As much as I love the idea of bringing my entire wardrobe to the Tokyo "fashion show", there's something oddly satisfying about nailing the perfect minimalist packing list.
Over the years, I've traveled to Japan countless times and experimented with many packing strategies - some brilliant, some...not so much. These days, I've whittled down my luggage to just the essentials with the greatest return on investment. But if you're traveling with a family or looking for a full packing list for Japan, I've got you! Here are some more Japan packing resources you might find helpful:
THESE ARE THE ESSENTIALS YOU'LL NEED FOR YOUR TRIP:
- Tokyo: Ueno Park
- Nagano: Takato Castle Ruins Park
- Kawaguchiko: Lake Kawaguchi
- Matsumoto: Matsumoto Castle
- Hikone: Hikone Castle
- Miharu: Miharu Takizakura
- Fukushima: Hanamiyama Park
- Kumamoto: Suizenji Jojuen Garden
- Kochi: Kochi Castle
- Kagawa: Ritsurin Garden
- Shizuoka: Izu Peninsula
- Sendai: Mikamine Park
Away Carry-On Suitcase
from $550
The Most Versatile Affordable Carry-On Suitcase
from AWAY LUGGAGE
I've been using the Away Carry-On for my last few trips, and it's been a total lifesaver. It's just the right size to fit in those tight spots on trains and in hotel rooms, but somehow I can still cram in enough clothes for a week-long adventure. The hard shell is super tough - trust me, it's survived being tossed around more times than I can count. My favorite part? The built-in battery. You don't realize how clutch that is until you're lost in Shibuya, phone dying, desperately needing Google Maps. Oh, and the wheels? Smooth as butter, even on those old cobblestone streets in Kyoto. After using it for three Japan trips, I honestly can't imagine traveling without it. It's not the cheapest option out there, but it's worth every penny.
Pakt Travel Backpack
$325
The Perfect Day Pack or Carry-On
from PAKT BAGS
I've been using this backpack for a while now, and it's changed my whole Japan travel game. First off, it's like having a suitcase on your back - but way cooler. The main compartment splits in two, so you can pack like you would a regular suitcase. No more digging through a messy bag to find that one shirt you swear you packed. And get this - there's a separate padded spot for your laptop. Perfect for when you need to whip out your computer without having to take everything else out too. But here's the real kicker - it's made from recycled materials and comes in plastic-free packaging. So you can feel good about your purchase while you're feeling good about your organized packing. Oh, and it's got a lifetime guarantee. Because let's face it, this trip to Japan's not going to be your last one, is it?
Allbirds Tree Runners
$98
Incredibly Light, Comfortable, and Easy to Pack
from ALLBIRDS
For a Japan trip, comfortable shoes are non-negotiable. I've found Allbirds Tree Runners to be perfect for long days walking around town and they're even perfect for the flight over. The eucalyptus fiber upper keeps your feet cool in Japan's humid summers, while the cushioned SweetFoam midsole provides all-day support. What I appreciate most is their versatility. The classic style pairs well with most outfits, saving valuable luggage space. After a few days of wear, simply toss them in the washing machine - they come out looking brand new. This feature is particularly handy for longer trips. As a bonus, they're made with sustainable materials. From personal experience, these shoes require no break-in period and have served me well on multiple Japan visits.
Sony Noise Canceling Headphones
$298
Do NOT Leave Home Without These
from SONY
You'll want these Sony headphones in your carry-on. I've used them on long-haul flights to Tokyo, and they're a game-changer. The noise cancellation is top-notch - it turns the dull roar of the plane into barely a whisper. But it's not just for the flight. Walking around Shibuya or riding the packed Yamanote Line, these headphones create a personal bubble of calm. The sound quality is crisp and clear and the battery life is impressive - I've gone a whole week of daily use without needing to charge. And when you do need to charge, a quick 3-minute boost gives you 3 hours of playback. One feature I really love is the Speak-to-Chat function. It automatically pauses your music when you start talking - super handy when ordering at a ramen shop or asking for directions. They're not cheap, but for the quality of experience they provide, and the fact that you're going to have them for a long time, I'd say they're worth every yen.
Moment iPhone Lens
$99
Leave Your Big Camera Kit at Home
from MOMENT LENSES
I've taken most of my Japan photos with the Moment 18mm Wide Lens, and it's become an essential part of my travel kit. It simply clips onto my phone (with a Moment iPhone case that you can purchase), instantly upgrading my camera without the bulk of additional equipment. This lens has been perfect for capturing my most memorable landscapes and experiences in Japan. The image quality is noticeably sharper than my phone's built-in wide-angle camera, with minimal distortion at the edges. And Moment offers a range of lenses beyond the 18mm Wide. I've also used their Tele 58mm for more detailed shots and their Macro lens for close-ups of intricate temple carvings. Each lens is super compact and easy to swap out, allowing for versatile photography without weighing down my bag. While the initial investment might seem high, the quality and convenience have made it worthwhile for my travels. If you're serious about phone photography and traveling light and nimble, Moment's lenses are worth considering.
