travel clothes to japan

28 Top Japan Packing List Items for 2024 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

Japan is one of my favorite countries in the world. It has a climate, a culture, and a history all its own, so be prepared for a truly unique and memorable experience.

Most travelers to Japan do a variety of activities and the cultural etiquette is unique, so it’s important to pack smart and avoid taking anything you don’t need!

Below you’ll find what to wear in Japan , what NOT to bring, and FAQs to help you understand the local dos and don’ts. Plus, I have a bonus guide to the custom of gift-giving which may be unfamiliar to new travelers to Japan.

What to Pack for Japan – 28 Essentials

1. jet lag relief pills.

Don’t let the long flight to Japan and time change weigh you down. Jet lag can put a serious dampener on your trip, so you should try to prevent it if at all possible. This natural jet lag relief (with no drug interactions) will help you prevent it before it happens and can also help treat it after the fact if needed.

View on Amazon.com ➜

2. Universal Power Adapter

You can get away with plugging US-style two-pronged cords into Japanese outlets, but any devices you may bring that require three prongs (such as laptops) won’t work. It’s a good idea to bring a universal adapter to prevent any trouble and then you’ll be able to also use it if you travel to any other countries. This one works in 100+ popular countries and comes with a lifetime replacement guarantee.

3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

Japan was ranked in the top 5 most cyberattacked nations in the world and stands out as a key target in this particular region, according to a Global Threat Intelligence Report . Hackers regularly compromise personal data in this area through payment fraud, data breaches, and IP theft. I’ve had my credit card number stolen while connected to (what I believed) was a safe connection at my Airbnb. Now, I always travel with a VPN.

A secure network will shield your data and ensure hackers cannot access your passwords and credit card numbers. Another great use of a VPN is that Eastern countries have FAR more online censorship than Western nations. Since you could be blocked from using your favorite websites (like Netflix, YouTube, Facebook, and more) – we strongly recommend a reliable provider like NordVPN . Plans are very affordable and there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee, but I promise you won’t need it.

View NordVPN.com Options ➜

4. Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger

You’ll be out and about taking part in activities all day, so you really don’t want to be obligated to return to your accommodations if one of your devices runs out of “juice.” This portable charger holds a couple of charges so you can use it several times before having to plug it back in. It uses standard USB charger cables, and it can be actively charging your phone, camera, or other device even while tucked away in your bag when you’re on-the-go.

5. Comfortable Slip-on Shoes

Visiting temples, homes, inns, and even restaurants will require you to take off your shoes. Since you’ll find yourself stepping in and out of your shoes a lot in Japan, it’s worth it to bring shoes that don’t require lacing up! A good thing to keep in mind is: if you see “tatami mats” on the floor, that means you should remove your shoes. (FYI, flips-flops are also a “no-no,” and it’s considered rude to go barefoot in someone’s home, so make sure you bring a pair of socks in your bag.) If you are planning to visit bigger cities like Tokyo, you will also want something super comfortable for walking.

6. Travel Insurance for Japan

This one’s a no-brainer. I’ve had too many overseas experiences where I or my friends have had baggage stolen, hotels canceled, or had an unexpected medical emergency that otherwise would have had us paying a fortune in out-of-pocket expenses. Keep in mind that your domestic provider does not cover you overseas (including Medicare and Medicaid). Japan’s hospitals are predominantly private, which could cost a fortune on an already expensive trip, and you never know when you’re going to get sick.

Ultimately, it’s one of the cheapest parts of your trip. You can’t afford to go without it. Faye is our go-to provider because they are revolutionizing the industry! They’ve reimbursed me so quickly during an emergency through their mobile app, at a time when I most needed support. And they made the daunting claims process a piece of cake ! I felt so well taken care of – I’ll use them for life.

Get a quote in less than 60 seconds with Faye ➜

7. Neck Wallet

It’s a very good idea to keep your ID documents on you when you’re traveling, and it’s also best to keep your money and credit cards stored safely in a place where they can’t be accessed by pickpockets. A passport pouch, a.k.a neck wallet, is brilliant because it can be concealed beneath your clothing, out of sight and away from danger. It also helps you avoid looking like a tourist since it stays hidden until you’re ready to take it off.

8. Hanging Toiletry Bag

This gorgeous toiletry bag makes me feel so fancy when I use it! I ended up choosing this one after a long and exhaustive search for a good toiletry bag. Finding the right balance between affordability, luxury, and utility can be tricky! This leakproof bag is the bee’s knees and will serve you well while traveling by keeping your toiletry items orderly and contained.

It has 4 large pockets on the inside for all toiletry bottles, makeup, lotions, haircare products etc., and 3 smaller zippered compartments on the outside. Leave a corner of your suitcase reserved for all this bag and it’s WAY easier to unpack than tons of little plastic sacks and loose bottles. It’s a sanity saver for small bathrooms or zero storage space.

9. Luggage Straps

The journey to Japan is long, and baggage handlers have built a reputation for being rough with passengers’ suitcases. They’re even told during training not to “baby the bags,” and fragile stickers are often disregarded. Use these adjustable luggage straps to reinforce your zippers, ensuring your bag doesn’t fly open or throw out all of your belongings. This happened to one of my friends, and trust me – you want to avoid this experience!

These colorful belts are also fantastic for quickly identifying your luggage to save precious time at baggage claim (since every person ties the standard red ribbon on the handle of a basic black bag and people walk off with the wrong case all the time). We love that they’re TSA-approved if you’re selected for a random check, and there’s a built-in contact tag in case your suitcase gets lost.

10. Comfortable, Cute Clothing

Japanese culture is more modest than that of the West. Women generally cover their shoulders even in the summer, and a level of propriety is expected when visiting people or spiritual places. A cute, comfortable, and casual dress like this one is perfect to bring. In summer months, it will keep you cool — but won’t show off too much skin.

11. Activated Charcoal

Japan’s food scene is incredible, but it’s also full of a lot of uncooked fish. Add that to the stress of travel, and stomach upset is a common problem. Activated charcoal is a very effective and natural way to shorten the duration of food poisoning or traveler’s diarrhea. It works by naturally absorbing toxins in your system so that you can get back to enjoying your travels. I have found it incredibly helpful, and I even use it when I’m not traveling.

12. Stylish Raincoat

A raincoat will definitely be important in Japan, as will a bit of style and class. This raincoat will serve you well, and will keep you feeling and looking good. It’s also not excessively heavy like some trench coats, so don’t worry about adding too much weight to your luggage. Columbia is an adventure brand known for its quality and ability to last.

13. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

Did you know that many Japanese restrooms don’t offer a method for drying your hands? That’s where having a compact towel comes in very handy. This one is compact, super absorbent, and dries 10x faster than cotton, so you don’t have to worry about carrying around a damp cloth in your daybag. It also is useful if you find the towels at your accommodation less than ideal.

14. Discounted Tickets on Japan Tours

Whether you want to spend the day at Mount Fiji or Disneyland , Japan has so many cultural and eclectic experiences to enjoy. We use Get Your Guide to book most of our excursions around the world because they offer discounted tickets on the most popular tours.

While in Tokyo, indulge in the local cuisine and use the hop-on-hop-off bus to get around. From peaceful Kyoto , you can explore gorgeous temples and natural landscapes while getting in touch with your spiritual side. One of our favorite experiences was taking part in an authentic tea ceremony .

See all Japanese attractions at GetYourGuide.com ➜

15. Packing Cubes

Packing organizers are a game-changer and once you try them, you won’t go back. No more suitcase explosions across the hotel or digging to find a sock’s matching pair. This set will organize your items into different cubes and comes with separate laundry bags to organize your dirty and clean clothes.

16. Deodorant Wipes

Traveling and days out in the sun can make many travelers, including myself, feel sticky, stinky, and unclean. Many bathrooms in Japan have no way to wipe hands or faces, so unless I can take a shower right away, I sometimes have to feel uncomfortably dirty for a while. I’ve found that deodorant wipes are a life-saver in these scenarios. These are smooth and lightly scented, plus they’re good for sensitive skin.

17. Windproof Travel Umbrella

When it rains, it pours in Japan. Most of the rainy season spans through the summer months, but Okinawa can see rain earlier, so it’s wise to pack a lightweight travel umbrella. This one weighs 1 pound and comes with a convenient carrying case. It can cover two people and is very durable.

18. Lightweight Daybag

You’ll need to have a bag with you to carry all of your essentials. This lightweight backpack is made for travel and perfect to hold the items you need – camera, phone, water bottle, umbrella, etc. – but small enough to be unobtrusive.

19. TSA-Approved Luggage Locks

We attach luggage locks to our backpacks, sometimes purses, definitely checked suitcases, and even lockers! After having something stolen out of our checked bags on an international flight, we feel you can never be too safe. These locks are 10x harder to crack than 3-digit locks and we bring a couple of sets everywhere we go.

20. Filtered Water Bottle

While the water is clean in Japan, it’s wise to have autonomy over your water supply when drinking from the tap. This Brita bottle purifies water with a built-in filter. It noticeably improves the taste of water and can be put in your backpack pocket (empty) when going through security so you have it for the whole trip.

21. Modest Swimsuit

As mentioned, Eastern Asian culture is quite modest and humble. You do not want to trot around in a string bikini or thong, so it’s recommended to wear a full-coverage one-piece bathing suit. You will blend in with the locals better and show a display of respect for their customs.

22. Packable “Just in Case” Bag

You KNOW you never have enough room in your bags for the flight back because shopping is one of the best ways to take a piece of the vacation home with you. Use this “just in case” duffle bag for all of the surprise purchases you make in Japan. It counts as your personal item for the return flight so you can fill it with chopsticks, yukatas, kimonos, matcha, tea, Samurai swords, or any other local goods your heart desires!

23. Warm Pajamas

Many places are without central heating – the traditional architecture and minimalist style are key parts of Japanese culture, and so it’s not surprising that certain “extras” are not widely available. Since it can get cold at night during any season, I recommend bringing a warm pair or two of pajamas so that you can remain comfortable at night.

24. Japanese SIM Phone Card

A SIM card is a brilliant hack for getting around outrageous roaming fees and international charges from your phone company. It slides into where your current SIM card sits, no activation required, and gives you a local Japanese phone number. This one comes with 3GB and a month of coverage, so it’s perfect for short trips abroad. Just make sure your phone is SIM-unlocked before you go!

25. Mosquito-Repellant Wristbands

Mosquitos are common in Japan, just as prevalent as cockroaches and cicadas! Use these wearable wristbands to repel nasty critters, using citronella and natural essential oils rather than harsh chemicals. While the mosquito-borne Japanese Encephalitis Virus is quite rare, it’s still a possibility, and it’s best to be safe than sorry.

26. Modesty Shawl & Scarf

A cotton scarf can keep you plenty warm but also be spread out to become a thin shawl when you find yourself needing to cover up your shoulders or chest in a more modest place. This is ideal for temples or sacred areas that will require covered shoulders and arms.

27. Cooling Towels

Japan can get hot, humid, and muggy! Especially in the summer months when it can reach up to 90 °F (32 °C). These cooling towels are absolutely magical. Simply add water and wring them out. They will stay chilly for up to an hour and just need more water added for continued relief. They make outdoor exploring much more fun and tolerable. You’ll find plenty of uses for them for camping, festivals, and tropical destinations.

28. Travel Sheets

You never know where you may end up falling asleep during international travel – at the airport, a plane, a train, an Airbnb, a taxi cab, or a hostel. Even if you’re sleeping in uncomfortable places or with less-than-clean sheets, it’s thoughtful to bring your own sheets and ensure you have a sanitary surface to lay on. I’ve slept in some pretty funky places with these, and it feels much cleaner.

Other packing list items for Japan

• Facial cleansing wipes
• Motion sickness patches
• Sterile toothbrush cover
• Dental floss
• Hand sanitizer
• Mini hairbrush or comb
• Water bottle
• Nail clippers
• Contact solution
• Menstrual cup
• Loofah glove
• Solid shampoo
• First aid kit
• Headphone splitter
• Flexible tripod
• Headlamp/flashlight
• Flash drive
• Memory card
• Kindle cover
• Japan power adapter
• Travel pillow
• Compression flight socks
• Stain remover wipes
• Passport photos
• Medications and vitamins

What to wear in Japan

We mentioned this above but it’s worth repeating: it’s considered rude to go barefoot inside most places and flip-flops are a no-no, so bring plenty of comfy socks to wear or carry with you!

Fashion in Japan offers quite a broad spectrum of different looks and trends. Cleavage is considered to be ‘revealing’ but legs are widely flaunted without much concern – so show them if you so choose! Dress a bit more conservatively when visiting temples, or when you spend time with local families. Shoulders are also considered to be inappropriate with the older generations, so it’s best not to pack strapless dresses or even tank tops with very thin straps.

Slip-on shoes are crucial since you’ll be taking them off and putting them on repeatedly. For dressing up, bring your kitten heels or a pair of dressy sandals. For the warmer seasons, you’ll do well with a crisp white t-shirt, a statement belt, and a pair of skinny jeans for dinner. In winter, you’d definitely need a thicker parka and a chunky scarf for the northern parts of the country. What should MEN wear in Japan? – (Click to expand) Below is a sample men’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

Generally-speaking, Japanese men tend to dress more conservatively, so stick with a more muted, modern look. You will still find plenty of Western inspiration wherever you go, so you shouldn’t stand out like a sore thumb. In the bigger cities, you’ll find more fashion-forward attire, but you can’t go wrong with the clean-cut a sophisticated look no matter where you are.

You’ll find that the Japanese way of life is easy to love, and the culture is fascinating. Pack light because you’ll definitely want to shop, but be sure to select a versatile wardrobe that will allow you to switch between exploring, shrine visits, shopping, and semi-formal dinner outings.

Packing for the Seasons in Japan

Spring – march, april, may:.

Mild and pleasant weather plus blossoming trees make this an ideal time to enjoy Japan. They are also what make spring such a popular tourism time, so prepare for crowds. Rains can happen, and you’ll see some fluctuation in the weather so be prepared with good layers that can be easily added and removed.

SUMMER – June, July, August:

Most places in Japan are hot during the summer, with humidity that makes it worse. Tourism is a little lighter this time of year.

Pack clothes that will keep you cool in the heat, but try to remain respectful and tasteful when possible. Light fabrics, pretty blouses , breezy skirts , and a sun hat will serve you well. Mountainous regions of Japan are less hot and more enjoyable. Temperatures average between 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C).

FALL – September, October, November:

This is typhoon season, but when there are no storms the weather is generally mild and pleasant, albeit a little unpredictable.

Pack for any weather: comfortable pants and skirts , blouses and sweaters . Bring a rain jacket that can also keep you a little warm – anything that can be used for multiple purposes will save you room in your luggage.

WINTER – December, January, February:

Winters in Japanese high country areas are snowy and gorgeous. Lower elevations still see some snow, but mainly enjoy crisp and cool days that you’ll still need warm gear for.

Layers, layers, layers! sweaters and a jacket or coat are needed, plus hats and gloves if you feel you’ll need them (most people do). Temperatures average between 25°F to 35°F (-4°C to 2°C).

Gourmet Food: Japanese food…There is so much to say and so much to experience. From delectable sushi platters to richly flavored Soba and Udon Noodles to Tonkatsu and Yakitori. The Japanese take great pride in their cuisine and food culture is something that many social activities revolve around. Also, don’t be afraid to dine alone – it’s actually quite a common practice in Japan!

This is the country that has the most Michelin-awarded cities. There are 304 places to choose from in Tokyo alone, but this doesn’t always mean you have to dress up. It’s best to do your homework so that you don’t show up to a street stall wearing your finest garb. For casual dining, you don’t have to worry much about what you wear, but some establishments will ask you to remove your footwear. Nicer clothing is never bad, though, so air on the well-dressed side if you’re unsure.

Beaches: Japans’s unique structure offers plenty of coastline on either side of the country, and this means fun in the sun! Sunbathing and swimming seasons differ hugely from south to north and it’s said that the best beaches to visit are found in Okinawa (south) but there are other spots that offer some tropical vibes too. Bikinis are a natural choice for women, and as long as they’ll stay on during any of your chosen activities, they’re perfectly acceptable. Bring a cute cover-up for when you come up from the beach. Men tend to wear anything from speedo’s to board-shorts, so it all depends on your taste.

Baseball: Baseball was first introduced to Japan in 1872 and is probably one of the most popular spectator sports in the country. The highest level of professional baseball in Japan is the Nippon Professional Baseball League. The first of each 144 regular season games kicks off in March each year, and a 7-game contest series in October determines the winner of the Nippon Series.

What NOT to bring to Japan

1. don’t pack heavy books or too many books.

Most bookstores carry books in English that you can pick up along the way, or you can bring a  Kindle . Don’t weigh down your pack with too many books (easier said than done, I know)!

2. DON’T BRING spray tan or heavy bronzer

Sun protection and healthy skin are fashionable in Japan. Nothing bad is gonna happen if you lay on the bronzer, but you may get a few funny stares, and you’ll stick out in a crowd.

3. DON’T TAKE too many electronics

Japan is the land of electronics, but even so it’s nice to disconnect. Outside of city centers you’ll find peaceful villages and beautiful nature. Leave any non-essential electronics at home, and try to keep your connectedness to a minimum!

4. DON’T PACK a sleeping bag or camping gear

Unless you plan on doing a lot of backcountry hiking, this isn’t necessary. Hostels are equipped with sheets, and even some of the hiking trails have small guesthouses along the way. These items just add bulk and weight.

5. DON’T TAKE lots of cash

Credit cards are accepted in most major towns, though you’ll still need cash in some places. However, there are plenty of ATM machines to resupply. Carrying loads of cash is a risk not worth taking!

6. DON’T BRING an Asia-wide guidebook

Getting a guidebook that’s not Japan-specific won’t give you the detail and guidance you’re looking for, and you may find yourself frustrated and missing out.

Most commonly, you will be asked to remove your shoes at certain public establishments and the homes of people you visit. Bare feet are not okay in most places, so bring socks! Avoid flip-flops. Most homes and public places have a small vestibule called a ‘genkan’ where shoes are removed and kept. In some cases, slippers are provided.

This rule also applies to most shrines and temples. Dressing appropriately when visiting these religious sites is imperative.

Gift-giving: How to follow Japan’s gift customs

While tipping is generally frowned-upon in Japan, giving gifts to your hosts is common practice. Here are a few things to be aware of:

• The numbers 4, 9, and 43 can mean bad luck! Don’t give gifts in these numbers.
• Hand the gift over with both hands (gifts should also be received with both hands).
• Food (especially sweets), flowers (but not lilies, lotus blossoms or camellias which are associated with funerals), and alcohol are the best kinds of gifts to give.
• Food or alcohol from your home country is even better (ie. Maple syrup from north-eastern America).
• If the gift is wrapped, your host will probably not open it right away, this doesn’t mean they aren’t excited, it’s just the custom, and a sign of respect.

FAQs about travel in Japan

1. is the tap water in japan safe to drink.

Yes, in most places in Japan the tap water is safe to drink. However, if you’re worried about mercury you can pick up bottled water at one of the many 7/11s, or carry your own  filtered water bottle  to resupply with fresh water when free opportunities to do so are available – the filter should set your mind at ease.

2. How prevalent is English in Japan?

Not very prevalent. In hotels, hostels, and tourist attractions people will speak English, but outside of that, I wouldn’t count on it.

However, people are still very friendly and will try their best to help you even if they don’t understand. This is where a  Japanese phrasebook  comes in handy!

3. Is Japan safe for women and solo travelers?

Yes it is. Thanks to its diverse and accepting culture, tourists don’t tend to have problems in Japan. If anything, you may find that you get a little too much excited attention if you stand out as a tourist! However, standard practices should absolutely be followed. Don’t walk alone at night, don’t carry excess cash, keep your valuables close and to a minimum, and always know where you’re going.

Scammers and pickpockets do exist so do your best to avoid being a tempting target! Carry yourself confidently and show plenty of respect to the locals, and you’ll more than likely avoid any problems. However, make sure you look at  travel warnings  about your destination before booking your trip, just in case!

4. When is the best season to visit Japan?

September/October are ideal for pleasant weather. You’ll find that April-June months are good for the cherry blossom festival (if you can catch it – it’s evanescent!). Of course, if you’re there for skiing I’d recommend December-March, and the summer months if you want to do some island-hopping.

5. Is it worth getting a Railpass?

Yes! I actually failed to get the rail pass before I went, and was slumming it on overnight buses and local trains to recover the cost.

If you plan on traveling to more than a couple of locations, the rail pass is definitely worth the investment, and much cheaper than buying individual tickets in Japan.

6. Do I need to tip in restaurants in Japan?

There is generally no tipping in Japan. Sometimes a tip may even be refused. Instead, slurping your noodles and making appreciative noises show you’ve enjoyed your meal!

7. Where should I eat in Japan?

Everywhere! The food is delicious! Osaka is a foodie paradise and has a lovely market where you can sample interesting cuisine. You’ll find Ramen bars dotting the streets in any city you go to with people standing up to slurp their noodles. Katsu curries, sushi, and soba noodles are also abundant.

Trying an Izakaya (an informal pub-type place which offers small tasting dishes) is a great way to experience local culture. The Japanese are passionate about their food and aim to find fresh ingredients. It’s hard to go wrong with the food!

8. What is the best way to get around Japan?

The train is the easiest way to travel. It’s comfortable and reliable. However, busses are also clean and comfortable, though slower.

9. Do I need a visa to visit Japan?

Most countries will get a visa stamped on arrival but check with your embassy’s website to determine what requirements there are for your nationality.

10. How can I watch Sumo in Japan?

I recommend finding the dates of the Sumo tournaments online. To see a sumo match without breaking the bank, arrive at the stadium at 10 am (or earlier) the morning of the match. You will then stand in the most organized rush ticket line you’ve ever seen. Everyone stands quietly and orderly and proceeds in the queue. They’ll then sell all the remaining tickets for the day at around $20 a piece. Just be sure to get there early to avoid disappointment!

P.S. One of the excellent things about sumo matches is that you can bring in your own food and drink!

11. How can I travel on a budget in Japan?

Japan has a reputation for being expensive and, compared to China or SE Asia, it certainly is. But there are many ways budget travelers can enjoy Japan. The people are very hospitable so Couchsurfing can be a lovely experience (though apartments are small so be prepared to sleep on a sleeping mat on the floor). You can also find cheap hostels or business hotels which will have either a small single room with a mattress or a tube with a bed you can sleep in. These hostels and business hotels go for about the same rate as you would find in North America.

Going to markets or cheap restaurants/ramen bars is a great way to save. I found that for around $10 (US) I could get a very tasty meal. Of course, you can also cook your own food and if you stay with a host I’m sure they’ll be happy to share their favorite recipes with you! Even take-away sushi or noodles from the supermarket is as tasty as what you’d find in a lot of Japanese restaurants back home. Slow travel is also a great way to make any trip more affordable.

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What to Wear in Japan: Packing List + What NOT to Wear!

Home » Blog » Japan » What to Wear in Japan: Packing List + What NOT to Wear!

If you’re wondering what to wear in Japan, this is the guide you need! We’re going over what to wear in each season and how to create a perfect capsule wardrobe. We’re also divulging some items you should not wear in Japan.

Trying to decide what clothes to pack for your trip to Japan can be overwhelming. We’ve traveled to Japan several times so I get it.

You don’t want to overpack, but you want to be prepared for all occasions and weather you might encounter.

You want to be comfortable for long travel days , but you also want to look cute in photos.

And you don’t want to wear clothing that is considered inappropriate or attracts unwanted attention.

It’s a lot to think about!

But don’t worry, if you’re wondering what to wear in Japan , you’ve come to the right place.

In this article, we’re breaking it down by season , since the weather and temperatures vary quite a bit throughout the year. 

And perhaps even more importantly, we’re sharing what not to wear in Japan, because there are some cultural taboos that you’ll definitely want to be aware of as you’re packing.

What to Wear in Japan Guide

What to wear in japan, what not to wear in japan.

Hold up! We created a whole guide to all the things you need to pack for Japan (in addition to clothes!). Plus, we even have a (totally free!) packing list you can download !

This FREE PDF download includes everything you’re going to want to pack for your Japan trip, including what NOT to bring, plus tons of insider tips!

In this section, we’re going to discuss specific items that will work well in Japan in most seasons.

But before we dive into the pieces you’ll want to pack, let’s first go over some guidelines to think about as you choose each item of clothing.

Top 3 rules for what to wear in Japan

This is what I’d consider the top guidelines when it comes to thinking about what to wear in Japan:

• Think of your clothing as a capsule wardrobe. Pack items that work well with each other so you can create multiple outfits from fewer individual pieces. You want to be prepared with layers, but you don’t want to overpack. Trust me.
• Avoid revealing clothing. Low necklines and tight clothes can be considered inappropriate in Japan. This is especially true when visiting shrines and temples. Jump down to see what not to wear in Japan.
• Strike a balance between comfort and class. Japanese people tend to look put together when they go out in public. You’ll want to be comfortable in whatever you’re wearing because you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking. But you also want to look nice. Not like you just rolled out of bed and grabbed your coziest sweats.
• Pack only enough clothes for 2 weeks. Even if your trip is longer, aim to only pack 2 weeks worth of clothes and plan to do laundry while you’re on your trip. More than 2 weeks worth of clothes will be too much.

Now that you have those “rules” in mind, let’s dive into specific items:

Women’s shirts 

You’ll want to pack a variety of types of shirts for your time in Japan – both casual and dressier, and short sleeve as well as long sleeves.

In general, you’ll want to choose shirts that don’t have a revealing neckline . You also won’t want to show your stomach. So unless you’re pairing it with a high-waisted skirt or pants, leave your crop tops at home.

Short sleeve shirts

Any short sleeve shirt you’re comfortable in works great. Choose a variety of “nicer” ones and more casual ones.

• This t-shirt bodysuit is loose-fitting and will stay tucked in, even when you bend over to remove your shoes.
• This button up shirt can be dressed up or down.
• Long sleeve shirts

• I paired this black and white striped shirt with both pants and a skirt to create different looks.
• This long sleeve shirt is one of my favorites and goes with everything.
• I love the look of this mock turtleneck shirt .

Men’s shirts 

Choose moisture-wicking fabrics in the summertime and shirts that can be dressed up or down. Button up shirts are a good way to layer and add warmth.

• This men’s performance t-shirt will wick away moisture, but doesn’t look like athletic wear.
• This men’s long sleeve is super comfy and looks nice too.

• Ben loves this shirt because it can transform from athletic activities to a day out exploring.

Button up shirts

• Perfect mens’ short sleeve button up that’s both comfortable and looks really nice
• Men’s long sleeve button up that can be casual or dressed up

Women’s pants

When it comes to pants, opt for comfort and try to stay away from anything that is too tight-fitting. 

Japanese women often wear loose trouser-style pants. Choose breathable fabrics, like linen or cotton in the summer, and thicker styles in the colder months.

My pants recommendations: 

• I brought this pair of cargo joggers to Japan and liked that they were super comfortable but didn’t look too casual. (pictured above)
• These cute trouser style pants are very similar to what you’ll see in Japan.
• This is a really cute pair of wide leg pants .
• If you love jeans, bring a pair! Choose a wide or straight leg style as opposed to skinny jeans. More on jeans in Japan below…

What about wearing jeans in Japan? 

Many forums online claim that Japanese people don’t wear jeans. While I’d say they aren’t as common as in North America, we saw many local people wearing jeans .

I will mention that we felt like we saw more jeans on our most recent trip than we had on previous trips, so perhaps they are gaining popularity.

I personally would recommend packing a pair of jeans if that’s what you’re comfortable in. However, it is a good idea to bring other pants options too.

Can I wear leggings in Japan?

This is a personal decision, but leggings are not commonly worn as pants in Japan (unlike in many Western countries). Leggings are considered to be revealing (since they are tight), so they may attract some unwanted attention.

Unless you are wearing a very loose fitting shirt that covers your backside, I’d recommend against wearing leggings (even though I practically live in them at home).

Men’s pants

Similar to what we recommended in the women’s section, choose pants that are comfortable for you. I think wearing jeans is fine, but I’d also recommend bringing other options too.

Ben is obsessed with these pants that are super comfy (and good for hiking) but also look really nice and can be dressed up. He brought 3 pairs of these on our last trip to Japan and they were the only pants he wore! 

Long, flowy skirts

Skirts are very popular amongst Japanese women , and I love that this can be a staple item during just about any season. 

They can be dressed up or down , and you can style one skirt in many ways, making it a perfect piece for a capsule wardrobe.

While short skirts aren’t necessarily uncommon (especially in Tokyo), I would lean toward long, flowy (not tight) skirts as they will be more comfortable on long walking days and when you’re sitting down in public transport. Additionally, you’ll be bending over often to take on and off your shoes, so a short skirt isn’t ideal (in my opinion).

My skirt recommendations

• I wore this skirt in Japan and loved the mid-calf length. (pictured above)
• I packed this maxi skirt and liked pairing it with a long sleeve shirt for cooler days.
• I own this skirt and think it would be perfect for spring or summer in Japan.
• I wore this mid-length corduroy skirt along with fleece-lined leggings when I was in Japan during the fall.
• This satin skirt almost looks as if it was inspired by a kimono, and could be really pretty in pictures (as long as you don’t mind a high slit).

What about shorter skirts?

Short skirts are totally acceptable in Japan (a lot of younger women wear them). Personally, I think longer skirts or ones that hit around knee-length are more comfortable when you’ll be traveling and walking a lot. (Not to mention bending over to take your shoes on and off!) Pairing them with tights gives you a little more coverage, and fleece-lined tights keep you cozy even in the wintertime.

Tips for wearing skirts in Japan

• I highly recommend wearing a pair of bike shorts underneath your skirt . It will be more comfortable when you’re sitting down on public transportation. Plus, this will prevent chafing, which would be pretty uncomfortable on a long day of walking. These are my all-time (cheap!) favorite bike shorts .
• Tights can also be really nice to wear underneath skirts for more coverage or warmth. If you will be traveling during a cooler time of the year, I highly recommend a pair of fleece-lined tights , like these . They will keep you so warm! You’ll feel like you’re wearing sweatpants, but you’ll look much more put together.

Casual dress

I personally prefer the idea of bringing a few different skirts so I can style it more ways, making several different outfits. 

But if dresses are more your style, opt for one that hits around or below your knees , is flowy instead of tight, and covers your shoulders and neckline.

My dress recommendation:

• This button-up dress is so cute and checks all the boxes. 

Insider tip: Just like with skirts, I’d highly recommend wearing biker shorts underneath dresses too.

Unless you’re traveling during the summer months, bringing a sweater is a good idea as you’ll want a warm layer to throw on.

Women’ sweaters

• This classic sweater could be worn with jeans or thrown on with a skirt. 
• I love the look of this sweater because it is neutral but also has a fun design.
• This striped half-zip sweater is cozy and cute and this one is similar but is a solid color so it could go with many outfits.

Men’s sweaters

• This is Ben’s favorite lightweight quarter-zip lightweight shirt . (pictured above)
• Warm and cozy half button sweater
• This half-zip sweater is made with merino wool and looks really sleek

If you are traveling to Japan during any season other than summer, I recommend having a couple of different jacket options for different occasions and purposes. 

a) Fashionable jacket

You may want something light and fashionable, like a leather jacket or a bomber that can be worn to dinner or when it’s not too cold. 

• I packed this leather jacket for Japan and love how versatile it is. (pictured above)
• This satin bomber jacket is super cute and would fit right in in Japan!

