Hello everyone!
I’m looking to plan a trip end of May into early June and I’ve been doing loads of research. I’ve seen a few tips and tricks for what is worth packing vs buying, things not always considered, and stuff that’s special to Japan. I’m going to include some that I’ve found here and if you guys have more please add on or give more detail on my points
Fly in to your starting destination or book 1 night near arrival airport – coming from Canada or USA means flying/travel for 12-20 ish hours already, the last thing your body will be up for is trying to navigate more local travel to get to different prefectures or even from Narita Airport into Shinjuku.
Long flight tips – my hips cramp if I sit like a normal person for more than an hour and in the small space available for some seats, crossing and recrossing my legs is more work than it’s worth. I use an adjustable strap that loops onto the food tray that I can put my feet in. It elevates my legs enough for long term comfort and it’s not intrusive on anyone else’s experience. I also bring noise canceling head phones, a blanket type something like a scarf that can be used as a blanket, pillow, or black out curtain over your head, a range of activities (unless you can do one thing for 15 odd hours straight), refillable water bottle, deoderant, and face wipes or any soothing skin care to feel fresh and hydrated.
Early in the trip (basically day one) shopping at a one Yen store (ex: Daiso) – some things aren’t on a typical travel packing list and some aren’t worth packing for big flights. These are things we plan to buy upon arrival instead of packing: sunblocking umbrella, hand towel, hand Sanitizer, sunscreen, toilet paper, facial Tissues, extra face masks, pillow cases (if staying at certain hostels it can be easier on your skin if you are acne prone or sensitive), Reusable utensils, large coin purse, and snacks. These items will be cumbersome in a bag and can even make a nice souvenir for heading home.
Book things before you fly – this can be different depending on what sort of traveller you are, but there are things that are best booked in advance due to demand, price, availability, and peace of mind. Things like hotel stays if you’re going during a busy time or you have a specific place in mind, events such as the Sumo tournament in Tokyo, or getting a JR pass while in your home country makes a big difference in price.
Pocket wifi or sim card – we will opt for pocket wifi but it will be lifesaving for traveling the country. As travelers we will be relying heavily on Google maps and local searches to find what’s nearby and how to navigate our way around. These can be ordered ahead of time and ready for pick up at the airport.
If you don’t already have them, invest in laceless sneakers – you’ve likely heard, but Japanese culture has you taking your shoes off regularly and if you are wearing laced up Sneakers this can become a hindrance. Also keep in mind that socks are better than bare feet in those situations so try to avoid flip flops or Sandals (also blisters are a nightmare in Sandals)
Please add your thoughts and experiences! Again these are all things that I’ve found from research and I have not yet been to Japan so if there’s something totally off base or outdated please kindly point it out 🙂
1 comment
>Fly in to your starting destination or book 1 night near arrival airport
Counterpoint to this – I’d rather head straight to where I’m staying. Staying by the airport just delays when my trip can “start”. I don’t want to land, head to some cheap hotel, unpack, sleep and repack only to head out again the next day. That’s a waste of time and money.
Japan has one of the easiest transit systems leaving the airport that I’ve ever seen in Asia or North America. It is not some gruelling trek to get to a hotel in Shinjuku.
I take your point about long flights being tiring and uncomfortable but I think most travellers are excited to arrive in Japan and can push through whatever fatigue they feel after landing.