Brita Filtering Water Bottle
$15
Trust Me, You'll Need This
from BRITA
This Brita Water Filter Bottle has been a real money-saver. Instead of constantly buying plastic water bottles, I just refill this bottle at the numerous water stations throughout the country. It's not just convenient; it's also an eco-friendly choice, and Japan is big on sustainability. The built-in filter reduces chlorine taste and odor, making tap water more palatable. This really came in handy when I was unsure about local water quality in some rural areas. And the enclosed straw makes sipping easy, even when I'm on the move. Pro tip: Download the MyMizu app. It's been incredibly useful for locating the nearest water fountain or eco-friendly cafe offering free refills in Japan. While the initial cost is more than a regular water bottle, I've found it pays for itself quickly given how much I would have spent on bottled water otherwise.
Anker Compact Power Bank
$109
Charge 3 Devices at Once, Including Your Laptop
from ANKER
When you get to Japan, keeping your devices charged is going to be crucial. The Anker Power Bank has been my go-to solution. I've been able to charge my phone multiple times and even give my laptop a full charge when needed. What sets this power bank apart is its 140W output, which means it can fast-charge most devices, including my Macbook Pro. The digital display is a nice touch, showing exactly how much power is left and how long until it's fully charged. A word of caution: While you might be tempted to use free USB charging ports in public spaces, it's safer to rely on your own power bank. These public ports can potentially be used by hackers to access your data. The Anker 737 eliminates this risk while providing reliable power. Yes, it's a bit heavier than a typical phone charger, but the peace of mind and convenience it offers have made it worth the slightly extra weight in my bag. For extended trips or long days of sightseeing in Japan, this power bank has proven invaluable.
Baggu Reusable Travel Bag
$12
A Must Have in Japan
from BAGGU
When packing for Japan, don't forget to toss in a Baggu reusable bag. Trust me, it's a small addition that makes a big difference. In 2020, Japan started charging for plastic bags, and the locals have embraced reusable options. By 2021, over 80% of supermarket shoppers were saying no to plastic. The Baby Baggu is my go-to. It folds into a tiny 4" x 4" pouch, so it's no hassle to carry. But don't let its size fool you - this thing can haul up to 50 pounds. I've used mine for everything from convenience store runs to impromptu souvenir shopping. And trash cans are few and far between in Japan, so this is a great temporary receptacle so you don't have to carry your trash around in your hands. Here's a pro tip: Learn to say "Fukuro wa irimasen" (I don't need a bag). The cashiers appreciate the effort, and you'll feel like a local. The best part? It's made from recycled nylon and comes in recycled packaging. So you're not just avoiding plastic waste, you're actively helping reduce it.
Bombas Travel Socks Duo Pack
$74
Essential For the Long Haul Flight
from BOMBAS
Long-haul flights to Japan can be tough on your legs, but the Bombas Travel Sock Pack is a game-changer for comfortable flights and cozy hotel stays. The star of this pack is the knee-high compression socks. With 15-20 mmHg of pressure, they help reduce swelling and fatigue during those marathon flights across the Pacific. I've found they make a noticeable difference in how my legs feel after 12+ hours in the air. But it's not just about the flight. The pack also includes Gripper Slippers, perfect for padding around your hotel room or ryokan. They're a welcome comfort after a day of exploring Tokyo's streets or Kyoto's temples. Both items come in a handy Hex Tec Sock Bag, making them easy to find in your luggage. It's a small detail, but one you'll appreciate when you're jet-lagged and digging through your suitcase. An added bonus? For every pair purchased, Bombas donates a pair to homeless shelters. So your comfy feet are helping others in need.
Lululemon Travel Pants
$98
Wear them Anywhere (Really...Anywhere)
from LULULEMON
When it comes to comfort on long flights and exploring the city, Lululemon's Travel Joggers are hard to beat. I've worn these on multiple trips to Japan, and they've become my go-to travel pants. The stretch fabric moves with you and they're sweat-wicking and quick-drying, which is a lifesaver in Japan's humid summers or after an unexpected rain shower in Tokyo. What I really appreciate is the hidden zipper pocket - perfect for securing your passport or yen. The tapered fit looks put-together enough for a casual dinner, but they're comfortable enough to sleep in on the plane. Here's a tip: I found these to be a great mid-rise option with full length down to my ankle. I'm 5'7" and the moment I put them on, I knew they would be a favorite for me. They do run a bit large, so consider sizing down. And while they're not the cheapest option out there, the durability makes them a solid investment for frequent travelers.
