What to Pack for Japan: The Essential Packing List

Japan is a country where preparation rewards you and where the right items make a significant difference to your comfort. A few things are essential that you might not think of -- and a few things most people pack that you absolutely do not need.

Clothes to pack for Japan

• Comfortable walking shoes: Japanese cities involve enormous amounts of walking -- 20,000 steps per day is normal
• Layers: Japan has four distinct seasons and weather can change; layers are more versatile than one heavy jacket
• Slip-on shoes: you will remove your shoes constantly at temples, traditional restaurants, and some accommodation
• Smart casual options: Japan is relatively formal; tracksuit bottoms in restaurants would be unusual
• Socks without holes: you will show them off when removing shoes at shrines and restaurants

Technology essentials for Japan

• Japan eSIM: absolutely essential -- Google Maps is your primary tool for navigating Japanese streets and public transport
• IC card (Suica or Pasmo): buy from any train station and load it with yen for trains, buses, and convenience store purchases
• Power bank: Japan has very few public charging points outside convenience stores
• Type A adapter: Japan uses Type A sockets (same as USA)

Money and practical items

• Cash in Japanese Yen: Japan is a largely cash society outside of major cities and tourist areas
• 7-Eleven and Japan Post ATMs accept foreign cards -- use these if your card is not working elsewhere
• A small coin purse: Japan has 500 yen coins (worth about £2.50) that accumulate fast
• A day pack for day trips -- train station lockers are widely available for storing larger bags

What NOT to pack for Japan

• Large bottles of toiletries: Japan's convenience stores sell excellent toiletries cheaply
• A towel: provided at all accommodation; carry a small quick-dry towel for day trips only
• More clothes than you need: Japan's launderettes are excellent, cheap, and widely available

Frequently asked questions

Is it safe to carry a lot of cash in Japan? Yes. Japan is one of the safest countries in the world -- theft and pickpocketing are extremely rare. Carrying the equivalent of several hundred pounds in cash is normal and safe.