Printable checklist

Japan Packing Checklist

Pack light: Japan sells everything, laundry is everywhere, and your souvenir bag needs the space. The list, by category:

Checkboxes work on screen too, state isn't saved, screenshot when done.

Documents & money

Passport + one photocopy stored separately
IDP if driving/karting, cannot be issued in Japan
Low-FX-fee card + one backup card
Small cash float (exchange the rest at 7-Eleven ATMs in Japan)
Booking confirmations offline in the Klook app

Tech

Phone with eSIM installed, or pocket wifi reserved
Power bank (trains + map use drain phones fast)
Type-A plug adapter (same as US; UK/EU/AU travelers need one)
Earphones for trains and capsule-hotel nights

Clothes (the capsule-wardrobe version)

Walking shoes broken in, 15,000+ steps/day is normal
Slip-on-able shoes if possible: temples, ryokan, and some restaurants
Socks without holes (they will be seen, see above)
Layers over bulk: Uniqlo in Japan sells heat-tech cheaper than home
One smart-casual outfit for the splurge dinner
Compact umbrella (or buy the ¥600 konbini one like everyone else)
Winter trips: gloves + hat, especially for open-air activities
Summer trips: sweat towel and refillable bottle (heat system)

Buy there instead (do not pack)

Toiletries, konbini and Don Quijote beat your bathroom kit
Painkillers/cold meds, drugstores everywhere (check restricted ingredients like pseudoephedrine before bringing your own)
Umbrella, sunscreen, and anything forgotten, Japan retail has you
Extra bag for souvenirs: buy a cheap duffel at Don Quijote on the last day

Leave at home

Big suitcase if you can help it, stairs exist, capsule lockers are small, luggage forwarding costs extra
Formal shoes "just in case", the case never comes
More than 2 books: your bag will fill with Japan

More tools: all free Japan tools ·JR Pass calculator ·best time to visit.

budgetdecoded.com, budget Japan guides, prices verified monthly.