Japan Packing List: What to Bring (and What to Leave)

Last reviewed: October 27, 2026 · Prices are approximate and for orientation only.

Essentials

• Passport (and visa if needed), printed or saved accommodation details.
• Credit/debit cards plus a backup; some cash in yen.
• Travel insurance details.
• Phone, charger and a power bank (note airline rules on carrying power banks).
• A coin purse.

Power and electronics

Japan uses 100 volts with Type A (two flat-pin) sockets, like North America but at lower voltage. Eastern Japan runs at 50 Hz and western Japan at 60 Hz. Most phone and laptop chargers are dual-voltage; check high-wattage items like hair dryers. Many sockets don't accept three-pin plugs, so bring an adapter.

Clothing

• Comfortable walking shoes that slip on and off easily — you'll remove them often.
• Socks without holes (really — you'll be showing them).
• Layers: trains and shops are heavily air-conditioned in summer and heated in winter.
• Modest clothing for temples.

By season

• Spring/autumn: light jacket, layers.
• Summer: breathable clothes, hat, sunscreen, a small towel (tenugui), a portable fan, rain gear for the rainy season.
• Winter: warm coat, hat, gloves; heat packs (kairo) are sold cheaply in convenience stores. Grippy boots for Hokkaido or the Alps.

Medicine and toiletries

Bring enough prescription medication for your trip in original packaging with a copy of your prescription, and check Japan's rules on restricted medicines. Pharmacies are plentiful but brands differ. Toiletries are easily bought; hotels typically provide toothbrushes, shampoo and pyjamas.

Pack light

Stations have stairs, trains have limited luggage space, and hotel rooms are small. A medium suitcase or a backpack makes life easier. Use luggage forwarding between hotels or coin lockers at stations for day trips. Note the oversized-luggage reservation rule on the Tokaido Shinkansen.

Leave at home

• Excessive cash — ATMs are easy to find.
• Medications that are prohibited in Japan.
• Bulky towels — accommodation provides them (bring a small one for public restrooms, which don't always have paper towels).