Traveling to Japan with a well-planned suitcase means more comfort, better mobility, and greater peace of mind. Here’s a complete guide to help you pack according to the season, avoid common mistakes, and make the most of your time in Japan.
How many outfits should you bring?
Most hotels and ryôkan in Japan offer washing machines and dryers, even at budget-friendly prices. That means you can pack just 5 to 7 versatile outfits, depending on how long you're staying. Traveling light will make it easier to get around by train or subway and leave room for souvenirs.
What to wear by season?
Summer (June to September)
Japan’s summer is hot and humid, with a rainy season in June and July.
- Lightweight T-shirts made of cotton or breathable fabrics
- Shorts, skirts or maxi dresses
- Cap or hat, sunglasses, SPF 50 sunscreen
- Compact umbrella or waterproof jacket
- Moisture-wicking underwear
- Lightweight closed shoes, plus sandals or flip-flops
Spring and fall (March - May / September - November)
These are ideal travel seasons : mild, colorful, and comfortable.
- Lightweight pants or stretchy jeans
- Short or long-sleeve T-shirts, button-down shirts
- Light jacket or cardigan for cooler evenings
- Thin scarf or wrap
- Compact umbrella (always good to have)
Winter (December to February)
Weather varies widely by region:
- In cities like Tôkyô and Kyôto: ~5°C, generally dry
- A warm coat, sweater, and scarf are usually enough
- In colder areas (Hokkaidô, the Japanese Alps): below freezing
- Thermal layers, down jacket, lined pants
- Beanie, gloves, insulated waterproof shoes
What kind of shoes should you bring?
You’ll walk a lot, even in cities, so choose wisely:
- One pair of comfortable, broken-in sneakers
- One lighter backup pair: sandals or flip-flops for indoors or bathhouses
- Clean socks: no holes! You’ll often need to take your shoes off in temples, ryôkan or traditional restaurants
Is a Compact Umbrella Really Necessary?
Yes. Rain showers can pop up even outside of the rainy season. A foldable umbrella or a waterproof jacket is a lifesaver.
That said, bringing one is optional, you can easily buy one locally for around 5 €.
What toiletries should you pack?
The basics
Even budget hotels in Japan usually provide:
- Towels
- Soap, shampoo, conditioner
- Cotton swabs, toothbrushes (often available at the front desk)
- Sometimes a comb or disposable razor
- Just bring your personal favorites (like your go-to shampoo or makeup remover)—everything else is easy to find.
Women’s Essentials
- Makeup: Japanese shades may not suit non-Asian skin tones
- Foundation, powder, moisturizer: pack your usual products
- Feminine hygiene: Japanese sizes and formats may be less comfortable for some
What about medications and restrictions?
If you’re on prescription meds, bring enough for your entire trip, plus a translated prescription if you’re staying longer than a month.
Important: Some over-the-counter drugs (like those containing codeine or pseudoephedrine) are banned in Japan, even with a prescription. Always check legal restrictions before traveling. Only bring what you need, in original packaging, and avoid large quantities.
What if you forget something or get hurt?
No worries! Japan has konbini (24-hour convenience stores) and drugstores everywhere—even in small towns.
- Forgot something? Toothbrush, toothpaste, razor, bandages, or OTC meds are easy to find
- Minor injuries or illness (headaches, blisters, colds): local pharmacies (kusuri, look for the "薬" sign) have what you need and knowledgeable staff
There’s no need to bring a full first-aid kit.
Can you buy clothes in Japan?
Packing light sounds smart, but beware: Japanese sizes run small compared to European standards.
- If you’re over 6 feet tall or wear plus sizes, it may be hard to find clothes that fit
- Accessories like scarves, gloves, or hats are easy to find
Better to bring the essentials, especially for basics.
What documents and electronics should you pack?
Must-have documents
- Valid passport
- Printed and digital copies of key documents
- Plane tickets (paper or digital)
- Rechargeable transit card (IC Card)
- Voucher for the National JR Pass or a regional rail pass
- Credit card, plus some cash (some small businesses don’t accept cards)
- International Driving Permit translated into Japanese if you plan to rent a car
You usually don’t need to print hotel bookings or flight confirmations, your passport is enough in most cases.
Electronics
- Type A/B adapter (100V compatible)
- Phone charger, USB cable for flights, power bank
- SIM card tool (if you plan to get a SIM card)
- Sleep mask, earplugs (many Japanese lodgings don’t have blackout curtains)
- Pouch for cables, adapter, USB sticks and documents
- Daypack big enough for a water bottle and daily trash (public bins are rare in Japan)
What kind of luggage works best?
Japan’s public transportation, especially metros and shinkansen, isn’t ideal for bulky luggage.
- Carry-on suitcase: perfect for short trips or minimalist travelers
- Medium suitcase (about 65 cm): a good balance if you plan to bring souvenirs
- Soft backpack or rolling duffel: handy for frequent moves
Shinkansen baggage rules
- Under 160 cm total (L+W+H): no reservation needed
- Between 160–250 cm: must reserve luggage space
- Over 250 cm: not allowed, use a parcel delivery service
How to pack efficiently
Here are some space-saving tips:
- Roll clothes instead of folding: saves space and reduces wrinkles
- Store underwear inside your shoes
- Use compression bags or packing cubes to separate clean/dirty/wet items
- Stick to neutral colors for mix-and-match options
- Wear your bulkiest clothes on the plane
Mistakes to avoid
- Overpacking: a heavy bag is a hassle and leaves no room for souvenirs
- Forgetting an electrical adapter: Japanese plugs are unique
- Ignoring footwear: comfort matters most
- Skimping on socks: you'll remove your shoes often
- Packing too many toiletries: most are available locally
- Overlooking train rules: oversized suitcases are a pain
- Leaving no room for return items: you'll regret it
- Disregarding the climate: Japan has four distinct seasons and big regional differences
- Forgetting small extras: a pocket fan in summer or heat packs (kairo) in winter can make a big difference
