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Sagamihara Travel Checklist

Sagamihara Travel Checklist

Sagamihara Kanagawa, Japan Travel Guide

Essential Preparations

Methodical steps for a seamless Sagamihara trip.

Planning Timeline

A structured approach to your preparations.

1

Months Before Departure

Passport & Visa

Check your passport's validity (6+ months), check visa rules and are applicable if needed.

Flights & Accommodation

Research international flights and lodging. Book high-season options early.

Travel Insurance

Research and purchase comprehensive travel insurance. World Nomads.

2

Month Before Departure

Finalize Bookings

Book any remaining accommodations, major tours, and specific activities.

Driving Permit

When renting a car, obtain your International Driving Permit (IDP).

Vaccinations & Bank

Consult your doctor for vaccinations and notify your bank about your trip.

3

Week Before Departure

Confirmations

Reconfirm all flights, accommodations, plus tour arrangements for certainty.

Pack & Documents

Pack climate-appropriate items. Gather passport, visa, insurance, and copies.

Electronics & Home

Charge devices, pack adapters, download apps. Secure your home, arrange mail.

Required Advance Bookings

Secure these items well ahead of time.

Bookings

  • International Flights: Secure your round-trip international flights well in advance.
  • All Accommodations: Book all your lodging in Sagamihara and any other cities.
  • Specific Tours and Events: Pre-book for popular attractions (e.g., Sagamiko Illumillion).
  • Japan Rail Pass: Purchase before arrival if you opt for it.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Gain insight for a fuller experience.

Research Areas

  • Guidebooks and Blogs: Read reputable sources on Japan and the Kanto region.
  • Etiquette and Phrases: Familiarize yourself with basic Japanese etiquette and learn a few phrases.
  • Local Events: Check Sagamihara's official city website for event schedules and festivals.
  • Transportation: Review local transport options and passes for efficient travel.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Ensure your home is set before you depart.

Security

  • Secure home by locking doors and windows.
  • Notify trusted neighbors or family of travel dates.
  • Unplug unnecessary electronics to save energy.
  • Protect against power surges by unplugging.

Household Care

  • Organize for your mail to be picked up or sent on.
  • Organize someone to water your plants services.
  • Arrange for pet care during your absence.
  • Ensure all recurring bills are paid.

Financial Matters

  • Set up automatic payments for bills.
  • Notify banks/inform your credit card companies of your trip.
  • Handle any financial tasks beforehand.
  • Confirm sufficient funds for your trip.

Preparation Pointer

Thorough preparation sets the foundation for an effortless and enriching journey.

On Arrival & Departure

Navigate your arrival and departure with these clear steps.

Arrival Checklist

  • 1
    First Steps Upon Arrival:

    Clear immigration and customs. Exchange currency or withdraw JPY from an ATM. Activate SIM/eSIM or pick up pre-ordered pocket Wi-Fi.

  • 2
    Orientation Strategies:

    Use Google Maps for navigation. Visit a tourist information center for maps and questions. Familiarize with your nearest train/bus station.

  • 3
    Currency & Initial Purchases:

    Have enough JPY for first day. Purchase a Suica/Pasmo IC card for convenient public transport, load with sufficient funds.

Departure Preparation

  • Souvenir & Shipping Considerations:

    Purchase souvenirs early. For shipping, visit Japan Post or arrange a courier service. Eagle Creek organizers for packing.

  • VAT Refund Procedures:

    Tax-free shopping (over ¥5,000) for non-residents. Present passport at eligible stores, keep goods sealed for customs.

  • Pre-Departure Timing Recommendations:

    Make sure you have enough time to reach Narita or Haneda, factoring in check-in, security, and immigration queues. Check transport schedules.

Return Trip Preparation

Confirm Details

Reconfirm your return flight details with your airline. Double-check all travel documents.

Ensure your passport, visa, and tickets are readily accessible.

Pack All Belongings

Guarantee all your belongings are packed and nothing is left behind at your accommodation.

Return any rented items, like pocket Wi-Fi devices or rental cars.

Settle Bills & Cash

Settle any outstanding bills at your accommodation. Spend any remaining Japanese Yen coins.

Keep paper bills for future trips or exchange them at the airport.

Smooth Transit

Efficient arrival steps set a positive tone for your entire Sagamihara journey.

Departure Details

Streamline your departure from Sagamihara with these final steps.

Last-Minute Tasks

  • Purchase souvenirs ahead of departure to avoid last-minute stress.
  • For mailing items home, visit Japan Post or arrange a courier service.
  • Awareness of home country's customs regulations and potential import duties.
  • Check airline baggage allowances and restrictions.

Tax-Free & Timing

  • Japan offers tax-free shopping for non-residents on purchases over a certain amount.
  • Present your passport at eligible stores to complete the tax-free procedure.
  • Keep goods in their sealed tax-free packaging until you leave Japan for customs.
  • Allow ample time to reach the airport, especially during peak travel periods.

Final Review

Ensure everything is set before you leave.

Departure Checklist

  • Confirm return flight detailsAirline Check
  • Pack everything belongingsNothing Left Behind
  • Return rented items (Wi-Fi, car)Agreements Settled
  • Settle any outstanding billsAccommodation Clear

Cash & Memories

  • Spend any remaining Japanese Yen coins; they are difficult to exchange outside Japan.
  • Keep any paper bills for future trips or exchange them at the airport.
  • Consider providing feedback on your stay to hotels or tour operators.
  • Review your photos and cherish the memories from Sagamihara.

Farewell Message

Your journey culminates with a smooth departure, leaving you with lasting Sagamihara memories.

Travel safe and well!