• Ben bought this suede bomber jacket before our most recent trip to Japan, and he is obsessed with it. (Such high quality!)

b) Trench coat / Rain coat

Trench coats are very common in Japan, so this could be another one to add to the mix, or a waterproof jacket if you’ll be traveling during monsoon season.

Trench-style coats :

• This waterproof trench coat looks sleek and will keep you dry
• Cute waterproof trench coat in a couple of colors

Rain jackets :

• This water-resistant rain coat stuffs up super small making it a great travel option

c) Puffy jacket

During winter, fall, and early spring, you’ll also want a puffer jacket because it’ll keep you warm and they pack down really well. 

Womens: 

• Classic puffer jacket 
• Longer down puffer

Comfortable shoes

In Japan, footwear is a big deal. Sneakers are a big trend – even the “grandpa style” ones.

I’d highly recommend only packing shoes that are comfortable as you’ll be walking a lot.

You will be taking your shoes on and off multiple times per day . And if they are ones that need to be tied or buckled, you are going to get annoyed. Trust me.

Before our most recent trip to Japan, we both splurged on Kizik shoes. (This isn’t sponsored and we paid for them with our own money, FYI.)

They aren’t exactly cheap but oh my goodness, they were game changers: 

• They’re super comfortable: We walked more than 20,000 steps several days on our trip, and these shoes were great!
• We could literally just slip them on and off in an instant. This was the biggest selling point for me.
• They look nice: Japanese people tend to look very “put together” (including their footwear). I loved that these shoes actually look nice and are functional. 

Ben was the most skeptical because he’s a frugal man at heart, but on the second day of our trip (after the 27th time taking them on and off), he leaned over to me and said, 

“Okay, I’m glad you convinced me to get these shoes.”

I didn’t even rub in the fact that I WAS RIGHT because I was just happy that I didn’t have to wait for him to lace up his shoes for the next 3 weeks of our trip!

Women’s shoes

• Here is the pair I have : I love that I could wear it with pants and skirts – it really goes with everything! 

Men’s shoes

• This is the pair Ben has : It is sneaker-level comfort but has an elevated look. 
• I also love this pair of men’s shoes that looks a little “dressier”.

Since you’ll be taking your shoes on and off often , you want to be sure that you’re not showing off some old, smelly, holey socks.

Sock up on some new ones before your trip. 

• Winter socks: opt for merino wool for warmth ( men’s merino socks and women’s merino socks )
• Summer socks: carry ankle socks with you even if you’re wearing sandals so you can put them on when entering temples or hotels

Crossbody bag

You will definitely want to pack a bag that you can wear when you’re out and about during the day. 

It should be large enough to fit your essentials but small enough that it doesn’t get too heavy or get in the way when you’re in crowded areas.

My bag recommendations:

• Sleek leather sling bag
• If you’re traveling with a baby or toddler, I highly recommend this diaper bag fanny pack instead of carrying your whole diaper bag
• Affordable crossbody bag
• Small black belt bag

Cozy clothes for lounging

While I’d avoid wearing loungewear in public , you’ll definitely want to pack something cozy for hanging out in your hotel room.

Many hotels will provide yukatas , which are a cotton version of a kimono, for wearing around the property. But we prefer having comfy clothes to wear underneath. 

A soft t-shirt is perfect paired with a pair of joggers. I personally also like to pack a pair of shorts for sleeping in.

Men’s joggers

• Ben has these joggers and is obsessed!

Women’s joggers

• These are my absolute favorite joggers – I wear them almost daily.
• These are my second favorite joggers!

At almost all hotels in Japan, you’ll be provided a yukata , or cotton kimono, that can be worn for lounging in your room (kind of like a robe), and even to dinner in nicer ryokans.

Be sure to try wearing them, as it is an experience you can only have in Japan!

Good to know: If you are traveling during fall or winter, you may also be provided with a haori, or jacket to go over the yukata.

Dressing for the seasons in Japan

Japan has distinctly different weather during each season, so you’ll want to be sure you’ve packed accordingly. 

The lists below are what we personally recommend packing for each season. 

Packing Tip: If you are traveling toward the end of a season, be sure to look at what we’d recommend for the following season and adjust your packing accordingly. For example, if you’re traveling toward the end of spring, you may want to be prepared for the heat and humidity of summer and pack some summer essentials as well.

What to wear in Japan in the spring

With comfortable temperatures but decent chances of rain, you’ll want to pack layers and think about waterproof footwear.

Here’s more information on the weather in Japan during the spring .

• Long skirts
• Flowy dresses
• Bike shorts for under skirts/dresses
• Pants (linen or cotton)
• Long sleeve shirt
• T-shirts (nicer & casual)
• Light jacket, waterproof or water resistant if possible
• Athleticwear (if you plan to go hiking)

• Ben is obsessed with these pants that are super comfy (and good for hiking) but also look really nice and can be dressed up.
• He brought 3 pairs of these on our last trip to Japan and they were the only pants he wore! 
• Shorts (Chino style)
• Button up shirts (long and short sleeve)
• Opt for at least one pair of shoes that handles water well

What to wear in Japan in the summer

With extremely hot temperatures and high humidity, you’ll want to focus on lightweight and breathable fabrics.

Here’s more information on the weather in Japan during the summer .

• Nicer shorts (not athletic)
• Lightweight t-shirts (nicer & casual)
• Lightweight pants (linen or cotton)
• Sleeveless shirts (as long as they aren’t spaghetti straps and don’t have a low neckline)
• Light jacket or sweater

• Here are Ben’s favorite pants for travel
• Light jacket or sweatshirt
• Walking shoes
• Comfortable walking sandals
• Ankle socks to carry with you when wearing sandals (when entering a place where you have to remove shoes)

What to wear in Japan in the fall

Temperatures are usually very comfortable (hotter at the beginning of the season and cooler toward the end). Pack layers and be prepared for chilly temps if you’re traveling in the mountains.

Here’s more information on the weather in Japan during autumn .

• Fleece-lined tights (to go with skirts)
• Bike shorts for under skirts
• Pants 
• Cardigan and/or sweater
• Light jacket
• Thicker jacket

• Jeans 
• Long sleeve button up shirts 
• Light jacket or sweater/sweatshirt

Shoes & accessories

• Ankle boots
• Beanie 

What to wear in Japan in the winter

Pack lots of layers and warm accessories, like a hat and gloves.

Winter in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka tends to be quite mild, whereas you’ll need much warmer layers if you’ll be traveling in the mountainous regions of Japan.

Here’s more information on the weather in Japan during the winter .

• Fleece-lined tights (to go with skirt)

• Here are Ben’s favorite pants for travel  
• Sweater and/or sweatshirt
• Light jacket 
• Wool thermals (optional, depending on your itinerary)
• Snow pants (if you plan to ski)

There’s a lot of talk on forums and Facebook groups about how to dress in Japan so you blend in: 

What should you wear? 

What should you not wear?

Unless you’re of Japanese descent, you’ll likely stand out as a foreigner, or gaijin . So the way you dress isn’t necessarily going to make you look like a local.

However, putting some thought into the clothes you pack can make you stand out less and attract less unwanted attention.

Revealing clothing

I’m all for dressing in a way that makes you feel comfortable. However, I’d personally recommend avoiding low cut tops and tight clothing because it will attract unwanted attention. 

This is a tough one for me because I live in leggings. However, in Japan, women don’t usually wear leggings as pants. They are considered pretty revealing because of how tight they are. Unless you plan to wear them underneath a long tunic (that covers your bum!) I personally would opt for other types of pants while in Japan.

Shoes that aren’t comfortable for walking

I’m starting to sound like a broken record, but you’ll be walking a ton . Put extra thought into the shoes you pack and only bring ones you’ll feel comfortable walking in all day long!

In Tokyo, you’ll notice people wearing (shorter) heels or platform shoes. However, when it comes to traveling (and not overpacking), I’d personally avoid these bulky shoes because you won’t be able to wear them for long distances.

Socks with holes in them

While in Japan, you’ll be taking your shoes on and off frequently and people will be seeing your socks . Make sure the ones you pack are in good condition and don’t have holes in them.

On this note, you generally won’t want to be barefoot. So if you will be traveling in the summertime, be sure to carry a pair of ankle socks with you for times when you need to remove your sandals.

When soaking in onsen in Japan, it is generally considered unsanitary to wear a bathing suit , so you must soak naked . I have seen some undeveloped onsen (like a hot spring) in which bathing suits are allowed, but these are very few and far between. If you’re staying at a hotel with an actual pool, this is different, but you won’t need a bathing suit for most trips to Japan.

It isn’t common for Japanese people to wear fragrances. I’d recommend not wearing perfume or cologne when you know you’ll be in crowded places, like the subway in Tokyo. 

It’s also frowned upon to wear fragrance when you’re dining because it can interfere with your eating experience (as well as those around you). This is especially important in sushi restaurants and higher-end dining in Japan. 

What do locals wear in Japan?

If you want to dress somewhat similar to how Japanese people dress, here are some things to think about when packing your clothes:

• In general, Japanese people don’t often wear athletic clothing outside of hiking. 
• It is said that in Japan, jeans aren’t as common as in Western countries. That said, we noticed more Japanese people wearing (nice) jeans on our most recent trip than in the past. 
• Japanese women don’t often wear leggings unless it’s under a long tunic, as they can be considered revealing.
• Tank tops (especially those with spaghetti straps) aren’t very common among Japanese people. I’ve personally worn tank tops in the humid summer heat, but chose ones with thick straps and a higher neckline.
• There’s not exactly a dress code, but choose more conservative outfits when you will be visiting shrines and temples to show respect.
• Japanese people tend to wear looser clothing instead of tight-fitting silhouettes.
• Japanese women don’t wear revealing shirts (aka exposed midriffs and cleavage); though shorter shorts and skirts aren’t uncommon for younger Japanese women.
• We noticed that for the most part, Japanese people tend to stick to darker colors and neutrals for much of the year. There are certainly areas where loud, bright, quirky fashion prevails (like Harijuku). But overall, the theme seems to be simple and timeless. The most color we noticed was in summertime.
• I’ve heard that pregnant women in Japan don’t typically wear tight maternity clothing , and instead opt for larger shirts.

At the end of the day, don’t let this stress you out too much . You should dress in the way that you feel most comfortable (while being respectful of the local culture). 

Our personal experience: I have worn jeans in Japan. I have also worn tank tops (during the heat of summer it was too hot not to!). As long as you’re not wearing things that are too revealing, you shouldn’t have too much unwanted attention.

More resources for traveling in Japan

We have TONS of resources on travel in Japan and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Ultimate Japan Travel Guide  for all the answers to your most burning questions, or read some of our favorite articles below!

• Best Time to Visit Japan: When to Go & When to Avoid
• Japan Rail Pass: Where to Buy & Is It Worthwhile?
• Renting a Car in Japan: Essential Driving Tips You Need to Know!
• Japan Travel Cost: Exactly How Much is a Trip to Japan?
• One Week in Japan: Best Itinerary for Your First Visit
• Expert Tips for Visiting Japan (Dos and Dont’s!)
• Japan Pocket Wifi vs. Japanese SIM Card: Review & Comparison
• Best Japan Travel Apps
• Foods to Eat in Japan: Guide to Japanese Cuisine
• Helpful Japanese Words & Phrases to Know for Traveling in Japan 

Be sure to download our  complete packing list for Japan !  It’s packed with good suggestions and  insider tips  to help plan your Japan trip. And it’s completely  FREE , so why not!?

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The Really-Useful Japan Packing List You Need For Your Trip

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How to Pack Light For Japan (the basics)

In the following post, we’re going to tell you how to pack light when traveling to Japan. It won’t tell you how many pairs of pants you need, but it will tell you generally what you’ll need, what you don’t, and heaps more tips besides. If you’re tight on time though here are the basics

Pick the lightest, smallest case you can get away with.

Plan on doing some washing – most hotels have laundries.

Bring your most comfy, easily-removed, shoes and decent socks.

Don’t bother with lots of toiletries, strong perfume, workout kit, swimsuits, stilettos, or hair straighteners (find out why below).

Smart casual is a good look for everywhere.

Now, for more details on all of the above, read on…

Choosing a Bag for Japan

Other useful luggage tips, footwear to pack for japan, take clean socks, what to wear in japan during the day, what to wear in tokyo at night, how many clothing changes to pack, how to pack for japan in summer, winter, spring, etc, what if you have a tattoo, wearing cosplay and other styles, packing toiletries for japan, carrying medications into japan, gadgets and gizmos, other stuff.

This is easy, take the smallest suitcase you can get away with. You’re going to be walking up more steps than you think, hotel rooms are smaller than you think – and, if you travel on the Shinkansen you’ll either need to book luggage space (see more on this in our longer post on the rules for taking luggage on bullet trains ), put your bag in front of your knees – or lift your bag above your head.

The Bag I Use

I just traveled for a month to Japan with a Delsey Clavel (that’s it in the foreground of the picture above and opened up in the picture below) which worked really well. I had seven dresses, a month of undies, two pairs of shoes, all my gadgets and toiletries, and still had room to bring back Mouse Ears from Tokyo Disney! and it’s super light to start with.

Check out prices here.

If you’re looking for larger hotels in Tokyo, check out our guide to Tokyo’s larger hotel rooms here.

If you like your space you might want to book a hotel with larger rooms – and to save you hunting for them, we’ve got lists of some top pics.

If you’re going to Osaka, then we also have a list of hotels with larger rooms in Osaka too.

Packing cubes deserve the hype. I hadn’t used them before this trip, I always thought they were just something travel bloggers tried to sell you to make money, but, no, they are brilliant – especially if you’re moving from hotel to hotel. Pick a set with lots of different sizes and I liked having woven straps to keep things in place like this set has .

If you take a backpack, make sure you take it off your back on trains or busy stations so you’re not hitting passing folk every time you turn to try and work out where the heck you’re going.

Luggage transport services are brilliant . If you do decide that the stairs are too much, ask your hotel about shipping your luggage from place to place.

If You Need to Buy a New Suitcase in Japan

If you’re planning to buy a lot of souvenirs, either pack a foldable bag that you can unfurl when you need it – or, you can pick one up in one of the Don Quixote stores you find everywhere.

If you’re looking for something a bit more substantial, Don Quixote can also help, but a shot called Ginza Karen is generally recommended as another inexpensive option. You’ll find it at 1-15-6 Ningyocho, Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 103-0013.

We’re starting here because it’s the thing that can make or break your Japan trip. Get the shoes wrong and you’re going to be in trouble so…

Pack comfortable shoes. Well-worn in comfy shoes! This is not a time to test out a new pair – I once took a pair of plimsols I’d walked miles in before, but within two days of walking 20km, I had blisters the size of 50p pieces on my feet. It was not good.

Ideally, pick shoes that are also easy to slip on and off as you will be taking them on and off when you go into temples and some hotels and restaurants.

Good Shoes to Consider

Running shoes or sneakers are fine but if you want a more stylish shoe that you can walk in, have a look at Vionics which come highly recommended by friends who spend a lot of time walking around Walt Disney World. They have extra cushioning and support built into the sole which make them good for walking long distance.

Whatever you pick though, break them in.

How Many Pairs of Shoes Do You Need?

This is commonly asked in a lot of Japan planning groups – after all, they’re one of the clothing items that weigh the most and we’ve already discussed the value of packing light for Japan.

I’m in the ‘take two pairs of day shoes’ school of thought. If you do get a blister, or another sore spot, alternating your shoes will help take the pressure off it – and if one pair gets wet, you won’t have to put on wet shoes the next day.

Need Extra Planning Help?

Our Japan trip planners can help. Choose from our 62-page Japan Super Planner, which includes tips on everything from picking hotels to sightseeing. Or, try a specific planner like Tokyo Tips, Kyoto Tips, or the Rail Pass Planner. Find them at our Etsy Store . Use code BLG25 at checkout to get 25 per cent discount.

Consider a Shoehorn

Not something you normally pack, but, if your comfiest shoes don’t come on and off easily, or, if you have trouble balancing on one leg or bending to put a shoe on, this is going to make getting your shoes back on much easier and faster.

Some restaurants will have a shoehorn for guests, but if you have your own you’ll be in and out quickly wherever you have to remove your shoes. there’s a lightweight travel shoehorn here

What Not to Pack: Stilettos

Most Japanese women don’t wear skyscraper heels, they tend to stick with a low-heeled pump (or a massive platform!). Add that to the fact that you’re going to walk a lot and generally, you don’t need heels – even if you’re going to a nice restaurant.

If You Need to Buy Shoes in Japan

If you get there and something happens that means you do need to buy some more comfy trainers or another shoe, you might have problems getting shoes that fit larger feet – but try Zara, H&M, and ABC Mart.

If You Get Blisters

I got blisters on my latest Japan trip too – again, in a pair of shoes I’d worn a lot. I just don’t think you can avoid them when walking these distances.

The good news is that you can easily buy plasters everywhere – even 7-11 and Family Mart sell them. Mine got pretty bad and so I went to a proper drug store where I found the Band-Aid padded blister plasters and, surgical tape which meant I could keep all my plasters in place.

A picture of my Japanese care kit is here in case you need to show someone in the chemist!

Every day I started checking for hotspots and applying plasters and padding where it was needed!

The red thing is a foot roller to help fight aches and pains! Rolling your feet resets the rest of your body and I’m really glad I packed it! That one is a Carnation Pediroller from the UK, but you can find other brands online.

I also packed a spiky ball and ended up buying a brilliant massage stick in a shop called Hands, both can make a big difference with recovery if you’re walking for miles.

These get their own heading because you will never go anywhere else in the world where your socks are more likely to be on display than in Japan.

And if you do have to take your shoes off, socks are more polite to expose than bare feet. If you’re wearing sandals that don’t allow for socks under them, carry socks in your bag to slip on if you have to remove your shoes.

You can rinse socks in your hotel room so you don’t need to pack heaps of pairs, but do keep them clean.

If You Need to Buy More Socks

Daiso or the 100 yen stores are a good cheap place to check. Again, ABC Mart can help with more sports-style socks.

Most Japan trip packing lists itemize things at this point – I’m not going to do that as I don’t know what you like to wear.

I travel with 5 lightweight,non-crease, dresses for a fortnight and add tights if it’s cold, and a pair of sandals if it’s hot but that’s probably not going to work for you – just as saying take a pair of leggings and two pairs of black pants with tops won’t work for me and so I wouldn’t attempt to give you specifics either – but, I will offer up general suggestions.

If You Want to Fit In

The most important thing when it comes to packing for Japan is that the clothes you choose are comfortable to sightsee in.

But, some people do want to also fit into the culture of the place they’re traveling to – and if that’s you, I’d say think smart casual when packing for Japan. People there do tend to look quite neatly put together.

Leggings are fine but maybe go for a longer top over them. Jeans and shorts are okay – but, again, maybe with a nice T-shirt or top rather than something more casual.

Also, note that while you’ll see short skirts and skimpy shorts in Tokyo (although these usually have tights underneath them), bare shoulders and cleavage are less common. And things are a bit more conservative in Kyoto.

A good way to get an idea of how to feel comfortable is to look at street videos on YouTube, that’ll give you an idea of what people wear locally where you’re traveling to. The Japan 4k account on YouTube has a good selection.

I’ve not noticed this myself, but some people say they have felt out of place in Japan wearing bright prints or patterns so maybe look at more neutral colors if you think that will bother you.

To be honest, chances are you’re going to stand out in some way on your trip. I’m blonde and that immediately makes me stick out no matter how I’m dressed, so don’t stress out too much about it.

Dressing for Temples and Shrines

Despite my saying most people don’t bare shoulders, for the most part, Japan isn’t like some other countries where you’re not going to be let into a temple if you have your knees or shoulders on show – however, you’re still visiting a place of worship, so it’s a good idea to keep clothing respectful on days where you’re visiting temples and shrines.

That means no short shorts or skirts and you should have your shoulders and any cleavage covered.

One temple that does have a dress code is the incredible Nanzoin temple just outside Fukuoka. They will turn you away if you’re not dressed correctly.

The Nanzoin Temple Dress Code

They ask that you have tattoos covered and that your clothing covers your upper body up to, and including your shoulders and your lower body down to your knees. Crop tops or anything else that reveals your stomach is also a no-no. See the full list of rules here.

Think Layers

No matter what time of year you’re visiting Japan, pack layers – you can pile on extra if it’s cooler or you encounter icy air conditioning. And vice versa.

You might be wondering if you need to bring extra clothes to dress up in Tokyo or Kyoto at night.

If you’re just going for drinks or dinner in an izakaya or local ramen shop then you can just wear what you wore during the day.

If you’re going to a more high-end restaurant, most other people there will probably be in business wear – shirt and trousers for men (jeans are not widely worn in the workplace) and a smart dress or trousers and a nice top that you might wear for an evening work function for women.

But do check if anything more formal is required as some places do require jackets – Le Chateau de Joel Robuchon and Collage at the Conrad in Tokyo are just two examples.

If there is a dress code it will usually be on the restaurant’s website, and often in English if it is a restaurant with an international reputation.

Remember, if it’s a traditional Japanese restaurant, even if you’re sitting in the Western dining room, you may be asked to remove your shoes.

One of the best ways to pack light for Japan is to pick outfits you can wear anywhere and more than once – remember unless you’re on a tour, no one is going to see you again, so it doesn’t matter if you wear the same thing 3-4 times on a trip (and even if you are on a tour, no-one cares!).

One concern you might also have is that some places in Tokyo still allow smoking, however, there’s something about the ventilation that means it doesn’t seem to be a problem in Japan.

If however, you do leave an Izakaya smelling of smoke, you can buy Febreze in Japan and a quick spritz should neutralize the odour.

Here’s what it looks like there. I’d suggest trying to find it in one of the big chemist’s stores as they sell all sorts of household products. If you can’t find it, show someone the picture and they’ll help you.

We also found a few of the hotels on our last trip (like the Citadines Namba in Osaka ) actually supplied a refreshing spray.

A lot of hotels also have laundry rooms where you can do washing, so if you get stuck, you can run a load through the machine (although this can cut into exploration time).

Maybe try doing this after a long day of sightseeing when you might not mind a night chilling out in your room or near your hotel. I also found it was a good way to slow down my over-enthusiastic planning and give myself a break.

They usually have laundry powder built-in (which is what the crossed-out bit means) so you don’t need to buy or pack that.

Or book a serviced apartment which usually have a washing machine. There are a couple of good suggestions for these in this post on the types of hotel in Japan .

What Not To Pack: Workout Kit and Swimsuits

Unless you are extremely fit or need to lift weights on your trip, chances are you are not going to get out for a run or visit the hotel gym on your trip. It’s not unusual to walk 15-25km a day while sightseeing, the steps mount up and you’ll probably be too tired to exercise as well.

Also, you won’t need a swimsuit unless your hotel has a pool. If you’re going to an onsen, or your hotel has an onsen, you will be expected to go in nude so don’t bother packing your swimming kit.

If you’re umming and ahhing about packing your kit, leave it at home!

For fear of stating the stupidly obvious, the type of things you need to pack change depending on what time of year you’re traveling – and also, where you’re staying in Japan.

Japan is a massive landmass and the weather differs hugely from end to end. What you might need in Nagasaki in winter is very different from what you need in Osaka, Tokyo, or Sapporo!.

Generally, the south of Japan is warmer than the north and so, you can get away with packing lighter in the south.

I went to Kyushu in February and got away with a long-sleeved t-shirt under a dress, tights and socks, a cardigan, a thinnish coat, gloves, and a scarf – and I live in Australia where under 20C is jumper weather.

But I was a bit chilly once I arrived in Osaka to fly home – and Tokyo during the same week was snowing. Further North was full-on ski season! Check the specific weather for where you’re traveling and pack accordingly.

What to Pack for Japan in Summer

If you’re traveling to Japan in Summer expect extreme humidity. You will perspire so you might want to take a few extra tops (or see my note below about the super-antiperspirant I always travel with).

You’ll find all sorts of products and gadgets to help keep you cool in Japan’s summer – from simple parasols to cooling sprays or even fans that you wear around your neck. If you’re struggling, head to a branch of Hands (a store that sells pretty much everything) and see what’s on offer.

June and July in Japan are also rainy so you’ll need to make sure you have a lightweight coat that’s going to keep you dry (but don’t pack an umbrella as you can buy them in any 100 yen store).

If you’re traveling in a rainy period, definitely pack more than one pair of shoes.

Or look at a very waterproof pair like the shoes and trainers from Vessi.

This is also one time when the Ziploc trick below can become very important.

What to Pack for Japan When It’s Cold

If it’s cold, you’re going to want layers – if you get to Japan and suddenly realize you’re freezing, head to Uniqlo.

Their Heattech range uses your body heat to create warmth but is small and light to pack – there’s a huge branch just by Shinjuku station. If you want to pick some up before you go, then check it out here.

Also, look for a fantastic piece of Japanese clothing called a Haramaki. This is like a little scarf for your middle and the theory is that keeping your internal organs warm heats the rest of your system.

I have one that I use when it’s cold in my house and I do notice my hands and feet get warmer. You can buy these before you go to Japan on Amazon – or pick one up there.

If You Need to Buy New Clothing in Japan

If you’re on the smaller size, you’ll be able to check out all the cool shops, but, if you’re larger than a size 12-14 (UK), you might find it hard to find large enough sizes in every store. Head to Western brands with names you recognize as they tend to stock larger sizes – again, that means Zara, Gap, H&M, or Uniqlo.

Local store Sakazen also offers more western-sized options -and has a ‘Big Size’ section for men.

The sizing thing can work in your favor – I once picked up a bargain skirt in French Connection in Tokyo because it was a size 14!

If you have tattoos you’ve probably read that you won’t be allowed in onsens or pools in Japan, but, when planning your Japan packing consider that you might want to cover them with clothing in some other places too.

Admittedly, Tokyo particularly is becoming more accepting of tattoos, particularly on those who are clearly tourists – when I visited Thermae Yu spa in Tokyo, they were trialing a system allowing female tourists to visit with tattoos, men could do so if their tattoos were a certain size and they showed their passports – but if you’re going to stay in a ryokan. some ban those with tattoos so you’ll need them covered.

Also if you’re visiting a temple, staying somewhere more rural, or out for dinner at a more exclusive restaurant, you might want to pack something that covers your tattoo (or use concealer or a plaster on a smaller tattoo) just out of respect.

How to Cover Tattoos in Japan

There’s a great post on dressing for tattoos in Japan from TaraMoss.com who has sleeve tattoos – and she’s a big fan of arm covers.

You can buy solid-coloured one s of these (usually used for outdoor sports) on Amazon or try these more dressy ones – you’ll also find these in Japan if you get there and start to feel a bit conscious of your tatts. Again, have a look in Daiso for a selection.

Japanese street style fashion is famous all over the world and the word Cosplay originated there so, you might be wondering if it’s okay to dress up in Cosplay or other more individual styles from Japan like Lolita or Gothic Lolita and whether you should bring your looks to get some amazing photos.

The answer for Cosplay is surprisingly, no. It’s not the done thing to wear Cosplay in public in Japan ( find a detailed post on this here ). If people are going to a convention, they tend to get changed when they get there rather than travel in costume.

As for other styles, It seems like it’s totally fine to wear Japanese styles, particularly in areas like Harajuku or Nakano.

Check the Tokyo Fashion site to see what everyone is currently wearing and find the latest shop openings (but I guess you already know that).

If you’re travelling light you might not want to pack your normal bottles of shampoo and shower gel and the good news is you don’t have to.

Japanese hotels are generally very well equipped – especially if they aim at business travelers who will travel light – and you’ll usually find shampoo, shower gel or soap, toothbrushes, razors, and combs in the room, or, by the front desk where you just pick up what you need.

I’m very fussy about conditioner, so I always take a tiny bottle with me, but I brought it back virtually full as the ones supplied in most hotels worked as well for my hair.

Unless you’re very fussy about your brand, you can either use what your hotel gives you or, pick up bigger products when you get there. However, saying that there are a few toiletries you might want to make sure you pack for Japan including…

Antiperspirant

Expats living in Japan say the local brands don’t work the same as the ones they are used to – and that will matter if you’re there in the humid months of June and July

If you’re keeping things light, have a look at Perspirex – it’s a tiny bottle but you only have to apply it every couple of days. It’s seen me through Japan visits and Australian summer trips – do NOT use it on freshly depilated skin though, I learned that the hard way!

Anti-Chafing Products

Another tip I learned from Disney forums, is if you’re on the heavier side, you might want to pop this on before you go out walking for the day as it can help stop rubbing that can cause painful chafing. You can buy it here.

A lot of people also recommend Gold Bond Medicated Powder

Also, look at anti-chafing shorts which you wear under your normal clothes

Hand Sanitiser and/or a small towel

As I explained in my piece on first-timer tips to Japan , one surprising thing you might notice is that you don’t always find towels in public bathrooms in Japan so bring something to wipe your hands on if you don’t want to be constantly wiping them on your clothes.

You can also buy these mini towels in Japan, they’re called Tenugui.

Even before you know what hit, the Japanese would wear face masks to protect others around them if they had a cold or sniffles, please do the same. Either bring your favourite from home, or, you can stock up locally.

What Not to Pack: Heavy Perfume

Some high-end Japanese restaurants like Nihonryori-Ryugin say that anyone smelling noticeably of perfume or aftershave will not be allowed in as they say it spoils the aromas of the food.

However, I also spotted this ‘no perfume’ sign on one of the izakaya in Memory Lane in Shinjuku on this trip.

Where to Shop for Toiletries

Don’t panic if you do forget something. Many hotels supply toothbrushes, combs, and mini tubes of toothpaste.

You’ll also find basic shampoo and shower gel. For anything else, you’ll find big chemist-style stores (a bit like Priceline, CVS, or Superdrug, depending on where you’re coming from) all over Japan and there’s always someone who can help you find what you’re looking for.

One essential thing you have to know about packing for Japan is that some medications are not allowed and others need you to fill in a form called a Yakkan Shoumei or sometimes you’ll see it referred to as a Yunyu Kakunin-sho.

You’ll also need one of these if you’re traveling in Japan for a longer period and want to bring more than 30 days’ worth of medication with you.

And it’s not just controlled or prescription medications either – medications that contain pseudoephedrine are banned which means things you might not think twice about packing normally, like Nurofen Cold and Flu, Sudafed and Vicks inhalers, are banned in Japan.

This document explains things simply.

There are the obvious gadgets and gizmos that you might want to pack like your phone for maps, your camera (if you still carry a separate one), and something to watch/read on the plane and then there are a couple of extra things to buy before going to Japan.

A Travel Adaptor

Japan uses a flat two-pinned plug, so any country will a different plug configuration will need an adaptor to make most items work. However, see the note below about things you might not want to pack even if you can make the plug fit.

If you forget, ask at your hotel reception or go to one of the big electronic stores like Bic Camera.

Phone Power Bank

If you’re using your phone as a camera, to help you get around with a service like Google Maps and a couple of useful apps like the train planning app Navitime ( see more about Navitime here ) or Google Translate, you might find your phone is running out of charge before you get back to your hotel at night.

A power bank lets you refuel on the run – I can’t be without mine in Japan.

Ideally, you’re looking for something that fits in a small bag or even your pocket.

I used this Anker one on my trip and it lasted really, really well – in fact, Mr Japlanease bought one halfway through our trip and had it delivered to his hotel as he decided he preferred this one to his one! I could get 3-4 full charges out of it before it needed recharging.

