be spread out to become a thin shawl when you find yourself needing to cover up your shoulders or chest in a more modest place.

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17) Solid Shampoo – Solid shampoo is such a cool invention. It’s smooth and easy to use, and since it’s a solid you don’t have to make room for it in your quart-sized toiletries bag. I like that this brand is eco-friendly and works just as well as traditional liquid shampoos.

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Other packing list items for Japan

Facial cleansing wipes
Sterile toothbrush cover
Dental floss
Hand sanitizer
Mini hairbrush or comb
Water bottle
Nail clippers
Contact solution
Feminine products (Thinx or Menstrual cup)
Lip balm

Loofah glove
Medications and vitamins
Earplugs
Sleep mask
First aid kit
Passport photos
Headphones
Headphone splitter
Flexible tripod
Headlamp/flashlight
Sunscreen

Flash drive
Memory card
Kindle
Kindle cover
Journal
Small lock
Daypack
Sewing kit
Travel pillow
Stain remover wipes
Swimsuit

How should I dress in Japan?

The Japanese are open-minded about fashion – you can wear pretty much whatever you feel comfortable in, including shorts and tank tops as long as they’re not too revealing (and the weather permits). It’s still best to air on the side of conservative apparel when possible.

Layers are always good, as are shoes that you can slip on and off easily – remember you’ll be taking them off and putting them back on frequently. Be sure to bring a light rain jacket if you’re visiting in a rainier season!

We mentioned this above but it’s worth repeating: it’s considered rude to go barefoot inside most places and flip-flops are a no-no, so bring plenty of comfy socks to wear or carry with you!

What should WOMEN wear in Japan? – (Click to expand)

Below is a sample women’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

Fashion in Japan offers quite a broad spectrum of different looks and trends. Cleavage is considered to be ‘revealing’ but legs are widely flaunted without much concern – so show them if you so choose! Dress a bit more conservatively when visiting temples, or when you spend time with local families. Shoulders are also considered to be inappropriate with the older generations, so it’s best not to pack strapless dresses or even tank tops with very thin straps.

Slip-on shoes are crucial since you’ll be taking them off and putting them on repeatedly. For dressing up, bring your kitten heels or a pair of dressy sandals. For the warmer seasons, you’ll do well with a crisp white t-shirt, a statement belt, and a pair of skinny jeans for dinner. In winter, you’d definitely need a thicker parka and a chunky scarf for the northern parts of the country.

What should MEN wear in Japan? – (Click to expand)

Below is a sample men’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

Generally-speaking, Japanese men tend to dress more conservatively, so stick with a more muted, modern look. You will still find plenty of Western inspiration wherever you go, so you shouldn’t stand out like a sore thumb. In the bigger cities, you’ll find more fashion-forward attire, but you can’t go wrong with the clean-cut a sophisticated look no matter where you are.

Think khakis, nice slacks, tailored button-downs or sweaters, and nice-looking footwear. Shoes should include walking shoes, for sure, and maybe a trendy pair of suede sneakers or leather loafers for nicer occasions. Any footwear should be fairly easy to remove and put back on – you’ll be doing it a lot. During colder months you’ll need warmer sweaters and a heavier jacket.

You’ll find that the Japanese way of life is easy to love, and the culture is fascinating. Pack light because you’ll definitely want to shop, but be sure to select a versatile wardrobe that will allow you to switch between exploring, shrine visits, shopping, and semi-formal dinner outings.

SPRING – March, April, May:

Mild and pleasant weather plus blossoming trees make this an ideal time to enjoy Japan. They are also what make spring such a popular tourism time, so prepare for crowds. Rains can happen, and you’ll see some fluctuation in the weather so be prepared with good layers that can be easily added and removed.

Bring a light jacket and soft pants and tops to keep you comfortable and breezy. Temperatures average between 40°F to 55°F (4°C to 13°C).

SUMMER – June, July, August:

Most places in Japan are hot during the summer, with humidity that makes it worse. Tourism is a little lighter this time of year.

Pack clothes that will keep you cool in the heat, but try to remain respectful and tasteful when possible. Light fabrics, pretty blouses, breezy skirts, and a sun hat will serve you well. Mountainous regions of Japan are less hot and more enjoyable. Temperatures average between 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C).

FALL – September, October, November:

This is typhoon season, but when there are no storms the weather is generally mild and pleasant, albeit a little unpredictable.

Pack for any weather: comfortable pants and skirts, blouses and sweaters. Bring a rain jacket that can also keep you a little warm – anything that can be used for multiple purposes will save you room in your luggage.

Temperatures average between 55°F to 65°F (13°C to 18°C).

WINTER – December, January, February:

Winters in Japanese high country areas are snowy and gorgeous. Lower elevations still see some snow, but mainly enjoy crisp and cool days that you’ll still need warm gear for.

