“What Should I Buy and Pack Before Traveling to Japan?”

One of the most common questions I get from travelers is: “What should I pack for Japan?” Here’s the truth – Japan is relatively affordable right now, and with the weak yen, buying things locally is often cheaper than bringing everything with you.

That said, there are a few essentials you should definitely pack before your trip.

Essential Items to Pack

1. Power Adapter (Type A or B)

Japan uses Type A or B plugs, similar to those in the US and Canada. If your country uses different plugs (like the UK or Europe), you’ll need an adapter.

Good news: Japan’s voltage is 100V, but most modern devices like phone chargers and laptops are compatible worldwide. Just check the label on your charger – if it says “100-240V,” you’re good to go!

2. Medications

This is probably the most important thing to pack. Bring any medications you might need because:

• Some over-the-counter medicines from your country may not be available in Japan
• Some might require a prescription here
• Language barriers can make buying medicine confusing

Pro tip: If you get motion sickness, definitely pack some pills! While Japan’s roads are generally smooth, many scenic areas – especially near mountains – have winding roads that can cause discomfort. Trust me, you don’t want to feel sick on your way to see Mount Fuji!

3. Comfortable Walking Shoes

You will walk a lot in Japan. I mean, A LOT. On a typical sightseeing day, you might walk 15,000-20,000 steps easily. From navigating train stations to exploring temples and shopping districts, your feet will be working hard.

Important note: Japan offers high-quality, affordable shoes, BUT finding sizes over 28cm (US size 10.5 / UK size 10) can be very difficult. If your shoe size is larger than this, definitely bring shoes from home.

What You Can Buy in Japan

Here’s what you don’t need to pack because it’s easy and affordable to buy here:

Toiletries

Japanese convenience stores (konbini) sell excellent toiletries 24/7:

• Shampoo, conditioner, body wash
• Skincare products (Japanese skincare is famous for a reason!)
• Toothbrushes and toothpaste
• Razors and shaving cream

Clothing

If you forget something or need an extra layer:

• Uniqlo – Affordable, high-quality basics everywhere
• GU – Even cheaper than Uniqlo
• Don Quijote – Emergency clothing at discount prices

Rain Gear

Don’t bother packing an umbrella. You can buy one at any convenience store for about ¥500-1,000 when you need it.

Sunscreen

Japanese sunscreen is actually better than most Western brands – lightweight, non-greasy, and doesn’t leave white residue. Pick some up at a drugstore!

What About Electronics?

Pocket WiFi / SIM Card

You can arrange these before your trip or buy them at the airport. Both options work well:

• Pocket WiFi: Rental starts around ¥500-1,000/day
• Tourist SIM: Available at airports and major electronics stores

Portable Charger

While you can buy these in Japan, if you already own one, bring it. You’ll use your phone constantly for:

• Google Maps navigation
• Translation apps
• Taking photos
• Finding restaurants

My Packing Philosophy

Here’s my honest advice: Pack light.

Japanese hotels and ryokans often have small rooms, and you’ll be moving around a lot. There’s nothing worse than dragging a heavy suitcase through crowded train stations.

Bring only what you absolutely know you need:

• Passport and travel documents
• Power adapter
• Essential medications
• Comfortable shoes
• A few changes of clothes

If you realize you need something once you’re here, you can probably find it at:

• Convenience stores (7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart)
• 100 yen shops (Daiso, Seria, Can Do)
• Drugstores (Matsumoto Kiyoshi, Welcia)
• Don Quijote (literally everything)

Final Checklist

Must Pack:

• Passport
• Power adapter (Type A/B)
• Medications (including motion sickness pills)
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Credit/debit cards (Visa/Mastercard widely accepted)
• Some cash (Japan still uses cash more than other countries)

Optional (Can Buy in Japan):

• Toiletries
• Umbrella
• Extra clothing layers
• Sunscreen
• Pocket WiFi/SIM

Don’t Pack:

• Heavy guidebooks (use apps instead)
• Too many shoes (you only need 1-2 pairs)
• Full-size toiletries

Remember: The best souvenir from Japan is the experience, not a sore back from carrying too much luggage!

Have questions about what to pack? Follow me on YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok for more Japan travel tips!