Multi-Port Charger

I also brought a multi-port USB charger as I was carrying a lot of devices, but, to be honest, I wouldn’t take it again when I’m traveling solo as I think I used it twice in a month – more hotels now have a couple of USB ports in the room which allows you to charge more than two devices at once.

However, if there are two or more of you in the room and you’re both trying to charge phones, Wi-Fi devices, tablets, or Kindles – it could be a good investment.

Pick the best one for your device configuration here .

A Note About Hair Straighteners in Japan

Japan’s voltage is 100V and this is lower than many other countries (it’s 230 in the UK, Europe, and Australia for example), I didn’t know why this mattered until I started seeing chatter on forums about packing hair straighteners.

Hair straighteners can take ages to heat up in Japan, and others, including some types of GHDs, won’t work at all. To work they’ll need dual voltage – to find out what that means, and what you need if you really want to take them, have a look at this guide to using hair straighteners in Japan

Hairdryers might also not function so well in Japan, so leave yours at home and just use the one in your hotel and expect it to take longer to dry (this is my hair – I’m the one on the right – I know your pain – here I just go out with it wet and it dries, but I won’t do that in Japan because I’d look like a hobo!).

US readers might not have the same issues as your voltage is closer to that in Japan (but you will still need an adaptor) but check the piece above to make sure.

Another option is to buy a straighter/hair dryer in Japan – Bic Camera sells them and you’ll find branches of this all over Japan.

If you want to check out brands – straightening iron is (apparently) this in Japanese ストレートアイロン but you can also type straightening iron into the search bar. And it’s pronounced su-to-rai-to-a i-ron

Hair dryer is this ヘアドライヤー but it’s pronounced very similarly so you should be okay.

Lastly in our packing list for Japan come a few other bits and bobs you might want to think about taking with you.

Wallet or Coin Purse

Japan is less of a cash society than it was – but you will need to have some cash on you as small restaurants, shrines and a few surprising places like Daiso don’t always let you use cards.

If you’re used to just flashing your Apple watch at everything you’re going to make sure you pack a wallet to keep your cash, change, and your train card.

If you do want to use your watch or iPhone to pay for things, you’re going to want to check out our digital Suica guide explaining how to put an IC Card on your watch or phone

You will also pick up a lot of change, a coin purse can come in very handy (again, Daiso or the 100 yen store is a good place to pick one up).

Currency Card

While you should always have some cash on you in Japan, a currency card like Revolut or Wise can help you with bigger purchases.

You can load yen onto them before your trip (making it a great way to save for your trip or take advantage of high exchange rates) and then use them as a debit card on your trip where people do take cards, or draw out cash at the ATM.

I used Wise on this trip and it worked well.

Another option if you don’t want to carry cash is to load your cash onto your transport card. See more about that in our post on where you can use cards in Japan – and where you might need cash.

Passport Case

Again, not normally something to worry about as once you arrive somewhere your passport is (hopefully) normally residing in the hotel safe, but, it’s actually Japanese law to carry your passport at all times (and yes, people do get asked for it).

Plus, if you’re using the Japan Rail Pass you need to have your passport on you and a cover can stop it from getting bent and battered.

This one is stylish and neutral – or, if you want to feel like you’re traveling to Japan, pick a cuter one like the selection at Kakao and Friends .

Or, just bring a Ziploc bag and put your passport and rail pass in that together. This will also prevent them from getting wet if you (and they) end up in one of Japan’s notorious downpours.

Rail Pass Voucher

If you are buying a Japan Rail Pass (if you’re not sure yet, then read t his post on how to tell if the Japan Rail Pass is worth it for your trip ) you will be given an exchange voucher that you then swap once you get to Japan. Don’t forget it. You won’t get another one.

Hotel Address

It’s a good idea to have this saved on your phone, or printed out, in Japanese writing. It’s essential if you are going to get a taxi to your hotel but will also come in handy if you get lost.

SIM card or Portable Wi-Fi

If you want to use Google Maps, having your own wifi makes things so much easier. You can order these in advance and pick them up at the airport – or have them shipped to your house.

I used to prefer a SIM card and usually ordered mine from Klook to pick up at the airport as it means someone can help me set it up if I get stuck. You have to do a couple of strange things to set up a SIM card for Japan and the only time I did order one in advance from someone else, it didn’t work for about five hours.

If you prefer to use portable wifi, you can order that at the same time as your Japan Rail Pass here.

On my latest trip, I tried an eSim and this was really helpful as it meant I was connected to the internet the second I landed in Japan. I used Ubigi and was very impressed

If you’re not sure which is best for you, have a look at our post comparing all the ways to get online on your trip .

Business Cards

Okay, you probably won’t need these if you’re just on holiday, but if you are doing any kind of business while you’re in Japan, you will need a decent supply of cards.

So, there you have it – the totally specific list of things to take to Japan. If you’re still wondering about any other elements of what to bring to Japan then please join our Facebook Group and ask them there.

Oh, and if you like the little packing lists scattered around this post, they are one of the planners that we offer in the Japlanease Etsy shop – head over there to see more designs or to purchase our packing list.

Who Writes This Blog?

My name is Helen Foster, and I’m a journalist and author. My travel articles have appeared in publications including The Australian, RAC Horizons, Jetstar Magazine, Sainsbury’s Magazine, and more.

I’ve traveled to Japan five times before- solo and with my partner – and I’ve just returned from trip six in June 2023. So, everything here is pretty up to date.

What to pack for Japan: ultimate Japan packing list

Here is your complete guide on what to pack for Japan. Choose the season you are visiting to get a complete packing checklist, a capsule wardrobe suitable for the season and advice on packing for Japan.

Travel essentials to pack all year round

• Travel Insurance : Don't forget to secure a reliable insurance plan before you jet off! be it lost luggage, unexpected health issues, or trip cancellations. Compare various insurance providers here .
• Valid passport (check expiry date carefully to ensure it is valid for the duration of your stay and make sure you have at least one blank page available)
• Copy of flight details, boarding passes and airline tickets
• Hotel reservation details, including hotel address (you will need the address of the hotel to fill out customs forms, make sure you have it handy)
• Visa (usually required for stays longer than 90 days. Check carefully if you require a Visa before you depart)
• Hotel transfers details (if you have pre-booked your hotel transfers ensure you have the details easily accessible)
• Cash, credit cards and traveler's checks
• ID (drivers license, social security number etc.)
• Travel eSIM with a data plan for your smartphone to stay connected.

In addition to these basics and to make your trip more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable, we've put together a list of 14 must-have items that you won't want to forget. From practical things like a travel adapter and a filtered water bottle , to fun extras like a portable Wi-Fi device and a neck pillow, we've got you covered with the Japan Essentials Checklist .

What to pack for Japan in Summer 2023

Tank tops | linen v-neck top | cropped button-up shirt | relaxed linen shirt | oversized striped shirt | v-neck shirtdress | feminine midi dress | ruffle-hem shirtdress | cotton-linen blend cardigan | stretched linen blazer | straight legged chino | off white jeans | denim shorts | white shorts | pull-on linen short | skinny belt | cross body bag | basket bag, summer japan packing list.

• Packable waterproof jacket
• Comfortable walking shoes
• 7 lightweight cotton/bamboo tops
• 2 lightweight sweaters
• 1 pair of heels
• Lightweight cotton trousers
• sleepwear (lightweight)
• Undergarments
• 2 dressy outfits
• swimwear (1 piece recommended over bikinis)

What to pack in fall for Japan

Fall japan packing list.

• Waterproof foldable jacket (choose one that folds easily, ideally with a travel pouch so you can store it in your bag)
• Optional : dressier trench coat/jacket for going out
• 1 Wrap/cardigan
• 3 Knits/sweaters
• 5 layering tops
• 1 pair of heels or ankle boots for going out
• Jeans (dark navy or black is recommended)
• 3 Mid-weight pants
• 3 dressy outfit combinations
• Undergarments (one per day is ideal)
• Socks (choose socks in good quality as you will be required to take your shoes off in many establishments)
• Activewear if you plan on working out
• Swimwear (check if required)
• woolen hat/ beanie (it can get quite chilly in some regions and a beanie won't take up much room in your suitcase)
• leather gloves (optional, check the forecast for the regions you plan to visit)
• Travel umbrella
• Foldable travel backpack or tote (to carry your daily essentials in)

What to pack for Japan in winter

Japan winter capsule wardrobe.

Winter Japan packing list

• Insulated, waterproof winter coat (we love the Patagonia Women's Down With It Parka )
• 5 winter knits (merino wool is a great option)
• 7 layering tops (choose some casual, breathable long-sleeve tops and some dressier options. Super lightweight merino wool LS tees are a great option)
• thermal under layers (optional)
• Winter hat (beanie)
• Waterproof walking shoes/boots
• Dressy heels (boots preferable)
• Jeans (clean denim jeans, in black or very dark navy, are more popular)
• Winter weight trousers
• Undergarments (aim for one per day)
• Socks (make sure they are in good shape as you will be taking shoes off on a number of occasions)
• Swimwear (check if your accommodation has swimming facilities)
• Activewear (if you plan to work out)
• Sleepwear (no need for anything too heavy)

What to pack in Spring for Japan

Japan spring capsule wardrobe.

Spring Japan packing list

• Waterproof foldable jacket
• 4 lightweight sweaters (The early part of spring is much cooler than the later months. So pack heavier knits if traveling in March or early April)
• Lightweight Pants
• Undergarments (I like to pack one per day)
• Socks (check that your socks have no holes and are well maintained as you may visit venues where you are asked to remove your shoes)
• Swimwear if required (we recommend 1 piece over skimpy bikini sets)
• Sleepwear (lightweight)

Things to consider when packing for Japan

Your itinerary.

Your planned itinerary will drastically impact the items you need to pack on your trip to Japan.

• An urban-based vacation visiting local tourist attractions will require different clothing to a more adventurous itinerary focused on trekking and hiking. If you are planning on hiking, your packing list will be more geared around outdoor adventure. Check out our Capsule wardrobe for Hiking for some tips on what to pack.
• If you are traveling to Japan as part of a cruise, your packing list will vary slightly as there are additional dress requirements that are specifically related to cruising. You may be part of a cruise that has a form dress code in the evenings or specific costume requirements to consider.  If you are cruising you can check out our advice on Capsule Wardrobes for a Cruise .
• If you are taking part in an all-inclusive tour package, check your itinerary carefully and consider what type of clothing will be required for each of the planned activities. Some tours may include fine dining experiences which will require dressy outfit options.  Other options may include long walking tours in various terrains that may require specific footwear/ clothing.
• Also, consider the dress code related to your accommodation. Upscale hotels may have more formal dining options that may require you to bring formal outfit options. For men, this may mean you will need to pack a blazer.

Active weather forecast

The packing lists offered above are based on common trends in Japan for each season. However, it is very much worthwhile to check the weather forecast a short time before you visit, to ensure there are no unforeseen changes in the weather. This will give you the option of changing your packing list to suit the most recent live forecast.

What not to pack for Japan

• For a summary of banned items in Japan and an overview of the customs clearance process, you can check out the Japan Customs Page .
• As well as the important items banned by customs, here are some other items I would avoid packing for Japan:
• 2 piece skimpy bikinis (slightly more conservative 1 piece swimwear will be deemed more appropriate, particularly in hotel swimming pools)
• Overly revealing tops that show too much cleavage or your midriff (these will be frowned upon in many situations)
• Ultra-short skirts (above the knee is totally fine but avoid any skirts or dresses that are overly revealing)
• Socks that are worn out (you may choose to visit traditional venues that will require you to take your shoes off)
• Worn-out, scuffed or ratty looking clothing (shabby clothing is frowned upon in Japan, where a well-groomed appearance is appreciated. Aim for clean, well-maintained clothing and keep you well-worn tracksuits at home)

Handy apps and technology to consider

Download a reliable translation app before you depart.

• eSIM with a data plan for your smartphone
• Japan translation app downloaded to your smartphone (might come in handy when navigating your way around). Find one that also translates menus and signage, it will make your life much easier.
• Japan digital tour app (or guide book if you are old school). Having a tour map on your smartphone is such a valuable way to get the most out of a destination, particularly if you are planning a self-guided travel experience. Find one that displays points of interest and information on a map, for ease of use and finding your way around.

Make sure you also check out our guide on What to Wear In Japan for more general styling advice and pro travel tips.

Have you got something to add? Do you think there is anything missing or worth mentioning on the Japan packing list? Mention your top tips below.

© Copyright 2019 | What To Wear On Vacation | All Rights Reserved

Boutique Japan

Expert Tips for Your Japan Packing List

As you prepare for your trip, you’ve finally turned your attention to your Japan packing list.

Fortunately, preparing for Japan can be surprisingly easy, but before you travel make sure to keep these essential packing tips in mind! Some of these suggestions are obvious, but others may surprise even experienced travelers.

We’ve also included some of our favorite travel gear, in the hopes that it will make packing a bit more fun and easier for you. After all, packing can be one of the most enjoyable — or dreaded! — aspects of preparing for a big trip.

Here is your 8-step Japan travel checklist:

• Bring shoes that are easy to slip on and off
• Pack as lightly as possible
• Use takuhaibin , Japan’s luggage-forwarding service
• Bring formal and casual clothes
• Get Japanese yen: you’ll need it!
• Handle visas, passports, and travel insurance
• Don’t forget essential extras: pocket Wi-Fi, hand sanitizer, and more
• Leave room in your luggage to shop in Japan

1. Bring shoes that are easy to slip on and off

No, you don’t need to wear geta .

But unless you enjoy untying and lacing your shoes every few minutes, the best shoes for Japan are ones you can slip on and off easily.

Many places in Japan – including ryokans (traditional inns) , temples , and some izakayas  and restaurants – require you to remove your shoes.

As a rule of thumb, if you see tatami  mats, you’ll need to take off your shoes. In these cases, it’s also considered somewhat impolite to be barefoot, so if needed bring a pair of socks with you.

Read more about Japanese etiquette tips and taboos .

Speaking of socks, make sure yours are hole-free! If needed, stock up on high-quality socks at one of Japan’s ubiquitous sock shops.

Depending on your itinerary, it’s usually also wise to bring comfortable walking shoes. Tokyo  is a surprisingly walkable city, and for places like Kyoto  there’s often no better way to explore than on foot.

2. Pack as lightly as possible

Packing lightly is a useful skill for travel to any country, but in the case of Japan it is especially worth noting. Navigating Japan is much  easier when you have a small, easily portable bag or suitcase.

Most travelers in Japan rely heavily on Japan’s comprehensive and easy-to-use railway networks , but unfortunately Japanese trains and train stations do not cater especially well to travelers with a lot of luggage.

How do we define “a lot of luggage”? Anything more than a small rolling suitcase (airplane carry-on size) and a backpack or duffel.

Japanese train stations are often quite crowded, and to make matters worse they often don’t have as many elevators or escalators as you might wish. This is true in major cities, and even more so in rural areas.

The shinkansen (bullet train) typically has a small dedicated area for suitcases, but this space must be reserved in advance of travel. On the other hand, the shinkansen’s overhead space is just right for small carry-on sized suitcases.

As for other (non-shinkansen) trains in Japan: while some do have some space overhead for small bags, many have none at all.

For all of these reasons, we recommend traveling either with a small rolling suitcase or backpack, if at all possible.

Not willing or able to pack light?

You’re in luck!

Japan has a wonderful luggage-forwarding service that will make traveling through Japan a breeze, even with loads of luggage.

Read more about luggage forwarding below.

3. Use takuhaibin , Japan’s incredible luggage-forwarding service

We know not everyone can or wants to pack light.

Fortunately for heavy packers, Japan’s incredible luggage-forwarding system  (known as takuhaibin , or takkyubin ), means you don’t have to.

“ Hands-free travel ” is a fast, reasonable, and very reliable service that allows you to easily and efficiently send suitcases from hotel to hotel, or even to the airport.

While in some instances same-day forwarding is possible for a premium, delivery between most destinations within Japan takes one or two nights.

This means spending a night or two without your main luggage. In cases like this, we usually recommend “skipping” a destination, and traveling for a day or two with just a small overnight duffel or backpack.

Even though some travelers are hesitant to part with their main suitcase, it can certainly be worthwhile — especially when traveling to remote locations.

Not only can traveling in rural Japan be a hassle with a large suitcase (see the section above!), it can also be very freeing to travel lightly while exploring Japan’s countryside.

For example, if you’re going to a ryokan in the countryside , you won’t need much anyway, since you’ll probably spend most of your time in yukata (Japanese-style robes)!

If you’re traveling with another person, consider sharing the delivery service with a traveling partner. This way you can keep one “shared” suitcase (that you forward from hotel to hotel), and a smaller bag to easily carry with you from destination to destination.

How to use Japan’s luggage forwarding

Taking advantage of luggage forwarding is easy! The front desk at most hotels and ryokans can make the arrangements for you — just make sure to let them know a day or more in advance. Giving them proper notice ensures they can make the arrangements for you in good time.

The price depends on factors such as luggage size (dimensions and weight) and destination, but you can typically expect to pay around US $15-$30 per suitcase. If your bag exceeds weight limits, you may need to separate your items into multiple bags.

If you’re staying in budget accommodations (or in a private home, for example), you’ll need to make the arrangements yourself.

One option is to do so at a conbini  (convenience store). Or, refer to the informative websites of Yamato Transport  or Luggage-Free Travel , which both specialize in luggage-forwarding services.

While luggage forwarding is a fantastic service – and very reliable, as most Japanese services are  – please make sure to use it at your own risk.

THINKING OF BECOMING A LIGHT PACKER?

Here are a couple of our favorite bags for traveling around Japan:

• Personally, I like Minaal bags. I have this one from 2016, and have used it for long trips to Japan and elsewhere successfully. Check out their travel gear .
• Another solid option is the Samsonite Freeform Hardside Spinner 21. You can buy it on Amazon here .
• A classic, some travelers swear by the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45. See all their bags here .

4. Style & fashion: what to wear

You don’t need to go out and buy a new wardrobe for your trip to Japan. In fact, we recommend the opposite.

If anything, leave space in your luggage so you can go shopping in Japan, where you will find some of the most unique and best-quality fashions in the world.

Tokyo is renowned as a shopper’s paradise (these Tokyo neighborhoods  are a great place to start), but you’ll find great cutting-edge and vintage styles throughout the country, particularly in other cultural centers such as Kyoto and Osaka , and even in smaller towns like Onomichi .

Even though fashion standards in Japan are generally quite high, this doesn’t necessarily  mean you have to dress up.

People in Japan tend to take care when it comes to appearance, but you will find a huge variety of eclectic styles, ranging from chic to very casual. In a sense, it is comparable to what you might find in places like New York, London, or Paris.

If you enjoy dressing casually, you should be fine in almost all situations – from dining out to a trip to the Ghibli Museum . Although, of course if you have a special occasion (for example, a party or special dinner), then you should dress accordingly.

Typically, formal attire is not required, outside of formal or business situations. For example, even at most high-end Japanese restaurants , jackets and ties are not required for men. However, we certainly recommend using your best judgment and dressing respectfully.

Aside from formal western-style restaurants (keep in mind that Japan has incredible French and Italian cuisine!), which may require jackets for men, most high-end restaurants have simple, common-sense dress code regulations: no baseball caps, flip flops, shorts, etc.

As for the weather?

Packing for the weather: the seasons in Japan

Japan is famous for the beauty of its four very distinct seasons, and it is essential to pack accordingly.

This is a good general overview of month-by-month temperatures in Japan  — and we also recommend our detailed post on the seasons & when to visit Japan  — but because each year varies, the best thing to do is check weather forecasts a couple of weeks before your trip.

If you’re traveling to various parts of Japan, make sure to check the forecast for each place you’ll be visiting, as the weather can vary dramatically between different parts of the country.

As seasons go, spring  and fall  are particularly fickle, so around these times of year we recommend bringing layers. The weather in spring and autumn can vary widely from day to day, with conditions ranging from warm (even hot) and sunny, to wet and bone-chillingly cold .

5. Japanese yen: you’ll need it!

Japan is a very cash-oriented society.

Even though an increasing number of shops and restaurants do accept credit cards, you’ll probably need more cash than you’re used to — especially when traveling in rural areas.

Luckily, Japan is very safe!

To save time on the ground, consider getting some Japanese yen before you arrive. Even if your local bank doesn’t have yen on hand, they can probably order some for you.

But don’t worry if you land in Japan without yen. You can exchange currency at the airport, or withdraw Japanese yen from an ATM in the airport.

It’s worth noting that while some banks in cities can exchange currency, it’s not generally as easy to find currency exchanges in Japan as it is in many other countries.

Read more in our article about cash, credit cards, and ATMs in Japan .

6. Visas, passports, and travel insurance

Citizens of many countries  don’t need a visa for short stays related to tourism, but to be extra safe please make sure you double-check with the Japanese Embassy or Consulate.

As for passports, it’s always wise to ensure your passport has at least 6 months’ validity from your trip end  date, or you may not be able to travel (this applies to many countries).

Similarly, it’s generally good practice to make sure your passport has at least 2-4 blank visa pages. In some cases, this may be strictly required.

We’re also very strong proponents of comprehensive travel insurance . Sad to say, emergencies truly have a way of happening at the most unexpected times, and we’ve seen numerous trips cancelled (or interrupted) by completely unforeseeable circumstances.

7. Essential extras: pocket Wi-Fi, hand sanitizer, and more

Here are a few other things we recommend you add to your Japan packing list:

• Pocket Wi-Fi device : Even if this doesn’t sound essential to you, we highly recommend renting a pocket Wi-Fi device (i.e., mobile hotspot). Wi-Fi in Japan is not nearly as widespread as most people imagine it will be (read more in our full post on Wi-Fi and mobile in Japan ). Even if you don’t plan to check email or upload photos, being able to use Google and Google Maps while out and about exploring is invaluable! We recommend pre-arranging a pocket Wi-Fi device through PuPuru ( order here ) or Ninja WiFi ( order here ).
• Handkerchief or small towel & hand sanitizer : As wonderfully clean as Japan is, public restrooms often lack soap and/or hand towels (most Japanese people carry their own handkerchief).
• Travel adapter : Most of Japan’s electrical outlets are 2-pronged “Type A” (100 Volt, 50-60 Hz), so if you have a device with a 3-pronged or European/UK-style plug, you may need a travel adapter. You can buy one on Amazon here . Many electronic devices (such as mobile phones, tablets, laptops, etc.) already have transformers, which means you may not need a converter, but make sure to check your items’ voltage requirements. Read here for more about electricity in Japan .
• For a relaxing flight : Sleep mask ( here’s one from Amazon ) and rosewater mist.
• Small gifts from home : Small local gifts are wonderful for giving to guides and other people you meet along the way. Tipping is not common in Japan , but thoughtful gifts are always appreciated. Gifts representative of your local region or country are especially loved, e.g., a famous local product or local artisanal product.

8. Leave space for some shopping!

Japan is a shopper’s paradise.

Even travelers who typically dislike shopping often end up making unexpected purchases.

Because it may be impossible to resist the level of craftsmanship and incredible variety of unique items — from beautiful crafts to handmade clothing, and futuristic electronics — we always recommend leaving extra space in your luggage.

Even if you don’t plan to shop for yourself, you’ll find innovative and high-quality gifts for friends and family back home.

Sample 7-Day Japan Itinerary Packing List

We believe your Japan itinerary  should be a reflection of your personal sense of adventure and style, and that no two travelers (or trips!) are alike.

Naturally, deciding what to pack for Japan will depend on your itinerary, but we hope this sample packing list gets you started!

• Small rolling suitcase or Minaal bag (see above)
• Shirts, pants, undergarments, and socks (make sure they don’t have holes, as you’ll be taking off your shoes a lot)
• Shoes that slip on and off easily
• Other clothes (dependent on season)
• Toiletries (toothbrush, etc.)
• Japanese yen (can also be obtained in Japan)
• Pasmo transport card (can be obtained in Japan for first-timers)
• Pocket Wi-Fi (you can order here and pick it up on arrival in Japan)
• Laptop (and charger)
• Smartphone (and charger)
• Adapter if needed
• Noise-canceling headphones for flight
• Headphone adapter jack for in-flight entertainment system (just in case)
• Pen (for customs and immigration cards)
• Business cards
• Omiyage (small gifts, i.e., souvenirs from home)

We hope our Japan travel tips help you prepare for your trip!

If you are looking to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Japan, we have resources that can help. Start by checking out our sample travel itineraries  and learning about our process  of crafting customized trips for travelers seeking unique, authentic experiences.

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I Just Came Back From Tokyo—Here's Everything I Packed and Wore

Despite being a triple earth sign and a type A person to my core, packing isn't my strong suit. I usually leave it up until the last minute, frantically shoving things in my suitcase the morning of my flight. So, naturally, for my most anticipated trip of the year, things were no different: I was barely able to shut the suitcase I was taking with me to Tokyo, Japan. 

To nearly all of my friends, family, and random internet strangers who watch my Instagram stories, my identity is heavily tied to the Japanese capital after living there post-grad. So, it's only fitting that for days leading up to my trip to Tokyo and Kyoto, my group chats were buzzing with one singular question that practically haunted my waking hour: "Ana, what were you going to wear?"

My go-to wardrobe often consists of simple basics (white shirts, oversize blazers, basic denim, etc.), relying on my accessories to steal the show. Eclectic jewelry, printed handbags, and of-the-moment footwear were all key items I knew I could rely on time and time again, regardless of how cold the forecast was suggesting I'd be. I quickly made a Pinterest board to document any and all NYC inspiration I wanted to take with me during my trip: leather jackets, ballet flats, and slouchy trousers all made the final cut. 

Although my luggage clocked in at 4 pounds overweight (it happens to the best of us!), it was well worth it. Browse everything I wore while on holiday in Japan. Don't be surprised if you see every It girl packing their bags to head (far) out East soon. 

Even though I'm not a native New Yorker by any means, my affinity for black definitely comes from living in Manhattan. Thankfully, it's a classic look that isn't bound to any specific location. For my first day out in Tokyo (one of the hottest days of my trip), I decided on a simple all-black look, choosing to emphasize this golden embroidered bolero jacket while on my way to brunch with friends.

Although this look is a more understated one, it was one of my favorites on the trip. I get lost while walking in Asakusa, making this no-frills 'fit perfect for exploring without too many bulky layers. Throughout most of the trip, I kept taking my North Face Nupste puffer on and off (so much so that I took it in during the trip to the patch I hole I made in it). 

There isn't a better place to shop in Tokyo than in the alleyways between Shibuya and Harajuku—both style meccas known for their eclectic crowds and out-of-the-box boutiques. If you're looking to shop designer vintage or secondhand, you'll be in heaven. During my trip, I picked up a Takashi Murakami x Louis Vuitton Nano Speedy from TikTok-famous Amore Vintage at half of the price of what they go for in the United States. TBH, I'm still floored at how incredible the find was.

Hiking? In leather pants? More likely than you'd think. I can't say enough about how comfortable the Good American Good Icon leather pants. The Kardashian-owned brand was one of the first to offer a true, inclusive size range in the style and I've been hooked ever since I got my first pair. You can't go wrong with a good winter white.

A two-piece skirt set holds the key to my heart. Not only is it extremely practical while traveling (hello, Virgo moon!), but most of them fit squarely into one of my favorite trends of 2022: the pretty things aesthetic. Although this red-and-blue plaid set has been in my closet for years after thrifting it in college, any patterned blazer and skirt set will do. 

Not many things come close to the bliss I feel when lounging around Shiba Park on a warm day. When I used to live in Tokyo, it was my secret spot to people (and dog) watch with a book in hand. During my latest trip, I made the trek downtown while bundled up to spend my last afternoon in the city there. Trust me—it was worth the steps to get to the top. 

Next, read what another fashion editor wore on her  trip to Europe. 

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Japan Packing List: What To Bring And Wear In Japan

By: Author Kris

Posted on Last updated: January 29, 2023

Great!  You decided that you are going to do that epic trip to Japan.  Just one thing though, is what to wear and bring to Japan to make your trip hassle-free. 

Read it here in our complete Japan packing list

There is a really good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are deeply grateful) at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

What To Pack For Japan

Use this complete packing list for Japan to ensure you know what things to take to Japan.

Japan Travel Essentials

First things first, these are the travel essentials for Japan.  Make sure you can check these off before you continue with the other things to bring to Japan.

Our ultimate Japan travel guide.

The Official Stuff You Need To Bring For Your Japan Trip

Most countries require your passport to be valid for an additional 6 months, but not so in Japan. 

In Japan, it just needs to be valid for the duration of your stay and it needs to have at least one empty page for the entry stamp.

You will probably not require a Visa for Japan. 

That is as long as your stay is not longer than 90 days which is more than enough for most travel purposes. 

Just to be sure you can check the official page of Visa-exempt countries here .

Flight Tickets

Immigration officials may ask you a proof of outbound flights. 

Although they usually don’t request this it may be a good idea to carry a paper copy of your outbound tickets.

Check If Buying A Japan Rail Pass Is Worth It

Getting around Japan is very convenient with a Japan Rail Pass and as Japan uses an addressing system unknown to most other people you can use the help of a GPS to navigate the urban jungle.

Trains are the most convenient option to get around Japan. 

Tourists can buy a Japan Rail Pass that allows them unlimited train rides for 1, 2 or 3 weeks. 

This can give you some serious savings, certainly if you’re going to travel by train a lot.  Check our comprehensive article about the Japan Rail pass to learn everything about the pass. 

We explain how to find out if you will be saving money, how to buy the pass and how you can use it once you’re in Japan.  Just note, you need to buy the Japan rail pass before you arrive in Japan.

Japan uses an addressing system based on districts and block numbers.

Except for Kyoto, that uses a combination of the Western and the Japanese system to make it even more complex, no street names are used. 

Finding your way in mega-cities like Tokyo can be challenging without GPS. 

There’re quite a lot of hotels that offer a free ‘handy’ smartphone but as not all hotels come with this benefit we seriously recommend to buy a local (data-only) SIM that you can use along with your smartphone to help you navigate the urban jungle.

Here you can find all info about the best tourist SIM card for Japan. You could also opt for a pocket WIFI device.  The main advantage is that you don’t need to touch your phone. Here you can find more info on the  best pocket WiFi rental for Japan.

Carry Some Cash

It’s not necessary to take huge amounts of cash as credit cards are widely accepted and ATM’s can be found in many places and most accept foreign cards. 

We do recommend to carry some cash at all times. 

On one rare occasion, we did encounter a train station that only accepted cash to buy tickets and no ATM could be found in that station that accepted foreign cards. 

Quite a stressful situation as we were heading to the airport to catch a flight….  so to be on the safe side, make sure you have at least some cash at all times.

Make sure to bring anything you might need to authenticate your online transactions (eg. card reader)  if you plan on using your cards online while you’re abroad.

Getting around Japan is very efficient with Japan’s metro system and trains. 

But those train stations can be huge.  Shinjuku in Tokyo is even the world’s busiest train station. 

That means that you will be walking several kilometers with your bags.   

That’s why we recommend either a backpack or a lightweight suitcase with wheels .

There’s no need to carry your luggage with you if you don’t want to.  You can forward your luggage to your next hotel with the convenient Yamanote luggage forwarding service.  Read this and many more in our article with  tips for traveling to Japan for the first time .

Things To Bring To Japan

Here we list what to bring to Japan.

