Here’s your ultimate Japan Packing List for Summer — solving your “what to pack” worries so you can enjoy the adventure fully prepared!
Let me know if you liked it or if I forgot something, in the comments below!
🌡️ Weather Overview for Summer in Japan
- Summer in Japan is usually hot, humid, and rainy, especially during the early summer rain season (“tsuyu”).
- Temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). Coastal areas are breezy, but cities like Tokyo and Kyoto can feel like a sauna.
Tip: Expect sudden showers and intense sun.
Essential Guide to Japan Packing List for Summer
I’m so excited you are going to spend some time in Japan this summer, because it is absolutely gorgeous.
Be prepared to walk a lot, explore ancient temples, pop into trendy cafes, and visit stunning gardens — So, Take a look at this to stay stylish and comfortable in the summer heat.
Carry-On Suitcase / Travel Bag Duffle / Portable Steamer / Packing cubes / Luggage scale / Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones / Speaker / Portable Charger / Universal Travel adapter / Compact Hair Dryer / Eye Mask / Waterproof Toiletry Bag Hanging / Zipper Pouch / Water BOTTLE / Liquid I.V. Hydration Vegan
👕 Tops
- 👗 Lightweight blouses
- 👖 Tank tops
- 🌺 Linen shirts
- 🧕 Cotton t-shirts
- 🍋 Breathable tunics
- 👙 UV-protection long sleeves
- 🌱 Crop tops
- 🌷 Off-shoulder tops
- 🌻 Kaftans
👖 Bottoms
- 👠 Lightweight shorts
- 🌿 Breezy skirts
- 🌳 Capri pants
- 🍃 Flowy culottes
- 🌱 Casual trousers
- 🌲 Rompers
- 🌸 Maxi skirts
- 🌸 Jeans
👟 Shoes
- 👞 Comfortable walking sandals
- 🛅 Breathable sneakers
- 👡 Cute flats
- 👛 Waterproof slip-ons
- 👜 Elegant sandals for evening
👜 Accessories
- 🌸 Wide-brimmed hat
- 👓 Sunglasses
- 🛋 Light scarf (for temples)
- 👝 Crossbody bag
- 🛆 Compact umbrella
- 🌿 Hand fan
- 🌧☂ Cooling wristbands
🛅 Toiletries + Beauty Essentials
- ☑️ 🌟 Sunscreen SPF50+
- ☑️ 💍 Travel deodorant
- ☑️ 🧼 Wet wipes
- ☑️ 💟 Bug spray
- ☑️ 🛋 Reusable water bottle
- ☑️ 🛀 Dry shampoo
- ☑️ 🍃 Cooling body powder
💇 Hair Tools
- ☑️ 🛋 Dual-voltage hair dryer
- ☑️ 🧑🌺 Mini straightener
- ☑️ 💄 Anti-frizz serum
- ☑️ 💇♀️ Heatless curlers
- ☑️ 🌿 Hair ties and clips
💄 Makeup
- ☑️ 💅 BB cream with SPF
- ☑️ 💋 Waterproof mascara
- ☑️ 👒 Lip balm with SPF
- ☑️ 💏 Blotting papers
- ☑️ 💄 Cream blush (long-lasting)
- ☑️ 💆 Setting spray
💋 Skincare
- ☑️ 🌽 Hydrating mist
- ☑️ 🧕 Gel moisturizer
- ☑️ 🌥☂ After-sun lotion
- ☑️ 🛆 Sheet masks
- ☑️ 🌱 Cleansing oil
- ☑️ 🌼 Face sunscreen
📱 Tech & Electronics
- ☑️ 📱 Smartphone
- ☑️ 📼 Power bank
- ☑️ 🔌 Japan plug adapter (Type A/B)
- ☑️ 📝 Pocket Wi-Fi rental
- ☑️ 📺 Kindle or e-reader
- ☑️ 📷 Compact travel camera
🛂 Luggage & Bags
- ☑️ 🚒 Rolling suitcase (lightweight)
- ☑️ 🌌 Daypack or small backpack
- ☑️ 👛 Foldable shopping bag (eco-friendly)
- ☑️ 🚚 Packing cubes
- ☑️ 🌋 Toiletry bag
🛸 Must-Have Extras
- ☑️ 🌊 Foldable fan
- ☑️ 🥂 Cooling towel
- ☑️ 🌊 Dry bag for wet items
- ☑️ 🌍 Maps.me app downloaded
- ☑️ 😍 Small gifts for hosts
- ☑️ 💬 Japanese phrasebook
⛑️ Safety & First Aid
- ☑️ 💊 Personal medications
- ☑️ 💉 Bandaids
- ☑️ 🧰 Electrolyte packets
- ☑️ 🧜 Antihistamines
- ☑️ 📥 Mini first-aid kit
- ☑️ 🌈 Thermometer
🌐 Staying Connected: Internet Options
Remember to plan and bring these before travelling to Japan.
Pocket Wi-Fi:
- Ideal for multiple devices or group travel.
- Offers unlimited data and can be rented at airports or online
SIM Cards:
- Suitable for individual travelers.
- Available at airports or online; ensure your device is unlocked.
eSIMs:
- Convenient for compatible devices.
- Providers like Airalo offer competitive plans
🚆 Navigating Transportation
IC Cards (e.g., Suica, Pasmo):
- Prepaid cards for seamless travel on trains, buses, and subways.
- Also usable for purchases at convenience stores and vending machines
Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass):
- Cost-effective for long-distance travel across Japan.
- Available for 7, 14, or 21 days; must be purchased before arrival.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing:
- Taxis are reliable but can be expensive.
- Ride-sharing apps are limited; public transport is generally more efficient.
💛 Bonus Tips
- ☑️ 🎡 JR Rail Pass for cheap train travel
- ☑️ 📲 Install Suica or Pasmo (public transport cards)
- ☑️ 👬 Respect local customs (no talking loudly on trains)
- ☑️ 💬 Learn basic Japanese phrases
- ☑️ 🍱 Always carry cash (many places are cash-only)
- ☑️ 👤 Carry your ID/passport copy
- ☑️ 🌐 Download offline maps
👗 Dress Etiquette in Japan
- ☑️ 👗 Modest clothing for temples (cover shoulders)
- ☑️ 🌻 Breathable fabrics for city strolling
- ☑️ 👙 Comfy casual for theme parks
- ☑️ 👞 Slip-on shoes (many places require taking off shoes)
- ☑️ 🌴 Umbrella or hat for sun protection
- ☑️ 🌷 Knee-length skirts and dresses
- ☑️ 👖 No flashy logos (keep it classy)
🌐 General Visa Info
- ☑️ 📛 US, UK, EU passport holders: Visa-free for up to 90 days
- ☑️ 📢 Must have a return ticket
- ☑️ 📝 Proof of accommodation may be required
- ☑️ 💰 Show proof of sufficient funds if asked
- ☑️ 🌐 Always check the latest updates on the embassy and official visa channels to avoid surprises, as these things are always changing!
- ☑️ 💊 Health insurance recommended
