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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Kyushu, Japan

Climate-Appropriate Clothing

Spring (March-May): Pack light to medium layers. Long-sleeved shirts, light sweaters or cardigans, and a Light jacket or trench coat work well. Spring evenings are cool.

Summer June-August

  • Focus on lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
  • A compact umbrella or lightweight rain jacket is useful due to humidity and potential rain.
  • A light jacket or cardigan for air-conditioned indoor spaces.

Cultural Dress & Winter Wear

Japan has no strict dress code for everyday wear. Modesty shows respect at religious sites. Onsen: Guests must bathe nude in communal onsen for hygiene and cultural immersion. Shower thoroughly before entering the bath. Tattoos may present an issue; some onsen prohibit tattooed guests.

Winter December-February

  • Bring warm layers: thermal underwear, sweaters.
  • A warm jacket or coat, a hat, Gloves, and a Scarf.
  • Hiking: sturdy shoes with good grip. Moisture-wicking clothing for warmer months.

Footwear Recommendations

Comfortable Walking Shoes

You walk a lot while exploring Beppu, its Hells, and general sightseeing. Comfortable shoes are required.

Easy Slip-On Shoes

Convenient for entering and exiting traditional ryokan, some restaurants, and homes where you must remove your shoes.

Cultural Courtesy

Hiking & Sandals

Bring hiking shoes if you plan to hike Mount Tsurumi or other trails. Sandals/flip-flops are useful for summer, but ensure comfort for longer walks.

Terrain Specific

Essential Documents

Important Travel Documents

Keeping your documents organized and accessible prevents stress during your trip.

  • Passport and visa documentation: Carry your original passport.
  • Travel insurance policy information: Policy details, emergency contacts, claim procedures.
  • International Driving Permit (if applicable): Required for car rental in Japan (1949 Geneva Convention).
  • Vaccination records and health documentation: Copy of vaccination record, prescription details.
  • Printed and digital copies of reservations: Flights, accommodations, tours, transportation tickets.
  • Emergency contact information: List of family, friends, and country's embassy/consulate in Japan.
  • Student/senior/press IDs for discounts: May offer discounts at some museums.
  • Keep your passport and important documents in a secure place, like a Money belt or secure inner pocket.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Japan uses 100V. Plug types are Type A and Type B. A Universal travel adapter is needed. Most modern electronics are dual voltage (100-240V) and only Require a plug adapter.

Mobile & Wi-Fi Options

  • Most smartphones compatible with Japanese networks. Purchase data-only SIM cards at airports or online.
  • ESIMs are increasingly popular for convenience, activated upon landing.
  • Rent a Portable Wi-Fi hotspot at the airport or delivered to your hotel.

Camera & Power

A standard digital camera or your Smartphone camera usually suffices. For scenic views and onsen steam, a camera with good low-light performance shows its worth. A Voltage converter may be needed for single-voltage devices.

Charging & Apps

  • Portable chargers and power banks for devices while exploring.
  • Recommended apps: Google Maps (navigation), Japan Official Travel App (info/emergency), Google Translate (language).
  • Backup photos and important documents to cloud storage.

Tech & Data Security

VPN Services

Consider a VPN like NordVPN or ExpressVPN for secure browsing and accessing geo-restricted content.

Electronics Retailers

For camera gear or other electronics, B&H Photo and Amazon offer good options.

Airalo eSIM

For hassle-free mobile data, explore Airalo for eSIM options in Japan.

Health & Wellness Items

First Aid & Medications

A well-stocked personal health kit gives you peace of mind.

Essential Kit Contents

  • Basic wound care: Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers.
  • Anti-diarrhea medication, allergy medication.
  • Prescription medications in original packaging with doctor's note. Research Japan's medication import rules.

Sun & Insect Protection

Over-the-counter medications for common issues: Bring familiar brands for colds, flu, stomach upset, headaches. Convenient to have your preferred brands.

Protective Gear

Altitude & Motion Sickness

Remedies for Travel

What's Available Locally

  • Most personal items are available.
  • Specific brands or larger sizes of toiletries are harder to find.
  • Larger sizes of clothing or shoes for non-Japanese body types might also prove difficult to locate.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Essentials

Pack specialized gear only if you plan certain activities.

Onsen Gear

Onsen: A small personal towel (some onsen provide or rent) and a small Waterproof bag for wet items are useful.

  • Small personal towel (tenugui)
  • Waterproof bag
  • No swimsuit for communal onsen
  • Tattoo covers (if applicable)

Rent vs. Bring

Items to rent vs. Bring based on quality and availability.

  • Hiking poles: Rent or purchase locally.
  • Umbrella: Easily purchased locally if you prefer not to carry one from home.
  • No items specifically unique to Beppu beyond onsen-related items.

Rent vs Buy Decision

Advantages of Renting

  • Less luggage to carry.
  • Access to high-quality gear without commitment.
  • Good for single-use items.
  • No long-term storage needed.

Considerations for Buying

  • Higher initial cost.
  • Added weight for luggage.
  • More suitable for frequent travelers.
  • Personalized fit and comfort for specialized items.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security Items

These small items enhance your travel comfort and security.

Travel Comfort

Reusable & Regional Items

These items help with convenience and local experiences.

Sustainable & Unique

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Bottle

Stay hydrated, stay sustainable.

Shopping Bag

Avoid plastic bag charges.

Solid Toiletries

Reduce liquid waste, travel lighter.

E-reader

Less paper, more books.

Destination-Specific Items

Onsen Visit

  • Small personal towel (tenugui).
  • Coins for public bath entry fees.
  • Easy slip-on shoes for convenience.

Outdoor Activities

  • Camera with good low-light for steam and nightscapes.
  • Mask for crowded indoor spaces during flu season.
  • Offline maps for areas with limited mobile signal.

Packing Pro Tips

Avoid overpacking by checking Japan's strict rules on medication imports. Some common medications in other countries may be restricted or prohibited.

Carry your home country's driver's license along with your IDP if renting a car.