Japan Pre-travel Hub

Check list for traveling to Japan Complete preparation before flying

One page for checking important things based on time. Then click to read specific details immediately.

Last updated 10 Sep 2026 · By the MjourneyGo team

Luggage, clothing, documents, and equipment for preparing for a trip to Japan.
Original illustrations for MjourneyGo

30 days before flight

  • Check that the name on the ticket matches your passport. and check the expiration date of your passport according to the airline's conditions
  • Book accommodation for the first and last night. Ready to store addresses in English/Japanese
  • Purchase insurance that covers treatment costs, cancellations, and planned activities.
  • Check your personal medicine from the name of the active ingredient. Don't just look at the trade name.
  • Book tickets for a specific date, such as amusement parks, reserved train seats. or popular shop

7 days before flight

  • Register for Visit Japan Web from the official website.
  • Install eSIM but haven't turned on Data Roaming until Japan.
  • Check the actual weather in every city and adjust your clothes.
  • Record your itinerary from the airport and your last bus trip.
  • Download offline maps, insurance documents and passport copies.

24 hours before flight

DocumentPassport, tickets, accommodation, insurance and offline QR
handbagMedicine, valuables, spare batteries and one shirt
Mobile phoneFully charged. Turn on Search for devices. and write down emergency numbers
Check your baggage with the airline of the actual flight.Weight, size, liquid, and battery restrictions vary by carrier and route.

When you arrive in Japan

  1. Open the QR and get your passport ready.Use only the official website and do not send the QR to others.
  2. connect to internetTest the map and hotel contact information before leaving the airport.
  3. Choose a trip from the actual destination.View the station near your accommodation and the number of transfers required.
  4. Prepare an emergency planSave 110, 119 and JNTO Visitor Hotline.

Guide that you should read before traveling

Smartphone showing QR code and travel documents at the airportImmigration documentsVisit Japan Web Visa and Customs Medicine and first aid equipment for traveling to JapanPersonal medicineQuantity of controlled substances and documents Telephone and first aid bag for emergencies in JapanEmergencySickness, lost items, disasters and help numbers Luggage and items you should prepare for traveling to JapanOrganize your bag according to the seasonClothing, liquids, and batteries Shopping bags, receipts, and documents for duty-free purchases in JapanTax-Free 2026Scan the QR and request a tax refund on the day of your return flight. Japanese food and dietary restriction cardSpecific foods and allergiesCommunicate clearly with the store Japanese airports and transfers into the cityKansai Airport into the cityWent to Namba, Umeda, Kyoto and Kobe. Rental cars on Japanese countrysideRent a car in JapanInternational Driver's License ETC and Winter

Frequently asked questions

Traveling to Japan for the first time, how many days in advance should you start preparing?
Start at least 30 days before travel to allow time to check passports, insurance, medications, accommodations, transportation, and tickets that need to be reserved in advance.
Is Visit Japan Web necessary?
The system reduces the process of filling out information when arriving in Japan. But conditions and procedures may change. Always check the official website and save the QR offline before flying.
How much cash should you carry with you to Japan?
It depends on your travel plans and city. Although cards and IC cards can be used more widely, cash is still required in small shops, cash registers, and rural areas. You should have a reserve fund separate from your main wallet.

Travel rule information can be changed. You should check again with Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan and service providers before departure