• E-reader : I think e-readers must be one of the best inventions of the last years :-).  Before we used to carry at least 3 books each.  They not only weigh a lot, but they also take a lot of space as well.  We tried both Kobo and Kindle e-readers but Kindle is hands down the best, we both read on a Kindle Paperwhite .
• Chargers : Make sure you have all your chargers ( laptop , mobile phone, camera, kindle, …)
• Charging station : A USB charging station is handy with all those devices that charge on USB (even my trimmer charges on USB).
• Travel adapter : Japan uses Type A & B power outlets (similar to those in the United States and Canada).  Make sure you don’t need an AC adapter.  If you travel a lot you will be good of with a World Adapter .
• Power Bank : A Power Bank can avoid disappointment when your phone dies while you’re on the road.
• Photo camera .  If you’re still looking for a camera the Canon EOS M100 is a very good compact and affordable camera.
• SD Cards : At least 2 SD cards.  Things can happen so make sure you have at least 1 backup card with you in case your card fails during your trip.  Take a backup every once in a while so you’re sure you don’t lose any pictures.  Google Photos offers unlimited free storage for your pictures. We recommend Sandisk cards for their quality.  The Sandisk Extreme Pro SDXC variant if you plan on filming or the slower budget variant, the Sandisk Extreme SDHC , if you will only use it to snap pictures.
• A local SIM card will keep you connected wherever you go in Canada.   You can buy one in a local electronics store like Yodobashi & BIC Camera.  Or you can order one upfront that will be waiting for you in your hotel upon arrival.  Ordering online is possible on Klook and Bmobile .

What To Wear In Japan

Wondering what to wear in Japan? Unfortunately, there’s no easy answer as a lot of things to take to Japan will depend on the season you’re going. 

Here’re our suggestions for each season.

What To Wear In Japan In Spring

Spring is an excellent season to visit Japan as early in spring the cherry blossoms will start appearing in Southern Japan. 

They start blossoming in the South and gradually make their way Northwards. 

The exact blossoming period is different each year.

For more info have a look at our Japan Bucket List article and we also list the best Sakura spots in Tokyo . (Sakura is what the Japanese call the cherry blossoms)

The temperatures start rising in March and in April and May you have pleasant temperatures during the day but chilly evenings as soon as the sun sets.

The cherry blossoms are lovely but if you suffer from hay fever make sure to bring along your allergy medication to fully enjoy them.

Japan Packing List Spring

• T-shirts , preferably in a breathable fabric like cotton.
• Long sleeve shirts
• Light jacket
• Light sweater as it tends to cool down rapidly as soon as the sun sets
• Both long trousers  and short trousers .  We didn’t expect we would need them when we were there in April but we could have used a pair of short trousers.
• A pair of shoes that flips on and of easily
• Sunglasses and sunscreen .  We particularly like polarized sunglasses because of the increased visual comfort and we picked a sunscreen with SPF50 and a broad spectrum for a good protection

What to Wear in Japan in Summer-Japan Packing List Summer

The temperatures continue rising in summer. 

By the end of May, the rainy season starts and announces a period of hot and humid days.

The rainy season ends by the end of July but the days continue to be hot and humid and generally unpleasant if you’re not used to this kind of weather.

Japan Summer Outfit

• Compact travel umbrella .  You won’t have a problem buying an umbrella in Japan but these compact models can come in handy for future trips.
• Insect repellent : mosquitos are not that much of a problem in the cities but if you go to the countryside or places like Hokkaido you’re better off prepared
• T-shirts , preferably in a breathable fabric like cotton or linen .
• Comfortable shorts , skirts and long trousers in thin fabrics .
• Zip-off pants are always a great option as well.
• Swimwear: if you are planning on going to the beach or swimming pool, remember that the typical Japanese onsen (public baths) are taken naked
• Sun hat , sunglasses , and sunscreen .  We particularly like polarized sunglasses because of the increased visual comfort and we picked a sunscreen with SPF50 and broad spectrum for a good protection
• Light sweater

What To Wear in Autumn in Japan

Autumn is another lovely option to discover Japan.   Colorful autumn leaves , known as  Koyo  in Japanese, draw just as many visitors in autumn as the cherry blossoms do during spring. 

The best time to view the colorful foliage is subject to weather conditions but you will find several sites that try to give predictions.

Overall the best period to see the famous fall foliage is mid-to-late November.

It starts to get cooler by the end of September. 

October offers pleasant temperatures slightly above 20 degrees Celsius. 

November tends to be somewhat cooler but thanks to the clear blue and sunny skies it is still a lovely month to travel.

What to Wear in Autumn in Japan

• Both long trousers  (no denim) and short trousers .
• Light Jacket
• Lightweight fleece , for the colder evenings, certainly towards the end of the season
• Travel scarf
• Both long trousers  (no denim) and short trousers . Zip-off pants are always a great option as well.
• Sunglasses , we particularly like polarized sunglasses because of the increased visual
• Sunscreen , we picked those with SPF50 and broad spectrum for a good protection

Winter in Japan

The Winter months are low-season in Japan. 

Temperatures range from cool to cold, there may be some snowfall in January and February but the snow usually melts as soon as it falls.

You could opt  to visit Japan in Winter  to avoid the crowds but the best seasons to visit Japan are Spring and Autumn.

What to Wear in Japan in Winter

• You can choose to dress in layers but a warm and insulated jacket could be better in cities where you will often be going in and out of buildings.  It’s easier to just remove your jacket each time you go inside instead of multiple layers of clothing.  We love the insulated Jackets of Point Zero for men and the Zshow Down Jacket for women .
• Mittens will be great to keep your fingers warm but aren’t practical at all when you need to grab your train ticket or want to take a picture.  That’s why I’m now a big fan of  high-tech gloves  that allow me to use my mobile phone without taking off my gloves.  Fingerless gloves would work as well of course.
• Sunglasses .  We particularly like polarized sunglasses because of the increased visual comfort
• Lip balm , since we discovered Burt’s bees it’s our favorite brand
• Thermal underwear is ideal to keep you warm when you spend many hours outside in the cold.
• Jeans and/or warm trousers
• Lightweight walking shoes : The good news is that while you’re discovering those mega-cities you will have no problem to reach those 10,000 steps a day.  So you better take a pair of comfortable lightweight walking shoes  on your trip.
• Footwear that slips on and of easily . Many establishments in Japan require you to take off your shoes. Ryokans, (some) restaurants and other places with tatami floors are just a few. We took our shoes about 15 times on and off in 2 hours when we were visiting the cultural village in Takayama.  It’s also common to take off your shoes when entering someone’s home. That’s why wearing shoes that slip on and off easily is a huge plus. 

Other Japan Packing Tips

Travel cubes , or often called packing cubes, are containers made of fabric used for packing clothing.

They come in all shapes, colors, and sizes and will help you organize your bags . 

Instead of digging through the whole bag of a suitcase to find that specific shirt you’re looking for you can now just grab the cube you need. 

By rolling your clothes into cubes you will also minimize wrinkles . 

Lastly, cubes will slightly compress your cubes and can be nicely stacked so you will manage to fit more into your bag .

Travel comfort

Flights aren’t as expensive anymore as they used to be but the comfort onboard has reduced at least as much, maybe even more. That means, more than before, you have to take matters in your own hand to ensure a comfortable flight. Here are a few things that can help.

• Noise-canceling headphones : The noise-reducing feature of noise-canceling headphones compensates for the monotonous hum of the aircraft engines.  It helps me to sleep, or just to relax when I want to listen to some music.   If you close your eyes you can completely forget you’re on an aircraft.  The Bose earphones are generally recognized as the best.
• Travel pillow : A travel pillow doesn’t take up much space but can make a big difference for red-eye flights where you want to get some sleep.
• E-reader : A Kindle e-reader will keep you occupied reading for hours.  That flight will be over before you even knew it started. 🙂

Japan Travel Insurance

Last but not least… As you might expect health care in Japan is excellent but it comes at a high cost.  Make sure you have some sort of insurance before you leave for Japan. 

We never had anything serious happen on any of our journeys around the world but you know what they say, better safe than sorry…

Here is a complete post on choosing Japan travel insurance.

Other Japan Travel Tips

• If you are traveling through Japan, our Japan travel guide will help you plan your trip.
• If you are starting your Japan trip in Tokyo take a look at our Tokyo articles. Here you will find where to stay in Tokyo,  the best places to visit in Tokyo , a detailed Tokyo 2-5 days itinerary and a complete guide to Tokyo’s public transport. 
• If you are planning a 3 week Japan itinerary, you will find a lot of information  here.  if you have 2 weeks to spend in Japan,  take a look here.
• If you are heading to Osaka, take a look at  our 2-day itinerary  and  where to stay in Osaka article.  If you are wondering  what to do in Osaka at night, take a look here. 
• If Kyoto is on your Japan itinerary, take a look at our detailed  Kyoto itinerary  and find out  what you can do in Kyoto at night. 
• If you are looking for some fun activities to do in Japan we can recommend a  Japanese cooking class  or a  night walk in Gion. 

What to Really Pack for Japan: The Complete Travel Checklist

Are you planning a trip to Japan?

You will see many general advice online on what to pack for Japan travel, from overstuffed high fashion wardrobe to minimalist capsule wardrobe. But the packing list for travelers visiting Japan is unique. At most basic level, two (2) things will dictate what you will pack for your trip: 1) Where in Japan you are traveling and 2) The weather you’d expect during your stay. Once this is determined, it will make packing lighter and much more manageable.

Travelers in Japan should expect rain at any time of the year, except when they visit Hokkaido. For detailed weather forecasts and earthquake information, go to Japan Meteorological Agency’s website at https://www.jma.go.jp/en/yoho/

What Should You Wear And Not Wear In Japan?

By now, you should be aware of the Japanese culture and traditions. A good traveler prefers not to look like a tourist in Japan and instead try to blend in. That is, at least as much as a foreigner can in a nearly homogeneous society. Leave your flip flops at home as they are considered very unstylish and underdressed by Japanese people unless you are going to the beach. However, in a somewhat weird contradiction, Crocs or foam clogs are considered perfectly acceptable.

Dressing inappropriately in public won’t work with Japanese people. In fact, Japan has strict dress code for many occasions. For women, avoid wearing spaghetti straps or blouses, or shirts with a plunging neckline. Avoid showing your shoulders when visiting temples or shrines. For men, wear a blazer or jacket when going to a restaurant or nightclub, especially if you plan to go to a fine dining restaurant or an upscale sushi bar. Some may tell you it’s okay since you are a foreign tourist, but Japanese people will respect you more if you abide if you dress appropriately. Avoid wearing all black. It’s strongly associated with funerals.

How To Pack Light in Japan

We all want to pack light when we travel so that our luggage doesn’t weigh us down as much as possible. Packing light also makes unpacking easier at the end of our journey.

Below are some tips to save space and weight in your luggage:

• Leave your chunky or heavyweight sweaters and scarves at home. Cashmere sweaters and pashmina scarves are wonderful alternatives. They’re incredibly thin and lightweight for the level of warmth they offer.
• For flexibility, pack a pair of black travel pants made of cotton and elastane fabric. They’re lightweight and dry out faster compared to jeans.
• When packing your clothes, use the roll-out and put them in packing cubes like these ones to keep them compact and organized allowing for more luggage space.
• When traveling between transitional seasons, pack a versatile jacket called 3-in-1 such as an interchangeable waterproof jacket with a removable liner that’s usually a fleece.
• Only pack two pairs of shoes, dress shoes and your most comfortable walking shoes.

How To Travel Hands-Free in Japan

Most hotels in Japan have a check-in time of 3-4 p.m. If it’s an Airbnb or budget accommodation, they will often not allow you to store your bags. So you have three options to avoid walking around with all your luggage:

• Luggage forwarding service . If you can’t pack light and have several pieces of luggage, you’re in luck. You can have your luggage delivered from the airport to your hotel, the same-day. Every airport in Japan has a luggage forwarding service or TA-Q-BIN, as the Japanese call it. Just look for the red sign, “Hand-Free Travel,” as they are the ones that will deliver the same day. Make sure the luggage being forwarded doesn’t have the items you need for traveling. The cost varies between ¥1,000-¥3,000 per bag, depending on the size and weight.
• Coin lockers . Coin lockers are everywhere in Japan but can always be found at train stations. They come in small (¥300), medium (¥400), and large size (¥500-¥800), though the per-day prices may vary.
• Luggage storage service . Another option is to   leave your luggage at the Voyagin Office in Shibuya. There’s no size restriction. Their prices may change, and if it’s during the off-season, it can drop to ¥500 per day, so make sure to check the  current price here .

Top 5 Essentials For Your Japan Packing List

There are specific instances that are somewhat unique to Japan that you’ll undoubtedly encounter. Above all, pack light and bring the most comfortable pair of slip-on walking shoes. You’ll understand more later as we progress, so let’s take a closer look.

• The right luggage.  A backpack or a duffel is the best luggage for travel in Japan. You can easily carry it up and down the stairs and at train and bus stations. Backpacks are preferred because you are going to encounter a lot of stairs in Japan. But if you need wheels to save your back, it’s best to get a wheeled backpack. Japanese trains and buses don’t have much space for large pieces of luggage, so if you have a backpack, please take it off when boarding and place it between your feet or on the overhead storage rack. An enormous suitcase will also take up a lot of precious space in your hotel rooms, which are small compared to western hotels. So pack light! Only take one piece of check-in luggage and a carry-on for your items. We have a guide to help you pick the best bags for you  here .
• A pair of comfortable shoes . When traveling in Japan, you’re going to walk a lot! Take your most comfortable pair of casual shoes for sightseeing, preferably with memory foam. They are beneficial in relieving pain and soreness. If you are traveling during the spring and summer seasons, take a waterproof pair. Many places in Japan also require you to take your shoes off, such as  genkans  (the entrance of a home),  izakayas  (Japanese bars), restaurants, ryokan  (traditional Japanese inns), and temples. Slip-on shoes or simple-laced shoes will serve you well in these situations, so make sure your socks don’t have holes in them. Our favorite slip-on shoes are from the Skechers Go Walk series . Many tourists who traveled to Japan swore by the Skechers brand as well. If you plan to go to a fine dining restaurant or a business occasion, take your dress shoes.
• A portable hotspot device or data SIM card . We cannot emphasize enough how important it is to have a reliable internet connection while traveling in Japan. If you haven’t reserved a portable hotspot device, book it here . If you’re traveling solo and short-term, it’s cheaper to get a data SIM card.
• Cash . Despite being a very high-tech nation and being the host country of the 2020/21 Summer Olympics, Japan still relies heavily on cash for many transactions. Quick tip: Withdrawing cash from ATMs in Japan gives you a better rate than exchanging your currency for Japanese yen. After getting your luggage and getting through customs, make sure to pull out money inside the airport. You can withdraw cash from Japan Post ATM (JP Bank) and inside convenience stores such as 7-11, Lawson, Family Mart, or Ministop.
• A prepaid IC card . Buying a reloadable prepaid IC card will make your travel in Japan so much easier and convenient. The primary purpose of IC cards is to avoid getting tickets from a ticket machine every time you ride a train. So you can simply swipe and go. You can use it to pay for buses and taxis and even some vending machines and convenience stores. You can purchase either a PASMO (by Tokyo Metro) or Suica IC card from any central train station. The initial cost is ¥1,000 (¥500 for card creation fee and the remaining ¥500 is ready for use). The ¥500 will be refunded if you return the card to the station office.

Japan Document Checklist

Due to the ever-changing circumstances and frequent travel updates for Coronavirus (COVID-19) travel restrictions , please follow the most recent directions from the Japanese Embassy in your country.

• A valid passport and visa . Check your passport if it’s valid for at least 6-months and has a couple of blank pages. You should check with the  Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan website  if your nationality requires a Japan visa.
• Travel insurance . COVID-19 has created a new normal for travelers, and in many countries, they make travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage mandatory. Before the pandemic, my US friends have used and recommended  RoamRight . But in these changing times, it’s best to speak with your local travel agent to see which travel insurance provides COVID-19 coverage.
• Flight tickets . If you’re planning on showing your flight tickets through your mobile, make sure you have downloaded a copy on your phone.
• Hotel or Airbnb reservations . If you’re riding a taxi, it’s good to have your hotel’s address in Japanese. It’s also important to remember the nearest train station to your hotel so you’ll know where to go upon landing. Lastly, depending on where you’re coming from, having a hotel reservation could make your immigration time a bit smoother.
• Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) . If you are traveling extensively in Japan for 7, 14, or 21 days, consider buying a JR Pass online. You can only buy the JR Pass outside Japan and through an authorized online distributor. To activate and use it, you need to exchange your email voucher at a JR office at the airport or main train stations. To learn more about JR Pass and whether it’s for you or not,  click here .
• Airport to hotel transfer reservation . If you don’t have the JR Pass, book your transfer from the airport to your hotel. Not only will it save you time and money, but it’ll make your arrival easy and hassle-free. It’s more comfortable and convenient to take a shuttle transfer from the airport rather than train based on our experience. These shuttles will drop you off directly at your hotel or a train station near your hotel.
• Debit cards and credit cards . To save money, bring a credit card that doesn’t have foreign transaction fees. And a debit card that reimburses international ATM fees. Make sure to contact your bank about your travel plans to avoid disruptions with your card.
• Passport and credit card photocopies . In case of emergencies like losing your passport or credit cards, it’s good to have copies of your passports and credit cards in your email or on your phone. All you have to do is take a picture of your passport’s bio page and your credit card’s front and back photos using your phone. Do this for your entire family traveling as well.
• Confirmation tickets in Japan . If you book tours or activities, make sure to save the confirmation email on your phone or have it printed out if required by the travel agency. In Tokyo, we highly recommend booking a Mt. Fuji day tour, local food tours, tickets to Ghibli Museum, or Grand Sumo Tournament. If you’re visiting Universal Studios Japan in Osaka, it’s essential to book your tickets online as they sell out quickly at the gate.
• International Drivers Permit . If you plan to rent  a car  or  go-karting , you need an International Drivers Permit or a Japanese driver’s license to drive in Japan.

Gadgets and Electronics

• Electronics . Tablets, mobiles, laptops, cameras, etc., do not check these in. Get a carry-on bag that is big enough for your electronics but still within your airline’s requirement. Check out a list of international  flight-approved carry-on bags here  or consider an underseat luggage.
• e-Reader . Carrying books will only increase the weight of your luggage. An e-Reader such as a Kindle would allow you to read your favorite books. That’s if you find the time too!
• Power plug adapter . Japan uses Type A and Type B plugs and sockets, just like in the U.S. and Canada. If you’re not from North America, get a universal power adapter, preferably with Type A & B sockets, we recommend  this one .

Personal Care and Toiletries

• Vitamins and supplements . If you have one.
• Jet lag remedies . These jet lag relief pills are beneficial if you’re coming from a different time zone.
• Prescription medications . Some common prescriptions and over-the-counter drugs in the United States are illegal in Japan. Notable decongestants such as Sudafed and stimulants such as Adderall are illegal. It does not matter if you have a valid U.S. prescription for a medicine/drug illegal in Japan: if you bring it with you, you risk arrest and detention by the Japanese authorities. For more information, ​ click here ​.
• Toiletries . I’ll leave this up to you since each individual varies. If you have a preferred choice of shampoo, conditioner, body wash, deodorant, etc., it is best to bring it with you. It is not likely that you would find the same brand in Japan. It may also be challenging to find similar products because the ingredients are in Japanese. For liquids, pack them into squeezable TSA-approved leak-proof travel containers like  this one .

Long-Haul Flight Essentials

• Packable travel pillow . Check out this  best-selling packable travel pillow here .
• Noise-canceling headphones or earphones . For added comfort, you can get a pair of noise-canceling headphones  like this .
• Lip balm . I find the travel-sized petroleum jelly works best than Chapsticks.
• Effective hand sanitizers . Bring a travel size one.

Optional Items But Recommended

• Coin purse . You can easily find these in 100 yen stores in Japan, but if you already have one, bring it with you as you will get a lot of coin change.
• Power bank . Your mobile phones are going to be running throughout the day because of continuous connectivity. Power banks are expensive in Japan and only provide a small mAh capacity, so get it from your home country. Our favorite power bank is this  one . You may also consider the  newer model  with an enormous mAh capacity.
• Collapsible water bottle . Tap water in Japan is safe to drink, and you can find drinking fountains pretty much everywhere. Taking them with you is not only good for the environment, but you will save you a ton of money during your sightseeing journey in Japan. Collapsible water bottles are affordable in Walmart and Amazon.
• A spare packable bag . To avoid buying additional luggage while in Japan, which can be expensive, make sure to pack a spare bag. Souvenirs, Japanese instant noodles, milk tea, weird Kit Kat favors, and  chuhai  — if you fall in love with Japan’s flavors or culture, you will need extra storage space! To view our recommended duffle bags, click here .

What Not To Bring To Japan

• Meat products, plants, fruits, and vegetables.
• Firearms and pocket knives.
• Illegal drugs and narcotics. For more information,  click here .
• Umbrella. These are very cheap to get in convenience stores in Japan.

RELATED READ :

• The Best 10-Day Japan Itinerary For A First-Timer
• Best Time To Visit Japan

4 thoughts on “What to Really Pack for Japan: The Complete Travel Checklist”

How can a get a copy of the pdf printable packing list shown at the top of this article? 🙂 <3

I would also recommend Oyraa app! Used it a lot to call interpreters to get help when making inquiries to non English-speaking administrations, which can be quite life-saving, in addition to being cost-effective. Hope this may help!

I recommend water bottle too! Preferably, the one that’s packable and with filtration to improve taste. I got mine from an outdoor store. We saved a lot of money in Japan!!

Hey, you’re right! It saved us a lot of money too. I’ll go ahead and update this checklist!

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What to Wear in Japan? A Comprehensive Guide for Stylish and Culturally Respectful Travel

Dressing appropriately is an essential part of immersing yourself in Japan’s rich culture. This article will guide you on what to wear in Japan , covering various aspects such as seasonal fashion, local customs, and Japanese dress codes. 

Let’s explore how to be both stylish and respectful while navigating this unique and diverse country.

Page Contents

A Seasonal Fashion Guide for Japan

When traveling to Japan , it’s important to pack the right clothing for each season. The country’s climate and culture can greatly impact your wardrobe choices, from embracing the cherry blossom season in spring to staying warm and stylish during winter. Here’s a seasonal fashion guide to help you navigate the different climates and dress codes in Japan.

What to wear in Japan during Spring?

Spring in Japan is a magical time, as the country transforms into a wonderland of cherry blossoms. The mild temperatures make it an ideal season for sightseeing and outdoor activities, and your wardrobe should reflect this enchanting atmosphere. 

Embrace the cherry blossom season by incorporating light layers, such as cardigans, light jackets, or blazers, into your outfits. These versatile pieces allow you to adapt to the fluctuating spring temperatures while staying stylish and comfortable.

In addition to practical layers, consider incorporating floral prints and pastel colors into your spring wardrobe to complement Japan’s picturesque landscapes. Soft pinks, lilacs, and blues are particularly fitting for this time of year, as they evoke the delicate hues of the blossoming sakura trees. 

Accessories like scarves, hats, and umbrellas are also useful for unpredictable spring weather. 

Ultimately, your spring wardrobe should be a harmonious blend of comfort, functionality, and style, allowing you to fully appreciate the beauty of Japan’s cherry blossom season.

What to wear in Japan during Summer?

Summer in Japan can be quite hot and humid , making it essential to choose the right clothing to stay cool and comfortable while exploring the country. Opt for lightweight and breathable fabrics such as linen, cotton, and moisture-wicking materials to help regulate your body temperature. Loose-fitting dresses, shorts, and t-shirts in light colors are popular choices, as they allow for better air circulation and reflect sunlight rather than absorb it.

When selecting your summer wardrobe for Japan, consider the balance between comfort and modesty. While crop tops and sleeveless shirts are generally acceptable in urban areas, it’s a good idea to carry a light scarf, shawl, or cardigan to cover up when visiting more conservative locations or religious sites. 

Don’t forget to pack essential summer accessories like hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun’s strong rays. 

By prioritizing comfort, breathability, and cultural sensitivity in your clothing choices, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy Japan’s summer season to the fullest.

What to wear in Japan during Autumn?

Autumn in Japan is a breathtaking season, as the country is blanketed in vibrant hues of orange, red, and yellow. The cooler temperatures make it a great time for hiking, exploring, and enjoying the changing leaves. When planning your autumn wardrobe for Japan, consider layering pieces such as light jackets, sweaters, and scarves to keep warm in the brisk weather .

Deep jewel tones like burgundy, emerald, and navy are popular choices for autumn, as they complement the rich colors of the foliage. Plaids, checks, and tartan prints are also common in Japan during this season, adding a touch of coziness to any outfit.

Comfortable footwear like sneakers or ankle boots is ideal for walking on uneven terrain or hiking trails, while also adding a stylish edge to your look.

Accessories like hats, gloves, and beanies can help keep you warm while adding a touch of style to your outfit. 

Don’t forget to layer up with thermals, leggings, or long-sleeved tops to stay comfortable when exploring the outdoors.

With a well-curated autumn wardrobe, you’ll be able to fully appreciate the beauty of Japan’s colorful leaves while staying warm and comfortable.

What to wear in Japan during Winter?

Winter in Japan can be chilly, with temperatures dropping to freezing levels in some areas. However, with the right clothing, you can still enjoy your trip to Japan and stay warm and stylish at the same time. When planning your winter wardrobe for Japan, focus on layering and insulation.

A warm and cozy jacket is a must-have item for any winter trip to Japan. Look for down-filled or wool jackets that will provide both insulation and protection against the cold. In addition to a jacket, consider layering with sweaters, long-sleeved tops, and thermal wear to keep your body temperature regulated. Thermal wear, in particular, is popular in Japan and can be found in a range of colors and styles.

Accessories are also important for staying warm in the winter months; A warm hat, gloves, and scarf can provide extra insulation and add a touch of style to your outfit. Beanies, berets, and bucket hats are all popular choices in Japan, while gloves and mittens come in a range of styles, from wool to leather. As for footwear, opt for comfortable and waterproof boots or sneakers to protect your feet from the cold and wet.

Winter in Japan is also a great time to experiment with layering and textures. Consider adding statement pieces like faux fur coats, puffer jackets, or wool capes to add dimension and interest to your outfits. Darker colors like black, navy, and burgundy are popular during the winter months and can be paired with brighter colors and patterns for a pop of color. 

With a little planning and attention to detail, you can stay warm and stylish on your winter trip to Japan.

What to Wear in Japan for Events and Festivals

Japan is a country rich in culture and tradition, and attending events and festivals is a great way to immerse yourself in this vibrant culture. However, with different events and occasions comes the question of what to wear. In this guide, we’ll explore traditional and modern clothing options for Japanese events and festivals.

Traditional Clothing Options

Festivals and events in Japan often call for traditional attire. Both men and women can wear yukatas, a lightweight cotton kimonos, to summer festivals. For formal occasions, such as tea ceremonies or weddings, a silk kimono is appropriate. Accessories, such as obi belts and geta sandals, complete the look.

Modern Clothing Options

For modern events, smart casual attire is usually suitable. Slacks or skirts paired with a blouse or button-up shirt will suffice. However, avoid overly revealing clothing or ripped jeans, as they may not be considered appropriate.

Tips for Blending Style and Cultural Respect in Japan

Japan is a country rich in culture and tradition, and dressing appropriately is an important aspect of showing respect for the local customs. However, this doesn’t mean that you can’t still express your personal style while visiting Japan . Here are some tips for blending style and cultural respect.

Research Local Customs

Before your trip to Japan, take the time to research local customs and dress codes. This will help you avoid any potential cultural faux pas and ensure that you’re dressed appropriately for each situation. For example, when visiting a temple or shrine, it’s important to dress modestly and remove your shoes. At more formal events like weddings or business meetings, conservative attire is expected.

Consider the Occasion

When planning your outfits for Japan, consider the occasion you’ll be attending. Casual sightseeing calls for comfortable and practical clothing, while more formal events may require dressier attire. It’s also important to keep in mind the location and climate, as different regions of Japan have varying temperatures and dress codes.

Pay Attention to Accessories

Accessories can be a great way to express your personal style while respecting local customs. However, it’s important to be mindful of the appropriateness of your accessories. When visiting religious sites or attending formal events, avoid wearing flashy or distracting jewelry. Opt for simpler pieces that complement your outfit.

Choose Modest Clothing

In Japan, modest clothing is generally preferred, particularly for women. Avoid wearing revealing clothing, such as shorts or crop tops, in more conservative areas. Instead, opt for clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Light layers like cardigans, scarves, or shawls can also provide additional coverage while adding a stylish touch to your outfit.

Embrace Traditional Japanese Clothing

Embracing traditional Japanese clothing, such as kimonos or yukatas, can be a fun and respectful way to engage with the local culture. However, it’s important to wear these garments correctly and with the appropriate level of formality. Attending a workshop or seeking guidance from locals can help you ensure that you’re wearing traditional clothing in a respectful manner.

Navigating Japan’s Dress Codes

Japan is a country with a strong emphasis on tradition and cultural respect, which is reflected in its dress codes. From visiting temples and shrines to dining at fine restaurants, it’s important to be aware of the specific dress codes for each occasion. In this guide, we’ll explore the dress codes for temples and shrines, onsens, and fine dining restaurants in Japan.

Dress Codes at Temples and Shrines

When visiting a temple or shrine in Japan, it’s important to dress modestly and respectfully. This means covering your shoulders, knees, and avoiding revealing clothing like shorts or tank tops. In some cases, you may also be asked to remove your shoes before entering the temple or shrine. It’s a good idea to bring a light scarf or shawl to cover up if necessary.

Dress Codes at Onsens

Onsens , or hot springs, are a popular attraction in Japan, and proper attire is essential to respect the cultural and hygiene norms. It’s important to follow the specific dress code rules of each Onsen, which usually involves wearing only a towel or a yukata robe provided by the establishment. In some onsens, tattoos are also prohibited, so be sure to check beforehand.

Dress Codes at Fine Dining Restaurants

Japan has a rich culinary culture, and dining at fine restaurants can be an incredible experience. Dress codes vary depending on the establishment, but generally, it’s expected to dress smartly and conservatively. Business attire or formal wear is typically the norm, and athletic wear or casual clothes should be avoided. Dress codes are particularly strict in high-end establishments in larger cities such as Tokyo or Osaka .

Shopping for Clothes in Japan

Japan is a fashion-forward country with a reputation for high-quality and unique clothing. From international brands to local designers, there are plenty of options to explore when shopping for clothes in Japan. 

In this guide, we’ll take a look at some popular shopping districts, boutiques, and department stores, as well as tips for finding fashionable and functional clothing.

Popular Shopping Districts

Shopping in Japan is an exciting experience, with bustling districts such as Shibuya and Ginza in Tokyo, Shinsaibashi in Osaka, and Kawaramachi in Kyoto offering a wide range of clothing options. These areas are great for finding both international and local brands to add to your wardrobe.

Boutiques and Department Stores

Japan is home to numerous boutiques and department stores, where you can find both high-end and affordable clothing. Stores like Uniqlo and GU offer affordable yet fashionable options, while luxury department stores like Isetan and Mitsukoshi cater to more upscale tastes.

Tips for Finding Fashionable and Functional Clothing

When shopping for clothes in Japan, keep an eye out for unique and functional items that can enhance your travel wardrobe. Look for clothing that is not only stylish but also offers practical features, such as quick-drying fabrics, built-in UV protection, or wrinkle resistance.

