Packing Tips for Your Trip to Japan

Packing for a trip is always tricky. It's even more challenging when you're traveling to a place for the first time and don't know what to pack. Japan has different climates depending on the season and region, which adds another layer of complexity.

Here are some packing tips I've come up with based on my experiences. This blog can make your travel prep a little easier!

1. Pack Light: Don't Overpack

You'll regret it if you pack your suitcase to the brim. Almost everyone who travels to Japan faces the problem of their luggage being overweight or not fitting on the way back.

Honestly, if you bring the bare essentials (contact lenses, prescription meds, etc.) and clothes for about 3-4 days, along with comfortable shoes, you should be fine. Hotels and Ryokans (traditional Japanese inn) in Japan are well-stocked with amenities, so you don’t have to worry about bringing shampoo, toothbrushes, or even sleep clothes!

Also, many hotels nowadays have coin laundries or even washing machines in the rooms, so I recommend planning to do laundry during your stay and packing accordingly.

2. Bring Both Large and Small Suitcases

If you're planning to stay in multiple cities, I recommend bringing a large suitcase for checked luggage and a carry-on size suitcase for domestic travel within Japan. Leave the large suitcase in your base city and use the carry-on for moving around.

Many people travel domestically by Shinkansen or express trains, and dragging a large suitcase through busy stations can be very stressful.

Japanese hotels often offer luggage storage for a few days for free and can also send your luggage to your next accommodation via courier if you ask at the front desk. If you have enough time before your return flight, you can also send your luggage to the airport in advance from the hotel which is super convenient as well.

3. Comfortable and Easy-to-Remove Shoes are a Must

You will do a lot of walking during your trip to Japan. Don't underestimate it. You'll probably walk at least 10,000 steps a day.

Japanese sidewalks are generally flat and well-maintained, but those not used to walking can get very tired. Comfortable shoes are a necessity. Also, you'll often need to take your shoes off at Ryokans, temples, and Restaurants. Boots or shoes with laces can be quite inconvenient, so consider whether your shoes are easy to take off and put on. And don’t forget check your socks for holes!

4. Pack for the Weather in Each Region

As mentioned earlier, Japan's climate varies greatly depending on the season and region. The temperature difference between northern and southern Japan can be significant even at the same time of year, and there are regions with a lot of rain or strong winds.

If you're staying in multiple regions, make sure to check the weather for each area and pack clothes that are suitable for each area. Spring and fall are particularly rainy throughout the country, so having a waterproof jacket and shoes would be perfect. If you're traveling to a snowy region in winter, don't forget slip-resistant shoes for snowy paths!

As a side note, I heavily rely on Uniqlo HeatTech thermal underwear in winter. Winter clothes like sweaters can take up a lot of space in your luggage, but thanks to HeatTech, you don't need to layer up with bulky clothes, which reduces your luggage significantly. You can buy Uniqlo products overseas, but it's cheapest to buy them in Japan. So, if you're planning to get one, plan Uniqlo shopping on your first day in Japan!

5. Don't Worry If You Think You've Packed Too Little!

Japan is a shopper's paradise! And many things are available for less in Japan than in the U.S. (even more so with the weak yen!), so why not keep your luggage light and shop more?