Top 8 Things to Bring to Japan From Home

Are you planning a trip to Japan but feeling a bit overwhelmed about what to pack? No need to panic! From cultural etiquette to practical essentials, I’ve got you covered with a list of the top 8 things you must bring to make the most of your visit. Check them out!

If you’re a student visiting Japan for the first time, it can definitely be a bit intimidating. The language, the food, the culture—it’s a lot to take in. But being well-prepared can help you navigate these challenges smoothly. With Japan’s growing popularity as a student destination, I decided to put together a handy list of 8 things you’ll be glad you packed.

Of course, if you’re visiting Japan for an internship through Zentern, you’ll get a detailed briefing to help you settle in easily. But even then, these tips will make your experience much more enjoyable!

Quick Glance: 8 Things to Bring to Japan From Your Home Country

1. Slip-on Shoes
2. A Good Camera
3. Gifts
4. Japanese Guidebooks and Physical Maps
5. Stomach Upset Medicines
6. SIM Card
7. Insurance (Travel/Health)
8. An Extra Bag

Now, without further ado, let’s dive into the details!

1. Slip-on Shoes 👟

If you’re used to wearing shoes with laces all the time, get ready for a change! In Japan, you’ll find yourself taking off your shoes a lot—whether you’re visiting a friend’s house, a temple, or even certain restaurants. Wearing shoes indoors is a big no-no in Japanese culture.

Slip-on shoes will save you a lot of hassle. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later when you’re not fumbling with laces every time you need to go inside. Look for something comfortable yet easy to slide on and off—your feet will be grateful!

2. A Good Camera 📸

Japan is a stunningly beautiful country with everything from neon-lit cityscapes to serene temples and breathtaking natural scenery. While your phone’s camera might do the job, having a good camera will take your photos to the next level.

A DSLR is ideal for capturing the vibrant details of places like Shibuya Crossing or the peaceful atmosphere of Kyoto’s temples. If that’s out of your budget, a high-quality digital camera will work just fine. You’ll want to remember every moment of your trip—why not capture it in the best way possible?

Tip: get your camera in Japan! They might offer much more and cheaper options but beware: some camera's can't switch their settings to English!

(This happened to me actually!)

3. Gifts 🎁

Japan has a strong gift-giving culture, and bringing a small gift from your home country is a great way to make a good impression. Don’t worry—these gifts don’t have to be lavish or expensive. Even simple items like local sweets, keychains, or specialty products from your hometown can go a long way in expressing gratitude.

For example, if you’re coming from France, a couple of bottles of local wine would be a big hit. Or if you’re from Canada, some maple syrup would be a thoughtful choice. Omiyage (souvenir gifts) are a big part of Japanese culture, so having a few small gifts on hand can really help you connect with locals.

4. Japanese Guidebooks and Physical Maps 🗺️

If you think you can just “wing it” with Google Maps, you might be in for a surprise! Addresses in Japan can be tricky—buildings aren’t numbered by location but by their history and size. That’s why physical maps can be a lifesaver.

A good Japanese guidebook is also a must-have. It will give you a solid understanding of local customs and important phrases. Knowing even a few basics—like how to order food or ask for directions—will make your trip so much smoother. Plus, being aware of dos and don'ts will help you avoid unintentionally offending anyone.

5. Stomach Upset Medicines 💊

Japanese food is delicious but can be quite different from what you’re used to. Even with Japan’s high standards of hygiene, your stomach might need a bit of time to adjust to the new flavors and ingredients. Bringing some stomach upset or anti-diarrheal medicine is a smart move.

However, a word of caution: Japan has strict regulations on medications. Make sure you have a doctor’s prescription—signed and stamped—if you’re bringing any kind of medicine. This will help you avoid trouble with customs and ensure you have what you need to stay comfortable during your trip.

6. SIM Card 📶

Staying connected while traveling is essential, but here’s the catch—Japanese SIM cards are quite expensive and often don’t offer convenient long-term plans for tourists. That’s why we recommend getting a SIM card or eSIM from your current cell provider before you leave.

In most cases, this is the cheapest and most convenient option. Check if your carrier offers international plans or affordable data packages. Having mobile data is a lifesaver for navigating trains, translating Japanese signs, and keeping in touch with friends.

7. Insurance 🏥 (Travel/Health)

Travel and health insurance might not be the most exciting thing to pack, but it’s definitely one of the most important. Japan has excellent healthcare, but it can get pricey if you need medical attention and don’t have insurance.

Make sure your travel insurance covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage. It’s a small cost for a lot of peace of mind, especially if you’re planning on exploring off-the-beaten-path places or doing any adventurous activities.

8. An Extra Bag 🛍️

Let’s be real—you’re going to shop a lot in Japan. From quirky gadgets in Akihabara to beautiful souvenirs in Kyoto, it’s almost impossible to resist. And yes, I’m talking to you—the one thinking, “Nah, I’m not a greedy person!” Spoiler alert: Japan’s shopping scene will change your mind.

Packing an extra foldable bag is a smart move for all those goodies you’ll inevitably buy. It saves you the headache of cramming everything into your suitcase at the last minute. Plus, it’s perfect for carrying snacks, bottled drinks, or those limited-edition KitKats you just had to try!

Bonus Tips for Your Japan Trip 🎒

• Portable Wi-Fi: Staying connected is key! A pocket Wi-Fi device can be a lifesaver for navigating the city or looking up train schedules.
• Reusable Water Bottle: Japan has plenty of water fountains, especially around temples and parks. Bringing a reusable bottle is eco-friendly and convenient.
• Power Adapter: Japan uses a different voltage and plug type than many Western countries, so a power adapter is essential for charging your devices.

Conclusion: Pack Smart, Travel Smart! 🎒

And there you have it—the top 8 things to pack for your trip to Japan! With these essentials in your bag, you’ll be ready to navigate Japan’s incredible culture, food, and sights without a hitch. Being prepared can make a huge difference in how smoothly your trip goes and how much you can enjoy everything Japan has to offer.

So start packing, get excited, and most importantly—enjoy your stay in Japan! 🇯🇵🍣🌸

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