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Hey there! I'm Elliot Clennam, a passionate photographer based in Brussels, Belgium. My love for capturing the essence of my surroundings has led me on countless adventures, from exciting road trips to bustling city escapes.

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A Complete Packing List for Japan (For All Seasons)

Created On: June 8, 2015   |   Updated: January 4, 2024   |   1 Comment

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links from which we may make commission from. As always, we only recommend places and products we love! In addition, we try our best to keep our articles up-to-date with current prices, locations, and hours of operation however we always recommend double-checking when planning a trip as these items can change frequently.

A Complete Japan Packing List (A Guide for ALL Seasons)

Packing for any trip can be intimidating, especially for international travel! Over the years, we’ve collectively spent nearly a year traveling in Japan. This packing list for Japan is ideal for those traveling to Japan for 1-3 weeks but is customizable for those traveling to Japan for shorter or longer lengths of time and is adaptable based on seasons too. Some of the items listed may not apply to you, but here are our top packing tips for Japan!

Initial Items to Pack for Japan

• Rain Jacket: You don’t need this all the time, but if you are traveling during the rainy season (June and July) we highly recommend bringing one to help you stay extra dry.
• Portable Umbrella : However if you don’t want to bring an umbrella you can easily buy one at any convenience store in Japan or 100 yen shops!
• Sunglasses: You’ll be outside for a lot of attractions!
• Travel First Aid Kit : The most important items would be some over-the-counter medications such as Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Tums, Immodium, Pepto Bismol, and stool softeners.
• Japan Rail Pass Voucher(s): If you plan on using a JR Pass or a Regional Pass you’ll need to make sure you order them ahead of time and then exchange your vouchers once you’re in Japan.
• Portable WiFi Device Reservation : Information regarding your portable WiFi device such as reservation number, where to pick it up, etc. We like using Japan Wireless for longer trips but if you’re only visiting for a 7-10 day trip then you can also check with your carrier to see if they offer any international plans. We have AT&T and they have an international service plan for $10/day for the first person and $5/day for each additional person.
• Trip Insurance: We usually get ours from World Nomads or Safety Wing , both are great options.
• Camera Equipment (optional): We won’t go through all of this but you can see our gear in this post !
• Portable Battery Pack : Super important for keeping your devices charged while on the go – you’ll be using your phone A LOT.
• Lightweight collapsible tote bags: Use these while shopping around or while visiting a grocery store. They’re also great for holding wrappers or bottles you need to dispose of because Japan doesn’t have many public trash cans except at convenience stores.
• Passport and copy of your passport . Have a copy uploaded to Google Drive so I can access it digitally in case I lose mine and need to get an emergency passport.
• Driver’s License AND International Driver’s License : You’ll need both if you’re planning to drive in Japan ( this includes the popular go-karting in Tokyo ).
• Coin Purse: Japan uses a lot of coin currency so you’ll want to make sure you have somewhere to put your change!
• Small Hand Towel : Hand dryers and paper towels aren’t common in public restrooms in Japan. Instead, people carry a small hand towel with them (around the size of a washcloth in the U.S.).
• Soap Sheets : Similar to the hand towel, some public restrooms, especially those at shrines, temples, and public parks, don’t have hand soap. I bring along soap sheets to use while washing my hands in public restrooms.

READ MORE: Important Things to Know Before Traveling to Japan

Packing List for Japan: Kallsy’s Favorites

Fashion in Japan is typically modest, trendy, and modern. Most Japanese women tend to dress up a bit more in staple fashion items of neutral prints. It is not common to see shorter skirts or dresses or shorts, sleeveless shirts, crop tops, or low-cut necklines. Side note: I have no issue with such clothing and wear these things myself, I just wanted to tell you what I’ve observed during my time in Japan.

Women’s Spring and Summer Packing List for Japan

A few examples of outfits I have worn while in Japan during the summer or spring.

We’ve visited Japan many times during the summer and each time I’ve worn a lot of dresses, shirts, pantsuits, and shorts. When I did wear shorts I wore a flowy cover-up to give more coverage for my legs because the sun can be intense when walking for hours a day and I used it as a cover-up for visiting temples and shrines.

• Dresses (2-3): Lightweight fabrics like cotton are perfect for spring and summer in Japan. Typically short-sleeve, knee-length dresses are common although if you are traveling in spring you might also consider a long-sleeve dress and bringing a pair of tights for chillier days.
• Romper/Pantsuits (1-2): If you aren’t interested in wearing dresses or skirts, or you like to have some variety like me, I suggest bringing one pantsuit (or romper). (optional)
• Skirts (2-3): I usually wore long or mid-length skirts that were flowy to help combat the heat!
• Shorts (1): During our three months in Japan from June-September I only wore my one pair of shorts a handful of times. Mostly because I feel more comfortable in dresses and skirts. Of course, if you prefer shorts to skirts then feel free to add more pairs to this packing list!
• Bike Shorts (2): I wear these with my skirts and dresses so I don’t have to worry about an unfortunate wardrobe malfunction but also to prevent chafe when walking around all day. Last, they’re great for days when we have gone hiking or biking!
• Trousers (1-2): While you won’t typically wear pants during the summer, spring in Japan can still be chilly. When we visit in March or April I’ve often worn lightweight cotton or linen trousers.
• Short-Sleeve Shirts/Blouses (2-4): I bring a variety of solid-color shirts so I can mix and match them with bottoms.
• Lightweight Cover-up or sweaters (1-3) : In the spring I often bring a few lightweight sweaters and in the summer I bring a lightweight cover-up for when it is needed at the temples.
• Comfortable Tennis Shoes: I always bring a pair of tennis shoes that I feel are stylish, yet comfortable. I also try to bring shoes that are easier to slip on which makes them easy to take on and off when visiting temples or certain restaurants or hotels. You can find more of my favorite comfortable shoes here.
• Comfortable Sandals: Having a pair of comfortable sandals is also a must for summer in Japan!
• Bathing Suit (optional): While you won’t be wearing a bathing suit in an onsen (hot spring) in Japan if you are visiting in the summer and plan to visit a water park or beach this is handy to have!

Women’s Fall and Winter Packing List for Japan

Here are some suggestions for what to pack during the fall and winter seasons in Japan! Again, all numbers below are for a typical 10-16 day trip.

• Trousers (2-3): My go-to options for jeans are always light-wash denim, dark-wash denim, or black denim. I also like wearing loose trousers like the Maeve Colette pants or longer linen or cotton trousers.
• Leggings (1): Great for layering under dresses as needed, lounging in, or hiking/biking.
• Shirts/Blouses (2-4): I often wear long-sleeved cotton shirts and layer with sweaters or jackets during the fall and winter in Japan.
• Sweaters (1-3): Having layers is important when traveling to Japan in any season but especially in fall and winter.
• Dresses (2-3): Mid-length or longer dresses
• Skirts (1-3): Mid-length or maxi skirts
• Tights (1-2 pairs) : If you are planning to wear dresses or skirts you might want to bring a pair or two of tights for warmth!
• Comfortable Tennis Shoes: On: The Roger and Nike Air Force 1 are my favorite pair of cute and comfy tennis shoes.
• Comfortable Boots: I suggest boots that are easy to take on and off so it’s easier to visit temples and certain hotels/restaurants.
• Coat (1): Depending on the season and month you travel you’ll want to determine whether you need a heavy coat or medium weight coat. In the winter a long, down-filled coat will provide warmth and comfort.

Additional Items To Pack For Any Season

• Undergarments: Some people say to only bring a few pairs of underwear while traveling and wash them on the go. I’m kind of excessive about underwear and I’m ALWAYS packing extra. For shorter trips (7-10 days) I typically pack one pair of underwear for each day I’ll be on the trip. For anything longer than 14 days, I bring fewer pairs. For example, for our three-month Japan trip, I brought 15 pairs of underwear! It might seem like a lot but we were typically doing laundry at least every 7 days while on our trip.
• Socks (3-5 pairs): We prefer wool socks because they can be worn a few days in a row, are virtually odor-free, and can be washed and hung to dry. In the winter, thicker and longer wool socks are the way to go, in the summer, no-show or ankle wool socks are the best options!
• Hat (1): In the summer or spring you might consider a sun hat, straw hat, or ball cap (whichever you prefer) to help with the sun. In the winter bring something that is warm and covers your ears! Regardless of which season you visit, having a hat is very helpful to provide some sense of comfort from the weather elements.
• Scarf (1): A thicker scarf makes sense for the fall and winter months in Japan, but a lightweight scarf for spring is also a valuable thing to pack as weather can fluctuate rapidly. It’s also nice to have to cover up to use while visiting temples and shrines. Another option is a scarf with hidden zipper pockets when traveling so you can be more hands-free.

Again, these are just general guidelines and tips based on my own personal style and wardrobe choices. Ultimately the main thing I encourage you to do is to pack what you feel best in and most comfortable wearing! You do not have to go out and buy new clothes to visit Japan! 🙂

Packing List for Japan: Logan’s Favorites

Similar to my packing list for Japan, typical men’s fashion in Japan is also very modern and stylish. Japanese men don’t commonly wear shorts due to the need to wear pants for work however if you are traveling in the summer it is okay to wear shorts. Just know that some restaurants have a dress code policy that requires pants.

Men’s Spring and Summer Packing List for Japan

• Dress Pants (optional): If you are planning to visit any nice restaurants we recommend bringing at least one pair.
• Jeans (1-2 pairs – spring): Logan usually packs a lighter wash and dark wash jeans to pair with his t-shirts.
• Shorts (2-3 pairs – summer): Something that is lightweight and moisture-wicking is especially important during the summer months. Logan’s favorite shorts are from Lululemon.
• Short Sleeve Button-up (2): If you want to dress up your shorts or pants you can do this easily in the summer with a short sleeve button-up.
• T-Shirts (4-5): The easiest way to pack t-shirts is to choose the ones you feel most comfortable in. Solid colors typically are easy because they don’t require much planning.
• Comfortable Tennis Shoes (1-2): One pair of city walking shoes and a pair of hiking shoes (should you be planning to hike) are all you’ll really need.
• Comfortable Dress Shoes (optional): If you have a business meeting or restaurant that requires nice attire you might want to pack a pair of dress shoes.

Men’s Fall and Winter Packing List for Japan

• Jeans (1-2 pairs): Mugsy jeans are Logan’s favorites.
• Dress Pants (optional): Again, if you are planning to visit a restaurant that requires a specific dress code or have a business in Japan you may want to bring a pair.
• Button-up Shirts (2-3): These can be worn with jeans or dress pants.
• T-Shirts (3-5): Can be long sleeve or short sleeve. Solid colors are best to make packing easier.
• Jacket or Coat: Depending on the month and season you’ll want to consider what kind of jacket or coat to bring.
• Comfortable Tennis Shoes (1-2 pairs): Bring one pair of more stylish tennis shoes and one pair that would be good for outdoor activities such as hiking.
• Comfortable Dress Shoes (optional)
• Hat (1): One that covers your ears is best for harsher winter weather.
• Scarf (1 – winter)
• Gloves (1 – winter)
• Warm socks (3 pairs): Wool socks are typically the best kind of socks to pack as they are moisture-wicking, cool in the summer, and warm in the winter.

Check out all of our travel favorites!

Doing Laundry in Japan

If you are concerned with over-packing or have a fear of packing too little, laundry facilities are very common in Japanese hotels or nearby for a low cost. The key thing to know is that you might have to bring your own laundry soap ( here is the one we packed for reference ) and typically the dryers in Japan don’t fully dry your clothes so consider packing a small clothesline or hanging the items in your room to let them dry completely.

Toiletries to Skip and Pack For Japan

First off, Japan has AMAZING toiletries provided for you in most hotels. We’ve stayed in over 65 hotels, ryokan, Airbnb, etc. while in Japan and have never been without the following items.

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Shampoo and conditioner – Usually not in small bottles either, most hotels have nice products in bigger bottles to use!
• Razor and shaving cream
• Cotton swabs
• Small plastic comb

But despite all that here are some toiletries we brought with us to Japan.

• Toothbrush and toothpaste: Yes, we did just mention that the majority of hotels in Japan will graciously give you a toothbrush and toothpaste, but for the sake of using less plastic we recommend bringing your own!
• Body Lotion: Some hotels have this, but err on the side of caution and bring a travel bottle of lotion.
• Hair Brush : If you are fine with a small comb don’t worry about the hairbrush but I have pretty thick hair so bringing my brush is a must for me.
• Facial Moisturizer
• Sunscreen: Since many attractions in Japan are outside, avoid sunburn in any season by wearing sunscreen, especially on all skin that is exposed.
• BodyGlide : You’ll be doing a lot of walking while in Japan! Avoid chafe by using this (Logan swears by it and now I do too after a full summer in Japan).
• Bug Spray: Especially if you’re visiting during the summer! I prefer Ben’s Bug Wipes because they’re easy to pack and work well.
• Contacts and Prescription Glasses: Even if you don’t typically wear your prescription glasses it’s smart to bring them just in case you need them! If you are a contact lens wearer make sure you bring extra lenses.
• Curling Iron or Straightener: I haven’t ever had an issue using my curling iron or straightener in Japan but if your product doesn’t have dual voltage you might consider buying a travel adaptor for your hot tools. Japan uses A and B-type plugs with 100V and 50/60Hz.
• Make-up Remover Wipes : These aren’t my favorite thing to use on my skin but they are convenient!
• Menstrual Cup or other women’s health products such as tampons or pads.
• Make-up: If you’re wondering what’s in my make-up bag or other recommended products you can look at my list of travel beauty products here !

Special Packing Items for Japan

Again for the sake of transparency with our packing here are a few items that we packed that may not be necessary for you when you’re considering your Japan packing list. But we wanted to include these items because they may spark some ideas.

• Prescription Medicine: For our three-month summer trip to Japan, I traveled with three months of birth control, two EpiPens (for food allergies), and an albuterol inhaler (for asthma). Depending on the prescription medication you take you may have to apply for a Yakkan Shoumei certificate to bring certain prescriptions to Japan. I recommend reading our post on things to know before traveling to Japan for more information on this.

Things You Do NOT Need To Pack for Japan

• Japanese Language or Guide Books: These take up SO much space and will be useless to you as information is very accessible on your phone.
• Excess Toiletries: Again, depending on your accommodations you shouldn’t need a ton of toiletries like shampoo, conditioner, body wash, cotton swabs, razor, or even a toothbrush/toothpaste if you wish. After traveling all over Japan for three months we never stayed in a place that didn’t provide the items previously mentioned, even our Airbnb had such items to use!
• Hair Dryer: Every single place we stayed in had a nice hairdryer to use! Save space and weight by skipping this on your Japan packing list unless you’re picky about your hairdryer.

How To Pack For Japan

1. Utilize packing cubes . Packing cubes allow you to put outfits and other items together in one place. We typically roll our clothes and zip them up in packing cubes. It’s super convenient to be able to pull a packing cube out versus sifting through your luggage for the item you’re trying to find.

2. Pack in a backpack or small suitcase. If you can, the easiest way to travel to multiple destinations in Japan with your luggage in tow is by packing everything into a small suitcase or backpack. If you buy the right kind of backpack and pack it correctly it should just feel like a small amount of weight. Two of the biggest reasons we’ve used backpacks for Japan is due to the flights of stairs in train stations and so we can be hands-free.

Lugging around a suitcase can be more challenging because of this, but is not impossible! We typically take small or medium-sized suitcases. The key is to make sure it’s not too heavy. We’ve used small or medium suitcases when traveling in Japan which is a great option too because it doesn’t allow you to overpack! An alternate option is packing in a wheeled backpack .

3. Bring a day bag. This can double as your carry-on or be packed separately but having a day bag to put items like your passport, phone, rail pass, WiFi device, camera, etc is very handy. Here is my favorite day bag and this one is Logan’s favorite.

4. Smart pack your carry-on! ( Continued in the next section).

Carry-On Items for Your Flight To Japan

Some of the information on this list is repeated from the lists above. This is what we put in our carry-ons for the plane ride to and from Japan if we end up checking a bag (sometimes we only bring carry-ons).

• Passport (with a case that has RFID blocking technology )
• Card Case with our credit cards.
• Coin Purse : A lot of Japanese currency is coins so you’ll want something to put them in!
• Driver’s License and International Driver’s Permits : This may not be necessary if you aren’t planning to drive in Japan.
• JR Pass Voucher(s) : If you are planning to travel by JR Pass you must bring your vouchers with you!
• Information regarding trip insurance : We have booked with World Nomads several times but I also recommend SafetyWing.
• Information regarding your wireless device : If you are renting a wireless device or SIM card, bring the information for pick-up and your order number if you purchase in advance. We like Japan Wireless the best but Global Advance Communications is another option.
• A few light snacks: We usually bring a few protein bars with us. However, do not overpack snacks! Japan has too much good food to waste space on snacks from home.
• Reusable water bottle : Fill up at the airport before boarding!
• Travel accessories kit: These are the things I always put in a small cosmetics bag to make my plane ride more comfortable – earplugs, eye mask, chapstick, lotion, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorizing body wipes (these will help you feel refreshed before landing), travel size deodorant, and a pen.
• Travel pillow : We typically bring our Trtl pillow for neck support and/or inflatable pillows so they compress easily! Both are also surprisingly comfortable.
• Clothing: At least one outfit and two pairs of underwear just in case any checked luggage is lost.
• Contacts: We use daily contacts and typically bring at least a week’s worth in our carry-on while checking the rest.
• Prescription glasses: We usually wear these on the plane, make sure to pack your case.
• Portable battery pack + phone charging cords: Most international airlines have one plug per person for charging but we always bring our portable battery pack as a backup.
• Laptop + charger: This may not apply to you, but if you do plan to bring your laptop make sure to bring it on the plane. You cannot check items with lithium batteries.
• Camera Gear: Camera, lenses, batteries, etc. Here is our photography gear .
• One extra pair of socks
• Logan usually travels with his iPad and Apple AirPods Pro , whereas I typically watch movies on the plane or read a book on my CloudLibrary App on my phone. Make sure you download movies and TV shows from Netflix, Hulu, Max Max, etc a day or two ahead of time!

We hope this packing list for Japan has been helpful! The last thing we want to point out is that should you forget anything (minus prescriptions) you should be able to buy something similar to what you forgot while in Japan so don’t worry and enjoy your trip!

Reader Interactions

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amar rathore says

August 31, 2017

Your pics are awesome. Honestly, there was so much interesting information and details I wanted to know more about that I would have kept coming back if this

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Stylish Packing Lists

Stylish Packing Lists for Travelers

Packing List for Japan in Spring: March, April, May (Female)

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I may receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.

If you’re wondering what to pack for Japan in Spring this packing list has a ton of advice for you. Spring in Japan is the season for cherry blossoms enthusiasts, with almost the entirety of the island nation bursting with pink and other colorful flowers.

Cherry blossom season in Japan is probably the best time to visit, with all the famous attractions made even more beautiful.

This spring packing list for Japan helps you decide what to wear during cherry blossom season. It’s suitable for a 2-4 week trip. It assumes you’ll spend most of your time touring the sights in the cities, and light exercise in national parks.

Unless you’re super keen to lug a heavy suitcase around, we recommend multi-tasking your clothes and using your hotel’s laundry services if you need them. Japan is a stylish country so you’ll get away with packing fashion forward items and continuing the style you have back home.

What’ll you’ll learn:

• What and how many items to pack for Japan in spring
• A brief season and weather overview
• Health and safety tips
• Accommodation suggestions and things to do

What to Wear in Japan in Spring

1x warm boots : These will keep you warm on chilly days, and are especially needed if visiting close to winter.

1-2 pairs of flats: Either both enclosed, or one enclosed and one open toed. Alternatively if you plan to do a lot of hiking make one of these a sneaker, or use your boots for hiking if they’re appropriate. Don’t be afraid to pick some cute flats, especially if you’ll be spending a lot of time in the cities.

4-5 x socks

6-10 pairs of underwear

1 x pair of gloves : Check the average forecasts for your dates and pack these if temperatures are set to get low.

Woolen hat / beenie or felt hat: Again, check the average temperatures to see if this is needed. I personally would take a woolen hat just incase it gets cold.

Cardigan x 2

1 x jacket/ coat : Check the weather reports for the cities you’ll find to determine if you’ll need to make room for a coat. I’d definitely recommend one if visiting the North in Spring, or if visiting/ close to winter.

Tops x 4-7: I’d pack one pretty tank top and then a few ones with mid or longer sleeves (I personally am obsessed with blouses as they’re light and stylish). You’ll look out of place in scant tops, however showing a little stomach in the cities is fine. Make sure you have atleast one that is good for light hiking if you plan on visiting national parks.

dresses x 2-3: add more dresses and less tops if you so fancy. Personally I’m a die hard dress girl so I’d back majority dresses and only one pair of pants – its all up to your individual style.

Bottoms x 5: If visiting closer to summer, or in the far south you can get away with just 1-2 pair of long pants, and a mix of skirts and shorts. If visiting the north or closer to winter you’ll want to have atleast 3-4 pairs of pants.

Leggings x 1-2: 2 if you don’t have any appropriate hiking clothes and plan to be outdoors in nature a lot.

Stockings x 1-2: In case you’ve underestimated how cold it would be you can still these under your skirts and dresses.

What Else to Pack for Japan in March, April and May

Camera + lens + batteries + charger. I recommend the Sony a6500 + 19mm f/2.8 lens

International plug Adapter for Japan

Phone charger

Portable battery charger for charging batteries on the go – super handy if your phone dies on a train.

Memory cards – I’d recommend 2 or 3 8GB or 16GB ones as opposed to one big one. This helps lower your losses if you loose one or they get damaged

Any medicine you need + prescription

General first aid kit

Makeup & Toiletries

Regular makeup + compact makeup bag 

Toothbrush and toothpaste (travel sized)

Travel sized shampoo and conditioner

Travel sized laundry detergent or solid soap

Everything Else

2+ bank cards. As a personal rule I never leave the country with only one bank card. You need a back up incase your card is stolen or eaten by the machine. It’s handy to have one in each of the major payment systems, Visa and MasterCard.

Photocopy of your passport incase anything happens to the real thing. Leave one photocopy at home and pack one in your luggage.

Lock for lockers if staying in hostels, or even just to lock your bag or suitcase when you’re not in the room.

Suitcase: Japan is quite modern, especially in the bigger cities so you wont have much trouble lugging a suitcase around here. Choose one with wheels, see options here .

Backpack: You’ll have no trouble getting around Japan with a backpack, I’d recommend this 65 Litre .

Japan: Weather and Seasons

Visiting in a different season?

Find the best packing list to fit your trip below.

What to pack in Spring in Japan (March, April, May): Spring is a beautiful time to visit Japan, with cherry blossoms popping up almost everywhere in the nation. The weather is probably the coziest during this time and that combined with the colorful flowers makes it the best time to visit Japan in my opinion. Continue reading for more information on what to wear in Japan in spring.

What to pack in Summer in Japan (June, July, August):  Summer in Japan can get quite hot, especially when visiting the middle and southern areas. Visit the Japan summer packing list here .

What to pack in Fall for Japan (September, October, November): It can start to become a bit chilly during this time of year so for a packing list for Japan in Autumn you’ll want to pack at least one warm coat . This is especially important if visiting near the end of Fall. See the Japan Fall / Autumn packing list here .

What to pack in Winter in Japan (December, January, February): Packing for winter in Japan means warm boots and coats, alongside a woollen hat and gloves to stay comfortable while sightseeing. Japan can get quite cold in winter and requires the packing of heavier winter coats and accessories, making it slightly harder to pack light. See the Japan winter packing lists here .

Where to Stay in Japan

• Budget: The Grids Hostel Lounge Nihombashi East is a good dorm room choice featuring wifi, laundry service and a 24 hour reception. It’s close to a train station and is one of the cheaper dorms in the pricy city of Tokyo.
• Midrange:  With prices starting from under $100 a night the Horidome Villa Hotel Tokyo is a good budget choice for private rooms. You can make tea or coffee in your room, and dial up the air conditioning to your perfect temperature.
• Luxury: Featuring an indoor pool and a gym the Peninsula Hotel Tokyo is an exquisite choice if you’ve got the cash to spend. All the rooms have a refrigerator, daily breakfast and the hotel also has a number of food choices.
• Budget: A good choice which is close to the city center is Roots Hostel Osaka. The hostel offers laundry facilities, a lift and breakfast in the morning.
• Mid-range: For private rooms the Mielparque Osaka is close to public transport, offers laundry services and has a 24 hour reception. The hotel also has its own restaurant and a hair salon on the premises.
• Luxury: Osaka is the place to splurge on luxury if you are on a mid range budget with prices significantly cheaper than in Tokyo. I recommend the Hotel Hankyu International and would suggest picking a high room with an epic view. It’s close to public transport and houses its own restaurant and bar.
• Budget: Offering a laundry service and 24 hour reception (you can see by now what I value in a hotel) the Bakpak Hostel Kyoto is an affordable choice for dorm rooms in Kyoto. Close to public transport, there’s also a kitchen (for self cooking), restaurant and bar onsite.
• Midrange: For private rooms under $100 in Kyoto check out Hotel MyStays Kyoto Shijo. It’s a central hotel with nearby public transport, 24 hour reception and onsite spa for beauty treatments and relaxation. All rooms feature a safe and a fridge.
• Luxury: I love the earthy vibes of Hotel and Spa Lotus Modern so that’s my pick for luxury travelers. There are also some western brands in town however they’re around double the price. The hotel is for adults only and has a 24 hour reception which is helpful if you’re flying in at odd hours.

All other cities in Japan

• Visit the Booking.com website to get an idea of prices in other cities.

Popular Day Tours for Spring in Japan

There is so much to do an see in Japan, from national parks to city sights. Below I’ve recommended some day tours to get you started.

There are so many tours available to experience Tokyo that I couldn’t possibly list all my favourites here, so you can view them in their entirety by clicking here .

• Disneyland or Disneysea pass – get your head ready for those Mickey Mouse ears! Find more details here .
• Get a private sightseeing tour of Tokyo with a local to see the best sights in the easiest way possible – see the latest prices here . If you’d prefer to DIY it the 24 hour hop on, hop off bus may be a better choice ( find more details here ).
• Go cart tour of the Akihabara neighbourhood – optional dressing up like Mario Kart characters. Find more information here .
• Visit two of the prettiest places in Japan in a one day trip – Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi. See up to date prices here .
• Explore Kyoto with a half day bike tour of the sights – find more details here .
• Explore the traditional Japanese town of Miyama and the striking Amanohashidate sandbar in one day. This tour leaves from either Kyoto OR Osaka – see the latest prices here .
• Visit the famous Itsukushima shrine (orange arch over water) and the Hiroshima peace memorial on this day tour. This tour also leaves from either Kyoto or Osaka, you can find more information here .
• For exploring the city: you can get shown around by a local ( find more information here ) or go it alone with a hop on, hop off bus and boat pass ( see prices here ).
• If you’re excited to try Japanese cuisine join up to this 3 hour evening food tour – find more details + prices here .

Other Tours

See a ton of other tours in Japan by visiting the Get Your Guide website .

If you like this packing list for Japan in Spring please share or pin it

HI Lexi Am going to Japan on 15th March 2023 , How is the weather there . Thought not to bring so many winter clothes. THICK sweater with warm inner wear from uniqlo is good enough ?? Please also give me more advise by return Thanks .

Hi Connie, for the most accurate weather info, you can search Google for “japan weather in march”. That’s probably the best way to get the weather details for your trip. I do this before all my trips and it helps as you can see if there’s any rain predicted, and most weather websites will give you a temperature average.

You’ll be fine with a light jacket or a warm sweater in March. Its not too cold in the South, but if you are exploring the north the warm sweater will come in handy. I’d definitely recommend pants rather than shorts during this time, a pair or boots and a pair of flats, and some stockings if you’re bringing dresses.

Are u coming back ? are these enough?

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Ultimate female packing list for japan (in spring).

The following Japan packing list was submitted by Ashley of AshleyAbroad.com . This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using them, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps to keep this site running – thank you!

Cherry blossoms. Spring festivals. Flower-filled parks. Japan is a wonderful place to visit in any season, but is especially alluring in spring when everything’s in bloom.

There’s only one problem — Packing for Japan in the spring can be tricky: Japan is very humid, temperatures vary from north to south, and it rains a lot. And as I learned on my trip this May, spring in Japan can also get surprisingly hot. All that said, it is possible to pack well for spring in Japan; you just have to layer, bring rain gear, and pack the appropriate footwear.

Here’s what I recommend packing for Japan if you’re visiting in spring.

What do I pack for my Japan vacation?

When packing for any trip to Japan, it’s good to reference HPL’s other packing lists for the same destination, even in various seasons. There are little nuggets of packing advice that may be useful for your specific trip.

Also, given that weather can be so variable at any time of the year, researching neighboring season lists is just plain smart.

What to Pack for Japan in Summer

Summer in Japan is a double edged sword. You get beautiful, lush landscapes but also the high heat and humidity. You'll need to pack accordingly.

What to Pack for Japan in Winter

In the winter, Japan can get really cold, especially if you’re traveling close to the water in the north. You’ll want to pack plenty of warm items, but make sure you can layer well.

What to Pack for Climbing Mount Fuji

So you’ve decided to climb to the tallest point in Japan. What are you going to pack? This climb isn’t really for beginners, and you should plan for an overnight hike.

Clothes: What to Wear in Japan in Spring

Layers are key for spring weather in Japan. In case of cold or rainy days, I recommend bringing a lightweight fleece or hoodie, which you can layer under a rain jacket if necessary.

I also recommend packing some of your most stylish clothes, especially if you plan to visit Tokyo. Women in Tokyo are very creative with fashion, so don’t be afraid to wear a red lip or a fun hair accessory.

Finally, I recommend dressing somewhat modestly for Japan. My sister and I got a lot of disapproving stares if we wore short dresses or skirts. 

• 2 black t-shirts – they go with everything. I like the cotton ones from Everlane .
• 1 nice blouse – I brought a floral printed blouse that looked good with jeans.
• 1 skirt – I brought a fun, knee-length leopard-printed skirt.
• 1 dress – I recommend bringing a dress (or something dressier) if you’re planning on going to a nice restaurant.
• 1 hoodie – for cold days and flying. 
• 1 jean jacket 
• 1 lightweight rain jacket – If it gets cold, you can layer your hoodie under the rain jacket.
• 1 pair of jeans 
• 1 pair of black jeans – versatile, and can be dressed up or down.
• 2 bras – one nude and one black.
• 5 pairs of underwear – For travel, I love ExOfficio underwear because you can wash it in the sink if necessary, and it dries super-fast.
• 5 pairs of socks 
• 1 pair of leggings – for flying or travel days.
• 1 pair of pajamas – Pajamas are a nice luxury to have after a long travel day.

Shoes: Best Footwear for Japan in Spring

• Black sandals – I wore these sandals most days of the trip.
• Closed-toed walking shoes – You’ll most likely walking a lot, so don’t forget a pair of comfortable tennis shoes. I brought Stan Smiths.
• Rain boots – I advise bringing rain boots in case of rain. I love these short ones from Sam Edelman – they’re stylish, compact, and easy to pack.
• Flip flops – if you’re staying in a hostel , you may want to pack flip flops to use in the showers.

Toiletries: Pack Less & Buy There

Don’t overpack your toiletries – you can always buy more once you arrive . Plus, Japan has lots of amazing skincare and makeup products – leave some room in your suitcase to bring a few souvenirs home .

I also advise packing your toiletries in Ziploc bag , in case they explode mid-flight.  (Editor’s note: Try some of these ziploc bag alternatives instead!)