Layers, layers, layers! sweaters and a jacket or coat are needed, plus hats and gloves if you feel you’ll need them (most people do). Temperatures average between 25°F to 35°F (-4°C to 2°C).

How to dress for the activity in Japan – (Click to expand)

Religious Sites: The Kiyomizu-dera, Fushimi Inari and Senso-Ji are but three of the most well-known shrines and temples that form part of a massive collection that sprawls all over the country. Visiting these sacred sites is a very important tradition in Japanese culture. It’s vital to keep in mind that as a tourist you are entering holy grounds. Respect the sacred value of the visit, and dress appropriately. Shorts at or below the knee, pants, shoulders covered – think “modesty” and follow the examples of the locals.

Gourmet Food: Japanese food…There is so much to say and so much to experience. From delectable sushi platters to richly flavored Soba and Udon Noodles to Tonkatsu and Yakitori. The Japanese take great pride in their cuisine and food culture is something that many social activities revolve around. Also, don’t be afraid to dine alone – it’s actually quite a common practice in Japan!

This is the country that has the most Michelin-awarded cities. There are 304 places to choose from in Tokyo alone, but this doesn’t always mean you have to dress up. It’s best to do your homework so that you don’t show up to a street stall wearing your finest garb. For casual dining, you don’t have to worry much about what you wear, but some establishments will ask you to remove your footwear. Nicer clothing is never bad, though, so air on the well-dressed side if you’re unsure.

Beaches: Japans’s unique structure offers plenty of coastline on either side of the country, and this means fun in the sun! Sunbathing and swimming seasons differ hugely from south to north and it’s said that the best beaches to visit are found in Okinawa (south) but there are other spots that offer some tropical vibes too. Bikinis are a natural choice for women, and as long as they’ll stay on during any of your chosen activities, they’re perfectly acceptable. Bring a cute cover-up for when you come up from the beach. Men tend to wear anything from speedo’s to board-shorts, so it all depends on your taste.

Baseball: Baseball was first introduced to Japan in 1872 and is probably one of the most popular spectator’s sports in the country. The highest level of professional baseball in Japan is the Nippon Professional Baseball League. The first of each 144 regular season games kicks off in March each year, and a 7-game contest series in October determines the winner of the Nippon Series.

While both March and October are probably not the warmest of months, you’d do well in jeans, canvas sneakers and comfortable hoodies and sweaters. You might also want to refrain from wearing anything related to baseball from other countries – purely out of respect. Expect sunny days in March and October, so bring along a pair of sunglasses for outdoor games.

What NOT to take to Japan

1) DON’T PACK heavy books or too many books: Most bookstores carry books in English that you can pick up along the way, or you can bring a Kindle. Don’t weigh down your pack with too many books (easier said than done, I know)!

2) DON’T BRING spray tan or heavy bronzer: Sun protection and healthy skin are fashionable in Japan. Nothing bad is gonna happen if you lay on the bronzer, but you may get a few funny stares, and you’ll stick out in a crowd.

3) DON’T TAKE too many electronics: Japan is the land of electronics, but even so it’s nice to disconnect. Outside of city centers you’ll find peaceful villages and beautiful nature. Leave any non-essential electronics at home, and try to keep your connectedness to a minimum!

4) DON’T PACK a sleeping bag or camping gear: Unless you plan on doing a lot of backcountry hiking, this isn’t necessary. Hostels are equipped with sheets, and even some of the hiking trails have small guesthouses along the way. These items just add bulk and weight.

5) DON’T TAKE lots of cash: Credit cards are accepted in most major towns, though you’ll still need cash in some places. However, there are plenty of ATM machines to resupply. Carrying loads of cash is a risk not worth taking!

6) DON’T BRING an Asia-wide guidebook: Getting a guidebook that’s not Japan-specific won’t give you the detail and guidance you’re looking for, and you may find yourself frustrated and missing out.

What NOT to wear in Japan – (Click to expand)

Cities like Osaka, Ginza, and Tokyo are considered to be the fashion capitals of the country. In Japan, fashion is very progressive with the younger generation. You can get away with wearing almost anything in Japan, but you will want to be respectful and aware of cultural norms that are observed within their society.

Most commonly, you will be asked to remove your shoes at certain public establishments and the homes of people you visit. Bare feet are not okay in most places, so bring socks! Avoid flip-flops. Most homes and public places have a small vestibule called a ‘genkan’ where shoes are removed and kept. In some cases, slippers are provided.

This rule also applies to most shrines and temples. Dressing appropriately when visiting these religious sites is imperative.

Other than that, you are all set to head out on a stunning adventure in the Land of the Rising Sun.

