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Everything I Brought on my Trip to Japan
25
items Finally crossed Japan off my bucket list in September! We moved around a lot (Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Osaka) so staying organized was critical. I packed light and strategically. Here’s my list of must-have items, from clothing to travel organization.
Sections
5
Organization Essentials
Airplane Essentials
Shoes
Heat and UV Protectant
Clothing
Organization Essentials
Passport wallet with card holder pockets is a must! Japanese law requires foreign tourists to carry their passport at all times and it is necessary for tax-free shopping. This will help me stay organized.
Leather RFID Blocking Passport Holder
Cash is used frequently in Japan and you will end up with change. These are a game changer for keeping track of your money.
Japanese Yen Coin Organizer
Bathrooms in Japan don't always have soap, so it is recommended to have some on hand. These ones are small, convenient, and fragrance free! All you need is water.
Paper Soap Sheets for Travel
This bag is the perfect size for long days! It fits the essentials + sunscreen, portable fan, umbrella. It is also more water resistant than other materials.
Adjustable Crossbody Bag
This will be my day-to-night bag! It still holds a ton, while also having a versatile look due to the leather and ability to remove the crossbody strap.
Leather Crossbody Bag with Top-Handle
The hotel bathrooms in Japan were very small so I used this mirror to do my makeup quite a few times when the bathroom was occupied.
Small Makeup Bag with Led Mirror
These were a game changer! We changed hotels four times and these helped me stay organized throughout the entire trip.
Compression Packing Cubes
My favorite purchase of the trip! This wallet is thin enough for small bags while keeping my passport protected and my money organized. I’ll use it on many trips to come.
Leather Passport Holder Travel Wallet
Airplane Essentials
LA to Tokyo is an 11 hour flight. Here's how I'm preparing to stay comfortable and entertained.
Because you can't watch TV for 11 hours straight! This is the lightest and most compact Kindle. I bring it everywhere with me in my bag.
Kindle 16 GB
This was perfect for sleeping on the flight. I didn’t have a lay flat seat so it kept me secure in my seat and the material is cooling so I didn’t overheat.
Memory Foam Airplane Pillow For Long Flight
I bought this on a whim after seeing a TikTok about it and had ZERO jet lag on the trip. I can’t 100% say if it was because of this but hey, it’s worth a try.
Boiron Jet Lag Relief Kit
These were great and a good price! Not too suffocating. I wore them on both long travel days and was comfortable.
Soft Cotton Compression Socks
I downloaded this book series on my Kindle and started book one (Fourth Wing) on the plane to Tokyo. I could not put it down! I finished the next two books by the end of the trip and it made the flights and train rides go so fast.
Empyrean Series
Shoes
Comfortable walking shoes should be the top priority in your packing list. Depending on your itinerary, you may walk 20-30k steps per day. Buy ASAP and wear your sneakers in before your trip to avoid blisters!
New Balance 530
I love my adidas. They are comfortable yet versatile. They can be worn with anything from workout clothes to jeans. I’ll wear these on days with less walking when I want a break from my New Balances.
adidas Japan Low Top Sneaker
Heat and UV Protectant
In September, the average temperature in Japan ranges from about 20-30°C (68-86°F), with variations by region, with high humidity. This is small enough to throw in my purse.
Slim Portable Fan USB Rechargeable
This lightweight jacket protects from UVs and rain with a water-repellent finish! Perfect for September in Japan and easy to pack up and throw in a bag.
Pocketable UV Protection Parka
I'll be wearing this everyday to protect my face from the sun!
Keith Haring UV Protection Cap
Clothing
Focusing on functional, lightweight items that work together like a capsule wardrobe.
This dress is lightweight (100% cotton) and super versatile. Black matches with all my accessories. It can be dressed up for dinner or down for visiting the temples.
Sleeveless Maxi Dress
These pants are lightweight and easy to pack! They are flattering and match with all my tops. I plan to wear for dinner and going out in Tokyo.
Mid Rise Satin Pant
Perfect white tank for layering under a cardigan or wearing as a top on warmer days!
White Tank Top | $15
These pants are made with a soft, airy fabric that combines naturally textured linen with TENCEL™ Lyocell. Perfect for the hot temps!
Linen-blend Pants
My favorite shirt ever! An elevated twist on your everyday tee, very flattering, and can be worn from day-to-night.
Sculpted Scoop-Neck Tee
I love this skirt! It can be worn low or high waisted and the material feels breezy and cooling. Will be perfect for visiting the temples!
Maxi Skirt
These shorts are worth the splurge! They are super lightweight while also covering your legs which is important in Japan.
100% Linen Drawstring Short