• Shampoo/conditioner/body wash – You can fill these eco-friendly, refillable Go-Toobs with your preferred shampoo, conditioner, and body wash.
• Travel-size face wash
• Neutrogena face wipes – so handy for makeup-removal and long travel days.
• Moisturizer – I love this rose one by Dr. Hauschka . Plus, it’s one ounce, so you can carry it on.
• Toothbrush/toothpaste
• Travel-size dry shampoo – Dry shampoo is a must for me. As I have dark hair, I love the “Divine Dark” shade by Batiste .
• Prescriptions/birth control
• Lip balm 
• Brush – I like the Wet Brush for untangling hair.
• Travel-size detangling spray
• Chapstick 
• Feminine hygiene products/ DivaCup
• Toiletry case  
• Makeup case 
• Curling iron (optional) – I brought mine
• Makeup (optional) – I brought a pared-down version of my normal makeup, as well as a red lip pencil. This one’s my favorite!

Electronics

• iPhone – I recommend downloading the Google Translate app (so helpful for reading Japanese) as well as an offline map app such as Maps.Me
• Chargers – to charge my iPhone, Kindle, and camera
• Adapter – you can either by a universal adapter plug or a Japan-specific adapter plug.
• 1 pair headphones
• Camera (optional) – I brought my lightweight mirrorless camera – a Fujifilm X-Pro 2 with a 35mm lens.
• Portable battery (optional) – in case your phone dies.
• Kindle (optional) – I was very glad to have my Kindle on the bullet train from Tokyo to Kyoto. 

Miscellaneous Travel Gadgets

• 1 backpack – Perfect for toting around your valuables on travel days.
• Water bottle – The tap water in Japan is drinkable, so I recommend bringing a reusable water bottle . It can get hot in Japan, even in May, so it’s important to stay hydrated.
• Eye mask and ear plugs – so essential!
• 1 small crossbody purse – I love the Mini Saddle Bag by Cuyana. This exact bag is no longer available but the Travelon Anti-Theft Addison Convertible Belt Bag is a great alternative.
• Costume jewelry – I wouldn’t recommend bringing valuable jewelry, but I enjoyed having a pair of gold earrings and a coin necklace to spruce up my outfits.
• 1 pair of sunglasses
• 1 travel-sized umbrella (optional) – can be handy!

The Weather in Japan in Spring

Because Japan is such a long country made up of islands that are spread over several climates, the weather varies greatly from North to South . 

The averages below are for Tokyo, on Honshu Island (the largest of Japan’s four main islands). However, the more northern and mountainous areas may be a bit cooler and it may be warmer in the more southern areas .

As with most countries, this transition season starts a lot cooler and warms up the closer you get to summer in April. 

March : You can expect mild days in March at an average of 57°F (14°C). Mornings and evenings are still quite cold at around 41°F (5°C). On an average day, there’s about a 33% chance of rain and over 11 hours of sunlight.

April : Days start to warm up slightly in April to 66°F (19°C) on average. Evenings also warm up slightly but remain cold at 50°F (10°C). There’s a slight increase in the chance of rain with a 35% chance of rain per day. Sunlight hours also increase to 13 hours of sunlight per day.

May : The closer you get to summer the warmer the days get to around 75°F (24°C). The evenings and mornings become more mild at 59°F (15°C). Similarly to March, there is on average a 33% chance of rain each day. Get outside and enjoy the 14 hours of sunlight each day. 

Before your trip, we recommend researching the weather for the exact areas you plan on visiting in Japan as the weather can vary so much across the different islands. That way you can plan the perfect packing list for Japan in spring.

Must-Sees in Japan in Spring

While there are things you should see year-round when you visit Japan, there are some things that are unique to the springtime and it would be a shame to miss them if you’re in the area.

Cherry Blossoms

Seeing the cherry blossom trees is the most obvious spring activity and many people visit Japan during this time specifically to see the landscapes transformed by the millions of pink and white flowers.

The first blooms begin in late March in the south and gradually extend northwards into April. During this time you’ll see many of the locals gathering at parks for picnics to enjoy the sight. 

While there are national parks you can visit specifically to see the cherry blossoms, no matter where in Japan you decide to visit, even in the urban areas, you are sure to see the cherry blossom trees blooming.

Mount Fuji Flower Festival

Cherry blossoms aren’t the only flowers to see during spring in Japan. At the base of Mount Fuji, thousands of flowers erupt creating a landscape of pink, white, red, and purple . These flowers are shibazakura, also known as pink moss.

The festival, known as the Fuji Shibazakura Matsuri, takes place at the Fuji Motosuko Resort from mid-April to the end of May. Festival stalls sell pots of pink moss, shibazakura-themed souvenirs, food, and local produce.

Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route

The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route is a spectacular journey through the Northern Japan Alps via cable cars, electric buses, and a ropeway. While the route is open from mid-April to November, the majestic snow corridor is only open from mid-April to the end of June . A section of the snow corridor is open to pedestrians and snow walls can reach up to 20m high.

Green Tea Plantations

Green tea is one of Japan’s most important agricultural exports and is woven into Japanese culture. When traveling in Japan, you are very likely to receive free green tea at restaurants to have alongside your meal. You can find out exactly how this tea is farmed by visiting a green tea plantation or taking a Japanese tea tour . You can also do homestays on some of the plantations and experience firsthand the daily farm activities. The best time to go is in May for the annual green tea harvest.

Wisteria Tunnel at Kawachi Wisteria Garden

If you’re visiting Japan in the spring for the blooming flowers, then you don’t want to miss the wisteria tunnel at the Kawachi Wisteria Garden in Northern Kyushu. 

This private garden which is famous for its spectacular displays of wisteria flowers is opened to the public during the wisteria season which usually peaks around late April to early May. Not only are there two 100m long tunnels made of wisteria trees of different varieties and colors but there is also a collection of large wisteria trees that form an enormous roof of beautiful flowers.

Do you think there are any essentials we have left off this packing list for Japan in Spring? Let us know in the comments below.

Book a Viator Tour for Your Trip to Japan in Spring

Osaka food tour (10 delicious dishes at 5 hidden eateries) ↗.

Eat your way around Osaka on this foodie tour, where your local guide will take you to five hidden eateries where you will be trying ten different dishes.

Private tour – All “Must-Sees”! Enjoy your First-Time Visit Tokyo! ↗

Experience both modern and ancient Tokyo at attractions like the Tokyo Tower, Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace, and more.

About the author: Since college, Ashley Fleckenstein has backpacked 45+ countries and lived abroad in Paris, Argentina, and Uganda. She started her travel blog, AshleyAbroad.com , in 2012, while working as an au pair in Paris. She has been featured in BuzzFeed, Forbes, TripAdvisor, and more. When she’s not working as a UX designer or blogging, she can be found reading, hiking, or recreating French baked goods in her kitchen.

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20 Practical Travel Essentials to Wear in Japan

The best outfits to wear as a tourist in Japan feature stylish, fitted tops and jeans or slacks. Japan rocks a fashion-forward style but maintains a more conservative fashion sense as well, avoiding things like crop tops, sweatpants, or low-cut tops.  In big cities like Tokyo, you will see streetwear and trendy sneakers but the overall style tends toward a smart casual vibe. 

Locations in the countryside or at religious sites also have a more conservative style. Avoid wearing anything like a crop top or a low-cut blouse that reveals too much skin. Instead, opt for a stylish, fitted button-down and slacks, or a blouse and jeans. Despite many advances in fashion, most Japanese people still consider tattoos in poor taste, so wear clothes that can cover your tattoos if possible. 

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Fitted Smart Casual Style

While plenty of younger people in Japan do embrace modern trends like streetwear, you will most commonly see people in smart, clean, stylish clothing. Aim for a smart casual style as you pack for your trip and you will rarely look out of place. This means nice jeans or slacks, blouses or button-downs, or a T-shirt paired with a cardigan or jacket.

Make sure you bring clothing that does not wrinkle easily, or pack a portable clothing steamer to freshen up your wardrobe after you unpack. Also, try to wear more fitted, narrow styles of clothing, rather than baggy clothing.

If you need the perfect stylish shirt to smarten up your look before your trip, take a look at the 15 best ethical button-up shirts for a dressy look here.

Conservative Cuts

Pick clothing with a conservative cut for your trip to Japan. While you will see some fashion-forward styles in big cities like Tokyo, in the countryside, and in smaller towns you will find that bold styles that expose a lot of skin do not go over well. Avoid crop tops, displaying cleavage, or wearing super short skirts. Instead, look for blouses that have higher necklines, nice fitted slacks or jeans, and knee-length dresses or skirts.

If you plan your trip during the late spring or early summer, the weather can get quite warm. You can definitely wear a tank top or sleeveless shirt in the summer. Just bring a jacket or scarf so you can cover your shoulders if necessary! Take a look at the 20 best affordable and sustainable tank tops here.

Cover Ups for Tattoos

In Japan, historically tattoos have had a strong connection to the Japanese mafia, also called the yakuza. This means that displaying tattoos is in poor taste in many parts of the country. If you have tattoos, try to plan your travel wardrobe with pieces that can cover them if possible. 

For example, if you have a wrist tattoo, bring long-sleeved shirts or jackets to cover the tattoo.

If you feel like this will make you hot or uncomfortable, consider placing a large band-aid over the tattoo instead. You will want to have a jacket with you anyway in case of bad weather, though, so why not check out the 10 best affordable and sustainable waterproof jackets here to keep you dry and cover your ink?

Cute Vs Crude Graphics

Humor is subjective and your favorite graphic tees or hoodies may not find a receptive audience in the more conservative areas of Japan. Try to avoid wearing anything with a crude or blatantly American graphic. Instead, stick to cute cartoon characters and wholesome sayings, or just avoid graphic tees and hoodies altogether!

You can put together sharp smart-casual outfits using solid-colored tees, a blazer or cardigan, and your favorite jeans or slacks. Plus, solid-colored clothes allow you to mix and match your capsule travel wardrobe to create multiple outfits using the same pieces. You can find the 12 best recycled blazers to complete your outfit here.

You can absolutely wear jeans in Japan. In fact, Japan is quite famous for making some of the best denim in the world! You will see lots of younger people wearing jeans all around in cities like Tokyo. Of course, for more formal occasions or to visit a religious site, you may want to dress up and wear a skirt or slacks instead.

You can find the 15 best recycled denim jeans brands to consider here.

As a tourist in Japan, you will do a lot of walking! Your feet will thank you for packing your favorite brand-name sneakers for your trip. Streetwear and cool sneakers play a big part in the fashion scene in Japanese cities, so make sure your shoes look clean and nice before your trip!

Your sneakers will pair well with outfits like jeans and a jacket, a skirt and leggings, or even jeans and a nice button-up shirt.

Take a look at the 1 2 best brands for sustainable sneakers in Europe here.

Walking Shoes

You may also want to find a pair of comfortable, classy-looking walking shoes like ballet flats for ladies or loafers for guys. This way you can maintain your sharp style without looking super informal as you might in sneakers or hiking shoes. Make sure you find shoes with good padding so your feet don’t hurt after a long day touring Tokyo or visiting shrines!

You can find the 10 best affordable and comfortable ballet flats here.

Just like in most urban settings, the cities in Japan have embraced the concept of streetwear fashion. Streetwear means a blend of loungewear and athletic wear in an urban style. An oversized t-shirt paired with jeans and brand-name sneakers could present a streetwear style. So could a cute matching sweatsuit and sneakers.

If you need more info on what exactly streetwear looks like, take a look at this list of the 20 best affordable and sustainable streetwear brands .

You can definitely wear shorts in Japan without raising any eyebrows, though you should avoid wearing super short shorts at some more conservative locations such as temples or religious sites. In hot weather shorts and a blouse or shorts and a button-down create a smart-casual outfit perfect for a summer tourist.

Take a look at the 20 best affordable and sustainable denim shorts options here.

Knee-Length Skirts

Another great way to keep cool while looking nice is to pack a wrinkle-free knee-length skirt as part of your travel wardrobe for Japan. If you pick a skirt in a solid color, it becomes a versatile piece that you can easily pair with several different tops such as a sleeveless blouse, a solid-colored or cute graphic tee, or a cozy sweater.

If you do not have many longer skirts, take a look at this list of the 15 best affordable and sustainable midi skirts .

Summer Dress

In the summer, some parts of Japan can reach temperatures as high as 90℉. To avoid feeling sticky and melty during your trip, you may want to pack a light, cooling summer dress. You can pack a sundress, a maxi dress, or a loose peasant-style dress.

Pretty colors, fun fabrics, and funky [atterns will all look great. Just avoid anything super low-cut. And if your dress has a sleeveless style, carry a light button-down shirt with you to place over your shoulders if you feel it is necessary.

You can find the 1 5 best affordable sundresses made in the USA here.

Japan sees a lot of rainfall every year and has a long rainy season plagued with monsoons and typhoons in the summer and fall months. This means that you definitely need to pack a raincoat for your trip! A lightweight jacket with good waterproofing will not take up too much space in your carry-on and will keep you dry if you get caught outside in a downpour.

Take a look at the 20 best affordable and sustainable raincoats of 2023 here.

Waterproof Bag

You may also want to invest in a waterproof bag such as a backpack or shoulder bag for your trip to Japan, especially if you plan to visit during the rainy season. While you can leave most of your belongings in a reputable hotel during your stay, you will need to carry the essentials with you wherever you go. Obviously, you don’t want items like your passport to get soaked if it rains while you are out hiking!

To help you pick the right bag, read up on the three best affordable and sustainable kinds of waterproof fabric here.

Light Blouses

One of the most versatile items you can pack for a trip to Japan is a handful of light blouses. Blouses in a solid color mix and match most easily with other items to create multiple outfits, but fun print blouses may look more fun and trendy. Try matching your blouses with a cardigan in the fall, with jeans and sneakers in the summer, or with a skirt and tights in the winter.

Take a look at the 15 best affordable, ethical, and sustainable blouses here!

T-shirts are totally acceptable for daily wear in most areas of Japan, though they do have a more informal style than a button-down or blouse. Try pairing your informal tee with a slightly sharper-looking garment like a blazer or cardigan to smarten up your style. Or go for a streetwear vibe instead, by pairing your tee with jeans and sneakers.

While you can absolutely pack several t-shirts to comfortably wear during your trip, look for either solid-colored tees or shirts with a cute graphic. Avoid anything too boisterous or crude. You can find the 20 best American-made t-shirt options here.

As previously mentioned, tank tops make a great addition to your suitcase if you plan to visit Japan during the summer. Of course, a tank top looks super informal, especially if you pair it with shorts or jeans! Make sure you wear this warm-weather item only in appropriate settings. Also, bring a jacket or button-down shirt with you so you can cover up and look more respectful if necessary.

Even though bare shoulders do not present a problem in most parts of Japan, a low-cut or super-tight tank top could look inappropriate in some settings. If possible, look for a slightly looser tank in a cooling fabric, like these 15 best organic cotton tank tops .

If your trip to Japan will take place in the fall or winter, you will want to bring cozy layering garments like a cardigan. This buttoned sweater allows you to bundle up when you step outside, but easily remove the extra layer when you duck into a warm ramen shop!

You can find the 20 best affordable and sustainable cardigans here.

Another key item to bring with you if you visit Japan in the winter is a nice winter coat. If you plan to visit more formal locations, hold a business meeting, or go out on a date, you may want a formal pea coat or trench coat to keep you warm. If you don’t mind looking more informal, you may feel even warmer if you buy a puffer-style winter coat instead.

Take a look at the 20 best affordable and sustainable winter coats here.

Another super easy way to add a layer of warmth to your travel wardrobe is to pack a warm winter scarf. You can wrap it around your throat to pair with a cardigan and jeans or tuck it inside a winter coat on a really cold day. In the summer, a lightweight scarf makes a great accessory for women because you can use it to wrap around your bare shoulders if you wear a tank top, sleeveless dress, or sleeveless blouse on a hot day.

Check out the 15 best affordable, ethical, and vegan winter scarves here.

Whether you visit Japan in the summer or the winter, to see the cherry blossoms in the spring, or to visit a temple in the fall, you will want sunglasses for long days outside walking around! 

You can find the 15 best affordable and sustainable sunglasses to browse here.

Was this article helpful to you? Please tell us what you liked or didn't like in the comments below.

About the Author: Hannah Cobb

I think of writing as my way to connect with the world. As a librarian with a degree in English and Library Science, I have used my research, writing, and editing skills professionally for over a decade. For the past two years, I have also provided ghostwritten content for fashion, sewing, and event-planning blogs, including how-to and product review blogs.

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Visiting Japan In March (What To Pack, Fashion To Wear And Weather Conditions)

March is one of the most beautiful times of the year to visit Japan thanks to the beautiful natural areas, spring festivals, and mild weather. However, knowing what to expect can help you to ensure you make the most of your experience.

In this article, we will be taking you through everything you need to know about visiting Japan in March. We will cover everything from what to pack, what items to bring and what to expect in terms of the weather.

Planning a trip to Japan 

If you are planning a trip to Japan then considering what time of year you want to visit will have a significant impact on your trip.

For example, Japan has very diverse weather conditions that change drastically not only throughout the year but also depending on the region that you want to visit.

However, due to the abundance of opportunities for a variety of experiences many people choose to visit Japan during March.

This allows you to experience snow , the blooming of the cherry blossoms as well as a number of fun celebrations.

So, if you’re looking to head to Japan in March, keep reading to find out everything you need to know about planning your trip.

What should I pack for my trip?

When it comes to packing for your trip what you will need will depend on your activities and which region of Japan you are planning on traveling to.

Cold weather

For example, March is a fantastic time to go skiing in Japan. Up in the mountains, there is still a lot of snow but this month is typically quieter than the New Year or winter period.

This means that you can spend more time skiing, snowboarding, or playing in the snow without needing to wait in long lines.

If this is the Japanese holiday day for you then obviously you are going to need to pack ski-appropriate clothing. This can include items such as coveralls, thermal base layers, wool socks, a helmet, a ski jacket, etc.

If you are planning on renting your equipment then obviously this will make your packing a lot easier.

However, if you are taking your own equipment with you then you will need to ensure that you have purchased the proper luggage and insurance for your items.

Mild weather

If you are not heading into the mountains and are heading into a city, such as Tokyo , then March is a much milder month and the arrival of spring is much more apparent.

Although the average temperature in Tokyo is rather pleasant, note that it can drop suddenly, so you will still need to pack a few warmer pieces of clothing and perhaps a warm coat for the evenings.

The best thing that you can do is to pack layers that are lightweight enough that you can carry them around with you during the day.

This will allow you to put on or take off layers as and when needed to ensure that you are not too hot or too cold. 

If you are spending the day sightseeing and plan on exploring the city into the night this is the best way to make sure that your trip is as enjoyable as possible and is not ruined by the sudden drop in temperature at night.

Packing a backpack to take with you in the day is a good way of carrying everything around with you.

Warm weather

However, there are also some areas of Japan that may be warmer than you might expect for Japan in March. These areas include Okinawa and Fukuoka .

If you are heading to these parts of Japan then remember to pack clothes that are more appropriate for summers such as shorts and sunscreen. 

Travelling to the different parts of Japan in March

Here we will give you a quick overview of the different parts of Japan during the month of March. Here you can find information about the best things to see and do in the area as well as the average temperature and expected rainfall.

If you are heading to Tokyo then you may want to consider the following information when packing for your trip and planning your excursions:

• Temperatures are between 5 and 12 degrees Celsius (41 and 54 degrees Fahrenheit)
• There are about 6 hours of sunshine every day
• The average rainfall is 3 inches (77mm) and falls for an average of 11 days

Tokyo is particularly popular in March as this is the month when most of the cherry blossom trees begin to bloom.

If you are looking to avoid the crowds, but would still like to see the cherry blossoms then consider traveling to another region or visiting Tokyo at the end of February or the beginning of April.

For the cherry blossoms head to Shinjuku Gyoen as this is one of the best viewing spots in Tokyo. The park has a very quiet atmosphere and is a great place to enjoy a picnic if you happen to catch a day without any rain. 

If you are looking for a slightly more lively atmosphere then consider going to Yoyogi Park which is home to over 700 cherry blossom trees. This park is particularly popular with the locals and can get rather crowded on the weekend.

If you are heading to Osaka then you may want to consider the following information when packing for your trip and planning your excursions:

• Temperatures are between 5 and 14 degrees Celsius (41 and 57 degrees Fahrenheit)
• There are about 5 hours of sunlight every day
• The average rainfall is 4 inches (104mm) and falls for an average of 10 days

If you are looking for a place to see the cherry blossoms and do not fancy a trip to the big city of Tokyo then Osaka is a great option. In fact, Osaka is one of the best places in Japan for cherry blossom viewing. 

If you are into photography then consider making your way to Osaka castle park where there is an abundance of opportunities for photographs with over 4000 cherry trees.

This is a popular spot for friends and families to sit under the sakura trees and enjoy a picnic. 

However, much like with Tokyo the unexpected weather conditions mean that you should always have an umbrella or poncho of some sort with you just in case it begins to rain. 

If you are heading to Kyoto then you may want to consider the following information when packing for your trip and planning your excursions:

• Temperatures are between 4 and 13 degrees Celsius (39 and 55 degrees Fahrenheit)
• The average rainfall is 4.5 inches (113mm) and falls for an average of 12 days

Kyoto is another great spot for seeing the cherry blossoms bloom, but the weather here is slightly wetter than in Tokyo or Osaka.

Maruyama Park is the best spot for cherry blossoms and has 680 trees which are illuminated from the middle of March until the middle of April from sunset until midnight. 

Although you may be comfortable without a jacket during the day, note that the temperature quickly falls once the sunsets. So, if you are planning on spending time outside after dark then make sure to pack a warm jacket or light coat.

If you are heading to Hiroshima then you may want to consider the following information when packing for your trip and planning your excursions:

• The average rainfall is 5 inches (124mm) and falls for an average of 18 days

If you are planning on heading to Hiroshima in March then remember to pack an umbrella and coat. The weather here is noticeably damper and cooler than in many other cities in Japan .

However, some days can still be mild and pleasant, so do not only pack winter items .

Packing light jackets and layers is the best way to ensure that you are comfortable on your trip to Hiroshima. 

If you are looking for where to head in Hiroshima make your way to Miyajima which is world-famous for its floating tori gate. Around the shrine you will find 1300 cherry blossom trees, making it quite a sight to behold.

March In Japan What To See And Do

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Packing List for Japan: Tokyo Travel TV Host Shares Her Fashion Tips!

Asia Packing Lists , Packing Lists , Travel Packing Lists

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For this edition of Locals Approved Packing Lists, La Carmina – a lover of Tokyo – has assisted in providing a reliable account of a locals view for a packing list for Japan when traveling to Tokyo. Keep reading to find out what to bring on your trip!

Packing List for Japan: Tokyo Travel Fashion Tips

Edited by Chantelle Mallin

La Carmina is an alternative Goth Japan fashion blogger and travel TV host (Travel Channel, National Geographic, Discovery, Food Network and more), she was born and raised in Vancouver but has been living in Tokyo on and off since she was a child.

Her popular La Carmina blog has led to international TV hosting and appearances, including New York Fashion Week and Hong Kong Social Media Week. She’s a Huffington Post Travel journalist, author of 3 books (Penguin and Random House), and presents/coordinates TV shows about alternative culture for worldwide networks.

Visit her website for Tokyo street style, cute culture, and earless cats. Don’t forget to follow her out on both Facebook and Twitter .

Thank you for your helpful insight La Carmina!

Tokyo Clothing Style

Japan is known throughout the world for setting the trends of innovative and out there styles. There is such a variety of different fashion styles, cultures and subcultures that it’s hard for even the most dedicated to keep up, keep up to date by following Japanese style and fashion blogs (including  La Carmina’s ).

Tokyo business dress is quite formalized; ‘salary men’ are expected to wear suits to work. However, when it comes to leisure time, anything goes. La Carmina notes – At the fetish/bizarre party Department H, I’ll often see people take off their office clothes… and put on cyber costumes!

In district like Harajuku and Shibuya, youths express themselves through extravagant street style, such as vintage dolly dresses, all-white face makeup and colourful layers, the hot spots are famous for their animated Japanese street fashion and are the places to be to spot new and inventive fashions.

There aren’t any particular rules to adhere involving dress, so don’t stress. Do, however, use common sense for your packing list for Japan. For example in business situations appropriate clothing would be required. Casual clothing is recommended for sightseeing, however it would be suggested you dress up for dining out and drinks, jeans aren’t advised.

Travel Essentials for Your Packing List for Japan

Tokyo has four distinct seasons, each of which will impact your packing list for Japan. The summers are hot and humid (pack mosquito repellent if your visiting in the summer months, however its quite easy to pick up in local drugstores). The winter’s cold but moderate, rain is abundant, but don’t waste space packing an umbrella, you can pick on up at most convenience stores for about $2.

Think light and small (ish) luggage when traveling to and building your packing list for Japan, the luggage space on trains and in coin lockers is quite minimal and the subway stations have vast pathways and some are without elevators. Pack light with the help of packing cubes to compress your travel capsule wardrobe .

As a tourist you’ll probably end up taking the subway and walking a great deal so comfortable shoes are a must, shoes that you can easily slip on and off are also a good call – Japanese customs involve taking your shoes off at the door of homes.

Tokyo Shopping

If you’ve forgotten an item on your packing list for Japan or just fancy updating your holiday wardrobe, Tokyo has got it covered. For basic items such as socks, basic accessories, makeup and umbrella check out Don Quixote – a chain of large stores that sell inexpensive clothing, home ware, food and electronics, the most well-known location is not far from the Shinjuku subway’s east exit.

Check out the 100 yen shops (‘dollar’ stores), they are a great find for travellers on a budget, there are plenty of 100 yen shops located around Japan, the largest in Tokyo in Daiso Harajuku in Takeshita Dora, a few seconds from Harajuku Station.

La Carmina recommends that visitors check out Tokyo’s incredible street style boutiques, check out her blog  for a guide to that best Gothic Lolita Punk stores in various neighbourhoods.

For full travel tips, check out this 7-day itinerary for Japan !

Japan Climate Overview

• Japan consists of four major islands – Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku and Kyushu, and lots of smaller islands, the climate differs from region to region – most parts have four distinct seasons. The country varies from a cool temperate climate in the north to subtropical in the south, generally the summers are hot and humid and winters icy and chilly, June/July sees the most rainfall whereas August to October the most typhoons.
• Northern Japan – Characterised by warm summers and long cold winters with abundant snow.
• Central Japan – Characterised by hot humid summers and moderate to short winters, with certain areas having very heavy snow.
• South West Japan – Characterised by long, hot humid summers and mild winters.
• Tokyo – Characterised by a moderate and comfortable climate all year round due to its position in the temperate zone, the weather is often compared to the East Coast of the US.

Here’s what to add to your packing list for Japan in every season:

V   Neck  |  Blouse  |  Longsleeve  |  Shirt  |  Dress  |  Playsuit  |  Jeans  |  Pants  |  Raincoat  |  Jacket  |  Sweater  |  Skirt  |  Boots  |  Shoes  |  Scarf  |  Bag

Packing List for Japan: Tokyo in Spring

La Carmina says: Springtime is beautiful in Tokyo. Cherry blossom season generally takes place at the end of March, and pink blossoms cover the city. During the day, the weather is warm but there may be rain, and evenings can be cold.

Tokyo Packing List

The spring season runs from the months of March to May. The weather is considered mild and rainfall is relatively low. Along with Autumn, Spring is considered by many the best time to visit the city, temperatures are warm but not too hot, the famous cherry blossoms are out and there are plenty of festivals to enjoy.

Try to avoid (or book well in advance) Golden Week – it is the longest holiday of the year and the time when everyone travels and hotels/attractions are booked full.

The best advice for packing for spring would be to LAYER

The temperature from day to night can vary considerably. This means that, for your packing list for Japan, layering is key so you can easily and or remove clothing depending on the temperature.

Pack a pair of capri pants, your favorite trendy jeans, and various tops ranging from simple tees and tanks, printed blouses, and flowering tunics. Opt for neutral colors so outfits can be easily mixed and matched and a selection of cute, comfortable dresses teamed with light tights. Pack a few dressier outfits if you plan on venturing out at night for drinks, meals or partying, think embellished camis and printed dresses.

Spring features some cooler days, so add a light coat to your packing list for Japan, such as a leather jacket, and cute sweater to add to your outfit if you’re feeling a bit nippy, the temperature also drops cool at night – pack a warmer jacket or fleece to combat this, occasional rain showers will occur, don’t forget you’re an easily storable umbrella.

For shoes, pack comfortable options to adhere to the extensive walking and exploring you’ll be doing. Think chic ankle boots, closed toe sandals, and a pair of sneakers.

Top  |  Blouse  |  V   Neck  |  Cami  |  Dress 1  |  Dress 2  |  Shorts  |  Shorts  |  Jacket  |  Poncho  |  Blouse  |  Skirt  |  Flats  |  Shoes  |  Hat  |  Bag

Packing List for Japan: Tokyo in Summer

La Carmina says: In old Japanese movies, you can see people sweating and fanning themselves! It’s humid and hot, which is typical Asia summer weather.

The summer months run from June until August, the season begins with a brief rainy period in June, which some years brings daily downpour whereas other years it doesn’t seem like a rainy period at all. Check the local weather forecast before your trip to determine a clearer forecast.

Generally, summer is hot and humid, meaning conditions are extremely warm and sticky. To combat the clamminess stick to light clothing made from cottons and linens. These are breathable fabrics that absorb perspiration and allow body heat to escape, beat the heat and wear white and light colored fabrics that reflect the sun and keep you cool.

For your packing list for Japan, stick to clothes that will keep you cool in the HOT weather. Bring loose flowing shorts, numerous neutral colored tanks, camis, sleeveless blouse and tees. You may find you need to change a few times in the day to combat the humidity.

A pair of harem pants and a maxi skirt will keep you cool whilst protecting you limbs from the sun’s rays. Add femininity to your travel wardrobe by packing a mix of cute printed cami dresses, which can be dressed up at night for delicious cocktails or an elegant meal.

As for shoes, it’s got to be sandals. Pack a pair that are open-toed and comfortable, as you’ll probably doing you fair share of walking.

Accessorize your summer travel outfits with a pair of oversized sunglasses and a wide brimmed hat to combat the sun’s glare. Don’t forget to pack a small but strong umbrella that will keep you dry if you happen to get caught in a summer shower.

Worth a note – In most places the air-con is whacked on high, bring a light jacket , cardigan or pashmina shawl to thrown on if you become slightly nippy, pack something that can be easily stored in your bag when not in use.

Top  |  Longsleeve  |  Vneck  |  Shirt  |  Shirtdress  |  Playsuit  |  Jeans  |  Jeans  |  Raincoat  |  Jacket  |  Sweater  |  Skirt  |  Boots  |  Shoes  |  Scarf  |  Bag

Packing List for Japan: Tokyo in Autumn

La Carmina says: Similar to east coast America cities like NYC and DC – brisk and comfortably chill.

The autumn season lasts from September until November. The temperatures are pleasant and the days clear, and the autumn foliage creates a sea of beautiful colors across the country. Like spring, autumn is considered a great time to visit Tokyo. The season’s climate is characterized by light breezes and mild but pleasant temperatures with less humidity. Autumn also plays host to many of Japan’s exhibitions, music concerts, and sports tournaments.

