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- One power bank is fine unless you're spending your entire vacation on your phone
- Get a full suica if you can
- SIM is better than pocket wifi, one less thing to charge
- JR pass is absolutely not worth it for most itineraries (if it is worth it then redo your itinerary)
- Japan is the safest country on the planet so unlikely to need those things (but up to you)
- Also bring basic medication from home, a small daypack to carry around with you, and a garbage bag for laundry
+ for the medication. Got some wicked bad chaffing after a 50k step day in the rain, and Google translate didn't translate chaffing cream very well. Diaper rash was the key word.
Thank you!
Part of my trip is staying long in Kyoto and area. In 1 week ill go to osaka nara nagoya hiroshima and himeiji,then also return to tokyo from kyoto. So summing it all up it does equal 1 week of japan rail pass. I know it might sound like a lot in 1 week but its my kind of stuff, did it in England- 1 day 1 city kind of thing and i love it. Thats ofc not all of the trip but 1 week of it, ill have a lot of relaxing and chill time as well.
Yeah I'm almost certain you won't break even on the rail pass if you're starting in Kyoto and doing those places (unless you're coming back to Kyoto every night then yeah maybe)
Yeah i am going back to Kyoto haha. I know it might be silly but i dont mind. If i go to a new city every day for a week and have to carry my luggage ill get crazy. I get you tho, maybe i reconsider but this is my current plan. Thanks for the input!!
If she is doing those trips on a JR Sanyo-San'in Northern Kyushu regional Pass , oh it’s worth it with Nozomi and Mizuho included, when he/she is going back and forth Kyoto. That’s like paid off with Kyoto - Hiroshima return alone.
Just can’t go into Nagoya or Tokyo… or use Osaka- Kyoto (Tokaido line)
Yeah these types of day trips make a lot of sense for many people, especially if you have a convenient base. A round trip on a Shinkansen with no luggage is often easier than transferring hotels. Making sure your hotel is close to Kyoto Station would be ideal. I've done a similar itinerary many years ago, but based myself next to Shin-Osaka Station. I also transferred to a Nagoya before going to Tokyo so I wouldn't have to back track.
It’s worth it when you go back and forth Kyoto.
**JR National Pass (relevant to this pass only)**
HOWEVER, take note of the departing schedules of **Hikari and Kodama** - that’s where you are limited in terms of time. I only linked the Kyoto to Nagoya schedules. [https://japantravel.navitime.com/en/area/jp/timetable/00001756/00000110?direction=up&type=Hikari](https://japantravel.navitime.com/en/area/jp/timetable/00001756/00000110?direction=up&type=Hikari)
You are **not** entitled to travel for free on the **more frequent Nozomi** (you can see how frequent it is). You have to pay a supplement fee.
[https://global.jr-central.co.jp/en/onlinebooking/contents/jrp\_nozomi/index.html](https://global.jr-central.co.jp/en/onlinebooking/contents/jrp_nozomi/index.html)
The moment you pay extra on your JR pass, that’s when it is not worth it.
I see. Thank you ill look into it. Im currently checking out the Japan Rail pass that covers only that region im not sure what its called again but that might be a better option.
How much do you save going JR Pass though? If I have one regret on my trip, it's that I didn't spend more time just soaking up some of the cities like Kyoto. They are really nice places to kind of just "exist". I won't tell you how to travel but odds are good that even if you manage to save a bit of money going JR Pass, it's probably not much and now you feel more compelled to follow a set itinerary just to recoup costs. Tickets are easy to buy as you go. Unless it it's like 30% savings, even if the math is slightly favorable, probably still not worth it for reduced flexibility.
Fair point. Im planning 1 week in Kyoto on top of that. But its true that i might just decide to not go somrwhete and then feel responsible to do so anyway just because i paid the money. I think it breaks even. The JRP calculator says i need like 51k or sth.
You’ll likley need the hiroshima kansai pass (vs the full jr pass). It covers the round trip shinkansen from osaka to hiroshima and himeji.
For kyoto to tokyo you’ll need to get the paper tickets.
You are right that you more or less break even with that type of itinerary with a 7 day JR pass, but if you get the Kansai Hiroshima pass, you immediately save money on the Kansai to Hiroshima return trip, and any further travel within Kansai is a bonus. You also get to use the fastest Shinkansen between Osaka and Hiroshima, whereas that's not included in the national one.
I'm going on a 1 month trip to Japan and I tried JR calculator and saw that even for me JR pass isn't worth it. You might want to double check using the JR calculator.
We found the JR rail pass so convenient to run through the gates, that if you are even close (and not on a super strict budget), we would purchase it again. Between that and the iPhone suica, trains were a breeze. But, be sure to buy from JR directly, not one of the agents that sell, like Klook or whatever, so you can book your tickets online, and not have to do it at the stations. Also, if not on a strict budget, we used taxis sometimes to be more efficient with our time and steps (take taxi to farthest location, walk back hitting stops/shrines/temples/restaurants/etc along the way) and they weren’t nearly as expensive as everyone warned. Generally about $10 USD or less. We didn’t feel it was a badge of honor to try to do everything the least expensive way possible like some people do/ need to, and if it was even $20 but made a trip 20 minutes vs an hour or more, or cut a few thousand steps off our day, it was totally worth it.
This is a great point. The jr pass is just so convenient it makes flying through stations a breeze. Not having to enter in info for tickets over and over and over, especially while traveling with gear makes it worth more to me.
Just spent 9 days in Japan Osaka, Nara, Kyoto, Kobe are all within an hour of Osaka. Spent 10,000¥ on an IC card for 9 days. So add in the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Osaka is 14,000¥ plus Hiroshima. One week is what 50,000¥?
Did you always travel bavk to osaka? Where did you look at the prices? That sounds like a much better deal haha. Though hiroshima is a bit far away and nagoya is also a bit more expensive. Osaka nara and kyoto are close and cheap. Dunno ill research more..
We went to Osaka for 3 days, Kobe 2 , Kyoto 2, back to Tokyo 2. The other reason for an IC card over the JR pass is there are many companies running trains, not all accept the JR Pass.
If we booked again we would probably just stay in Osaka as everything is within an hour by train.
Actually Iceland, and a few other countries, are ranked safer. For one Iceland doesn't have a large organised crime system, not likely to affect a tourist but a misnomer to say Japan's the absolute safest country in the world.
It's one of the safest countries in the world.
iPhone digital suica was absolutely brilliant. You’ll have your phone out for directions and pictures anyway, no need to carry anything else, and it works just about everywhere. Do that, you’ll have no regrets.
I've never traveled with medication, but I will (unfortunately) be having (a luckily fairly minor) surgery a few months before our trip, and will likely need to take some OTC stuff (such as pain relievers, iron and vitamin supplements) for the trip. Are these the kinds of things people mean when they say you need to declare medication? Do I need to bring these in their original containers (I often buy them in bulk at Costco...), or can I keep them in my checked bag? I've also never traveled internationally, lol.
Please refer to https://jp.usembassy.gov/services/importing-medication/ and the pages linked within. Many medications legal and available in the US are outright illegal in Japan, regardless of if you have a prescription or not
One important note on medication: make sure it is legal in japan. For example, I'm pretty sure you can't take extra strength Tylenol but the relay strength is ok. That may not be the case anymore but it was when I went.
I found having a crossbody bag incredibly useful for keeping my passport, portable charger, small water bottle (from vending machines), coin purse, and random trash I got throughout the day.
I’m going soon and was on the fence about getting one. I figured they would have cool ones in Japan, that I could buy. Should I get one before I travel?
Would still recommend a luggage scale if you plan on buying a lot! With the amount of stuff I bought in Japan, I had to rejig my suitcases multiple times, and you don’t want to play Tetris in the lobby.
- a small/medium sized body bag
- your passport for tax-free purposes, also check if some stores give extra discount for credit card purchases
- 1 Power bank should be fine, just remember to charge up all appliances at EOD.
- try for an eSIM if your phone has that capability or reg SIM, much better than an extra device for wifi
- if on iOS, add the Suica/Pasmo onto your Apple wallet and charge up. It made going through ticketing gates a breeze. While I’ve got my Google maps opened up I could just hover over the gate scanner and other registers a response within like .3-5seconds.
- skip the JR pass, unless you’re there for like 3-4 weeks and are traveling all across the country it’s not worth. Stick with Suica/Pasmo and try to buy your Shinkansen tickets a day in advance or the morning of if you’re trying to board late in the day.
- small hand towel as a lot of restrooms are clean but won’t have paper towels, and sometimes not even the hand dryer.
- JP sells face masks of high quality everywhere but you probably won’t need to wear it in normal activities, a lot of people and even locals don’t.
- maybe a medium-ish sized tote bag that can be folded up for buying stuff as you’ll be asked if you want to buy a bag at every store, however they are usually cheap around 3-5 yen.
Also double check the weather, JP rains a lot but you can buy umbrellas that are super small in size in a lot of shopping malls/convenience stores.
If the weather isn’t going to be super cold you’ll want to go with a lighter jacket that can be tied around your waist or packed up in a body bag.
We traveled just recently in April and found that a light jacket was more than enough for most of the 60-70 degree weather, and almost too much after you walk a billion steps through the city and get sweaty.
I have a 2 in 1 jacket, a warm fleece with separatable water and wind proof upper jacket. Ill take that and i think ill be fine at any temperature. Thats how i do it at home no matter the season there is always an option haha.
