{"id":11869,"date":"2024-06-26T13:22:24","date_gmt":"2024-06-26T12:22:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/luxurygoldbdev.wpengine.com\/?p=11869"},"modified":"2024-06-27T12:21:35","modified_gmt":"2024-06-27T11:21:35","slug":"japan-packing-list","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.luxurygold.com\/lg\/japan-packing-list\/","title":{"rendered":"The Ultimate Japan Packing List: What to Take On Your First Trip"},"content":{"rendered":"

If planning your Japan packing list is stressing you out, then you\u2019re in the right place. Our comprehensive list of what to pack for Japan will have you covered whatever the season, and whatever the weather decides to throw at you. Are you ready to visit Japan? With this packing list, you will be.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

What should I pack for 2 weeks in Japan?<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n

Shoes that are easy to slip on and off<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n

Many places in Japan require you to take off your shoes upon entry, from restaurants to temples, so having a pair of shoes that\u2019s easy to get on and off will come in very handy. If you\u2019re unsure whether you should be taking off your shoes, look out for tatami mats \u2013 if you see them, it generally means shoes off. Obviously you don\u2019t want to then be barefoot (especially in the summer if you\u2019ve been wearing sandals), so make sure you pack some small socks for these instances too. It’s a good idea to keep them in your bag as you sightsee around Japan.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Related reading: A Haven of Tranquillity: Discovering the Best Luxury Spas in Japan<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

\"Tatami<\/span><\/h3>\n

Comfortable walking shoes<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n

Tokyo was named one of the most walkable cities in the world and the number one most walkable city in Asia, so it goes without saying that a good pair of walking shoes is a Japan packing list essential. We’d recommend breaking any new pairs in before your trip.<\/span><\/p>\n

Weather dependent clothing<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n

Particularly in the shoulder seasons of spring and fall, Japanese weather can be changeable with the threat of sporadic rain showers, though these won’t be a problem if you’re adequately prepared! Obviously the clothes you pack will depend on when you’re traveling to Japan \u2013 more on that later with our Japan packing list for each season below.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Discover majestic Japan on our luxury Japan tour<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"Shibuya,<\/span><\/h3>\n

Japanese yen<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n

Our best tip is to withdraw Japanese yen once you arrive in Japan \u2013 don\u2019t get it at home as you\u2019ll get a terrible exchange rate. There are a number of ATMs in Japan; 7-11 convenience stores offer the easiest option as they\u2019re open 24 hours a day, while Japanese postal ATMs also accept most foreign cards but are only open during post office opening hours. We wouldn\u2019t wait too long to get your cash, however; Japan is a very cash-oriented society, even more so in rural areas. Though a growing number of shops and restaurants accept most credit and debit cards, you don\u2019t want to get caught out. <\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Japan<\/span><\/h3>\n

Japan rail pass<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n

If you\u2019re planning on traveling around Japan, then a <\/span>Japan Rail Pass<\/span><\/a> will be invaluable to you. It grants unlimited travel across Japan’s JR Network, including the Shinkansen bullet trains and conventional rail lines, covering over 20,000 km of rail. Not only is it convenient (no more panicking at foreign train stations), but highly cost-effective as well \u2013 a round trip between Tokyo and Kyoto costs about the same as a 7-day Japan Rail Pass, which offers unlimited travel for the same price. <\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

It\u2019s a physical ticket, so make sure you order it at least two weeks before you fly to Japan (although you can order it up to six months in advance of your trip) to allow ample shipping time. <\/span>Additionally, the Japan Rail Pass includes access to local JR buses, ferries, and the Tokyo Monorail. It also offers various discounts at hotels, shops, and museums.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

All the usuals<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n

It goes without saying that you’ll need to sort any visas, passports, and travel insurance<\/span> with plenty of time before your trip. Make sure your passport has at least six months validity from your return date, and one empty page. Travelers with U.S. passports must have visas for short-term visits (up to 90 days).<\/span><\/p>\n

What to wear in Japan<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n

Prepare for Japanese weather<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n

The weather in Japan can vary greatly as it has distinct seasons, but the weather can vary within seasons too \u2013 particularly during the spring. Here\u2019s your Japan packing essentials for each season. Your Japan packing list will depend greatly on what time of year you\u2019re traveling. To get the most out of your trip to Japan, you\u2019ll want to be appropriately dressed.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Read more: Guardians of a National Icon: Meet Japan\u2019s Cherry Blossom Doctors<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

\"Cherry<\/span><\/h4>\n

Spring (March to May)<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/h4>\n

With the cherry blossoms in full bloom and mild weather, spring is the perfect time for exploring \u2013 just make sure you pack a rain coat!<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n