What to pack for japan?
Quick Answer
For a 7-day trip to Japan, pack a 40-liter carry-on with 3-4 versatile outfits, comfortable walking shoes like Hoka Clifton 9s, a portable charger (Anker PowerCore 10000mAh), a compact umbrella, and a travel adapter for Type A/B outlets, ensuring you have layered clothing for varying temperatures from 10°C to 25°C depending on the season.
Understanding Japan's Travel Environment
Japan's travel experience is characterized by extensive walking, diverse climates across its long archipelago, and a culture that values tidiness and efficiency, which directly impacts what you should pack. Most travelers will average 15,000 to 20,000 steps daily exploring cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka, necessitating extremely comfortable and supportive footwear. Public transportation, including the Shinkansen bullet trains, is highly efficient but often involves navigating large stations with luggage, making compact and lightweight packing a significant advantage.
The climate varies significantly by season and region. For example, a spring trip in April might see temperatures ranging from 10°C in Tokyo to 20°C in Kyushu, while August in Tokyo can be intensely hot and humid, reaching 35°C with 90% humidity. Winter, from December to February, often brings temperatures between 0°C and 10°C in major cities, with heavy snowfall common in northern regions like Hokkaido. Understanding your specific travel season and destinations is crucial for selecting appropriate clothing layers.
Japanese accommodations, particularly in urban areas, often feature smaller hotel rooms or ryokan (traditional inns) compared to Western standards, with limited space for unpacking large suitcases. Coin lockers are available at train stations but are not always large enough for oversized luggage. Therefore, packing light, ideally with a single 40-50 liter carry-on suitcase or backpack, such as a Monos Carry-On Plus or an Osprey Farpoint 40, allows for easier mobility and less hassle during your journey.
How to Pack Specifically for Japan
First, select your primary luggage: a 40-50 liter carry-on suitcase (e.g., Away The Carry-On) or a travel backpack (e.g., Tortuga Setout 45L) is ideal for a 7-10 day trip to maintain mobility. Next, organize your clothing into packing cubes (e.g., Eagle Creek Pack-It Original Cubes) to compress items and separate outfits. For a 7-day trip, pack 4-5 tops (mix of short and long-sleeve depending on season), 2-3 bottoms (jeans, comfortable trousers, or a skirt), 1-2 layers (cardigan, light jacket, or fleece), 7 pairs of underwear, 5 pairs of socks, and a compact rain jacket or umbrella.
Then, prioritize footwear: one pair of extremely comfortable walking shoes is non-negotiable, such as Hoka Clifton 9s or Brooks Ghost 15s. If traveling in spring or autumn, consider a second pair of slightly dressier but still comfortable shoes for evenings. For summer, breathable mesh sneakers are best; for winter, waterproof boots with good grip like Blundstone 500s are recommended. Ensure shoes are broken in before your trip to prevent blisters from extensive walking.
Finally, gather essential electronics and toiletries. A universal travel adapter with Type A and B prongs (Japan uses Type A/B, 100V) like the EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter is necessary. Bring a high-capacity portable charger, such as an Anker PowerCore 20000mAh, to keep your phone charged throughout long sightseeing days. Consider a local eSIM (e.g., Airalo Japan) for reliable data access. Pack travel-sized toiletries to save space and weight, remembering that most hotels provide basic amenities like shampoo and soap. Include any specific personal medications in their original packaging with a doctor's note if required for controlled substances. Do not forget your passport, any visa documents, and a credit card that does not charge foreign transaction fees, such as a Chase Sapphire Preferred card, as well as approximately 10,000-20,000 JPY in cash for smaller purchases at local shops or vending machines.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One frequent error is overpacking, especially with oversized luggage. Many people bring a large 28-inch checked suitcase, which becomes cumbersome on crowded trains, escalators, and in small hotel rooms. To avoid this, commit to a carry-on only strategy for trips up to 10 days, utilizing packing cubes and versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched.
Another common mistake is neglecting comfortable footwear. Travelers often pack fashionable but impractical shoes, leading to painful blisters and fatigue after just a few days of walking 15,000+ steps. Prevent this by prioritizing athletic walking shoes like Hoka or Brooks and breaking them in thoroughly before departure.
Failing to account for Japan's specific power outlets and voltage is a third pitfall. Travelers sometimes assume their European or American adapters will work universally without checking Japan's Type A/B, 100V standard. Always pack a universal travel adapter specifically compatible with Type A and B outlets to charge your devices without issue.
A fourth mistake is underestimating seasonal weather changes. Forgetting to pack layers for spring or autumn, or adequate rain gear year-round, can lead to discomfort. Always check the specific weather forecast for your travel dates and destinations, packing versatile layers like a lightweight down jacket (Uniqlo Ultra Light Down) for cooler months or moisture-wicking fabrics for humid summers.
Lastly, relying solely on credit cards is a mistake many first-time visitors make. While major stores accept cards, many smaller restaurants, temples, and vending machines operate on a cash-only basis. Always carry a supply of Japanese Yen, approximately 10,000-20,000 JPY, for daily expenses to avoid inconvenience.
Expert Tips for Best Results
Utilize local convenience stores, known as konbini like 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, or Lawson, for immediate needs. These stores are abundant and offer everything from delicious pre-made meals and snacks to toiletries, umbrellas, and even charging cables, which can help you pack lighter initially and pick up items as needed.
Consider shipping souvenirs home via Japan Post if you accumulate too many items to carry. This service is reliable and often more economical than paying airline excess baggage fees. Simply visit a post office, purchase a box, and fill out the customs forms; shipping usually takes 1-2 weeks.
Pack an empty, reusable water bottle. While tap water is safe to drink throughout Japan, finding public water fountains can be challenging outside of major train stations. Many cafes and restaurants are happy to refill your bottle, helping you stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.
Dress in layers, even during seemingly mild seasons. Temperatures can fluctuate significantly throughout the day, especially when moving between air-conditioned buildings and outdoor environments. A base layer, a mid-layer like a light sweater or cardigan, and an outer shell like a packable rain jacket will ensure comfort from morning to evening across various activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a power converter for Japan?
Japan uses Type A and B outlets with a voltage of 100V. Most modern electronics like phone chargers or laptop power bricks are dual-voltage (100-240V) and will only require a physical adapter for the plug shape, not a voltage converter. Always check your device's charger for its input voltage range before plugging it in.
How much cash should I carry in Japan for a week?
For a 7-day trip, it is advisable to carry approximately 10,000 to 20,000 JPY in cash, especially for smaller purchases at local restaurants, temples, vending machines, and some smaller shops. Major stores, hotels, and train stations generally accept credit cards, but cash remains essential for many daily transactions.
Are specific types of shoes required for walking in Japan?
Yes, extremely comfortable and supportive walking shoes are highly recommended due to the extensive amount of walking you will do, often exceeding 15,000 steps daily. Brands like Hoka, Brooks, or New Balance known for their cushioning and support are excellent choices. Avoid brand new shoes or those with minimal arch support.
What kind of clothing should I pack for Japan in summer (July-August)?
For summer in Japan, pack lightweight, breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, or moisture-wicking synthetics due to high temperatures (28-35°C) and extreme humidity. Include short-sleeved shirts, shorts, light dresses, and a compact umbrella or light rain jacket for sudden downpours. A wide-brimmed hat is also useful for sun protection.
Can I buy toiletries and other essentials easily in Japan?
Yes, Japan has an abundance of convenience stores (konbini) like 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Lawson, as well as drugstores like Matsumoto Kiyoshi, where you can easily purchase toiletries, snacks, drinks, and other daily essentials at reasonable prices. This allows for lighter packing initially.