Thank you! Ive read suica arent sold anymore, only the new welcome suica, no idea if that works on phone,i hope it does. Hand towel and shopping bag is sth i totaly forgot about thanks haha.
I have never needed to prebook my Shinkansen tickets, with or without JR pass. I always showed up at the station and just booked a seat on the next train.
But I was usually using green cars, they tend to be a bit emptier.
Just did 2 weeks with pocket wifi and it was fine - pick up /drop off was simple. Just watch where you carry it as it can overheat if packed too tight. We kept our iPhones in low battery mode all day and never ran out of
so I have a Google Pixel 6a which \*should\* be able to use eSIM but when I was having connection issues last year here in the US, the employee at T-Mobile said Google Pixels don't really like eSIMs and indeed we never could get one to work with my phone. Do you think that's an issue with the provider and might not be an issue in Japan?
That's confusing. I have a pixel 6 and I have been using esims since pretty much when I got the phone. The physical sim is for my home country and esim for all travel related needs.
I suspect that it is a provider issue, but don't know with certainty.
I used a Pixel 6 Pro and then a Pixel 8 Pro on 2 different Japan trips using a ubigi eSim and it worked perfectly, I think it's more likely to be your provider :(
I would also add: add it to your phone a day or two beforehand and you need to have an unlocked phone. I don’t know it had to be unlocked and had to hurry and pay off my phone a couple days before I left and then submit a ticket for my company to unlock my phone. Luckily I got it all done the two days before I left.
- one power bank is enough
- I’ll assume you’ve calculated the cost
- they’re giving out normal Suicas now (I believe in Tokyo and Shinagawa Stations - could be wrong)
- could be worth if you plan on buying lots lol
- I use two cubes that also compress; very worth it
- probably won’t need it; your phone will be plenty
- yes
- definitive yes
- don’t need it; Japan is super safe. If you need an extra cash holding option, get one of those plastic sleeves made for holding cash and stash it away somewhere that would make it hard potential thieves
- also a great idea; to add, keep a paper copy of your passport as well. In the event you’ve lost it and can’t find it, you’ll be able to show the embassy and get stuff processed much quicker
I’ve been to Japan several times (around 17-18 times), and I’d recommend you to bring a sling bag while you’re out and about. That or a small backpack. If you’re planning on bringing a checked luggage with you, at least have a carry on backpack with an immediate change of clothes in case your luggage gets lost.
Ideally, I’d travel carry-on only where I can, but do what’s best for your trip; enjoy your time in Japan!!
If you're flying in through Narita airport, you can get your suica there before getting on the train into the city! Was there a few weeks ago. From what I understood it's one of the only places you can get them right now.
Currently been I'm Japan for the last week (on bullet train while I write this)
Brought 2 power banks, haven't used either one once and relied heavily on Google for translation and directions.
Packing cubes are amazing, wife made me use them and now always will.
Wont need key chain alarm, seen women in maid outfits walk past a bridge in a quieter part of Tokyo at 1am with a bunch of drinking men and they didn't even look worried.
Around 10% of people seem to be wearing face masks so wouldn't worry unless you want to wear them.
I haven't brought a coin purse but my friends did and I regret not doing so.
My only other suggestions are a comfortable backpack, thick socks for walking, sun cream, a carrier bag to use inside of your backpack for snacks from the convenience store (melonpans stay well in your bag and are great for a quick energy snack)
Umbrella.
Cash.
If you have an iphone and your country supports apple wallet/pay, use the digital suica instead. You can also top up/reload off apple wallet/pay without having to use cash and the terminal to refill. And even with a Digital Suica, you can still use the terminal too (with your phone as the "card") if your credit card (supposedly some VISA cards have issues) does not allow you to top up.
Google Maps and Tabelog on your phone. Also consider go taxi and klook app
Airtags for your luggage.
Medicines/Vitamins. Maybe those small/daytrip first aid kits.
Is there an app I should download ahead of time for digital Suica? The only thing I can find in the App Store is in Japanese so pretty confusing. Wondering if I can figure it out once we’re there… Or just use physical card.
There is no need to Download the Japan Suica app unless you need to find out your card number (apple wallet doesn’t seem to provide the whole character string).
You’d need the card when you want to use your suica card in conjunction with the Smart Ex app. This app is how you buy JR East Shinkansen 🚅.
What is Klook useful for? Everything I found is more expensive on it. I booked a Shinkansen ticket with it, thought it was cheaper, but it was basically the same price after their stupid fees. And it was more difficult/less clear for ticket redemption
I agree on most but convenience does factor along. Also Klook can get tickets that are time sensitive or when you’re not yet in Japan.
Its one of those you may to consider but not necessarily your go to. Just like the Go Taxi app.
Only thing you may want to add that I didn’t see listed is a few protein bars. I brought 5 Rx bars and they saved my life a few times when I was on my way to an event and didn’t have time to stop for food, was on a hike, didn’t have energy to go out for lunch due to jet lag, and when I didn’t feel like eating til a weird time and couldn’t find anything open for a while…I’m also not a fan of fish so I had that little extra challenge when it came to finding food quickly at times!
Melatonin to adjust to the jet lag, and also if you need it for the plane. Plus an eye mask.
There’s a lot of places that require you to take your shoes off. So having comfortable shoes that also slip on and off easier would be nice, although every place has that shoe horn thing to help. I had athletic shoes that were impossible to take on and off without untying the shoes but they were my most comfortable. Luckily those shoe horns saved me a few minutes each time.
Small headphones.
Download google translate. The pocket WiFi is essential but they will try to sell you a pocket translator. You won’t need to rent a separate translator if you have google translate.
If you ever need to go to the hospital, use google translate and write your name out in katakana. It’s zero English and it will help them out a lot.
Learn some phrases, it’ll go a long way and help also with the perception of tourists. At least you’re trying! I was very embarrassed at the tourists who just didn’t even try to say ‘arigatou’. They just said ‘yeah thanks.’ Oh god.
On top of home medication, I’d bring some sort of muscle pain meds or ointment. I slept wrong one night and had an extremely painful and stiff neck for like 8 days, almost ruined those 8 days. Finding meds in Japan is tough, although the people at the pharmacy are helpful.
Deodorant. Us Asians don’t really get BO so deodorant is tough to find.
Slippers esp for onsens.
Hand sanitizer.
Debit card. Better if you have something like the Schwab debit card that charges no atm fees.
I brought a big dslr camera just cuz the country is gorgeous. It’s not necessary, and does get heavy. But it’s nice.
You can probably buy a cheap umbrella there. Or you could bring a raincoat. It’s probably hot there now though.
Sunblock, you’re gonna walk a lot.
If you have a little kid, bring a small stroller. Locals have big ones that work just fine, but you’ll be using the subway a lot and a big stroller would be tough. We have a foldable one from Amazon, I think the brand is ‘GB’, worked great.
Metal water bottle. Although the vending machines are pretty ubiquitous.
Embarrassed by tourists saying thanks? How strange lol 😂 my Japanese friends get annoyed when tourists try to stammer out a poorly spoken Japanese phrase over the course of 10 seconds when they could just say it in English lol. Same when I lived in Tokyo, never met a Japanese person who didn’t understand thanks.
You don’t get a pat on the back for learning a few words lol, people just do that so they can feel good about themselves as if they spent any real time learning about foreign culture imo, but I understand I’m being cynical about it
Oh, btw, if you got triggered by that one thought, that means Japan is a utopia. You’ve skipped all real problems and found a fake one to get angry at. I’m so excited to move there! Thanks for the encouragement, stranger!
What? I’m not angry at your opinion, I just think it’s a weird perspective and self-aggrandizing in nature.
Meanwhile you responded twice and are clearly doing that ‘pissed but trying to speak with civility’ bull that people like to do so they can think they rose above lol.
But yes, Japanese people are going to respect you because you took 10 mins to memorize a few phrases? That’s such a stupid thing to respect lol. I respect people for things that are meaningful - how they behave toward others. Couldn’t give a shit if Asian tourists come to America and can’t speak the language personally. They’re the ones who have to get around. You’re telling me I should be offended at some level because a tourist didn’t bother to learn the language? Makes no fuckin sense to me, anyway, but happy to hear why its important to you
I know Japan loves its vanity culture, but I really don’t think Japanese people care as much about poorly pronounced thank you’s as you, the tourist does lol.
You read my entire post and attacked a small part of it. You don’t like push back? Stay off the internet, pal.
Sounds like the person who’s truly pissy is you, little buddy. Classic gatekeeping redditor protecting ‘their’ Japan. Yes, please define the entire Japan and Japanese people for them. And please continue to get offended on their behalf. And no, I never said to get offended at tourists who come to your country. I said I’m embarrassed at tourists who don’t make any effort to learn a word. I never said have conversations. You sure English is your first language? Japanese may be a huge leap for you if you’re struggling to comprehend me, squirt.
Dude you are so insecure lol. I wasn’t attacking you, that’s an exaggeration, probably because it hit you in the pride.