The month of September is considered a rainy season in Tokyo,  and it is also primary typhoon period – but don’t panic. Only a few typhoons are strong, and they usually end with hard-hitting winds and periods of rain. But be prepared as they can cause disruption to the city’s transportation timetables.

If you plan on visiting during this period, add to your packing list for Japan a light waterproof jacket, an umbrella and quick drying clothes in a blended fabric such as poly-cotton. This way, you’ll get the quick-drying properties of polyester and the lightweight breathable characteristics of cotton. The rain gives you the perfect opportunity to check out some of Tokyo’s indoor tourist attractions, such as the Mori Art Museum and the Museum of Photography.

Again, like spring, think layers (gain inspiration from Harajuku street style). Pack a combination of long but light skirts, cropped trousers, and durable leggings for the bottom, mix and match with button-up printed shirts and blouses, casual tees and flowing tunics, accessories with a colorful cotton scarf to add a pop of color to your outfit.

The temperatures in autumn can change substantially between night and day. Pack a colorful sweater and a light jacket to combat the chill. For shoes, think waterproof ankle boots, durable ballet pumps, and a pair of sneakers.

Sweater  |  Knit  |  Longsleeve  |  Top  |  Dress  |  Playsuit  |  Black Jeans  |  Jeans  |  Coat  |  Wool  Coat  |  Shirt  |  Bottom  |  Boots  |  Tall Boots  |  Scarf   |  Bag

Packing List for Japan: Tokyo in Winter

La Carmina says: It’s cold, especially for someone like me who grew up on the mild West Coast. You can expect snow and wind, but not to the extent that the streets pile up and subways close down.

The winter months last from December up until February. The temperatures are cool, around 5 – 10ᵒC, and while snow is scarce, it can happen, which can cause delays and affect the subway. Winters in Tokyo in characterized by chilly and grey days. The wind can be freezing cold and days are relatively short with sunset around 5:00pm.

For your winter packing list for Tokyo, stick to fabrics such as wool, fleece, and polyester that can retain warm air and keep moisture out, helping you stay toasty. Opt for faux fur-lined fleeces and winter style coats (try for ones with a hood in case you’re surprised by a cheeky rain shower), jeans, thick leggings, and fitted trousers to keep your legs cozy. Add a mix of long-sleeve tees, blouses and tunics to complete your look.

As for shoes, pack a pair of thick waterproof boots, preferable with fleece lining. These are an essential in the winter months, especially if you get caught in an occasional snow shower.

And don’t forget accessories. Include leather gloves, a colorful scarf and a wool hat, Japanese accessories are cute and chic – think ear muffs shaped like hearts, pink Lolita coats with bow and faux fur trimmings and animal print gloves.

Tokyo Travel Tips

Tokyo is a buzzing city with plenty to do/eat/drink, make sure to fit in all you can and enjoy your experience to the fullest, check out –

• Yoyogi Park – If you manage to visit on a weekend you’ll be greeted by a hot spot for street musicians and unique fashionistas.
• Meiji Shrine – A beautiful crafted shrine located in Shubuya, it is dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife Empress Shōken.
• Mori Arts Centre – A perfect excursion for if it’s raining, home to the country’s best modern art exhibitions it also includes a 52nd floor observation area with a 360 degrees bird’s eye view.
• Ueno Park – Perfect for experiencing your fair share of Japanese culture it is home to a significant number of shrines, temples, museums and galleries.
• Omotesando – A perfect place for some serious window shopping – referred to as “Tokyo’s Champs-Élysées”!

Tokyo has a world class public transport system to help you get around and explore the city, it is the fastest and most convenient way to travel – however avoiding the rush hour (7.30am to 9am) – if you can – might be considered wise, you can buy a prepaid fare card to use on the trains, subway and buses in Tokyo and Yokohama.

La Carmina says – ‘Be open to new experiences. If you’re on the fence about something (such as whether you should purchase an unusual garment, or try a new food), I say go for it. Get out of your hotel room, talk to the locals, and you’ll inevitable learn and challenge yourself.’

Do you have any tips on what to bring to add to a packing list for Japan? Share in the comments below!

For more Asia Packing lists, please read:

• What to Wear in Dubai
• What to Wear in Hong Kong
• What to Wear in Singapore
• What to Bring to Japan and South Korea

Suggested Travel Resources:

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29 comments.

I’m heading to Japan next summer and already planning what to wear! This info is so helpful. I’m looking forward to shopping there as well so these are great tips.

This is extremely helpful. On my first trip to Tokyo I was very unprepared and did not have the right clothing for the weather, which was warmer than what the East Coast was

I have to agree with AshW. I’ve been to Japan many times and it’s true about wearing more conservative clothes. Although they would never say anything since they are too polite, it’s best to wear looser, crew neck type shirts/dresses and looser pants in order to have some respect for the culture. Think Uniqlo style if you’re younger for a casual type look, business casual if you’re older. Basically look put together and definitely don’t show cleavage, especially in Tokyo and near shrines. If you were in Europe some churches wouldn’t let you in without covering your shoulders, and the same respect should be shown when we’re in Japan. Although there are many tourists in Japan that wear whatever they want, it is generally frowned upon or they are totally embarrassed for them. The more you fit in, the more you’re welcomed and the more opportunities will open up to you. And make sure you pack/wear socks because you will have to take your shoes off. So, don’t bring sandals.

Japan is my favorite vacation destination! I usually pack clothes that are neutral in color and conservative to respect their customs.

Awesome tips! My dream is to go in spring of 2025! I’m also glad to be referred to La Carmina’s blog for inspiration while I wait. I need to find a good light rain coat.

I’m gonna visit Tokyo!

Yay, have a great time Nacho!! 🙂

Hi. I’ll be traveling to Tokyo towards end of November and plan a trip to Mt. Fuji for a day. What should I pack – Autumn or Winter clothing?

Hi Maan, thank you for your question! The autumn season lasts from September through to November but the temperatures will begin to drop! The best tip is to monitor the forecast for your specific trip dates to ensure that you have the most appropriate clothing. Hope this helps. Have a fantastic trip!:)

I am looking at this packing list as inspo. I must make it out to Japan! Oh universe send my plane ticket asap =-D

I’m traveling to Japan in November–5 days for business meetings and 8 days for vacation. I’ll be gone from my home 17 days in total when you include travel days.

I love the ideas above for my vacation clothes, but do you have any tips for packing lightly while including my business clothes? I plan to wear dark knee length business dresses with blazers, hose, and black flats during my meetings. I will be with the same colleagues each day, so I can’t be obvious about repeating outfits.

Hi Holley, take a look at these posts: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/category/business-travel/

I hope I can help out a little bit.

Appearance is vitally important for business in Japan and it’s definitely noticed. Conservative quality skirt suits are best, think restrained, formal and polished. If you bring business skirts instead of a dress to pair with a matching blazer, black, gray or navy, you can add different neutral solid colors and classic style tops/blouses each day (avoid body con/cleavage, busy, bright colors) and add very minimal jewelry to change up the look. You should wear nude sheer stockings and a black or dark colored business bag. Business attire/color is VERY important in Japan so avoid flashy colors and styles since there is a negative connotation to them. The culture is all about not standing out and a neat, dark skirt suit is a code for respect and is very important for business in Japan.

However, if the office has a casual atmosphere, you may be able to relax these guidelines. Again, the culture is all about not standing out and respect. Otherwise, it may effect your business relationships and should not be taken lightly, even if there are no outwardly negative indications. Look up Japanese business etiquette because it’s on a whole other level than what can be written here.

Good luck and have a nice time!

Hello! Thanks for the Winter tip. We’re going to Tokyo this April with the whole family. May I ask, do you know where is the street food strip is?

Omoide Yokocho in Shinjuku.

So helpful I went to Japan (all over) October 16 and am glad I took the advice of taking a small suitcase!

I miss Japan!!

I am in love with Japan. I am planning to move my business there. It is really cheap and organized country. Thank you for sharing such an interesting information! Best regards!

Thanks Willie, glad you found this helpful!

While the clothing choices are cute, they are not appropriate for Japan. Even if you pay attention and people-watch for a while, you can pick out pretty quickly what’s fashionable and acceptable here and what isn’t.

As commenters mentioned earlier, too-tight shirts/ cleavage / tank tops / and even sleeveless shirts are pretty inappropriate in most circumstances and may attract unwanted attention, whether you’re in Tokyo or the more laid back countryside. (Kanto/Tokyo is my main point of reference fashionwise but I’ve also spent time in Kinki, Tohoku, and Hokkaido.)

Your best bet is to make sure your shoulders are covered, your neckline is somewhat high, and no bra straps are showing, and if you do have to wear a tank, make sure to cover your shoulders with a shawl, cardigan, or jacket. Yes, even if it’s hot :/ Pair a looser tunic with something tighter on the bottom rather than opting for the fitted tee + fitted skinnies combo. Shorter shorts and skirts are more acceptable than showing bare shoulders or open tops but it seems like most ladies still opt for a more covered but chic look.

Also, sunglasses aren’t really a thing? I’ve never really asked anyone why, but I don’t know anyone in Tokyo who wears sunglasses ( though I have seen yakuza and some wannabe VK/host boys wearing them during the daytime.) Neither are super large hats/visors, unless you’re gardening or hiking or something. people would mostly glare passive-aggressive daggers at you if you got on the subway like that. I like the poster’s outfit with the sunglasses and hat but it’s pretty out there for Japan standards, unless you travel in some alternative circles. Even then, it could put some people off, since Tokyoites are not the most accepting of differences, and if you’re foreign, you already stand out a heck of a lot.

For some inspiration I would highly, highly recommend looks found on Tokyo-based Fudge Magazine’s street snap page!! These looks are cute and for the most part easy to replicate. http://fudge.jp/snap/

Hi Ash, thanks for letting us know! The clothing is based on the Tokyo fashion blogger’s tips but we’ll make sure to check out Fudge when we update our clothing. Thanks again!

I literally just walked in the door from a three week trip to Japan. We traveled all over Honshu and Okinawa. I read up on how to pack before I left, and I read much about dressing appropriately, no tanks, no bikinis at the beach etc etc. However, once I arrived, I realized all that commentary was much adieu about nothing. While most Japanese women cover up from head to toe to protect themselves/skin from the sun (think fingerless long gloves under long sleeve shirts, hats, pants/long skirts and tons of sunscreen), other Asians and tourists in Japan wore whatever they wanted (tanks, shorts, dresses, hats, bikinis, sunglasses) without a second glance from the locals. The Japanese are some of the warmest, nicest people I’ve met during my extensive travels, and I can’t imagine any of them being rude or commenting on anyone else’s clothes. Based on my trip to Japan, I say wear what you want to wear (within reason), don’t stress and enjoy your trip.

Thanks for your input Kearstin!

I found your blog to be very useful. I went to Tokyo last mid-April 2014 with my sister, and the temperature was quite cold for us (we’re from Malaysia, and the weather here is tropical). Thankfully I packed a fleece trench coat which is proven very important with temperatures ranging from 8-15 deg. C. Indeed, the Japanese wear proper clothing most of the time. Thanks again for the tips! =)

Thanks for the feedback Suhaila! I think Spring is always underestimated around the world – it’s usually colder than we expect!

There is one very important note that was forgotten: no cleavage or even boob-age! I’ve been several times and showing off breasts (no matter what your age) even fully covered in tights shirts is seen as trashy and will make even a foreigner look like a street walker to the locals. Though so many foreigners wear cleavage showing/flaunting tops! Skirts that show your bum no problem–but breasts are off limits. You’ll see plenty of advertisements showing breasts that are blurred out!

I was thinking the same thing about cleavage reading this.And strappy tops or dresses that show your shoulders would be too revealing. Unless you want a mix of disapproving looks and uncomfortable leers, avoid anything showing too much flesh up top.

Thanks for the tip!

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35+ Helpful Japan Travel Tips To Know BEFORE You Go

J apan is a remarkable country filled with so much history, natural beauty and modern touches. I’ve just returned from my second trip to Japan and was reminded of so many things I had forgotten about the country! Traveling in Japan is an amazing and enriching experience, however it is also a country filled with traditions and unique ways of operating that visitors may not be used to. Below I share the best Japan travel tips to help you make the most of your trip.

Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Top Japan Travel Tips to Know BEFORE You Go

Before you head off to Japan, there are a few things you will need to know in advance and to plan for. While most things on this list can be figured out while in country, a few MUST be done before you leave your home. Whether you opt for the classic tourist circuit Japan itinerary or get off the beaten path , these tips will go a long way to help you enjoy your trip to the fullest.

Get A Japan Rail Pass in ADVANCE

If you want a Japan Rail Pass , it is only available to purchase for overseas tourists BEFORE they enter the country. Once you are in country, you can no longer purchase a JR Pass, so if you plan to use the bullet train between destinations quite a bit, this is a must do before you leave. You must also give yourself plenty of advance notice as well as the pass is still mailed to a physical address. 

However, I will say that sometimes it’s not actually cheaper to get a JR Pass. Research the Shinkansen trains here and which trains you plan to take to budget accordingly. Often you can take a train that is just a bit slower, for a lot cheaper.

Regardless, the most important piece of advice for the JR Pass is once it is activated you CANNOT lose it. If you lose it, it is gone. You will not be able to print a new pass. You will not be given a refund. You cannot buy another pass until it is expired as it is connected to your passport. A fellow traveler on my recent trip had this experience, and it was not pleasant to lose a $600 pass on day 1 of his trip!

Keep Your Train Tickets With You

Along with the JR Pass information above, another thing to know when traveling on the trains in Japan is to keep your train ticket with you at all times. One, you will often be asked to show it on many longer distance train journeys and you will need it to exit the stations. Even better is to get a transportation card mentioned below for city travel as it is a little less easy to lose. Trust me, these tiny slips of paper are easy to misplace!

Get an IC Transport Card

There is nothing worse than arriving to Japan, transferring through the airports and needing a drink but unable to get one! Japan’s vending machines and many shops do not take US or foreign credit cards. What do you do when you only have a vending machine as an option in the airport? The best way to deal with this is to download and preload an IC card BEFORE your arrival.  Not only does a Suica card or Pasmo card provide easy access to public transportation, it can also be used at vending machines and for small purchases at convenience stores.

Insider Japan Travel Tips You MUST know: If you have an iPhone, you can go to your wallet, click the plus sign, then click Transit Card. Now you can search “Japan” to see the Suica option. Now you can select the amount to add to your card and go through the payment portal. BAM. You are ready to roll upon hitting the ground in Japan.

If you cannot load it on your phone, you can purchase Suica Cards at most train stations. You can also order Suica Cards online and have them mailed to your house abroad prior to your trip to be sure you will have access when in the country.

Learn Basic Japanese Words

While you might find some level of English in the big cities or top tourist spots, much of Japan still exists without much English. I always find this interesting, but again, how cool that they have managed to keep their language and Japanese culture so true to themselves! That said, if you plan to get off the beaten path at all, make sure you know a few phrases and have your Google Translate handy! 

The top phrases I found useful while in country include:

Hello – Konichiwa

Thank you – Arigato

Thank you very much – Arigato Gozai mas

Delicious – Oishi

Cute – Kawaii

Cheers – Kanpai

Sorry, Excuse me, Pardon me – Sumi masen

Download Google Translate 

One of the most important travel tips I can provide is to download the Google Translate app and Japanese packet as you will often need it. As mentioned above, there is often still quite a bit of a language barrier in Japan, especially in smaller towns or off the beaten path at all. Having Google translate will help you when you want to say something to someone but can’t communicate. The translate will provide it in text for the other person to read which is super helpful. Additionally, you can actually just turn on your microphone and let a person speak into your app and get the translation quickly. This is a great help throughout Japan!

Cash is King

Tipping is not customary.

Contrary to the West, tipping is not customary here and in some cases can be considered rude. To be honest as an American who is asked for a tip at every turn, this was a welcome change. I was so happy to not have to worry about tipping at restaurants, bus drivers or our guides. If you are unsure you can ask, but in general it is not done!

Don’t Expect a Western Breakfast

One of the things I most remembered from my first trip to Japan was the very different, for me, breakfast options. While I am all for trying things and diving into the local culture, sometimes you want a little something that is reminiscent of home. For me that is often breakfast. At most restaurants and hotels, you can expect to see very little western offerings for breakfast. If you want something you are used to (coffee even) you will need to seek out western establishments. I don’t often go to McDonalds at home or abroad, but I sure do like that sausage egg mcmuffin after a week in Japan!

Walk on the Left Side of the Street

Without even noticing it, I found myself crossing over a path of people in the underground to get on the “right” side of the walking path. You will see that people traffic flows very smoothing in Japan and most of that is because of how the Japanese walk on the correct side. Watch the flow of food traffic and you will quickly see where you need to be! When I was in Sapporo, there was an entire city of underground walkways. I quickly realized that everyone was sectioned off in the direction of their travel. It made it very easy to get through even with large end of day crowds. But beware of those very useful, but pesky bumps for sight impaired. They are everywhere and are not really an indicator of which side of the street you should be on!

Get Ready to Take Off Your Shoes

While it isn’t as common to remove your shoes in Japan as it is for say India, you will need to remove your shoes for more traditional establishments including restaurants. We had to remove our shoes at the front door to one of our hotels even and couldn’t put them back on until we were leaving! I love not wearing shoes indoors, but it was not always easy especially when I was wearing my Blundstones that are so difficult to get on/off!

Take Your Passport Shopping

If you would like to take advantage of tax-free shopping, make sure to take your passport with you when you go shopping. Some shops like UNIQLO will automatically give you the tax free savings right away once they see your passport,  helping you to avoid doing it at the airport. Other shops will require you get a refund at the airport. If you plan to do any shopping, just take it with you!

Respect the Japanese Traditions

One of the most amazing parts of traveling to Japan is how it is SO different than what many of us are used to. Historically, Japan has been a closed off society. Most of the country is Japanese origin with little Western influence. It is one of the many things that makes it so unique. That said, the most important thing is that you recognize and respect their traditions even if it’s very foreign to you. Take time to learn and ask about the traditions and practice them during your visit. It’s a great way to show respect and fully immerse yourself in the country. 

Prepare Yourself for A Japanese Onsen

One of the most beautiful parts of Japanese society is the public bathing system of the onsen. These hot springs are located throughout the country in stunning locations. It is definitely a big part of life here and something tourists should try at least once. I will warn you though, that unless you are having a private onsen, they are completely nude and can be mixed gender as well. I could write an entire article on how to visit an onsen as there are customs and rules to know, but in general you will need to fully shower and bathe with soap before entering the pools, they are totally nude and many do not allow people to enter with visible tattoos. If you are staying in a ryokan with no private shower facility in your room, make sure the staff are aware of any tattoos in advance so they can make arrangements for you. 

Transportation Etiquette

Don’t be afraid of shopping at convenience stores.

In Japan, convenience stores are everything. And EVERYWHERE! There are so many varieties from 7-11 to Lawson’s to Family Mart or more local shops like SeicoMart in Hokkaido that you can never be very far from one. Here you can literally get anything you want including breakfast or dinner! You can find ready made meals like fried chicken in Hokkaido to udon noodles, tempura, sandwiches and more. They also have chargers if you happen to have soaked your phone and need a cordless charger. They have candy and sweets, beer, iced coffee and so more more.

Get Ready to Carry Your Trash Around

One thing that is always a surprise to me when I’m in Japan is the lack of trash cans in public spaces. They are not on the roadsides or even that frequently found in shops. You will carry a lot of trash in your pockets all day long! Carry a small plastic bag for your trash to make life easier, but do remember to say no to plastic bags at most places as they are given very freely still or a minimal extra cost.

Separate Your Trash

Japan is not super up on the “use less plastic” concept, but they are very strict about separating their garbage. Hopefully this means they have a much better track record of recycling than we do in the US! If you are not used to separating your trash, educate yourself a bit on what is compostable, what is recyclable and what is landfill trash. At big festivals or events you will find very trash cans (as mentioned above), but when you do, they will expect you to seperate it all into the correct containers.

Eating, Drinking & Smoking in Public

While I am not 100% if there are rules on this, but in general you will notice that the Japanese people do NOT eat, drink or smoke while walking. There are of course designated areas for smoking, which is not allowed all over the place. But for drinking your morning coffee on the way to the train station? Nope, you won’t see Japanese people do this. Is it an unspoken rule or just a custom I am not certain, but I tried to follow suit as much as I could. 

Throughout history, Japan has been a closed off society. Would you believe that almost 99% of the country is Japanese? The result is a unique culture with little Western influence and little English. So don’t be surprised if you ask questions or try to converse with people, but don’t receive much of a response. It’s not because they are rude, they simply know they can’t speak your language, and you likely can’t speak Japanese

Japanese Toilets Will Spoil You

Ok, one of the BEST things about Japan has to be their toilets. From the airport to public restrooms, you will find some really great toilets to literally write home about! My absolute favorite that I didn’t realize until I got back home was the heated seats. It really does feel so nice to sit down on a toasty toilet in the middle of the night. There are also several bidet options, drying options and of course also “privacy” sounds/music for many public toilets. Make sure to have your phone handy though as you may need to translate some of the buttons if they aren’t obvious. I have found myself stuff with the water on, not knowing how to turn it off! All of that said, you will also still find squat toilet options in most public bathrooms. They typically have a sign on the door indicating what type of toilet you can expect. 

Get an e-SIM For Your Phone

If you haven’t tried an e-SIM yet, you need to get on the wagon. They are SO easy to use, super affordable and available all over the world. For my recently 2 week trip, I used a 10 GB e-SIM card which allowed me to have data access wherever I went. While there is often free Wi-Fi around major cities, often the log-in screen is only in Japanese which makes it challenging to login quickly. Get $3 off your first purchase at AIRLO using my code: KARILY0402

Stay at Ryokan At Least Once

One of the coolest Japanese cultural experiences I can recommend is to stay in a ryokan. A ryokan is basically traditional Japanese inns. While they come in many forms these days including a super traditional ryokan where you sleep on the tatami mats, you can also opt for ones that do have more “western” beds. I have stayed in all various forms and personally I love being able to plop down in an actual bed, but for a one night experience I would recommend trying the super traditional way as well. 

As part of the experience, you might find that you have a traditional kaiseki meal for dinner or breakfast, you might also have no private shower in your room or  have to take your shoes off at the hotel entrance. It is so fun and cool to see Japanese locals having their dinner or breakfast in the provided yukata (robe in the room) and wearing the slippers. I find this to be one of the most immersive cultural experiences you can have in Japan and well worth the price tag. (Shockingly they are usually quite a bit more expensive than western style hotels).

Japan is Not THAT Expensive

Japan has a reputation of being an excessively expensive country. While it is definitely more expensive than it’s other Asian counterparts, it is also not as pricey as some places in Europe! There are ways to reduce your expenses quite easily. One recommendation to mix up accomodation options – stay in a traditional ryokan, but also stay in chain hotels like Tokyu Stay. We had a great room at Tokyu Stay with a washer/dryer in our room for less than $80 a night. There are plenty of small shops for meals that will run you $5-10 a meal, while more traditional kaiseki meals will cost more. The biggest expense tends to be transport between cities, so that is why it is important to price it out in advance and check for internal flights and getting the JR Pass.

Do NOT Lose (or Keep) Your Hotel Key Card

Traditional hotels still use actual keys, so those are much easier to keep track of and not loose. If you are worried about losing one, you can drop it off with reception before you go out for the day. 

Japan Trains Run VERY Timely

While I can’t say that Japanese trains run on time always because I have experienced delays with them, overwhelmingly they do run on a very tight schedule with very little disturbances. This is great as long as you are early, but it’s tough when you are running late! Always plan for delays in the train station and arrive with plenty of time.

Check for Seasonal Festivals

Regardless of when you visit Japan, there is sure to be some type of festival happening. These are often the best places to fully immerse yourself into the culture. For example, the cherry blossoms in the spring often have many festivals that accompany it, which can be quite fun. In Sapporo, there is an Autumn Festival in September that brings in tons of amazing food options every day for visitors to sample. 

Bring Snacks With You

Whether it is a bus or train journey, do not plan on food being available. There are no dining cars on trains regardless how many hours they are. We found out the hard way that we needed to always have water and snacks with us because options were not always available. Shockingly though, you can eat and drink on the long distance trains, just make sure to take all of your trash with you.

Tap Water is Safe to Drink

One of the best things about travelling in Japan is that the tap water is safe to drink. I loved not having to purchase water bottles all the time or worry about water being bad quality. I even drank from a mountain spring in Rishiri Island that was crisp and cold and so delicious. Bring you recyclable water bottle and fill up in the hotels every day instead of buying more plastic. 

Public Space & Japanese Etiquette

Japan has a concept called “ma” or personal space. Respect it, especially in crowded places with lots of people. Many of these etiquette rules are unspoken, but if you take time to look around you, you will notice that the Japanese people strictly adhere to them. Again, one of the best Japan travel tips I can provide is to look around you and follow what the locals are doing! 

Wear Your Bag In Front on Crowded Trains

In places like Paris or New York, you might see people wearing their backpacks on their front on busy trains, but in Japan this is not for safety as much as it is a respect for fellow passengers. When you wear your bag on the front you are making sure that you are not accidentally hitting other people. This culture is one that is very fond of respect for others and I just love this example!

Safety in Japan

Overall I feel VERY safe in Japan at all hours of the day and night. Trains can get super crowded and you will see people wearing their bags in front like I mentioned above, however that is not necessarily for safety as it might be in other cities. All of that said, I would still be aware of your belongings when in crowded public places and wear your mobile on a strap like this one to make sure it isn’t snatched!

Use Google Maps for Train Travel

If you don’t already use Google Maps, one of my top Japan travel tips is to download it now! One of the coolest features of Google maps is that it will tell you how to walk to a train station, which train to get on and even which exit to look for when you arrive to the destination train stations! However it is important to note that oftentimes your internet may not work in the subway stations, so it is a good idea to have it all loaded before you get underground. 

Expect Lines at Restaurants

Dietary restrictions are challenging.

In Tokyo you can often manage with dietary restrictions more easily, but once you leave the big city, it can often be quite challenging to deal with dietary restrictions. I personally am allergic to MSG, which meant asking everywhere if I could eat the food prepared. For the most part, most chef’s knew instantly whether they used it or not. In the more rural parts of Japan in the far north of Hokkaido, I ran into a few more challenges. If you are a strict vegetarian, it is also a bit cumbersome to find food that does not include any fish sauce as it seems to be included in a ton. Just take your time and ask around as there are often places that can cater to your needs. 

An International Drivers License is Required in Japan

If you plan to hire a car and self drive during your visit to Japan, make sure you acquire an International Driver’s license before you leave home. If you are in the US, this is easily obtained at AAA for around $20 in one day. This is just an additional piece of paper that says that yes, your license is for driving and you are able to drive outside of your home country. 

Japanese Wait for the Walking Sign

Just like in Germany, for the most part Japanese people do not jaywalk or cross until the walking sign is illuminated. I have seen a few people here and there cut across the road or go before the walk sign is lit up, but by far the general rule is that you wait patiently on the sidewalk!

Try All the Drinks, But Don’t Expect Much More than Coke

In Japan you will quickly notice that the only western drink you can purchase by and large is Coca Cola and not even diet, just regular coke. I was so surprised when our Japanese exchange student had never had a Sprite, but after my recent visit I was reminded why – it’s tough to come by! Only occasionally did I see a Sprite in a convenience store and almost never in a vending machine. Overall, you will be presented with a ton of drinks that are only Japanese!

Also, I found out after much sampling and discussion with our Japanese hosts – you will never find sweetened tea in the vending machines unless it is Chinese or American. They do not put sugar in their green tea at all. I purchased MANY tea varieties looking for a sweet option, with absolutely no luck!

Buy From ALL the Vending Machines

One of my top Japan travel tips includes buying stuff from the vending machines. I just love the vending machines in Japan. And I love that you can purchase almost anything in the world from them. At one of my onsen visits, they had a vending machine with underwear (new!), razors, earbuds and more. We saw a vending machine selling frozen ramen which would be the perfect take out food if you lived there. You will of course find drinks machines everywhere you go as well. My favorite one of the entire country has to be the “cake in a can” vending machine in Sapporo. The cake was amazing as is the concept. It was pricey, but worth it at least once. 

Another great one to look out for and try is a coffee vending machine. You can usually adjust how strong you want the coffee, how much sugar and how much milk. It is so fun to just pay 100 yen and have a hot coffee. Additionally, on most regular machines you can look for the signs that say hot/cold as some machines dispense BOTH hot and cold drinks. You want a hot tea, but your friend wants a cold drink. You got it. Seriously, these machines are the best and one of my favorite things to check out while wandering around towns!

Japan is a country with a rich culture and history, so embracing its traditions and customs can really enhance your travel experience.

There really is no “best time” to visit. There are distinct seasons, each offering unique experiences, so you do not have to only go during the high season of summer (or during the cherry blossom season in spring!). The colorful foliage in fall is worth a trip as is seeing the country blanketed in snow! Wherever you go, have fun and enjoy all the differences that you are sure to find!

MORE TRAVEL AROUND JAPAN

We hope you enjoyed these Japan travel tips! For more travel around Japan, see the links below:

• 3 week Classic Japan Itinerary in Photos: Tokyo, Kyoto, Snow Monkeys & More
• Get off the Beaten Path in Hokkaido: Rishiri & Rebun Islands
• The Best Food in Japan That You MUST Try!

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These Are the Only 3 Outfits You Need to Pack for Any Trip, According to a Carry-on-only Traveler

This foolproof packing list actually doubles the amount of outfits in your suitcase.

• Best Accessories for Travel Outfits

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Travel + Leisure / Daisy Rodriguez

Before I became a travel journalist, I was a buyer in the fashion industry for over 15 years, working with brands such as Brooks Brothers, Michael Kors, and the former Liz Claiborne, so you can say that I have a keen eye for style, quality fabrics, and a good fit. These days, I put my former skills to work in a different way. On average, I travel twice a month and it’s not unusual for me to be zipping through the airport on any given day, so I pack light and maximize the outfits that I’m taking with me. 

At first, it wasn’t easy to streamline my packing lists for each destination; I was always stressed that I had left an essential top, pair of bottoms, jacket — you name it — at home. But, with the help of my former fashion buyer brain, I developed the ultimate travel capsule wardrobe , complete with three foolproof outfits that help me create dozens of looks (without needing to check a bag , I might add). Here are my favorite mix-and-match separates that suit any type of trip itinerary — both work and play — along with some must-have accessories that'll widen your wardrobe horizons. 

Duer LuxTwill Trucker Jacket 

Duer luxtwill high-rise trousers, minnow navy and dusty red stripe sweater.

I’ve been a huge fan of the Canadian clothing company Duer for several years now, and its LuxTwill Trucker Jacket and matching High-Rise Trousers are one of my favorite outfits to bring on work trips. Both the jacket and pants are made of 98 percent cotton and 2 percent elastane, so the pieces have a structured look while allowing for some stretch for comfort.

While it’s a great set, I also love to wear the jacket as a separate, over dresses, leggings, or jeans. And, to save suitcase space, I'll sport it on the plane. I've found that it's a versatile essential that’s great for work and play destinations. The trousers pair well with knits as well as button-front tops. I especially love pairing it with a slouchy novelty sweater like my favorite one from Minnow ; it's an excellent transition piece for spring that works with denim, pants, skirts and shorts and is constructed of a dreamy cotton-cashmere blend, making it super soft and comfortable. 

The timeless nautical pullover is also cozy, but not bulky and the dolman sleeves are fashionable and functional, allowing you to move freely when traveling. I own two of these sweaters and find myself bringing them on work trips and vacations because they match with nearly everything that I own.

