Japan Travel Packing Guide: Must-Haves for Any Trip
Excited for Japan? Whether you're immersing yourself in city life or exploring scenic landscapes, this packing list will have you ready to go.Suitcase or Backpack?
Japan is a very traveler-friendly destination, and carrying a suitcase is quite convenient since most public spaces have elevators and escalators.
While we opted for backpacks during our trip, they aren't a must. We suggest packing light, as you won’t need as much as we did for our world trip. Having some extra space in your luggage will be useful, especially if you plan on shopping for souvenirs.
We tend to use packing cubes to organize our clothes for easy access—one for bottoms, one for tops, one for outdoor gear, and so on. For our shoes, we pack them in fabric reusable bags. Ultimately, your packing method will depend on your preferences.
READ | Our Worldtrip Packlist
BUY | Osprey Aether 55 (55L)
Our Daypack Items
We always ensure our daypacks are equipped with essential items for a comfortable and hassle-free day, regardless of our destination. Below is a comprehensive list of what we recommend carrying.
For those traveling in Japan during the summer, mosquito repellent and sunscreen are particularly important to stay protected from heat and insect bites.
READ | Everyday Essentials: The Must-Have Items in our Daypack
BUY |
Fjällraven Abisko Hike Foldsack (25 L)
Clothing
Packing the right clothing for Japan depends on the season and your planned activities. The country experiences four distinct seasons, so your wardrobe should reflect the weather conditions.
In summer, lightweight, breathable fabrics are essential due to the high humidity and heat, but it’s also important to dress modestly, especially when visiting temples. Spring and autumn require layers, as temperatures can vary throughout the day. A light jacket or sweater is useful for cooler evenings. Winter, especially in northern regions and the mountains, can be very cold, so warm coats, thermal layers, gloves, and scarves are necessary.
Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as exploring Japan often involves a lot of walking. If you plan to visit onsen (hot springs), bring swimwear for mixed-gender facilities and a small towel. For rainy days, a compact umbrella or a waterproof jacket will keep you dry.
Dressing appropriately
As a traveler in Japan, it's important to dress comfortably and respectfully. For temple visits or more formal occasions, consider wearing modest clothing, such as long pants or skirts and covering your shoulders. Avoid overly revealing or flashy colors and outfits.
In urban areas, Japanese fashion tends to be neat and conservative, so opt for simple. Be prepared for the weather—carry a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings, and always have an umbrella on hand, especially during the rainy season.
Keep in mind that Japan's public transportation can involve a lot of walking, so prioritize comfort without sacrificing style.
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Sustainable Recommendations
Tap water in Japan is drinkable. We always carry our reusable water bottles since in most countries you can refill your bottle, including Japan.
A reusable bag is a staple for us, whether we're grocery shopping or heading to the beach. It’s also a lifesaver at the airport, as it allows us to move items into our carry-on when we need to free up space. When we go hiking or visit street food markets, we find collapsible food containers, reusable cutlery, and metal straws essential.
We also carry a travel-sized reusable bottle of sunscreen in our daypack for quick access all day long.
READ | Eco-Friendly Travel: Sustainable Essentials for Your Packing List
Laundry
Doing laundry in Japan was as simple as it is in any other country. At most of our accommodations, we had access to our own washing machine along with laundry detergent. Laundromats are also easy to find. So, it’s a good idea to pack light and not bring too many clothes.
Bring your laundry mesh bag for sustainability and to protect your delicates while traveling in Japan.
Health & Safety
Safety
Japan is very safe.We advice you to still take basic precautions and being mindful in unfamiliar areas.
Learn more about how we prioritize safety while traveling here.
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Health
Vaccinations
No specific vaccinations are required for entry into Thailand unless you're traveling from a country with a risk of yellow fever.
We advice you to consult with a healthcare provider before traveling.
Recommended Vaccinations for Thailand:
Routine Vaccinations: Make sure you’re up to date on the standard vaccinations, including:
MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis (DTaP)
Polio
Influenza
Varicella (Chickenpox)
Japanese Encephalitis: This is recommended for long-time travelers and those who will be spending significant time outdoors in rural areas or near farms
Travel Insurance
Travel health insurance is essential for any trip, covering unexpected medical expenses such as doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, and emergency treatments. It ensures you receive the care you need while protecting you from high medical costs. This is especially important when traveling to unfamiliar destinations or regions with limited healthcare access, where quality medical treatment may not be readily available. To help you find the best coverage for your trip, we’ve put together a guide—here’s what to look for.
Payment Methods
In Japan, credit cards are commonly accepted without transaction fees, making payments easy. However, it’s a good idea to carry some cash, especially when visiting small food vendors. You’ll find ATMs all over, especially in convenience stores, and many don’t charge for withdrawals.
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