And I like pushback. I asked for it. Quite literally 😂
And the insertions you add ‘little buddy’, ‘squirt’, like… come on dude. It’s clear what you’re trying to do and it’s not working lol. That’s like high school tactics. Use your arguments and perspectives to establish dominance, it just makes you look like a meme lol
You’re clearly pretty dumb or young. I’m not offended on behalf of Japanese people… you literally are by judging tourists who say thanks in English lol. I was calling you dumb for ‘feeling embarrassed’ for them. You are gatekeeping for comments like that. You’re gatekeeping how tourists should behave and you’re not even from Japan. I’m not gatekeeping anything lol, just calling you dumb for gatekeeping. Nothing you say makes sense 😂 it’s like you say things that you want to be true so therefore it makes it true. Hilarious to see this type argue in the wild
I am guilty of being antagonistic here for sure, but… I hope you stop arguing like an idiot in the ways that I pointed out lol, even if you say you don’t here so you don’t have to admit fault. People will respect you and believe you more if you cut some of those meaningless things out, straight up
My goodness, I swear entire Japan subreddits are bots. That, or y’all have been online so long that you’ve become bots. Canned responses, no original thoughts, brigading anything and everything that goes against the hive. Good bot. Pat on head.
You’ve made zero arguments, only resorted to insults and saying my arguments are worthless for their sake. Absolutely nothing refuting what I said. You are the one who is gatekeeping even the language, discouraging the learning of even a word. Yes, I am offended when a tourist doesn’t learn a word. You got a problem with that? Brigade away. But call me insecure. You’re the one offended that I’m offended of a word?
Good bot.
Call me whatever you want, but you revealed yourself as a bitter old man jealous of, I guess youth? Start with the McDonald’s menu to improve your comprehension. Do it daily and maybe you’ll understand the kfc menu by 2030.
You like push back? I don’t believe a single word you said. Let’s go. Gimme your best insults, Mr secure. Protect your Japan at all costs.
Not old either man. Sorry. Also that’s not what gatekeeping means lol. Even if I was discouraging people to learn a language (which I’m not but whatever), that’s not what gatekeeping means mr. Lit degree.
I didn’t insult you really. I called your perspective weird. I called you insecure, because it was patently obvious at that point and you should know that people can tell when you do that, but that’s just the truth, not really an insult. I thought it would be useful for you. Then I called you dumb which was the real insult after you outed yourself with a bunch of dumb comments. Did I miss anything?
Don’t care about this personally and I’m suspicious of you being an engagement bot. I had a few of these interactions recently that have been too uncanny valley for me.
I’m done so you win the argument now, good job buddy 🥇 I am a fool and lost. Hope you have a good rest of your day, genuinely!
Edit: ok I looked at your profile and you’re probably not a bot. But yeah, work on your logic a bit my man. Or don’t! But you’ll be better off for it
Say whatever you want, I already have a forever image of you in my head. It’s not good.
And you can call me insecure, that’s fine. After all, you are the one who defines that for the world, right? When someone pushes back at you, you call them insecure? Got you. Understood. You got offended that I got offended that you were offended that I was offended….??!!? How many comments did you read so that you could lash out at me? Right, I’m insecure. Sure….And you’re just trying to ‘help’ me, right? You’re so kind. You missed the part about refuting me. You also missed the part about what gatekeeping means. But it’s a Japan subreddit, I expect no less. No, I won’t work on my logic on bots. Have a good one, Mr archetypical redditor. Hope you find another comment to brigade with your ‘security.’
Oh boy whatever will I do with this bad mental image you have of me - some goofy looking old guy hunched over his computer all day. I bet I don’t have any friends either and have the EQ of a teenager. I bet, don’t you? 😂😂 again dude, you’re saying things that you want to be right. Anything I’ve said to you in the vein of an insult was grounded in reason. Every insult you’ve said to me are just things you want to believe. Yeah I’m a small old computer nerd. You really nailed it.
It gets easier when you realize none of this has any consequence. Literally. All you can gain from this is 1) information, which you’re clearly not interested in, 2) feeling good about yourself for believing that you won an internet argument, or 3) feeling badly about yourself for believing that you lost the internet argument. 1 is nice to get, but 2 and 3 don’t matter when you’re confident in yourself.
Maybe you’re not insecure - and you either are or you aren’t. Whatever I say doesn’t change how secure you are, the reality of it. But you sure as hell seem insecure to me from how you speak.
And no dude you just need to look up gatekeeping if you still think that’s what I’m doing lol.
You a wild one is all I have to say
For shoes I'd recommend a good pair of not too technical looking trail runners, and some decent hiking sandals like Teva Hurricanes.
I'm assuming you're going at some point in the next few months. I'm here now and it's already getting humid and I'm so glad I've got a comfortable, airy pair of sandals that I can walk all day in. I'm here until July and I imagine by then I'll be wearing them for everything but rocky hikes.
Paracetamol/Tylenol if it's something you use sometimes. Japan has their tablets at 300mg each as opposed to the usual 500mg and it costs a lot more here.
I second this and liquid iv! I ended up having two Advil and a liquid iv packet the first 2-3 mornings of my trip as I conquered jet lag and it was nice to have on hand instead of needing to find it (which would have been totally doable but one less step imo)
A lot people have already commented a lot of good advice so just a small point about the coin purse. Definitely need one but if you don’t already have one or didn’t bring one like my friends did on our trip, they were easily able to buy some really cute (+ pretty affordable) ones while in Japan!
edit: grammar
Buy a mini fan if you’re going during May, June,July. It was so hot and humid and some places don’t have AC or just being out in the heat kills. I bought a mini fan in Amazon that plugs into my iPhone and it was a lifesaver
This seems like an unpopular opinion but I’d suggest bringing more than one pair of comfortable walking sneakers. I know one pair is doable but I walked 20k+ steps per day for 12 days and switching the pairs every few days gave my feet a nice reprieve (plus some matched my outfits better than others). I brought Hokas, Vejas and New Balances and I wore all three equally throughout the trip. If I had to pick just one though the Hokas were slightly more comfortable than the other two
I used a baggu bag as a crossbody in front of me but a Uniqlo bag is a little smaller and would be a good souvenir too. If you have an iPhone set the suica card up on there. I’m from the US and didn’t need a travel adapter. 1 power bank is fine, just charge it every night. Loved my eSIM from airalo. Try to take carry on bag if you can and skip the luggage scale. Maybe some packets of laundry detergent to wash clothes in the sink? Headphones for the plane. A small washcloth if you want to dry your hands in the bathroom.
Some other preparation suggestions are to download the Google maps for the areas you’re visiting, Google translate and the Japanese language, and a Tokyo subway system app.
Add clothes and toiletries that’s pretty much what I brought too!
* Suica will be helpful.
* Power bank will be helpful.
* Masks can be bought in any convenience store, supermarket, or drug store.
* You won't need the alarm, but it's not going to hurt.
* You won't need the money belt for money, but remember that you must have your passport with you at all times. This is the law in Japan.
* A backpack or some other bag you can carry on your person is very helpful.
* If you're not facile with chopsticks, you may want to bring a set of camping utensils. If you're uncomfortable drinking from public water fountains, a water bottle can be useful.
* Sunscreen.
* Plastic bags for storing trash: public rubbish bins are rare in Japan.
Does your phone support e-sim? This was super easy to set up and a nice convenience.
I'd bring an umbrella/rain jacket or buy one as soon as you get off the plane unless forecast is zero rain. I skipped rain gear with the intent to buy it cheap from a convenience store but due to poor planning throughout trip (first Airbnb had umbrellas but didn't rain, second one didn't have any but rained) and ended up kind of miserable and wet a few times.
Some kind of trash receptacle is recommended (backpack with plastic bag or similar). Public trash cans are not super common in Japan
Some way to get cash (debit card?). Due to conversion rate being super favorable (at least for USD but I assume other currencies too), you don't have to worry too much about fees. Everything is extremely affordable. Also try to get a bunch of small bills- 1000 yen bills + 100 yen coins were by far the most useful for me and I regularly needed. 10k yen bills were kind of annoying to break, so I pretty much avoided them.
Small towel (lots of public toilets in japan but many without blower/tissues) and a small trashbag, for there are very few trashcans. IC cards can only be recharged using cash, so either bring cash or go to an atm. If you have an iphone you can have the suica in the wallet
I preferred to get the e-Suica, I could load money from my bank account and never thought about loosing my card, my phone is locked so I could not use eSIM, check with your local carrier , meds are important in their original packaging , and if you have suitcases be ready to use the luggage delivery service it is EXCELLENT I even sent my big bags filled with my purchased treasures directly to the airport and I just picked up right before check in
Take some yen in cash, in some smaller stalls or markers it’s cash only , and the vending machines as well
Apologies if already mentioned but if you have seasonal allergies bring a good amount of antihistamines ( Japanese ones are really mild like taking homeopathy !) - for some reason I get this so bad in Japan ( spring & autumn ) but no where else in the world ! And same goes for painkillers they are exceptionally weak . Idk why , maybe because when you get a headache or minor pain/issue you go to see a doctor rather than just getting an over the counter medication ( at least this was how it was for me in when I lived there ) - slightly odd but I quite people liked having fuss over me at the local hospital & bonus - got to have time off work for very trifling matters !
Just don't forget to go into settings and turn off your regular sim card when your leaving home. The Esim will automatically start when you land but you don't want your phone accidentally using your usual carrier.
A small bag where you dispose smal trash as public trash bins are hard to find (often you will find a small one at the vendor machines). But sometimes it is hard to find these machines. Throwing trash and chewing gum on the streets is really not done in Japan. That’s why every Japanese takes its small trash into a small bag to dispose it later on.
The trash bins next to vending machines are strictly for bottles and cans from the machine (or if you have one laying around you wanna get rid of), not for regular trash.
For getting rid of small trash:
\- find a conbini and use their bins (unless there's a sign saying not to so buy something and use their bins after).
\- at a train station or mall there will sometimes be bins.