Gift-giving: How to follow Japan’s gift customs

While tipping is generally frowned-upon in Japan, giving gifts to your hosts is common practice. Here are a few things to be aware of:

The numbers 4, 9, and 43 can mean bad luck! Don’t give gifts in these numbers.
Hand the gift over with both hands (gifts should also be received with both hands).
Food (especially sweets), flowers (but not lilies, lotus blossoms or camellias which are associated with funerals), and alcohol are the best kinds of gifts to give.
Food or alcohol from your home country is even better (ie. Maple syrup from north-eastern America).
If the gift is wrapped, your host will probably not open it right away, this doesn’t mean they aren’t excited, it’s just the custom, and a sign of respect.

FAQs about travel in Japan

1) Is the tap water in Japan safe to drink?

Yes, in most places in Japan the tap water is safe to drink. However, if you’re worried about mercury you can pick up bottled water at one of the many 7/11s, or carry your own filtered water bottle to resupply with fresh water when free opportunities to do so are available – the filter should set your mind at ease.

2) How prevalent is English in Japan?

Not very prevalent. In hotels, hostels, and tourist attractions people will speak English, but outside of that, I wouldn’t count on it.

However, people are still very friendly and will try their best to help you even if they don’t understand. This is where a Japanese phrasebook comes in handy!

3) Is Japan safe for women and solo travelers?

Yes it is. Thanks to its diverse and accepting culture, tourists don’t tend to have problems in Japan. If anything, you may find that you get a little too much excited attention if you stand out as a tourist! However, standard practices should absolutely be followed. Don’t walk alone at night, don’t carry excess cash, keep your valuables close and to a minimum, and always know where you’re going.

Scammers and pickpockets do exist so do your best to avoid being a tempting target! Carry yourself confidently and show plenty of respect to the locals, and you’ll more than likely avoid any problems. However, make sure you look at travel warnings about your destination before booking your trip, just in case!

4) When is the best season to visit Japan?

September/October are ideal for pleasant weather. You’ll find that April-June months are good for the cherry blossom festival (if you can catch it – it’s evanescent!). Of course, if you’re there for skiing I’d recommend December-March, and the summer months if you want to do some island-hopping.

5) Is it worth getting a Railpass?

Yes! I actually failed to get the rail pass before I went, and was slumming it on overnight buses and local trains to recover the cost.

If you plan on traveling to more than a couple of locations, the rail pass is definitely worth the investment, and much cheaper than buying individual tickets in Japan.

6) Do I need to tip in restaurants in Japan?

There is generally no tipping in Japan. Sometimes a tip may even be refused. Instead, slurping your noodles and making appreciative noises show you’ve enjoyed your meal!

7) Where should I eat in Japan?

Everywhere! The food is delicious! Osaka is a foodie paradise and has a lovely market where you can sample interesting cuisine. You’ll find Ramen bars dotting the streets in any city you go to with people standing up to slurp their noodles. Katsu curries, sushi, and soba noodles are also abundant.

Trying an Izakaya (an informal pub-type place which offers small tasting dishes) is a great way to experience local culture. The Japanese are passionate about their food and aim to find fresh ingredients. It’s hard to go wrong with the food!

8) What is the best way to get around Japan?

The train is the easiest way to travel. It’s comfortable and reliable. However, busses are also clean and comfortable, though slower.

9) Do I need a visa to visit Japan?

Most countries will get a visa stamped on arrival but check with your embassy’s website to determine what requirements there are for your nationality.

10) How can I watch Sumo in Japan?

I recommend finding the dates of the Sumo tournaments online. To see a sumo match without breaking the bank, arrive at the stadium at 10 am (or earlier) the morning of the match. You will then stand in the most organized rush ticket line you’ve ever seen. Everyone stands quietly and orderly and proceeds in the queue. They’ll then sell all the remaining tickets for the day at around $20 apiece. Just be sure to get there early to avoid disappointment!
P.S. One of the excellent things about sumo matches is that you can bring in your own food and drink!

11) How can I travel on a budget in Japan?

Japan has a reputation for being expensive and, compared to China or SE Asia, it certainly is. But there are many ways budget travelers can enjoy Japan. The people are very hospitable so Couchsurfing can be a lovely experience (though apartments are small so be prepared to sleep on a sleeping mat on the floor). You can also find cheap hostels or business hotels which will have either a small single room with a mattress or a tube with a bed you can sleep in. These hostels and business hotels go for about the same rate as you would find in North America.

Going to markets or cheap restaurants/ramen bars is a great way to save. I found that for around $10 (US) I could get a very tasty meal. Of course, you can also cook your own food and if you stay with a host I’m sure they’ll be happy to share their favorite recipes with you! Even take-away sushi or noodles from the supermarket is as tasty as what you’d find in a lot of Japanese restaurants back home. Slow travel is also a great way to make any trip more affordable.