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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

South Of Tokyo, Japan

Essential Preparations

Plan for a smooth and prepared experience.

Planning Timeline

A chronological guide for your pre-departure actions.

1

-6 Months Before

Visa & Passport

Research visa requirements and check passport validity.

Flight Bookings

Book international flights, especially for peak seasons.

Accommodation

Secure major accommodation, notably popular ryokan.

2

-2 Months Before

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance. (World Nomads)

Itinerary & Transport

Plan detailed itinerary and book domestic transport.

Connectivity & IDP

Arrange mobile connectivity and obtain International Driving Permit.

3

Final Preparations

Confirm Bookings

Confirm all bookings (flights, hotels, tours).

Bank & Medication

Inform bank of travel plans; arrange prescription medications.

Packing & Documents

Pack clothing and organize digital/physical document copies.

Bookings

Securing these items well in advance is highly recommended.

Essential Bookings

  • International flights.
  • Main accommodation in Kamakura (and any other cities).
  • Japan Rail Pass (if applicable, purchase outside Japan).
  • Specific tours or unique experiences that require pre-booking.

Pre-Trip Knowledge

Acquiring information about your destination.

Important Research Areas

  • Understand basic Japanese etiquette and cultural norms.
  • Learn a few Japanese phrases (greetings, thank you, excuse me).
  • Research local transportation options within Kamakura.
  • Identify must-visit attractions and their operating hours.

Home Preparations

Actions to take at home before you depart.

Household Management

  • Arrange for mail collection or forwarding.
  • Organize pet care if you have pets.
  • Turn off unnecessary utilities to conserve energy.
  • Review your travel itinerary.

Security Measures

  • Secure your home: lock doors and windows.
  • Set alarms if applicable.
  • Hide valuables or keep them in a safe place.
  • Consider smart home security checks.

Important Notifications

  • Inform a trusted friend or family member of your itinerary.
  • Provide them with emergency contacts.
  • Notify your bank/credit card companies of travel plans.
  • Backup important digital data to cloud or external drive.

Final Document Check

Organize both digital and physical copies of all important documents before departure.

Arrival & Departure Planning

Steps for a smooth entry and exit from Kamakura and Japan.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Clear Immigration & Customs

    Have your passport and landing card ready at Narita or Haneda Airport.

  • 2
    Collect Luggage

    Proceed to baggage claim after immigration formalities.

  • 3
    Orientation & Information

    Locate tourist information centers at the airport or Kamakura Station for maps.

Initial Essentials

  • Currency Exchange

    Exchange some currency to JPY or withdraw cash from a 7-Eleven ATM.

  • IC Card Purchase

    Purchase an IC card (Suica or Pasmo) for convenient local transport.

  • Mobile Activation

    Activate your prepaid SIM card or pocket Wi-Fi rental.

Getting to Your Stay

Airport Connections

Follow researched routes from Narita (JR Narita Express) or Haneda (Keikyu Line) to Kamakura Station.

The journey is straightforward and well-signed.

Kamakura Local Transport

From Kamakura Station, use the JR or Enoden line, a local bus, or a taxi.

This connects you directly to your accommodation.

Baggage Management

Consider luggage delivery services from the airport for hands-free travel.

This makes public transport easier with heavy bags.

Smooth Transitions

Streamline your arrival and departure experiences with these prepared steps.

Departure Preparation

Plan for a relaxed departure from Kamakura and Japan.

Shopping & Shipping

Souvenir & Tax Details

  • Souvenir Planning:Komachi-dori is a shopping street.
  • Shipping:Inquire about services for large items.
  • VAT Refund:Available for purchases over a set amount at tax-free shops.
  • Eligibility:Carry your passport for tax-free qualification.

Travel Logistics

  • Arrive at Narita or Haneda Airport 2-3 hours before your international flight.
  • This allows ample time for check-in, security, and immigration.
  • Confirm airport transfer timing, considering potential traffic or train delays.
  • Pack luggage according to airline baggage regulations.

Final Checks

Confirm your return flight details for any last-minute changes.

Ensure all belongings, especially important documents, are accounted for.