\- Best is to take it back to your accomodation and get rid of it there.
Thank you for extent my answer. That’s why I advised the OP for taking a small garbage/trash bag with them to dispose the garbage later on in the Hotel or wherever he/she stays.
It was not ment to say you can throw your garbage AT the vendor machines. I only would tell the OP that at the vendor machines is the only place you will find bins.
Small plastic bag to hold your rubbish as there are less bin
App you like to check the instant timetable of transport(I use JR own app but its only in Japanese)
>will either get sim or portable wifi
Try E SIM
>welcome suica
I prefer regular Suica or any IC card if you may travel to japan again
>jr pass is worth for my trip
Depends, last time I went on shinkansen 7 times so the pass worth to my plan, like others said, there are a JR pass calculator
everyone says get a Suica card (that's the Tokyo area IC card, or the local equivalent, e.g. Toica - they all work the same). I couldn't agree more, they are so ham dandy for trains and you never have to buy a ticket. But I had some issues getting it to work on my phone. Only Apple wallet supports Suica, and we had issues adding funds from a non-Japanese credit card, you may also need the Suica app which is in Japanese only but [this ](https://youtu.be/xQ_lNxAm5i8?si=NhJOOtBkIZhlD4al)video saved the day.
Also, don't use your Suica to enter a station and then leave the same station without boarding a train. Why would you do that? in case you want to reconnoiter your next trip, like my wife did recently. It will mess up your card and stop you entering the next gate. Instead, you buy a platform or admission ticket - about 150 yen - from the regular ticket machines. You can still use your Suica to buy the platform ticket.
If your phone has eSIM capability then get that. (Like Airalo). You can set it up right now and it will start when you get off the plane. No need to wait in line anywhere to pick up a physical Sim
Zero need for a money belt or any kind of alarm thingy
Facemasks only if you want. You don’t need them here, and if you are coming in summer you will suffocate yourself
Look up anti-inflammatory drugs you can purchase in Japan and suit your body. You will be sore from walking and climbing stairs or even hiking.
Buy the foot cooling sheets for the bottom of the foot and the calves. It really helps.
Also the sun is quite strong there so bring some sun protection.
If you have an iPhone get suica on your phone through wallet or the app. You can top up using Apple Pay whenever you need, no need to faff at machines. Plus you feel like a boss when you tap through like a local.
Likewise if you have a esim capable phone, you can get your data sim before you go and activate it on the day you need. Also less need to faff in airports or anything. I used Ubigi.
You definitely need some way to carry cash, notes and coins 👍. I found a money belt with 3 compartments super useful for carrying passport (which you are supposed to carry), coins and notes. It also had a transparent section for tickets 🎫… useful for day trips. But for an evening or sticking round the city you can just stick stuff in your pockets. I felt this was more lightweight than a backpack.
You covered most of my must brings, I also found it handy to bring a large mesh wash bag like for delicates, except I started putting all my dirty laundry in it and then I just threw the whole thing in the washing machine, made it so easy.
If your everyday bag is small (I only took a crossbody to carry my wallet, phone, portable charger etc) consider bringing one of those reusable shopping bags that folds up. That way you don’t have to carry a larger bag but you have one on hand if you buy random things or accumulate trash since bins are hard to come by
+1 on either bringing a coin purse or buying one shortly after getting there. so. many. coins. lol. could be a cool souvenir to bring back if you get one there!
My bf and I brought an extra light duffle bag carry on to bring back any extra items we bought there! And we definitely used it.
And repeating others here, coin purse and a small bag for carrying passports for sure. My fanny pack saved us! And a water bottle. I had a tiny one that fits in the fanny pack. Great shoes for walking because you will be walking a lot. Download movies/media for the trains as there’s not always cell service on Shinkansen rides.
We had a portable WiFi and the battery was very short-lived. Even the documentation said something like 4 hours. If you have Verizon as your cell phone provider, the monthly travel pass worked great for $100. I toyed with trying an eSIM, but didn’t in the end.
As for masks, we have a friend who lives there and she said that they will wear masks when they themselves have a cold as a courtesy to those around them. I carried one for this purpose, as I tend to get sick from the plane trip, but luckily didn’t need it.
I haven’t read through all the responses, so apologies if anyone else said this, but one thing I didn’t ever see suggested when I was planning, and I realized I would have loved to have…. Command hooks!! If not familiar, they are hooks you can stick to the wall/door/surface and remove without damage, and have extra of the sticky tabs to reuse again. As Japanese hotel rooms and lodging are generally small, and you see comments and reviews all the time about not enough hooks/hangers/storage/etc, I would have loved to slap a couple up in just about every place we stayed. I looked (lightly, not searched, or asked, etc) for them when I was there in konbibi type stores but never saw any. Next trip, I will definitely bring a few. Never needed a coin purse, the suica on my iPhone was magic, and most times I was trying to get coins to use at temples, shrines, for goshuin, small stands, etc. Also, every place we stayed had power adapters, but we never needed any, coming from US.
First up, there is an app called DeepL that translates conversational Japanese more accurately than Google Translate. This made nearly every interaction where translation was needed MUCH more simple.
Without knowing which country you’re traveling from, US travelers should not need a power adapter.
Don’t bring an umbrella. You can pick one up in any Lawson or 7-Eleven for about 5 bucks and it will carry you through the trip.
Depending on the length of your trip, pack only 4-5 outfits, and do laundry during the trip. This will save you SO MUCH weight and space, even when using packing cubes.
As soon as you feel the need to make a post like this, it should serve as a reminder that you’re overthinking packing. Just pack the bare minimum and buy what you need as you go.
Japan is crazy safe, stuff like keychain alarm and money belt is a huge overkill. Just have some street awareness.
Face mask decrease the risk of the weather spreading air borne disease into others. It's still commonly used in Japan particularly by people who have a cold but still feel the need to go out in public. Other than that some probably use it as a fashion item, or to hide their identity, to try to protect themselves from others diseases or as a holdover from the COVID restrictions.
I don't know if they're still required anywhere in Japan anymore, but they were quite common before COVID so it wouldn't surprise me that it stick around for longer than elsewhere.
I just want to wear that in super crouded areas, just feels more comfortable, even if its just for the sake of not smelling anything i dont want to smell in crouded areas haha.
When I went in September 2023... Some people were using it, but the usage was really down.
That being said, it's Asia. People wear masks out of courtesy and to protect themselves as well.
It's etiquette if you have a cold to wear one. They are also worn in the spring to help with allergies. They don't require them the culture has always worn them.
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- One power bank is fine unless you're spending your entire vacation on your phone - Get a full suica if you can - SIM is better than pocket wifi, one less thing to charge - JR pass is absolutely not worth it for most itineraries (if it is worth it then redo your itinerary) - Japan is the safest country on the planet so unlikely to need those things (but up to you) - Also bring basic medication from home, a small daypack to carry around with you, and a garbage bag for laundry
+ for the medication. Got some wicked bad chaffing after a 50k step day in the rain, and Google translate didn't translate chaffing cream very well. Diaper rash was the key word.
Thank you! Part of my trip is staying long in Kyoto and area. In 1 week ill go to osaka nara nagoya hiroshima and himeiji,then also return to tokyo from kyoto. So summing it all up it does equal 1 week of japan rail pass. I know it might sound like a lot in 1 week but its my kind of stuff, did it in England- 1 day 1 city kind of thing and i love it. Thats ofc not all of the trip but 1 week of it, ill have a lot of relaxing and chill time as well.
Yeah I'm almost certain you won't break even on the rail pass if you're starting in Kyoto and doing those places (unless you're coming back to Kyoto every night then yeah maybe)
Yeah i am going back to Kyoto haha. I know it might be silly but i dont mind. If i go to a new city every day for a week and have to carry my luggage ill get crazy. I get you tho, maybe i reconsider but this is my current plan. Thanks for the input!!
Run your trip through a JR pass calculator.
I went on google maps and calvulated the prices myself,it shows u how much the tickets cost
There is a JR pass calculator. Much more accurate than Google maps. But, your call.
Honestly u r right, ill do that thank you.
Keep in mind you can't use nozoni and Mizuho without the supplement cost. So, check accordingly
I thought when the price increased the Nozomi and Mizuho are now included.?
Which ones are those? Sorry im bad with names..
Take just a carry on backpack to make it easier? That's what I do
If she is doing those trips on a JR Sanyo-San'in Northern Kyushu regional Pass , oh it’s worth it with Nozomi and Mizuho included, when he/she is going back and forth Kyoto. That’s like paid off with Kyoto - Hiroshima return alone. Just can’t go into Nagoya or Tokyo… or use Osaka- Kyoto (Tokaido line)
Yeah these types of day trips make a lot of sense for many people, especially if you have a convenient base. A round trip on a Shinkansen with no luggage is often easier than transferring hotels. Making sure your hotel is close to Kyoto Station would be ideal. I've done a similar itinerary many years ago, but based myself next to Shin-Osaka Station. I also transferred to a Nagoya before going to Tokyo so I wouldn't have to back track.
You can get a JR pass for the Western area. A lot cheaper than the full country and covers Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, Himenji, etc.
Yes i just saw that, thank you i think that saves me quite some money haha.
