Going to Japan in 10 months; preparations?

Question

I will be traveling to Japan for 9 days next June, my airfare, meals, accomidations, and sightseeing tour is completely planned with the package. Osaka, Nara, Tokyo, Kyoto, etc. What do I need to take with me when I go? I can speak and write Japanese, I have a passport, and I am familiar with customs there. But, I am at a loss for words as to what I need to bring with. Any suggestions?

You guys didn't seem to have read the question. I am fluent in Japanese, and can write Hiragana, Katakana, and Kanji.

Answer 1

First off, because you know Japanese (reading AND writing) let me be the first to say you are going to love Japan. I was in the exact same situation as you; I even went to the same cities (are you with EF Tours, maybe). But anyway, I would suggest bringing some money. What I would do is exchange a few hundred dollars of USD to JPY (dollars to yen). Maybe more than that, depending on how much you want to spend. Many people on my tour went in knowing they were going to spend several hundred dollars, some even upwards of a thousand dollars. But if you are like me and don't spend very much money, then still bring that much just in case. It's better than having to waste your cash on fees that you have to deal with involving bank cards/credit cards. Then again, if you lose your wallet, your money is safe in a bank, whereas if you lose that money on you, you may be screwed. So I would also highly suggest a bank card for emergencies.

If you don't own your own umbrella (understandable) you will when you come back from Japan. Summer is rainy season. I think 2/3 of my experience was on cloudy days and 1/3 on rainy days. Not a big deal considering that you're in Japan, but you'll definitely want an umbrella, and you'll want it early on. If you're as lucky as me, you'll find one for 250 yen (About $2.30), but expect to find one for around 500 yen (About $4.60). Not too bad.

I know that a guidebook may seem like in insult to your intelligence, but in fact, it may be a good idea. I thought I would need one, but maybe used it once or twice. Find one that you like, and don't spend more than $10 on one. If you know Japanese, like me, then believe me, you'll get by.

Bring a camera. And make sure it's digital. Believe me; you don't want to deal with film at all. It's a hassle when you're walking in Japan. It's a hassle getting it in your bags. It's a hassle at security in airports. You really don't want to deal with that. My suggestion is to buy a digital camera with 10X Optical Zoom. I'm saying that because there are tons of things that will be far off in the distance, and a pocket camera that is cheaper will only have 4X Zoom at most. You'll notice a huge difference with the bigger cameras and bigger lenses. Then buy a good sized memory card. If you are like me and literally take pictures of everything, and then jack up your camera's quality to the extreme, then buy a 2 GB card. Otherwise, I'd buy a 1 GB card. There's not much difference in price, so it's really up to you. Best Buy has reasonable prices on cameras, and excellent prices on memory cards.

But please listen carefully. Do not put your memory card through x-ray scanners. That did it for my memory card, and I lost 683 pictures (some videos, too). This is going to be a trip of a lifetime. Simply put the memory card in your pocket when going through security. Metal detectors shouldn't pick it up, and it will save you the grief I am still dealing with my loss.

Seriously, though, you can enjoy Japan without a fancy camera, or a ton of cash. The fact that you're going allows you to truly experience for yourself the wonder of the country. I know people who love Japan, and can't speak a word in Japanese. But I think knowing the language makes a difference. You will fit right into the society and love every minute of it. So the number one thing you need to bring with you is an open mind. I hope you enjoy Japan the way I do.

Answer 2

It is very "convenient" to stay in Japan. I can say, there is nothing in the world that you cannot find in Japan. If your tour package is provided by a Japanese company, then all you have to do is ask its staff if you need anything. They are very polite, accomodating and one of the most honest people in the world. Rare stuff, however, comes at a price. So be sure to bring enough dollars. Credit cards, however, are accepted in almost every shop. And the exchange rates are better.

Since you are fluent in Japanese, I do not think you will have any problems staying here. Enjoy your visit!

Answer 3

First, bring lots of money. Everything in Japan is pretty expensive. I have just left there and have lived there for the last three years.
Bring aspirin from home. 20 aspirin will cost you abut $8.00.
Bring a camera and lots of spare batteries.
It is hot in June so bring a hat and some sunscreen. The sun is much hotter in Japan or so it seems.
Bring some toilet paper. Many subway stations and train stations do not have toilet paper. These are all that I can think of at this time. Change your money to Yen before you go to Japan because you will get a better rate at a currency exchange bank instead of at the airport. Gambatte kudasai.

Answer 4

It will be summer in June, so bring light clothing, hat/visor, sunglasses, sunblock, breathable shoes/sneakers and deodorant. A waist bag or a small backpack is great to have around so you're not burdened while walking around. You can bring a handkerchief or two if you like, but there'll be plenty of people handing out packets of tissue at the train stations so you don't have to worry about sweating too much.

Apart from that, just follow your experience travelling, depending on your preference. Write a checklist at least 2 days ahead of time and add things to it according to what you use everyday. I travel light, usually only carry enough clothes and undies for 3-4 days and carry with me small sachet of laundry detergent if it's a short trip. Longer trip, I buy a small box of detergent in the country I'm going and just go to the laundromat when I ran out of clothes. Toileteries, camera with extra rolls of film or memory card, checking with my mobile phone company if I can have a roaming service activated, etc.

Since you're with a tour package, you should be fine and well taken care of, I'm assuming you won't be going to any public baths.

Answer 5

Take stuff for summer and fall. Their weather there is much like parts of the US and the weather is beautiful, as are the people. They are genetically ingrained as to politness and consideration. They are among the nicest and most gracious people I have ever met and therefore, they are often vicitimized by people who have no morals or scruples. Prepare to be polite.

Answer 6

HEY !!! AWSOME I WILL BACK HOME IN JUNE ALSO! BUT FOR LONGER THAN 9 DAYS...I GO BACK TO SEE MY FAMILY AND THAT ROCKIN' SUPER AWSOME SUPRISE!

Answer 7

Money and international credit card.

Answer 8

learn japanese

Answer 9

make sure that you a good phrase book just in case...