To copy the look for less, pair this cropped jacket (on sale for $24) with these $40 high-waisted trousers and this nautical-inspired crewneck sweater that's currently $31 — all from Amazon. 

PrettyGarden Two-Piece Sleeveless Vest and Wide-Leg Pants Set

I’m in love with Amazon's two-piece sets because not only are they available at amazing price points, but they're super sleek and can be styled in so many ways. Here, the vest is drapey and offers a sophisticated and elegant look, although it also works well with denim; when I'm home, I like pairing it with my Everlane Super-Soft Relaxed Jeans for a laidback SoCal vibe, but when I'm on the go, it goes perfectly with the Duer LuxTwill High-Rise Trousers featured above (and I can layer the brand's LuxTwill Trucker Jacket on top or pair the PrettyGarden trousers with my Minnow sweater ). 

The bottoms are like palazzo pants and flare slightly, with a loose fit throughout. I like that they aren’t too tight, making them perfect for work meetings, long travel days, and itinerary-heavy days. They also have functioning pockets that are great for holding your essentials while on the move. The set comes in eight colors and sizes range from S to 2XL. Both pieces are machine washable; I’ve put them to the test in the wash several times and they come out looking just as good as new. A word of advice: Make sure you hang them to dry or lay them flat so they retain good shape.

For a more tailored look, you can get the set with a tighter-fitting cropped vest for $52. But, if this look is too business casual for your destination, I also pulled some stunning two-piece sets; check out the now-viral Anrabess Short-Sleeve Mockneck Sweater Set on sale for $40, the tropical getaway-ready Anrabess Linen Tank Top Matching Set that's currently $30, or the PrettyGarden Rib Knit Matching Set , which trades trousers for an elegant maxi skirt.  

Vuori’s Short-Sleeve Lux Crew Jumpsuit

Vuori makes my favorite activewear, so it’s no surprise that this super-flattering jumpsuit is on my list of favorite travel outfits. The jumpsuit's performance knit is so comfortable, especially in the summer when it feels good to wear loose-fitting clothing, but is also perfect for travel days, road trips, as well as lounging poolside (save room in your carry-on by using it as a swim cover-up). 

To make this outfit extra cool, slip the brand’s Halo Performance Hoodie over it when heading to a Pilates class or an early morning stroll. You can also wear it with a cropped jacket (like the Duer trucker jacket that I mentioned earlier) for a night out on the town. When the dress code calls for something cozier, I'll layer my Minnow sweater on top so it feels like I'm wearing a sweatshirt and sweatpants — even though the combo looks effortlessly chic.  

If you’re not a fan of onesies, don’t fret. Vuori's Villa Wide-Leg Pants can be paired with its Energy Top to serve a similar look. And, if you're looking for more budget-friendly jumpsuits, over at Amazon, you can get the Anrabess Short-Sleeve Crewneck Jumpsuit for $40. 

Travel + Leisure / Jean Chen Smith

Best Accessories for Travel Outfits 

Now, it's time to put the finishing touches on these travel outfits. Similarly, my go-to accessories can be mixed and matched to be styled with different looks, ensuring that everything in your suitcase is functional and will get plenty of use on your trip. Below, you'll find my favorite travel shoes and travel purses to tie your outfits together. 

Kizik Venice Slip-On Sneakers

A while back, I kept seeing these amazing hands-free slip-on shoes that you can put on and take off without having to bend down or fuss with laces. The Venice slip-ons are by far my favorites. They’re easy to slide right into, super lightweight, and hassle-free to pack. I love wearing them on long flights because they don’t feel constricting (plus, they make going through TSA security a breeze and I can easily slide out of them once I'm in my seat). And, when I'm at my destination, their cushy insoles and grippy rubber soles keep my feet comfy and supported when I'm on the move. 

They go with everything and really elevate any outfit. I'll pair them with my Duer set for more casual affairs and use them to make my PrettyGarden vest-trouser duo more playful after work meetings. And, of course, they're the long-lost soulmate for my Vuori jumpsuit , especially on travel days. 

Sapahn Jori Crossbody Bag

I used to be partial to labels and monogrammed bags, but I’m currently loving the Jori Crossbody for day-to-night use. During a recent trip to Santa Barbara, I found myself using it instead of my trusty Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag — which says a lot . Although it looks small, it actually fits everything that I need for a busy day on the go; I can store a small notebook, wallet, makeup compact, and smartphone in there without effort. 

The best feature of this bag is that you can switch out the straps to give it an entirely different look, making it transitional from work to play. There are two pockets inside for organizing smaller items like lipsticks or receipts. It comes in four colors, although the khaki hue is my favorite because it’s great for spring and it goes with everything — whether I'm dressed up in my PrettyGarden vest and wide-leg trousers , dressed down in my Duer LuxTwill Trucker Jacket and matching High-Rise Trousers , or out grabbing coffee in my Vuori jumpsuit .  

Amazon is filled with leather crossbody purses that are equal parts versatile, functional, and stylish — starting with the Gladdon Crossbody Bag (that's on sale for $16), the $13 FashionPuzzle Small Dome Chain Strap Crossbody Bag , and the Afkomst Crossbody Bag , which has a similar gold buckle detail in the center. For extra flair, I also spotted this on-sale Fossil crossbody that has a color-blocking print and a roomy build. 

Milmo 1813 Tote Bag

Milmo's 1813 isn’t just another tote bag, it’s a lifesaver for travel. I often use it as a personal item (paired with my Vuori jumpsuit ) when flying because of its versatility and roominess. I also love that it has a removable and washable interior liner that easily comes out with snap buttons; I don’t have to over-worry about spills and messes (the company also offers a two-year warranty on any defects outside of normal wear and tear). 

Its durable rope handles, which attach along the lower half of the bag, can hold up to 300 pounds, which is why it excels as a travel bag. As a tote, it's elegant, structured design is boardroom-ready (with my PrettyGarden two-piece set) , but it can also be worn as the perfect off-duty bag thanks to its convertible crossbody straps (I can sport it around town in the Vuori jumpsuit or Duer duo when I want to be hands-free). The exterior zip pockets allow for quick and easy access to your essentials while in line at the airport or a local eatery. It comes in four colors, but my choice is green.

Over at Amazon, you can replicate the look by adding the KouLi Buir Quilted Tote Bag ($40) or Missnine Laptop Tote Bag ($30) to your cart. But, if you want vast color options, I recommend the Wrangler Vintage Convertible Tote , which is available in 33 hues and is currently on sale for $49. 

Everlane Day Glove Flats

While I’m a huge fan of my Mansur Gavriel flats , I usually opt for Everlane's Day Gloves when I'm traveling because they’re just so comfortable and sleek. Praised for their buttery soft leather, the shoes mold to your feet for easy movement and endless support. I can take on a full day of walking wearing them. The rubber soles create a solid foundation and provide grippy traction on uneven and slick surfaces.

Made in an Italian factory, they come in 13 colors and sizes from 5 to 11, with the option for narrow or comfort width. I own several colors and rotate them when traveling. Plus, they hardly take up any room in my suitcase, which is always a win if you're a carry-on-only traveler, and can help spruce up professional outfits like the PrettyGarden vest and wide-leg pants , or make laidback styles like the Duer trucker jacket , matching pants , and Minnow sweater dressier.  

Their comfort is hard to match, but Amazon shoppers assure that the Trary Mary Jane Flats are another supportive option (and they're only $35). You can also get the Square-Toe Ankle Strap Ballet Flats , which are teacher-approved , from DreamPairs for $33. Knit flat fans can score the popular Frank Mully Pointed-Toe Flats for $36 thanks to a limited-time deal.

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The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo

An in-depth look into the city’s hottest shopping areas and secondhand stores

If you are looking for some guidance to help elevate your thrift game in Tokyo, you have come to the right place!

Tokyo is a dynamic playground for fashion lovers—a place where high-end avenues lined with designer brands meet narrow alleyways packed with niche boutiques. Here, you will find an eclectic range of styles, from punk to goth to lolita to American and European vintage to timeless elegance. Unsurprisingly, this mix of mainstream and experimental fashion makes for an exciting thrifting experience. You never know what you will find!

In the guide below, we will introduce Tokyo’s most popular thrifting areas and chains, as well as relevant information about typical clothing styles, store locations, and pricing. Be sure to pack light! You are sure to have quite the thrift haul.

Tokyo’s best areas for thrifting

Shimokitazawa.

An article about thrifting in Tokyo would be incomplete without mentioning the trendy neighborhood of Shimokitazawa. Located outside the busyness of central Tokyo, this laidback area is synonymous with vintage clothing stores, hip cafes, small independent shops, and live music venues. The neighborhood’s collection of small streets and alleys create an inviting place where creative people and those appreciative of the bohemian way of life gather. More than just a clothes thrifting hotspot, Shimokitazawa is a treasure trove of all things secondhand, including books, dishware, and vinyls.

• Don't miss : Stick Out , a used clothing and accessories store where everything costs ¥800!
• Location : Shimokitazawa is a neighborhood in Setagaya. Shimo-Kitazawa Station is about a three-minute train ride from Shibuya Station on the Inokashira Line and a 10-minute train ride from Shinjuku Station on the Odakyu Line.

Koenji is an artsy hub where alternative music, discount shopping, bars, restaurants, and alternative youth culture thrive. In fact, Koenji has long served as a venue for punk rock music and is still home to numerous “live houses,” or live music clubs. This music scene, coupled with the area’s retro atmosphere, gives it an air of coolness. In terms of thrifting, the district features numerous shotengai (covered shopping streets) and alleys filled with unique vintage clothing stores.

• Don't miss : Hayatochiri , a store with a monster face facade that sells quirky and colorful fashion items, and Whistler , an American vintage store that specializes in clothes from the 1940s and 60s.
• Location : Koenji is a district in Suginami and is about a 10-minute train ride from Shinjuku Station on the JR Chuo-Sobu Line or JR Chuo Line.

Harajuku is one of Tokyo’s epicenters for youth fashion. The colorful and perpetually busy Takeshita Street is the heart of cosplay, anime, and kawaii (cute) culture and is lined with chic shops, secondhand clothes stores, Instagram-worthy foods (especially crepes), and quirky eateries. The nearby Cat Street, an alley that runs between Harajuku and the area around Shibuya Station, is also a notable destination abundant in fashion boutiques, secondhand clothing, cafes, and eateries. However, unlike the flamboyance of Takeshita Street, Cat Street has a more low-key atmosphere. Omotesando, a tree-lined avenue home to brand name stores, cafes, and restaurants, offers a more refined shopping experience for older visitors.

• Don't miss : BerBerJin , which is known for its vintage flannels, sweatshirts, jerseys, and denim.
• Location : Harajuku, located in Shibuya, is nestled between Shibuya and Shinjuku Station. Harajuku Station is a two-minute train ride from Shibuya Station and a four-minute train ride from Shinjuku Station on the JR Yamanote Line.

Kichijoji is often hailed as one of Tokyo’s best places to live. This stylish neighborhood effortlessly balances urban life with nature. Here, you can unwind in the picturesque setting of Inokashira Park or explore the whimsical Ghibli Museum. For shopping and dining experiences, the area has no shortage of options, from shotengai (covered shopping streets) and vintage clothing stores to lantern-illuminated bars (Harmonica Yokocho Alley) and cozy cafes.

• Don't miss : Nico , a secondhand clothing shop open until 11pm that sells on-trend clothing from Europe and the US, and Amber Lion , a secondhand apparel store that sells American casual wear from the 1970s and 80s.
• Location : Kichijoji is a neighborhood in western Tokyo’s Mitaka City. Kichijoji Station is about an 18-minute train ride from Shibuya Station (Inokashira Line), a 15-minute train ride from Shinjuku Station (JR Chuo Line), and a 13-minute train ride from Shimokitazawa Station (Inokashira Line).

Shinjuku and Shibuya

We also want to give shoutouts to Shinjuku and Shibuya, both of which are extremely popular wards in Tokyo. Shibuya stands as the epicenter of modern Japanese culture and is a hub for fashionistas and creative types. In Shinjuku and Shibuya, the shopping and dining opportunities are endless, and at night, the areas’ come to life with their bars and nightclubs. Thanks to the wards’ constant happenings and mixing of cultures, you are bound to find some interesting shops!

• Location : Shibuya and Shinjuku are located directly next to each other and are slightly west of central Tokyo.

Popular thrift store chains in Tokyo

Below is a list of Tokyo’s most popular thrift store chains from least to most expensive. Please note that the pricing estimates are based on average prices store-wide for all products (clothes, accessories, shoes, etc.). Outliers may exist. For the purposes of this guide, prices are represented as follows.

• ¥ : cheap
• ¥¥ : medium
• ¥¥¥ : expensive

Of course, pricing is dependent on the quality of the goods and brands, so although some stores are ranked as “expensive,” the prices are still reasonable given the offerings.

Tanpopo House (¥)

Tanpopo House , founded in 1889, is renowned for its extremely cheap prices, with some items starting as low as ¥105! Each store has an assortment of approximately 20,000 items, including clothes, shoes, bags, and accessories for men, women, and children. Typically, the more expensive items are located near the cash register. Presently, the company has 12 stores in Tokyo, including branches in Shinjuku, Koenji, and Ueno (Taito).

MODE-OFF (¥)

MODE-OFF is an apparel brand from the HARD-OFF Group, a company that focuses on selling recycled and secondhand goods—from furniture and other house-related items (HOUSE-OFF) to liquor (LIQUOR-OFF) to electronics and instruments (HARD-OFF). MODE-OFF is known for its inexpensive clothing, bags, shoes, and accessories for men and women. The store is less focused on trend-driven items and more so aims to sell things for cheap. MODE-OFF has locations in Kichijoji, Koenji, and Ueno (Taito), among others.

BAZZSTORE (¥ ~ ¥¥)

BAZZSTORE offers a wide range of domestic and foreign brands, as well as non-brand fashion goods, including clothing, bags, watches, shoes, and accessories. Most items fall within the ¥1,000 to ¥5,000 range. However, popular brands can be more pricey. Given its mix of used clothing, BAZZSTORE is a great place for thrifters to find inexpensive deals and affordably priced brands. BAZZSTORE has 14 stores in Tokyo, with some branches in Shimokitazawa, Harajuku, Koenji, and Ikebukuro.

KINJI (¥ ~ ¥¥)

KINJI is a beloved thrift store popular for its huge selection of trendy items, including contemporary and vintage clothes, accessories, and bags. Prices are reasonable and generally between ¥2,000 and ¥5,000. Though sometimes you can find pieces for as low as a couple hundred yen! KINJI has two locations in Harajuku, one in Shimokitazawa, and one in Machida City (western Tokyo).

NEW YORK JOE EXCHANGE (¥¥)

NEW YORK JOE EXCHANGE sells imported (primarily American and European) and domestic secondhand clothing, including branded and non-branded items. Most products in the store are less than ¥10,000, with the average price being between ¥2,000 and ¥3,000. Also, all items are 50% off every first Sunday of the month! NEW YORK JOE EXCHANGE has locations in Shimokitazawa, Kichijoji, and Shibuya.

TreFacStyle (¥¥)

TreFacStyle , short for Treasure Factory Style, is a fashion brand of Treasure Factory, a general recycling shop that sells a variety of goods, including home appliances, outdoorsy items, musical instruments, and more. TreFacStyle offers a wide mix of contemporary designer and non-designer clothing, accessories, and handbags. Most goods are priced between ¥4,000 and ¥9,000. Brand name items can be more expensive and non-designer items can be as low as ¥1,000 to ¥2,000. TreFacStyle has 37 stores in Tokyo, including popular branches in Kichijoji, Koenji, and Shimokitazawa.

2nd STREET (¥¥)

2nd STREET is one of Japan’s largest secondhand chains, with more than 800 stores nationwide, and sells a mix of Japanese brands, foreign brands, and non-branded items. Here, you can find everything from high quality designer brands to vintage items to trendy clothes, shoes, and accessories. Expect prices between ¥4,000 and ¥10,000. 2nd STREET has nine different store types, three of which focus on fashion—Apparel Reuse (fashion items at affordable prices), Used Select (carefully-selected fashion items, mainly brand names), and Brand Speciality Store (luxury brands). 2nd STREET has 62 stores in Tokyo, including locations in Shimokitazawa, Kichijoji, Koenji, Shibuya, Shinjuku, Harajuku, and Ikebukuro.

Chicago (¥¥)

Chicago offers an intriguing blend of Japanese, American, and European clothing and related goods at reasonable prices. One of Chicago’s most unique points is its collection of secondhand kimono , yukata (summer kimono), and kimono accessories. Chicago has three stores in Harajuku, one in Shimokitazawa, and one in Kichijoji.

JAM (¥¥)

JAM sells a wide range of high quality vintage fashion, including brand names such as Levi’s, Dr. Martens, and Ralph Lauren. The store is known for keeping up with current fashion trends, and prices typically range from ¥4,000 to ¥11,000. There are a number of brand items priced outside this range as well. JAM has stores in Shimokitazawa, Harajuku, and Shibuya (Meiji Dori).

Flamingo (¥¥)

Visually characterized by the neon-lit flamingos by its entrance, Flamingo is a popular American vintage clothes store. In fact, the majority of the store’s stock is imported from the US (and sometimes Europe). Available items include women’s and men’s clothing, as well as accessories. The store focuses on clothing from the 1950s to 90s, giving it old school Americana vibes. Most items are priced between ¥3,000 and ¥7,000. Flamingo has four stores in Tokyo—Omotesando (Shibuya), Harajuku, Kichijoji, and Shimokitazawa.

RagTag (¥¥ ~ ¥¥¥)

RagTag specializes in secondhand designer clothing, handbags, shoes, accessories, and more. Here, you can peruse brands such as HERMES, CHANEL, LOUIS VUITTON, GUCCI, PRADA, and more for discounted amounts. A large portion of RagTag’s items fall within the ¥1,000 to ¥30,000 range. However, high-end brands can be priced much higher. RagTag has locations in Shibuya, Shinjuku, Shimokitazawa, Harajuku, Kichijoji, and Ginza.

KOMEHYO (¥¥¥)

Similar to RagTag, KOMEHYO sells carefully selected designer clothing, bags, jewelry, watches, and more for reduced prices. However, given the high status brands, the prices can still be quite expensive. KOMEHYO’s most popular branches are located in Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ginza, and Aoyama (Minato).

Happy thrifting!

Of course, this guide is far from exhaustive as Tokyo has plenty of other areas and shops where you can find secondhand clothing and fashion items. As a bonus, we also recommend researching if there will be any flea markets held during your visit.

Have fun, and embrace your creative eye in Tokyo!

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By Veronica Carnevale

Japan Travel Staff

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I've traveled to 9 out of 10 countries in Southeast Asia. Here are the 5 biggest mistakes I made along the way.

• I've traveled solo to nine countries in Southeast Asia.
• I've made many mistakes, from traveling during monsoon season to forgetting to bring enough cash.
• Travelers should make sure they plan ahead and research each country's culture.

Over the last two years, my journey as a travel enthusiast and Business Insider's travel reporter in Singapore has brought me to almost every country in Southeast Asia.

In total, there are 10 countries in Southeast Asia , and I've traveled to nine of them — Singapore, Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, Cambodia, Laos, and Brunei. Myanmar remains the only country in the region I have not visited, and while I am keen to explore it, I have held off on visiting because of the country's ongoing civil war.

I've watched the sun rise in Angkor Wat in Cambodia and cared for elephants in Chiang Mai, Thailand. I've explored the Bornean jungle in Brunei and crawled the Cu Chi Tunnels in southern Vietnam.

But it hasn't always been easy. I've made several mistakes traveling across the region , especially as a solo traveler. Here are five mistakes I made and how to avoid them.

1. Going during monsoon season and not planning for the weather.

In July, I traveled to Thailand on a reporting trip to cover the budding cannabis industry . There, I was met with heavy rain nearly every day. In Bangkok, I was staying in a hostel in Chakkrawat , a district with narrow, meandering streets, which made it difficult to walk anywhere in the pouring rain.

I didn't plan for the weather, so I didn't have an umbrella or poncho with me and had to rush to get one at the last minute. I also had a packed itinerary with a lot of travel between meetings, which was a hassle in the constant downpour.

Before traveling to Southeast Asia, make sure to avoid two seasons — the monsoon season, which often comes with strong typhoons in countries like the Philippines, and the burning season, where farmers burn land for fertile soil. This is a common occurrence in countries like Laos, Thailand, and the island of Borneo, which is shared between Brunei, Indonesia, and Malaysia.

When I traveled to Laos in April last year during the burning season , most of my plans — including a hot air balloon ride — were canceled because of the thick smog. I also didn't have an N95 mask with me, and I ended up with a sore throat.

If you do plan to come during these seasons, make sure to pack accordingly and plan a flexible schedule.

2. Traveling during Ramadan and expecting the same practices everywhere.

Having grown up in Singapore, I'm familiar with the practices during Ramadan , the holy month for Muslims, where they fast for most of the day. I studied Malay for seven years, and in school, I often fasted with my Muslim classmates and ate only in private.

Still, in many cities in Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia , non-Muslims are free to dine in public, so long as they do so respectfully. But on my trip to Brunei in April — at the height of the burning season and in the middle of Ramadan — there were more practices I needed to observe.

Most restaurants were closed, and diners weren't allowed to eat there even if they were open — only take-out was allowed. Eating in public was a major faux pas even for non-Muslims, and if you want to drink some water, you can only do so when nobody is around.

It wasn't easy, especially as Brunei was sweltering at 100 degrees Fahrenheit on some days. I made do by returning to the hotel for lunch and grabbing a big dinner with the locals at the night market after they had broken their fast.

3. Not packing enough modest outfits when visiting temples and mosques.

Southeast Asia is pretty liberal, and you can wear whatever you want in many places. In popular destinations like Phuket, Thailand, and Bali, Indonesia, lots of tourists walk around in bikini tops and shorts, and locals mostly tolerate it.

But there are certain places you do need to cover up, like places of worship, which include temples and mosques. When I visited Angkor Wat — the famed temple complex in Cambodia — in February last year, I found some tourists being told off by the local tour guides for wearing shorts and tank tops — "Tomb Raider" style.

I've learned to err on the right side of caution and bring a sarong wherever I go. It's an easy way to cover up and make an outfit more modest when you need to.

4. Forgetting to pack medication, especially when I plan to eat street food.

Southeast Asia has some of the world's most flavorful food. In every country, you can find food that is cheap and delicious, and that includes Singapore , the world's most expensive city. In countries like Malaysia and Vietnam, street food dishes can cost as little as a dollar.

I eat mostly street food when I travel in Southeast Asia, so medicine for tummy-related illnesses is a must. I've only gotten sick twice from eating street food — and it was the same dish both times— and unfortunately, those were the few times I didn't have medicine with me.

I'm a pretty adventurous eater. I've eaten everything from pufferfish stew to frog porridge and dishes made with intestines off the street. I've learned to wash the utensils provided before digging in and make sure the food is cooked to order and heated up before being served.

5. Relying on my card and not bringing enough cash with me.

In Singapore, I don't really use cash and often use Apple Pay, mobile payments, and cards. But I've found that many stores in other countries in Southeast Asia only accept cash.

For example, on my third trip to Vietnam, I spent an hour trying to make payment via bank transfer after the staff at a luxury perfume shop — which was selling items priced upwards of $200 — informed me at the last minute that they didn't accept card or contactless payment.

I've also found the majority of street vendors in the region only accept mobile payment — which is limited to local banks — or cash. I've learned to change a considerable amount of money before leaving the airport and keep whatever I didn't use for my next trip.

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Riding in Style on Japanese Trains

Luxurious rail cars offer countryside views with a range of cultural itineraries and budgets.

By Vivian Morelli

Reporting from Tokyo

Japan’s public transportation is known for its punctuality, efficiency and high-quality service, which means train travel is a great way to see the countryside and to experience Japanese culture — even if you’re squeezed into Tokyo’s crowded Yamanote line at rush hour or experiencing the popular high-speed Shinkansen bullet train .

But many savvy visitors crisscross the country in another way, using luxury trains that resemble five-star hotels on rails.

Luxury rail travel appeals to “someone who wants slow travel, the experience of excellent service in a contained environment, the finest dining, the most exquisite accommodation with private bathrooms,” Simon Pielow, co-founder of the Luxury Train Club , said by phone from Wiltshire County, England. “Things that many people have no idea is possible on anything other than a royal train.”

One trip chartered by his agency starts and ends at Hakata station in the city of Fukuoka, crossing the southern Japanese island of Kyushu on the Seven Stars , a seven-car luxury sleeper train. Journeys for either two days and one night (per person, double occupancy) range from 650,000 to 900,000 yen (about $4,292 to $5,942), or four days and three nights from ¥1.2 million to ¥1.6 million. (A single supplement would apply.)

“The train is very much sought-after because of the quality of the service on the train and its exclusivity,” Mr. Pielow said. “The people who come to us are desperate to travel on the train.”

With limited space, most would-be travelers need to apply several months in advance.

The Seven Stars, or Nanatsuboshi in Japanese, was named in part after the number of its carriages, in part after the seven prefectures of Kyushu: Fukuoka, Saga, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, Oita, Miyazaki and Kagoshima, and for seven of the main attractions of the region, including its nature, food and hot springs. (Other stars have been known to ride these rails: The actress and producer Margot Robbie told Vogue last year that she and her husband had traveled to Japan in part to ride the Seven Stars.)

The train consists of a lounge car, a bar, a tatami-mat tearoom and a souvenir shop, as well as eight 108-square-foot private rooms and two larger suites, the biggest measuring 226 square feet.

Guests don’t necessarily have to spend all their time on board. They can also get off to participate in activities such as a guided walk along the Wakimoto coast, a seaside area of Kagoshima Prefecture, that lasts about an hour.

Meals can be consumed aboard the train or at restaurants along the way, and one night can be spent in a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn.

So how does that work on a train? Some stops last an hour or more, enough time for guest excursions. But often, the train will keep rolling and pick up the guests at a later station.

But there also are other luxury trains in Japan. (Seven Stars and the Shiki-Shima, detailed below, can be booked from overseas. The others listed here must be booked from within Japan.)

The Twilight Express Mizukaze is an Art Deco-inspired sleeper train decorated from traditional crafts such as pottery and cut glass. Onboard entertainment includes a tea ceremony, live music and a signature cocktail from the bar. Five routes are offered, including a two-day, one night one-way trip and a three-day, two-night round trip. A suite includes a private balcony and bathroom with a tub at ¥875,000 for a shorter journey and ¥1.4 million for a longer one. A “royal” twin room with windows on both sides of the car was recently listed at ¥385,000 per person, double occupancy.

The Aru Ressha is known as a “dessert train” that runs between Hakata and Yufuin in Kyushu. The one-way, three-hour itinerary is just enough time to indulge in appetizer, fish, meat and dessert courses for ¥35,000 per person. The train is decorated with black and gold arabesques on the outside and baroque styling inside.

The Spacia X offers a more budget-minded luxury experience. This six-carriage train equipped with plush sofas and private lounges links Tokyo to Nikko, a picturesque city in Tochigi Prefecture. Simran Nagra, a 33-year-old Canadian actuary who lives in Tokyo, used the train for a two-hour, ¥3,840 trip in July to the hot springs resort of Kinugawa Onsen. “I was really excited to ride it because it’s a luxury train, but has very affordable pricing,” she said. “The windows are huge and hexagonal, to highlight the views,” she said, and the cafe car featured Nikko specialties including craft beer on tap, two types of sake and locally sourced coffee.

GranClass was the choice out of necessity for the Australian journalist Jake Sturmer, 35, and his wife, Rachel, in 2018. “We had just moved to Japan, some friends invited us on a trip, and the only seat available for us to travel was on GranClass,” he said, referring to the first-class cabin on the Shinkansen. “What a luxury it was,” he said, mentioning the large, cushy seats, the hot towels to cleanse hands and faces, and bento boxes they were served during a two-hour ride from Tokyo to Iiyama in Nagano Prefecture.

The Train Suite Shiki-Shima was created to contribute to the recovery from the 2011 earthquake and tsunami in northern Japan.

Riders can choose from four seasonal routes lasting from one to three nights and departing from Tokyo. One goes northward along the Sea of Japan to Hakodate and the Upopoy National Ainu Museum and Park in Hokkaido Prefecture. Another is a wintertime itinerary through the snowy Tohoku region, where guests will get off the train to view traditional dancing and participate in woodwork or sewing workshops with local artisans. Prices range from ¥420,000 to ¥1.3 million per person, based on double occupancy in a sleeper car.

Shinobu Ohashi, 34, a paper-cutting artist who lives and works in Saitama, Japan, used the Shiki-Shima in December 2020 and April 2022. “I wanted to experience the design of the Shiki-Shima train, which I had seen on TV and in magazines, and the hospitality provided,” she wrote in an email.

The attention to detail impressed her: “When my companion complimented the garnishes that were offered only to the women on the dishes,” she said, “he was then also brought the same ones. We were both surprised.”

During one trip the cherry blossoms in Hakodate were in full bloom, she said: “We were taken to a cherry blossom viewing spot that was not on the trip schedule.”

The train has special meaning for her. “I am from the Tohoku region, from Fukushima Prefecture,” she said. “Even though a lot of time has passed since the March 11, 2011, earthquake and tsunami in Japan, I believe that Shiki-Shima is a reassuring presence.”

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Golden Week travel plans near pre-pandemic levels as overseas bookings surge

An estimated 23.3 million people in Japan are expected to travel during the Golden Week holidays, marking a robust resurgence to 90% of pre-pandemic levels, according to survey results from travel agency JTB.

Conducted online in early March, JTB's preliminary survey reached 10,000 respondents nationwide, spanning ages 15 to 79.

Among the findings, 2,060 respondents expressed an intent to travel, with a total of 23.32 million people traveling for stays of one night or longer between April 25 and May 5 either domestically or internationally, a 1.8% increase from the same period a year before.

Overseas travel is poised to witness a surge, with an estimated 520,000 travelers, reflecting a 67.7% increase from 2023. JTB reports international travel bookings soaring to 225% of 2023 figures.

Proximity plays a pivotal role for international traveler’s destination choices, with South Korea, Taiwan, and Southeast Asia seeing heightened popularity. JTB attributes this pattern to the yen's depreciation.

The average cost of overseas travel stands at ¥269,000, marking a 4.7% increase from 2023. Exchange rate anxieties were voiced by 44% of international travelers.

A total of 22.8 million individuals are expected to travel domestically, mirroring figures from the prior year. Travel destination preferences were more varied compared to 2023, with a rise in rail and air travel. Nonetheless, 55.3% of respondents cited their primary mode of transport for their trip to be their own car, indicating a penchant for more local travel spots.

Rising prices have cast a shadow over domestic travel expenses, with the average planned expenditure at ¥36,100, marking a 3.7% upturn from 2023. Concerns over high prices were voiced by 36.1% of respondents, while 31.8%, particularly among older demographics, expressed apprehension toward overcrowding of tourist areas, fueled by an influx of overseas visitors.

For many respondents, Golden Week journeys symbolize opportunities for family time (31.7%), relaxation (28.9%), and culinary exploration (28.5%).

For those against traveling during Golden Week, 47.2% of respondents cited overcrowding, a 4.7-point surge from 2023. Economic concerns were also highlighted in the survey, with 33.7% deeming Golden Week travel too expensive, while 24% faced constraints due to family budgets.

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