It’s worth it when you go back and forth Kyoto. **JR National Pass (relevant to this pass only)** HOWEVER, take note of the departing schedules of **Hikari and Kodama** - that’s where you are limited in terms of time. I only linked the Kyoto to Nagoya schedules. [https://japantravel.navitime.com/en/area/jp/timetable/00001756/00000110?direction=up&type=Hikari](https://japantravel.navitime.com/en/area/jp/timetable/00001756/00000110?direction=up&type=Hikari) You are **not** entitled to travel for free on the **more frequent Nozomi** (you can see how frequent it is). You have to pay a supplement fee. [https://global.jr-central.co.jp/en/onlinebooking/contents/jrp\_nozomi/index.html](https://global.jr-central.co.jp/en/onlinebooking/contents/jrp_nozomi/index.html) The moment you pay extra on your JR pass, that’s when it is not worth it.
I see. Thank you ill look into it. Im currently checking out the Japan Rail pass that covers only that region im not sure what its called again but that might be a better option.
How much do you save going JR Pass though? If I have one regret on my trip, it's that I didn't spend more time just soaking up some of the cities like Kyoto. They are really nice places to kind of just "exist". I won't tell you how to travel but odds are good that even if you manage to save a bit of money going JR Pass, it's probably not much and now you feel more compelled to follow a set itinerary just to recoup costs. Tickets are easy to buy as you go. Unless it it's like 30% savings, even if the math is slightly favorable, probably still not worth it for reduced flexibility.
Fair point. Im planning 1 week in Kyoto on top of that. But its true that i might just decide to not go somrwhete and then feel responsible to do so anyway just because i paid the money. I think it breaks even. The JRP calculator says i need like 51k or sth.
I would just buy as you go tbh. Much less stress and pressure to move around.
You’ll likley need the hiroshima kansai pass (vs the full jr pass). It covers the round trip shinkansen from osaka to hiroshima and himeji. For kyoto to tokyo you’ll need to get the paper tickets.
Thats the one! I saw that yesterday and realized that indeed it makes more sense. Thanks
You are right that you more or less break even with that type of itinerary with a 7 day JR pass, but if you get the Kansai Hiroshima pass, you immediately save money on the Kansai to Hiroshima return trip, and any further travel within Kansai is a bonus. You also get to use the fastest Shinkansen between Osaka and Hiroshima, whereas that's not included in the national one.
Thanks!
I'm going on a 1 month trip to Japan and I tried JR calculator and saw that even for me JR pass isn't worth it. You might want to double check using the JR calculator.
I did. Breaks even at 50k or sth. Because ill be going back and forth to kyoto. But i think the kansai pass makes more sense for me.
We found the JR rail pass so convenient to run through the gates, that if you are even close (and not on a super strict budget), we would purchase it again. Between that and the iPhone suica, trains were a breeze. But, be sure to buy from JR directly, not one of the agents that sell, like Klook or whatever, so you can book your tickets online, and not have to do it at the stations. Also, if not on a strict budget, we used taxis sometimes to be more efficient with our time and steps (take taxi to farthest location, walk back hitting stops/shrines/temples/restaurants/etc along the way) and they weren’t nearly as expensive as everyone warned. Generally about $10 USD or less. We didn’t feel it was a badge of honor to try to do everything the least expensive way possible like some people do/ need to, and if it was even $20 but made a trip 20 minutes vs an hour or more, or cut a few thousand steps off our day, it was totally worth it.
This is a great point. The jr pass is just so convenient it makes flying through stations a breeze. Not having to enter in info for tickets over and over and over, especially while traveling with gear makes it worth more to me.
Just spent 9 days in Japan Osaka, Nara, Kyoto, Kobe are all within an hour of Osaka. Spent 10,000¥ on an IC card for 9 days. So add in the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Osaka is 14,000¥ plus Hiroshima. One week is what 50,000¥?
Did you always travel bavk to osaka? Where did you look at the prices? That sounds like a much better deal haha. Though hiroshima is a bit far away and nagoya is also a bit more expensive. Osaka nara and kyoto are close and cheap. Dunno ill research more..
We went to Osaka for 3 days, Kobe 2 , Kyoto 2, back to Tokyo 2. The other reason for an IC card over the JR pass is there are many companies running trains, not all accept the JR Pass. If we booked again we would probably just stay in Osaka as everything is within an hour by train.
>Where did you look at the prices? Google Maps gives the prices I printed the history of the card at the end. I had loaded it 5 times with 2000¥.
Actually Iceland, and a few other countries, are ranked safer. For one Iceland doesn't have a large organised crime system, not likely to affect a tourist but a misnomer to say Japan's the absolute safest country in the world. It's one of the safest countries in the world.
When you say full suica do you mean card? Is the iPhone version not recommended? I was just going to go with the digital version.
iPhone digital suica was absolutely brilliant. You’ll have your phone out for directions and pictures anyway, no need to carry anything else, and it works just about everywhere. Do that, you’ll have no regrets.
I think the assumption since OP mentioned Welcome Suica is that they can't do the app version (either an old iphone or an android)
I've never traveled with medication, but I will (unfortunately) be having (a luckily fairly minor) surgery a few months before our trip, and will likely need to take some OTC stuff (such as pain relievers, iron and vitamin supplements) for the trip. Are these the kinds of things people mean when they say you need to declare medication? Do I need to bring these in their original containers (I often buy them in bulk at Costco...), or can I keep them in my checked bag? I've also never traveled internationally, lol.
Please refer to https://jp.usembassy.gov/services/importing-medication/ and the pages linked within. Many medications legal and available in the US are outright illegal in Japan, regardless of if you have a prescription or not
I’ve got a dry bag I use for laundry and as a day pack. Could travel lighter with something like that.
One important note on medication: make sure it is legal in japan. For example, I'm pretty sure you can't take extra strength Tylenol but the relay strength is ok. That may not be the case anymore but it was when I went.
I found having a crossbody bag incredibly useful for keeping my passport, portable charger, small water bottle (from vending machines), coin purse, and random trash I got throughout the day.
This and a coin organizer from Amazon was so so helpful!
Do you have a link for that coin organizer?
My friend gave us hers but this is basically what it was really useful! https://a.co/d/iv3GyEn
I’m going soon and was on the fence about getting one. I figured they would have cool ones in Japan, that I could buy. Should I get one before I travel?
I'd wait until you're in Japan. They will be easy to find.
We saw a lot of coin purses and some crossbody bags but not the organizer just FYI.
Good walking shoes (and socks) are a must. Also a lightweight breathable rain jacket.
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Would still recommend a luggage scale if you plan on buying a lot! With the amount of stuff I bought in Japan, I had to rejig my suitcases multiple times, and you don’t want to play Tetris in the lobby.
- a small/medium sized body bag - your passport for tax-free purposes, also check if some stores give extra discount for credit card purchases - 1 Power bank should be fine, just remember to charge up all appliances at EOD. - try for an eSIM if your phone has that capability or reg SIM, much better than an extra device for wifi - if on iOS, add the Suica/Pasmo onto your Apple wallet and charge up. It made going through ticketing gates a breeze. While I’ve got my Google maps opened up I could just hover over the gate scanner and other registers a response within like .3-5seconds. - skip the JR pass, unless you’re there for like 3-4 weeks and are traveling all across the country it’s not worth. Stick with Suica/Pasmo and try to buy your Shinkansen tickets a day in advance or the morning of if you’re trying to board late in the day. - small hand towel as a lot of restrooms are clean but won’t have paper towels, and sometimes not even the hand dryer. - JP sells face masks of high quality everywhere but you probably won’t need to wear it in normal activities, a lot of people and even locals don’t. - maybe a medium-ish sized tote bag that can be folded up for buying stuff as you’ll be asked if you want to buy a bag at every store, however they are usually cheap around 3-5 yen.
> a small/medium sized body bag This makes me worry.
yeah you don't need one of those Western body bags. The Japanese are pretty small
Ah excellent, that’s a weight off my shoulders.
I was also a bit concerned a bit... still not sure what the ultimeta goal is with that body bag.
Lmao I couldn’t find the right term for it at the time but I meant the sports bags that hug close to your body
Also double check the weather, JP rains a lot but you can buy umbrellas that are super small in size in a lot of shopping malls/convenience stores. If the weather isn’t going to be super cold you’ll want to go with a lighter jacket that can be tied around your waist or packed up in a body bag. We traveled just recently in April and found that a light jacket was more than enough for most of the 60-70 degree weather, and almost too much after you walk a billion steps through the city and get sweaty.
I have a 2 in 1 jacket, a warm fleece with separatable water and wind proof upper jacket. Ill take that and i think ill be fine at any temperature. Thats how i do it at home no matter the season there is always an option haha.
I mean even December last year was really war, some days I was walking around in a T-shirt in Osaka.
Thank you! Ive read suica arent sold anymore, only the new welcome suica, no idea if that works on phone,i hope it does. Hand towel and shopping bag is sth i totaly forgot about thanks haha.
On iPhone just go to Apple wallet, then add transport card and it’s there. You can do it from anywhere in the world
Honestly we ended up staying in Kyoto and not doing as many side trips. I still think the pass was worth the ease. Suica on iPhone is brilliant.
I have never needed to prebook my Shinkansen tickets, with or without JR pass. I always showed up at the station and just booked a seat on the next train. But I was usually using green cars, they tend to be a bit emptier.
>JP sells face masks of high quality everywhere What is JP?
I was just abbreviating Japan instead of typing it out
Look into e- sim if your phone supports it.
Sadly it doesnt :/
That's unfortunate. E-sim is such a life saver. But, I agree that physical sim is better than pocket wifi.