Japanese Coin Purse
$10
Keep Your Yen with Zen
from OSALADI
When you buy stuff in Japan, you'll quickly realize that coins are a big deal. Unlike in many countries where coins are often tossed aside, in Japan, they can be equivalent to dollars. That 500 yen coin? It's worth about $3.50. So you'll want to keep those coins handy. I love the Japanese-inspired design of this little purse. The cute cat pattern adds a touch of kawaii to your everyday carry, and it's a fun souvenir in itself. Despite its small size, I've found it surprisingly roomy. It easily fits all my coins, a few folded bills, and even my hotel key card. It's small enough to slip into a pocket but big enough to find easily in a crowded bag. One thing to note: In Japan, you'll be using coins a lot more than you might expect. From temple donations to ticket machines, having your coins organized and easily accessible is a real time-saver. This little purse has made managing my yen so much easier.
Manta Sleep Mask (100% Blackout)
$35
Unbelievably Comfortable and Effective
from MANTA
Jet lag can be a real pain when you're trying to adjust to Japan's time zone. I've used this on multiple long-haul flights and in countless hotel rooms, and it's been a huge help for my sleep quality. The best part is the 100% blackout design. Even in the middle of a bright Tokyo day, it's pitch black when you put this on. The adjustable eye cups are a brilliant feature - you can position them exactly where you need for a perfect fit, and there's zero pressure on your eyelids or lashes. I've noticed a significant improvement in my sleep quality when using this mask and it's particularly helpful when you're trying to catch some Z's on the plane or adjust to the new time zone in your hotel. The mask comes with earplugs and a carry case, which is handy for travel. One tip: Take some time to adjust the mask for your face before your trip. Once you get it right, you'll barely feel it's there.
Packable Down Jacket
$129
Compact, Comfy, and Warm
from lands end
Japan's autumn weather can be tricky. One minute you're sweating, the next you're shivering. That's why I never leave home without my Lands' End packable jacket. It's warm enough for cooler days but light enough that you don't overheat when temperatures rise. When you're not using it, it packs into its own pocket, taking up minimal space in your day bag. The water-resistant fabric has come in handy during surprise rain showers, keeping me dry without having to lug around a bulky raincoat. And the hood is a nice touch for windy days or extra warmth. One tip: Consider the layering you might do when choosing your size. I found my usual size works well over light sweaters, but you might want to size up if you plan on heavier layers.
Trtl Travel Pillow
$60
Don't Knock It 'Til You've Tried It
from TURTL
Sleeping on long-haul flights can be a nightmare. I saw this pillow on TikTok and didn't believe it would work at first. But it's pretty fantastic! Unlike those bulky U-shaped pillows that never seem to work right, this one has a unique design that actually supports your head and neck. It wraps around like a scarf, which felt a bit weird at first, but once I got used to it, I was sold. No more waking up with a stiff neck or sore shoulders. What I really love is how compact it is. It takes up barely any space in my carry-on, leaving more room for snacks and entertainment for the long flight. And it's way lighter than traditional travel pillows. Here's a pro tip: Play around with the positioning before your flight. I found that slightly adjusting where the support sits can make a big difference in comfort. Plus, they offer a 100-day trial, so you can always return it if it doesn't work for you.
Calpak Tech Organizer Pouch
$42
Get It Together
from CALPAK
Traveling to Japan means bringing along a whole bunch of tech - your phone, camera, laptop, and all the chargers that go with them. That's where the Calpak Tech Organizer comes in handy. I've been using this on my recent trips, and it's been a real lifesaver. First off, it's surprisingly roomy. I've managed to fit two international adapters, an external battery, multiple cords, and even a waterproof phone case in there. The multiple pockets make it easy to keep everything organized and easy to find. No more digging through your bag trying to find that one charging cable! The light padding is great for protecting your gear, especially when your bag gets tossed around in overhead compartments. And the mesh panels are really useful - you can see what's where without having to open every pocket.
Compact Toiletry Organizers
$14
TSA Approved and Leakproof
from GEMICE
I just recently started using these Gemice toiletry containers on my Japan trips. First off, they're TSA approved, but what I really love is the leakproof design. I've had these things bouncing around in my bag and not a single drop spilled. And cleaning them is a breeze. Just some warm soapy water and they're good as new. Now, here's a pro tip: use the different colors to organize your stuff. I use blue for shampoo, green for face wash, you get the idea. Makes life so much easier.
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