Essential Japan Travel Checklist

Before You Leave the U.S.

Passport & Immigration

  • Passport valid for at least 6 months

  • Take photos/screenshots of:

    • Passport

    • Driver’s license

    • Travel insurance

    • Flight confirmations

    • Hotel confirmations

  • Fill out Visit Japan Web before departure:
    https://www.vjw.digital.go.jp

  • Save your immigration QR codes as screenshots on your phone

Phone, Internet & Navigation

Download Before Leaving

  • Google Maps

  • Google Translate

  • GO Taxi App

  • Apple Maps backup (if using iPhone)

Download Offline Google Maps

Download maps for:

  • Tokyo

  • Kyoto

  • Osaka

  • Any rural areas you may visit

This helps if your signal drops underground or in crowded stations.

Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspot (Since Your Phones Are Locked)

Instead of unlocking your phones for eSIM use, rent or buy a portable Wi-Fi hotspot.

Popular Japan options:

Look for:

  • Unlimited data

  • Pickup at airport

  • Strong battery life

Bring:

  • Portable battery pack

  • Charging cable for hotspot

Money & Payments

Essential Money Tips

  • Bring at least $500 USD worth of Japanese Yen before arrival

  • Japan still uses cash often

  • Many shrines, temples, and small restaurants are cash-only

Important:

  • Know your debit card PIN

  • Notify your bank you are traveling

  • Bring:

    • Primary credit card

    • Backup credit card

    • Debit card

ATM Tip

When withdrawing money:

  • Always select Japanese Yen

  • Do NOT convert to USD at the ATM

Transportation Essentials

Get an IC Transit Card

Use:

  • Suica

  • Welcome Suica

  • Pasmo

These work for:

  • Trains

  • Subways

  • Buses

  • Convenience stores

  • Vending machines

Train Tip

Stay near JR Yamanote Line stations in Tokyo if possible.

Luggage & Packing

Pack Lighter Than You Think

Japan involves:

  • Lots of stairs

  • Long walks

  • Crowded trains

Bring:

  • One carry-on suitcase if possible

  • Comfortable backpack

  • Lightweight day bag

Buy a Coin Pouch

Japan still uses lots of coins:

  • 1 yen

  • 5 yen

  • 10 yen

  • 100 yen

  • 500 yen

A small zipper coin pouch becomes surprisingly useful.

Shoes & Clothing

Most Important Item: Shoes

You may walk:
20,000–30,000 steps per day.

Recommended:

  • HOKA

  • ASICS

  • On shoes

Clothing Tips

  • Dress in layers

  • Lightweight breathable clothing for summer

  • Pack less and do laundry there if possible

Hotels with washing machines are extremely helpful.

Hygiene & Health

Carry daily:

  • Small hand towel

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Tissues

  • Lip balm

  • Sunscreen

  • Mosquito repellent

Many public bathrooms:

  • Do not have soap

  • Do not have paper towels

Power & Charging Essentials

Bring:

  • Portable battery bank

  • Extra charging cables

  • Wall charger with multiple USB ports

Japan uses:

  • Type A plugs (same as U.S.)

  • 100V power

Most modern chargers work fine.

Shopping & Convenience

Convenience Stores Are Amazing

Use:

  • 7-Eleven

  • Lawson

  • FamilyMart

Great for:

  • Snacks

  • ATM access

  • Breakfast

  • Coffee

  • Quick meals

Shopping Tip

Do NOT wait until the last day for shopping.

Places like:

  • Akihabara

  • Don Quijote
    can become overwhelming quickly.

Cultural Tips That Save Stress

Trash Cans Are Rare

Carry a small plastic bag for trash.

Don’t Walk While Eating

Usually considered rude.

Onsen Rules

  • Shower before entering

  • No swimsuits

  • Gender-separated bathing areas

Airport Arrival Tips

After landing:

  • Use immigration QR code screenshots

  • Pick up Wi-Fi hotspot immediately

  • Withdraw additional yen if needed

  • Buy water/snacks at convenience stores

  • Get your IC transit card early

Final “Don’t Forget” Essentials

  • Passport

  • Immigration QR codes

  • Credit cards + debit card

  • Debit card PIN

  • Portable charger

  • Charging cables

  • Coin pouch

  • Comfortable shoes

  • Hand towel

  • Wi-Fi hotspot

  • Google Maps offline downloads

  • GO Taxi App

  • Google Translate

  • Small backpack

  • Yen cash

  • Medications checked for legality in Japan