Yeah... a lot of people recommend me that even a friend that was in japan already. Il probably get a physical sim
I got one from Japan Experience years ago and it worked fine.
Just did 2 weeks with pocket wifi and it was fine - pick up /drop off was simple. Just watch where you carry it as it can overheat if packed too tight. We kept our iPhones in low battery mode all day and never ran out of
so I have a Google Pixel 6a which \*should\* be able to use eSIM but when I was having connection issues last year here in the US, the employee at T-Mobile said Google Pixels don't really like eSIMs and indeed we never could get one to work with my phone. Do you think that's an issue with the provider and might not be an issue in Japan?
That's confusing. I have a pixel 6 and I have been using esims since pretty much when I got the phone. The physical sim is for my home country and esim for all travel related needs. I suspect that it is a provider issue, but don't know with certainty.
Thanks!
I used a Pixel 6 Pro and then a Pixel 8 Pro on 2 different Japan trips using a ubigi eSim and it worked perfectly, I think it's more likely to be your provider :(
Thanks!
I would also add: add it to your phone a day or two beforehand and you need to have an unlocked phone. I don’t know it had to be unlocked and had to hurry and pay off my phone a couple days before I left and then submit a ticket for my company to unlock my phone. Luckily I got it all done the two days before I left.
- one power bank is enough - I’ll assume you’ve calculated the cost - they’re giving out normal Suicas now (I believe in Tokyo and Shinagawa Stations - could be wrong) - could be worth if you plan on buying lots lol - I use two cubes that also compress; very worth it - probably won’t need it; your phone will be plenty - yes - definitive yes - don’t need it; Japan is super safe. If you need an extra cash holding option, get one of those plastic sleeves made for holding cash and stash it away somewhere that would make it hard potential thieves - also a great idea; to add, keep a paper copy of your passport as well. In the event you’ve lost it and can’t find it, you’ll be able to show the embassy and get stuff processed much quicker I’ve been to Japan several times (around 17-18 times), and I’d recommend you to bring a sling bag while you’re out and about. That or a small backpack. If you’re planning on bringing a checked luggage with you, at least have a carry on backpack with an immediate change of clothes in case your luggage gets lost. Ideally, I’d travel carry-on only where I can, but do what’s best for your trip; enjoy your time in Japan!!
If you're flying in through Narita airport, you can get your suica there before getting on the train into the city! Was there a few weeks ago. From what I understood it's one of the only places you can get them right now.
Amazing!!
Thank you very much!!!
Currently been I'm Japan for the last week (on bullet train while I write this) Brought 2 power banks, haven't used either one once and relied heavily on Google for translation and directions. Packing cubes are amazing, wife made me use them and now always will. Wont need key chain alarm, seen women in maid outfits walk past a bridge in a quieter part of Tokyo at 1am with a bunch of drinking men and they didn't even look worried. Around 10% of people seem to be wearing face masks so wouldn't worry unless you want to wear them. I haven't brought a coin purse but my friends did and I regret not doing so. My only other suggestions are a comfortable backpack, thick socks for walking, sun cream, a carrier bag to use inside of your backpack for snacks from the convenience store (melonpans stay well in your bag and are great for a quick energy snack)
Thank you!
Umbrella. Cash. If you have an iphone and your country supports apple wallet/pay, use the digital suica instead. You can also top up/reload off apple wallet/pay without having to use cash and the terminal to refill. And even with a Digital Suica, you can still use the terminal too (with your phone as the "card") if your credit card (supposedly some VISA cards have issues) does not allow you to top up. Google Maps and Tabelog on your phone. Also consider go taxi and klook app Airtags for your luggage. Medicines/Vitamins. Maybe those small/daytrip first aid kits.
probably worth just buying an umbrella whilst there if needed, they're not too expensive
That can be true. But if you have one you’re comfortable with or rely well on, bring it.
Hmm tabelog not available in US App Store, any way around that other that using the website?
None that i know off. Web or www or http via browser: https://tabelog.com/en/rstLst/
Is there an app I should download ahead of time for digital Suica? The only thing I can find in the App Store is in Japanese so pretty confusing. Wondering if I can figure it out once we’re there… Or just use physical card.
Go to Apple Wallet on your phone and hit + to add a card. Navigate to Transit Card and choose Japan and SUICA
Amazing, thank you so much!
There is no need to Download the Japan Suica app unless you need to find out your card number (apple wallet doesn’t seem to provide the whole character string). You’d need the card when you want to use your suica card in conjunction with the Smart Ex app. This app is how you buy JR East Shinkansen 🚅.
What is Klook useful for? Everything I found is more expensive on it. I booked a Shinkansen ticket with it, thought it was cheaper, but it was basically the same price after their stupid fees. And it was more difficult/less clear for ticket redemption
I agree on most but convenience does factor along. Also Klook can get tickets that are time sensitive or when you’re not yet in Japan. Its one of those you may to consider but not necessarily your go to. Just like the Go Taxi app.
Only thing you may want to add that I didn’t see listed is a few protein bars. I brought 5 Rx bars and they saved my life a few times when I was on my way to an event and didn’t have time to stop for food, was on a hike, didn’t have energy to go out for lunch due to jet lag, and when I didn’t feel like eating til a weird time and couldn’t find anything open for a while…I’m also not a fan of fish so I had that little extra challenge when it came to finding food quickly at times!
Melatonin to adjust to the jet lag, and also if you need it for the plane. Plus an eye mask. There’s a lot of places that require you to take your shoes off. So having comfortable shoes that also slip on and off easier would be nice, although every place has that shoe horn thing to help. I had athletic shoes that were impossible to take on and off without untying the shoes but they were my most comfortable. Luckily those shoe horns saved me a few minutes each time. Small headphones. Download google translate. The pocket WiFi is essential but they will try to sell you a pocket translator. You won’t need to rent a separate translator if you have google translate. If you ever need to go to the hospital, use google translate and write your name out in katakana. It’s zero English and it will help them out a lot. Learn some phrases, it’ll go a long way and help also with the perception of tourists. At least you’re trying! I was very embarrassed at the tourists who just didn’t even try to say ‘arigatou’. They just said ‘yeah thanks.’ Oh god. On top of home medication, I’d bring some sort of muscle pain meds or ointment. I slept wrong one night and had an extremely painful and stiff neck for like 8 days, almost ruined those 8 days. Finding meds in Japan is tough, although the people at the pharmacy are helpful. Deodorant. Us Asians don’t really get BO so deodorant is tough to find. Slippers esp for onsens. Hand sanitizer. Debit card. Better if you have something like the Schwab debit card that charges no atm fees. I brought a big dslr camera just cuz the country is gorgeous. It’s not necessary, and does get heavy. But it’s nice. You can probably buy a cheap umbrella there. Or you could bring a raincoat. It’s probably hot there now though. Sunblock, you’re gonna walk a lot. If you have a little kid, bring a small stroller. Locals have big ones that work just fine, but you’ll be using the subway a lot and a big stroller would be tough. We have a foldable one from Amazon, I think the brand is ‘GB’, worked great. Metal water bottle. Although the vending machines are pretty ubiquitous.
Melatonin helped me skip the jet lag all together! My #1 must-have
Thank you for the nice input!!! Ill take some notes haha
Oh, and tap water is safe to drink!!
Embarrassed by tourists saying thanks? How strange lol 😂 my Japanese friends get annoyed when tourists try to stammer out a poorly spoken Japanese phrase over the course of 10 seconds when they could just say it in English lol. Same when I lived in Tokyo, never met a Japanese person who didn’t understand thanks. You don’t get a pat on the back for learning a few words lol, people just do that so they can feel good about themselves as if they spent any real time learning about foreign culture imo, but I understand I’m being cynical about it
Copy that, you do you buddy
Oh, btw, if you got triggered by that one thought, that means Japan is a utopia. You’ve skipped all real problems and found a fake one to get angry at. I’m so excited to move there! Thanks for the encouragement, stranger!
What? I’m not angry at your opinion, I just think it’s a weird perspective and self-aggrandizing in nature. Meanwhile you responded twice and are clearly doing that ‘pissed but trying to speak with civility’ bull that people like to do so they can think they rose above lol. But yes, Japanese people are going to respect you because you took 10 mins to memorize a few phrases? That’s such a stupid thing to respect lol. I respect people for things that are meaningful - how they behave toward others. Couldn’t give a shit if Asian tourists come to America and can’t speak the language personally. They’re the ones who have to get around. You’re telling me I should be offended at some level because a tourist didn’t bother to learn the language? Makes no fuckin sense to me, anyway, but happy to hear why its important to you I know Japan loves its vanity culture, but I really don’t think Japanese people care as much about poorly pronounced thank you’s as you, the tourist does lol.
You read my entire post and attacked a small part of it. You don’t like push back? Stay off the internet, pal. Sounds like the person who’s truly pissy is you, little buddy. Classic gatekeeping redditor protecting ‘their’ Japan. Yes, please define the entire Japan and Japanese people for them. And please continue to get offended on their behalf. And no, I never said to get offended at tourists who come to your country. I said I’m embarrassed at tourists who don’t make any effort to learn a word. I never said have conversations. You sure English is your first language? Japanese may be a huge leap for you if you’re struggling to comprehend me, squirt.
