1. Slip Off Shoes

From visiting temples or Japanese homes to going to see the doctor, you’ll often need to change your shoes. The best shoes should be waterproof and easy to slip on and off.

2. Slippers

If you have big feet like me, you might find yourself taking your own slippers or indoor shoes with you at times, but every place has shoes for guests. If you’re staying in someone’s home, then bringing your own slippers is a good idea. Indoor shoes should be new or never have been used outside.

3. Hand towel 

Now that we’ve covered footware, the next item is a hand towel or hankerchief to dry your hands. Most places don’t have hand driers, and if they do, people seldom use them to save power. 

Such clothe are also useful to wipe sweat from your brow in the hot, humid Japanese summer.

4. Show me the money

Credit cards are a good backup, but not used often at all. In fact, I only ever use mine for shopping online. Japan is a cash society and it’s a good idea to keep a few thousand Yen on you. 

As with travelling anywhere, be careful with your cash, as pick pocketing does happen. But overall, Japan is very safe and you might even find a lost wallet (with all your cash) returned to you, so have your hotel or host family’s address inside, just in case.

5. Pocket Umbrella

Convenience stores are all over Japan and all carry umbrellas, but it’s a good idea to have a pocket sized one with you, because Japan does get a fair amount of rain. Be careful though, I’ve seen plenty of umbrellas ruined by high winds, so sometimes a rain proof jacket is best.