Planning a trip to Japan? 🇯🇵
Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, Japan is a unique destination that rewards preparation. This checklist-style guide will help you pack smart, save money, and avoid surprises.
Here’s everything you should prepare before boarding your flight to Japan.
- 🛂 1. Check Passport Validity & Visa Requirements
- 💳 2. Prepare Yen and Payment Methods
- 📱 3. Book Pocket Wi-Fi or SIM Card
- 🏨 4. Reserve Accommodation Early
- 🎫 5. Consider a Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass)
- 🧳 6. Pack Smart for the Season
- 🍜 7. Learn Basic Japanese Phrases (Optional, but Helpful!)
- 📝 Final Tip: Download These Helpful Apps
- ✅ Ready to Go?
🛂 1. Check Passport Validity & Visa Requirements
・Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your entry date.
・Citizens from many countries (like the US, UK, Canada, EU) don’t need a visa for short-term tourism.
・Visit MOFA Japan Visa Page to check your country’s rules.
・Bring a printed flight itinerary and proof of accommodation, just in case.
💳 2. Prepare Yen and Payment Methods
Japan is still a cash-based society, especially outside big cities.
✔️ What you should bring:
- Cash (Yen) – withdraw from ATMs in airports or 7-Eleven/FamilyMart
- Credit/debit cards – accepted at major stores/hotels, not all restaurants
- IC Card (like Suica or PASMO) – great for trains, buses, vending machines
👉 Click here for a full IC card guide
💡 Tip: Exchange some yen before you arrive or withdraw from ATMs using a no-foreign-fee card.
📱 3. Book Pocket Wi-Fi or SIM Card
Free Wi-Fi in Japan can be limited.
We highly recommend renting a Pocket Wi-Fi or buying a prepaid SIM at the airport or online in advance.
Options include:
- Japan Wireless
- Sakura Mobile
- Ninja Wi-Fi
- Airalo (eSIM)
💡 Tip: Reserve online and pick it up at Narita/Haneda/Kansai airport for convenience.
🏨 4. Reserve Accommodation Early
Japan is popular year-round, especially in cherry blossom (March–April) and autumn foliage (October–November) seasons.
✔️ Choose based on your budget:
- Capsule hotels (from ¥2,000/night) 👉 First-timer’s guide here
- Hostels, guesthouses, business hotels
- Ryokan (traditional inns) for a cultural experience
🎫 5. Consider a Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass)
If you’re traveling between cities (like Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka), the JR Pass can save money on bullet train rides.
- Buy it before coming to Japan for best value
- Activate it once you arrive
- 7-day, 14-day, and 21-day options available
🧳 6. Pack Smart for the Season
Japan’s climate varies a lot by month.
Check weather and bring appropriate clothing.
| Month | Weather in Tokyo | What to Pack |
|---|---|---|
| April | 10–18°C / 50–64°F | Light jacket, allergy medicine |
| July | 25–35°C / 77–95°F | Cool clothes, sunscreen |
| December | 2–12°C / 36–54°F | Coat, scarf, heat packs |
👉 See our full month-by-month packing guide
🍜 7. Learn Basic Japanese Phrases (Optional, but Helpful!)
| Japanese | Meaning |
|---|---|
| こんにちは (Konnichiwa) | Hello |
| ありがとう (Arigatou) | Thank you |
| すみません (Sumimasen) | Excuse me / Sorry |
| いくらですか？ (Ikura desu ka?) | How much is it? |
| 英語のメニューありますか？ (Eigo no menyuu arimasu ka?) | Do you have an English menu? |
💡 Tip: Use apps like Google Translate or Yomiwa to help.
📝 Final Tip: Download These Helpful Apps
- Google Maps – Best for navigation
- Japan Official Travel App – From JNTO
- NAVITIME – Train route planner
- Tabimori / GuruNavi – Restaurant & menu help
- PayPay – For mobile payments in Japan
✅ Ready to Go?
With this checklist, you’re ready to experience Japan stress-free and like a pro!
Still not sure where to go first? Check out these travel ideas:
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