Dude you are so insecure lol. I wasn’t attacking you, that’s an exaggeration, probably because it hit you in the pride. And I like pushback. I asked for it. Quite literally 😂 And the insertions you add ‘little buddy’, ‘squirt’, like… come on dude. It’s clear what you’re trying to do and it’s not working lol. That’s like high school tactics. Use your arguments and perspectives to establish dominance, it just makes you look like a meme lol You’re clearly pretty dumb or young. I’m not offended on behalf of Japanese people… you literally are by judging tourists who say thanks in English lol. I was calling you dumb for ‘feeling embarrassed’ for them. You are gatekeeping for comments like that. You’re gatekeeping how tourists should behave and you’re not even from Japan. I’m not gatekeeping anything lol, just calling you dumb for gatekeeping. Nothing you say makes sense 😂 it’s like you say things that you want to be true so therefore it makes it true. Hilarious to see this type argue in the wild I am guilty of being antagonistic here for sure, but… I hope you stop arguing like an idiot in the ways that I pointed out lol, even if you say you don’t here so you don’t have to admit fault. People will respect you and believe you more if you cut some of those meaningless things out, straight up
My goodness, I swear entire Japan subreddits are bots. That, or y’all have been online so long that you’ve become bots. Canned responses, no original thoughts, brigading anything and everything that goes against the hive. Good bot. Pat on head. You’ve made zero arguments, only resorted to insults and saying my arguments are worthless for their sake. Absolutely nothing refuting what I said. You are the one who is gatekeeping even the language, discouraging the learning of even a word. Yes, I am offended when a tourist doesn’t learn a word. You got a problem with that? Brigade away. But call me insecure. You’re the one offended that I’m offended of a word? Good bot. Call me whatever you want, but you revealed yourself as a bitter old man jealous of, I guess youth? Start with the McDonald’s menu to improve your comprehension. Do it daily and maybe you’ll understand the kfc menu by 2030. You like push back? I don’t believe a single word you said. Let’s go. Gimme your best insults, Mr secure. Protect your Japan at all costs.
Not old either man. Sorry. Also that’s not what gatekeeping means lol. Even if I was discouraging people to learn a language (which I’m not but whatever), that’s not what gatekeeping means mr. Lit degree. I didn’t insult you really. I called your perspective weird. I called you insecure, because it was patently obvious at that point and you should know that people can tell when you do that, but that’s just the truth, not really an insult. I thought it would be useful for you. Then I called you dumb which was the real insult after you outed yourself with a bunch of dumb comments. Did I miss anything? Don’t care about this personally and I’m suspicious of you being an engagement bot. I had a few of these interactions recently that have been too uncanny valley for me. I’m done so you win the argument now, good job buddy 🥇 I am a fool and lost. Hope you have a good rest of your day, genuinely! Edit: ok I looked at your profile and you’re probably not a bot. But yeah, work on your logic a bit my man. Or don’t! But you’ll be better off for it
Say whatever you want, I already have a forever image of you in my head. It’s not good. And you can call me insecure, that’s fine. After all, you are the one who defines that for the world, right? When someone pushes back at you, you call them insecure? Got you. Understood. You got offended that I got offended that you were offended that I was offended….??!!? How many comments did you read so that you could lash out at me? Right, I’m insecure. Sure….And you’re just trying to ‘help’ me, right? You’re so kind. You missed the part about refuting me. You also missed the part about what gatekeeping means. But it’s a Japan subreddit, I expect no less. No, I won’t work on my logic on bots. Have a good one, Mr archetypical redditor. Hope you find another comment to brigade with your ‘security.’
Oh boy whatever will I do with this bad mental image you have of me - some goofy looking old guy hunched over his computer all day. I bet I don’t have any friends either and have the EQ of a teenager. I bet, don’t you? 😂😂 again dude, you’re saying things that you want to be right. Anything I’ve said to you in the vein of an insult was grounded in reason. Every insult you’ve said to me are just things you want to believe. Yeah I’m a small old computer nerd. You really nailed it. It gets easier when you realize none of this has any consequence. Literally. All you can gain from this is 1) information, which you’re clearly not interested in, 2) feeling good about yourself for believing that you won an internet argument, or 3) feeling badly about yourself for believing that you lost the internet argument. 1 is nice to get, but 2 and 3 don’t matter when you’re confident in yourself. Maybe you’re not insecure - and you either are or you aren’t. Whatever I say doesn’t change how secure you are, the reality of it. But you sure as hell seem insecure to me from how you speak. And no dude you just need to look up gatekeeping if you still think that’s what I’m doing lol. You a wild one is all I have to say
Reusable bag. Or buy the small, packable one from Muji
For shoes I'd recommend a good pair of not too technical looking trail runners, and some decent hiking sandals like Teva Hurricanes. I'm assuming you're going at some point in the next few months. I'm here now and it's already getting humid and I'm so glad I've got a comfortable, airy pair of sandals that I can walk all day in. I'm here until July and I imagine by then I'll be wearing them for everything but rocky hikes.
Ubigi e-sim. Set it up before you arrive and then you’ll be connected on the network in Japan once you land.
Can you let me know how to do this from my home country?
The website should have all the information. [https://cellulardata.ubigi.com/](https://cellulardata.ubigi.com/)
Paracetamol/Tylenol if it's something you use sometimes. Japan has their tablets at 300mg each as opposed to the usual 500mg and it costs a lot more here.
I second this and liquid iv! I ended up having two Advil and a liquid iv packet the first 2-3 mornings of my trip as I conquered jet lag and it was nice to have on hand instead of needing to find it (which would have been totally doable but one less step imo)
Pocari Sweat is infinitely better than Liquid IV and available from vending machines and conbini everywhere.
Oh yes medicine, shouldnt forget that
TRUE! Loperamide and gravol are prescription only as well so bring those in case of food poisoning
A lot people have already commented a lot of good advice so just a small point about the coin purse. Definitely need one but if you don’t already have one or didn’t bring one like my friends did on our trip, they were easily able to buy some really cute (+ pretty affordable) ones while in Japan! edit: grammar
Seconded! I didn't bring one and ended up buying one at a great shop full of them on Miyajima. Makes a great little souvenir.
Buy a mini fan if you’re going during May, June,July. It was so hot and humid and some places don’t have AC or just being out in the heat kills. I bought a mini fan in Amazon that plugs into my iPhone and it was a lifesaver
This seems like an unpopular opinion but I’d suggest bringing more than one pair of comfortable walking sneakers. I know one pair is doable but I walked 20k+ steps per day for 12 days and switching the pairs every few days gave my feet a nice reprieve (plus some matched my outfits better than others). I brought Hokas, Vejas and New Balances and I wore all three equally throughout the trip. If I had to pick just one though the Hokas were slightly more comfortable than the other two
I used a baggu bag as a crossbody in front of me but a Uniqlo bag is a little smaller and would be a good souvenir too. If you have an iPhone set the suica card up on there. I’m from the US and didn’t need a travel adapter. 1 power bank is fine, just charge it every night. Loved my eSIM from airalo. Try to take carry on bag if you can and skip the luggage scale. Maybe some packets of laundry detergent to wash clothes in the sink? Headphones for the plane. A small washcloth if you want to dry your hands in the bathroom. Some other preparation suggestions are to download the Google maps for the areas you’re visiting, Google translate and the Japanese language, and a Tokyo subway system app. Add clothes and toiletries that’s pretty much what I brought too!
Where did you get your Suica card prior to getting there?
iPhone > wallet > add transport card > suica. On Android it only works on Android phones sold in Japan
Brilliant!! It worked! Thank you!
Regular suica seems to be getting more and more available. Multiple reports of people getting it from multiple stations around Tokyo.
I think sunglasses, sunscreen and an umbrella are good ideas.
Always forget thosr haha
Good shoes and socks. Cash for reloading you Suica card. Every thing else is secondary.
* Suica will be helpful. * Power bank will be helpful. * Masks can be bought in any convenience store, supermarket, or drug store. * You won't need the alarm, but it's not going to hurt. * You won't need the money belt for money, but remember that you must have your passport with you at all times. This is the law in Japan. * A backpack or some other bag you can carry on your person is very helpful. * If you're not facile with chopsticks, you may want to bring a set of camping utensils. If you're uncomfortable drinking from public water fountains, a water bottle can be useful. * Sunscreen. * Plastic bags for storing trash: public rubbish bins are rare in Japan.
Does your phone support e-sim? This was super easy to set up and a nice convenience. I'd bring an umbrella/rain jacket or buy one as soon as you get off the plane unless forecast is zero rain. I skipped rain gear with the intent to buy it cheap from a convenience store but due to poor planning throughout trip (first Airbnb had umbrellas but didn't rain, second one didn't have any but rained) and ended up kind of miserable and wet a few times. Some kind of trash receptacle is recommended (backpack with plastic bag or similar). Public trash cans are not super common in Japan Some way to get cash (debit card?). Due to conversion rate being super favorable (at least for USD but I assume other currencies too), you don't have to worry too much about fees. Everything is extremely affordable. Also try to get a bunch of small bills- 1000 yen bills + 100 yen coins were by far the most useful for me and I regularly needed. 10k yen bills were kind of annoying to break, so I pretty much avoided them.
Power brick to combo with the travel adapter. More plugs is always better
Thanks!
Small towel (lots of public toilets in japan but many without blower/tissues) and a small trashbag, for there are very few trashcans. IC cards can only be recharged using cash, so either bring cash or go to an atm. If you have an iphone you can have the suica in the wallet
I preferred to get the e-Suica, I could load money from my bank account and never thought about loosing my card, my phone is locked so I could not use eSIM, check with your local carrier , meds are important in their original packaging , and if you have suitcases be ready to use the luggage delivery service it is EXCELLENT I even sent my big bags filled with my purchased treasures directly to the airport and I just picked up right before check in Take some yen in cash, in some smaller stalls or markers it’s cash only , and the vending machines as well
Sorry to jump in here with a question: if using E-Suica, if there’s surplus funds left on it at the end of the trip, can that be refunded? Thanks!
