Ultimate Japan Travel Checklist: What to Bring, Buy, and Book

Ready to visit Japan? As one of the top travel destinations in the world, with a rich history, culture, and landscapes, there's a lot to see and do during your stay. Making the most of your trip can be exciting, if not a little daunting, especially for first-time visitors. 

You might be asking yourself what to take with you, what you should spend your money on, and what experiences or activities to book. To help you prepare and to help make your trip memorable and as hassle-free as international travel can be, we've put together the ultimate Japan travel checklist.

While there are a few things to keep on top of, after a bit of preparation, all that's left to do is explore the beauty of Japan and what it has to offer.

Passport and visa: Starting with the essentials, you’ll need to ensure you have a valid passport and the necessary visas to enter Japan.

Flights: The sure way of making your trip a reality is by booking flights to get there! While most major airlines fly to both Narita and Haneda, consider flying to Haneda Airport for a convenient starting point closer to downtown Tokyo.

Japan Rail Pass: We highly recommend buying a Japan Rail Pass for most visitors planning to move through different cities and prefectures. This pass allows unlimited travel on most JR trains, including the bullet train, within the validity period. You can purchase one of these online before entering Japan or after you arrive. Other passes for particular regions such as Kyushu Pass and Tohoku Pass exist.

Travel Insurance: This one is important to ensure you’re covered for possible travel incidents, from luggage loss to physical injury/ accidents, especially if you’re planning for adventure. You’ll need to book insurance before you arrive in Japan, giving you peace of mind during your trip.

Accommodation: From budget hostels and business hotels to traditional Japanese ryokan inns and luxury hotels, many accommodation options cater to your needs. Book your hotel in advance, especially if traveling during peak season. For some tips on what and where to book, we’ve got you covered:

• Japan’s Art Islands and Where to Stay
• The Best Hotels in Osaka for under $150
• The Best Hotels in Japan for Under $150
• Japan's Best Design Hotels
• 7 Hotels in Tokyo with Amazing Views
• A Guide to Tokyo’s Best Capsule Hotels
• 7 Best Hotels Near Tokyo Station

Experiences: Given the popularity of certain attractions and tours, it’s worth getting an advance booking to secure your spot. For ideas, from amusement parks, cultural activities, and more, see the Rakuten Travel Experiences available in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and Okinawa.

Credit cards and cash: Access to an international travel wallet or credit card can make withdrawals and payments a lot easier. While most metropolitan areas accept credit cards, locations such as small family-owned restaurants or temples might only accept cash. So it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases and in case of emergencies.

Electric adapter and power bank/mobile battery: Japan has different power outlets than many other countries, so be sure to bring a travel adapter (or grab one at the airport) to charge your electronic devices. While you’re on the go, a mobile battery will help ensure you don’t run out of juice when you need to check for locations or translations. 

Camera: Don’t forget this one! Take a camera with you to capture all the beautiful landscapes, places, and moments you’ll be sure to see or experience on your trip. Of course, you can also buy a camera once you arrive too. 

Comfortable walking shoes: With all the shrines, nature spots, and cultural destinations to explore, you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking during your trip. It’s worth having a pair of comfortable shoes you can wear all day. If you plan on hiking, which is worthwhile given the abundance of magnificent mountains in Japan, bring a pair of hiking shoes with you as well. 

Right clothes (and layers) for the weather: The temperature and climate vary quite significantly across Japan’s four seasons. Here are some suggestions; lightweight clothing to keep you cool and comfortable during the hot and humid summer; layers that can be added or removed during spring and autumn; and warm insulated clothing for the cooler winter months. 

Japanese phrasebook or translator app: While there are certainly staff, guides, and locals who can speak English, it’s best not to assume that everyone can. If you’re a first-time visitor or don’t know much Japanese, it’s worth learning a few handy phrases (especially for directions or emergencies) to get by.

Suitcase space: Although it’s easy to overpack when you’re trying to ensure you have everything you need, it’s a good idea to leave some suitcase space so you have room for souvenirs on the way back!

While you’re traveling, you’ll most likely spot more than a few things you’ll want to purchase to take home with you as a keepsake or to gift to others. In fact, it’s common in Japanese culture to buy omiyage (souvenirs) for friends, family, and colleagues when you travel. 

We recommend looking at unique and high-quality souvenirs that you can only buy in Japan, such as traditional textiles, and ceramics, as well as unmistakable snacks or drinks. 

• Omamori: These small good luck charms are sold at many temples and shrines. 
• Snacks and candy: Some popular options include Pocky, Kit-Kats in unusual flavors, and rice crackers (of course there are many more, but they’ll need to be dry or packaged to take on the plane). 
• Cosmetics and skincare: Try out some of the best skincare products produced in Japan. 
• Japanese Tea: You can find high-quality Japanese tea including green tea, matcha, and roasted houjicha tea at specialty shops and department stores.
• Alcohol: Try some rice wine sake as well as distilled shochu and whisky, and pick out a bottle or two to take back with you. 

We recommend purchasing heavier items, such as sake bottles or ceramics, toward the end of your trip to save you carrying things around for most of your trip. There’s also the option of shipping things back if it comes down to it. 

Restaurants: From kaiseki course meals, teppanyaki grilled meat, fine dining sushi and everything in between, Japan is known for its amazing cuisine. It’ll be worth making reservations for popular restaurants in advance.

Language Lessons: Learning some basic Japanese phrases can make your trip much more enjoyable and allow you to communicate more effectively with locals. Consider booking a language lesson or downloading a language-learning app before your trip.

Admission to Museums and Galleries: We recommend booking popular attractions such as  teamLab Planets Tokyo or Ghibli Museum ahead of time so that you don’t miss out.

For inspiration and local tips, explore and bookmark some of our itineraries and guides, like 3-Day Kanazawa Itinerary for First-Timers, Best Things to Do in Yokohama, and The Best Osaka Day Trips.