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Japan Travel Preparation

Medium 16 items · 1 hour
testuser's avatar
testuser Published 4 weeks ago
Travel

This checklist helps travelers prepare for a smooth trip to Japan, covering transport passes, connectivity, cash habits, cultural etiquette, and practical bookings. It’s ideal for first-time visitors and repeat travelers who want a quick pre-departure run-through.

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  1. Check passport validity and visa requirements — Ensure 6+ months validity and confirm visa needs for your nationality.
  2. Buy travel insurance and save policy details — Include medical, trip delay, and baggage coverage; save policy and claim number.
  3. Reserve key tickets and restaurant bookings — Prebook popular attractions, tea ceremonies, and specialty restaurants.
  4. Arrange pocket WiFi or eSIM and note pickup/delivery — Compare data limits and airport pickup vs hotel delivery options.
  5. Withdraw and carry some Japanese yen — Keep cash for taxis, small shops, and rural areas; ATMs at 7-Eleven/post offices accept foreign cards.
  6. Get an IC card (Suica or PASMO) — Use for trains, buses, vending machines, and convenience stores.
  7. Top up IC card with starter balance (2–3k yen) — Add enough for first few days to avoid ticket lines.
  8. Purchase JR Pass voucher before travel (if using) — Buy from an authorized seller before arrival; keep e-voucher or paper exchange order.
  9. Activate JR Pass at a Japan exchange office — Activate on your first travel day within the validity window; bring passport and voucher.
  10. Reserve Shinkansen seats at a JR ticket office — Book reserved seats after activation for peak travel days and long trips.
  11. Learn essential Japanese phrases — Practice greetings, thank you, ordering, asking for help, and numbers.
  12. Read onsen and public-bath etiquette — Learn washing rules, towel use, and tattoo policies before visiting an onsen.
  13. Pack indoor socks/slippers and easy-to-remove shoes — Many homes, ryokan, and some restaurants require shoe removal.
  14. Download offline maps and transit apps — Save routes and timetables (Google Maps, HyperDia, or Navitime) for offline use.
  15. Arrange luggage forwarding (takkyubin) for long transfers — Ship bags between hotels or to/from the airport to travel light between cities.
  16. Bring a power plug adapter and portable battery — Japan uses Type A plugs (100V); carry a charger for long transit days.
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