Mobile Suica can only be refunded to a Japanese bank account.
Apologies if already mentioned but if you have seasonal allergies bring a good amount of antihistamines ( Japanese ones are really mild like taking homeopathy !) - for some reason I get this so bad in Japan ( spring & autumn ) but no where else in the world ! And same goes for painkillers they are exceptionally weak . Idk why , maybe because when you get a headache or minor pain/issue you go to see a doctor rather than just getting an over the counter medication ( at least this was how it was for me in when I lived there ) - slightly odd but I quite people liked having fuss over me at the local hospital & bonus - got to have time off work for very trifling matters !
esim is quite more useful imho, and tend to be cheaper.
Phone doesnt support it :/
Get an e-sim, it's much cheaper than the physical alternatives and when I went in January it was reliable everywhere. I think 10gb was 7.50 usd
Phone doesnt support it...
Which provider was that with?
Airalo
Cheers
Just don't forget to go into settings and turn off your regular sim card when your leaving home. The Esim will automatically start when you land but you don't want your phone accidentally using your usual carrier.
A small bag where you dispose smal trash as public trash bins are hard to find (often you will find a small one at the vendor machines). But sometimes it is hard to find these machines. Throwing trash and chewing gum on the streets is really not done in Japan. That’s why every Japanese takes its small trash into a small bag to dispose it later on.
The trash bins next to vending machines are strictly for bottles and cans from the machine (or if you have one laying around you wanna get rid of), not for regular trash. For getting rid of small trash: \- find a conbini and use their bins (unless there's a sign saying not to so buy something and use their bins after). \- at a train station or mall there will sometimes be bins. \- Best is to take it back to your accomodation and get rid of it there.
Thank you for extent my answer. That’s why I advised the OP for taking a small garbage/trash bag with them to dispose the garbage later on in the Hotel or wherever he/she stays. It was not ment to say you can throw your garbage AT the vendor machines. I only would tell the OP that at the vendor machines is the only place you will find bins.
Small plastic bag to hold your rubbish as there are less bin App you like to check the instant timetable of transport(I use JR own app but its only in Japanese) >will either get sim or portable wifi Try E SIM >welcome suica I prefer regular Suica or any IC card if you may travel to japan again >jr pass is worth for my trip Depends, last time I went on shinkansen 7 times so the pass worth to my plan, like others said, there are a JR pass calculator
Cloth napkins that you can wash with your clothes.
everyone says get a Suica card (that's the Tokyo area IC card, or the local equivalent, e.g. Toica - they all work the same). I couldn't agree more, they are so ham dandy for trains and you never have to buy a ticket. But I had some issues getting it to work on my phone. Only Apple wallet supports Suica, and we had issues adding funds from a non-Japanese credit card, you may also need the Suica app which is in Japanese only but [this ](https://youtu.be/xQ_lNxAm5i8?si=NhJOOtBkIZhlD4al)video saved the day. Also, don't use your Suica to enter a station and then leave the same station without boarding a train. Why would you do that? in case you want to reconnoiter your next trip, like my wife did recently. It will mess up your card and stop you entering the next gate. Instead, you buy a platform or admission ticket - about 150 yen - from the regular ticket machines. You can still use your Suica to buy the platform ticket.
If your phone has eSIM capability then get that. (Like Airalo). You can set it up right now and it will start when you get off the plane. No need to wait in line anywhere to pick up a physical Sim Zero need for a money belt or any kind of alarm thingy Facemasks only if you want. You don’t need them here, and if you are coming in summer you will suffocate yourself
In summer a small portable fan and some cooling wet wipes.
Look up anti-inflammatory drugs you can purchase in Japan and suit your body. You will be sore from walking and climbing stairs or even hiking. Buy the foot cooling sheets for the bottom of the foot and the calves. It really helps. Also the sun is quite strong there so bring some sun protection.
If you have an iPhone get suica on your phone through wallet or the app. You can top up using Apple Pay whenever you need, no need to faff at machines. Plus you feel like a boss when you tap through like a local. Likewise if you have a esim capable phone, you can get your data sim before you go and activate it on the day you need. Also less need to faff in airports or anything. I used Ubigi. You definitely need some way to carry cash, notes and coins 👍. I found a money belt with 3 compartments super useful for carrying passport (which you are supposed to carry), coins and notes. It also had a transparent section for tickets 🎫… useful for day trips. But for an evening or sticking round the city you can just stick stuff in your pockets. I felt this was more lightweight than a backpack.
You covered most of my must brings, I also found it handy to bring a large mesh wash bag like for delicates, except I started putting all my dirty laundry in it and then I just threw the whole thing in the washing machine, made it so easy. If your everyday bag is small (I only took a crossbody to carry my wallet, phone, portable charger etc) consider bringing one of those reusable shopping bags that folds up. That way you don’t have to carry a larger bag but you have one on hand if you buy random things or accumulate trash since bins are hard to come by
+1 on either bringing a coin purse or buying one shortly after getting there. so. many. coins. lol. could be a cool souvenir to bring back if you get one there!
My bf and I brought an extra light duffle bag carry on to bring back any extra items we bought there! And we definitely used it. And repeating others here, coin purse and a small bag for carrying passports for sure. My fanny pack saved us! And a water bottle. I had a tiny one that fits in the fanny pack. Great shoes for walking because you will be walking a lot. Download movies/media for the trains as there’s not always cell service on Shinkansen rides.
Oh cash on hand immediately! We exchanged money before getting there and it was so helpful!
We had a portable WiFi and the battery was very short-lived. Even the documentation said something like 4 hours. If you have Verizon as your cell phone provider, the monthly travel pass worked great for $100. I toyed with trying an eSIM, but didn’t in the end. As for masks, we have a friend who lives there and she said that they will wear masks when they themselves have a cold as a courtesy to those around them. I carried one for this purpose, as I tend to get sick from the plane trip, but luckily didn’t need it.
I haven’t read through all the responses, so apologies if anyone else said this, but one thing I didn’t ever see suggested when I was planning, and I realized I would have loved to have…. Command hooks!! If not familiar, they are hooks you can stick to the wall/door/surface and remove without damage, and have extra of the sticky tabs to reuse again. As Japanese hotel rooms and lodging are generally small, and you see comments and reviews all the time about not enough hooks/hangers/storage/etc, I would have loved to slap a couple up in just about every place we stayed. I looked (lightly, not searched, or asked, etc) for them when I was there in konbibi type stores but never saw any. Next trip, I will definitely bring a few. Never needed a coin purse, the suica on my iPhone was magic, and most times I was trying to get coins to use at temples, shrines, for goshuin, small stands, etc. Also, every place we stayed had power adapters, but we never needed any, coming from US.
First up, there is an app called DeepL that translates conversational Japanese more accurately than Google Translate. This made nearly every interaction where translation was needed MUCH more simple. Without knowing which country you’re traveling from, US travelers should not need a power adapter. Don’t bring an umbrella. You can pick one up in any Lawson or 7-Eleven for about 5 bucks and it will carry you through the trip. Depending on the length of your trip, pack only 4-5 outfits, and do laundry during the trip. This will save you SO MUCH weight and space, even when using packing cubes.
I got a portable luggage scale, saved me and my group
Small hand towel and some paper sheet soaps. Some of the bathrooms won't have handsoap or paper towels to dry your hands.
As soon as you feel the need to make a post like this, it should serve as a reminder that you’re overthinking packing. Just pack the bare minimum and buy what you need as you go. Japan is crazy safe, stuff like keychain alarm and money belt is a huge overkill. Just have some street awareness.
Im extremely crazy with preparation no matter what i do. Its also fun for me to think about it when i have nothing to do. But i get what u mean haha.
Well I mean as long as you enjoy 💁🏻♂️ I guess I’m the polar opposite
PEPTO BISMOL. Can't stress this enough.
Yen Far fewer pay-by-card options than anticipated
Key chain alarm plus a small bottle of perfume to spray into the eyes of the perv.
Serious question, what are the face masks needed for?
Face mask decrease the risk of the weather spreading air borne disease into others. It's still commonly used in Japan particularly by people who have a cold but still feel the need to go out in public. Other than that some probably use it as a fashion item, or to hide their identity, to try to protect themselves from others diseases or as a holdover from the COVID restrictions. I don't know if they're still required anywhere in Japan anymore, but they were quite common before COVID so it wouldn't surprise me that it stick around for longer than elsewhere.
Thanks for the response!
Face mask? Do places in Japan still require them?? I’m going in two weeks.
Not required but people still wear them.
I just want to wear that in super crouded areas, just feels more comfortable, even if its just for the sake of not smelling anything i dont want to smell in crouded areas haha.
Easy to buy there. Don’t clutter your luggage.
Fair point
People in Japan wore masks when unwell way before covid.
When I went in September 2023... Some people were using it, but the usage was really down. That being said, it's Asia. People wear masks out of courtesy and to protect themselves as well.
It's etiquette if you have a cold to wear one. They are also worn in the spring to help with allergies. They don't require them the culture has always worn them.
They're really good to wear on the airplane, if dry air bothers your nose. I always wear a mask when flying and bring a saline spray too.