Japan pre-trip checklist: what to prepare before you fly

Confirm the rule for your nationality and travel purpose with an official Japanese authority.

Use only the official free service and save the current 2D codes where you can reach them offline.

Review medicine, food, cash and other restricted-item rules before packing.

A prescription from another country does not automatically make every ingredient legal to import.

Confirm that the phone is unlocked and compatible before buying an eSIM, SIM or pocket Wi-Fi.

Keep QR codes, setup instructions, hotel details and important reservations available without data.

Carry some Japanese yen, know your card PIN and keep the bank’s support number separate from the card.

Japan changes to a refund method for eligible purchases made from November 1, 2026.

Choose by the actual hotel area, terminal, arrival time, luggage and final transfer.

Japan accepts only specific document routes. Confirm the issuing country, originals and validity before paying.

Price the trips you will really take instead of assuming one product is always cheapest.

On specified Shinkansen routes, baggage over 160 cm total dimensions requires the correct reserved space.

Keep passports, medicine, valuables and same-day essentials with you.

Save the insurer’s assistance number and know what documents it requires before treatment.

Include generic ingredient names, doses and emergency contact details.

Install or bookmark official alerts and save the accommodation address offline.

For visitor support, also save the 24-hour JNTO hotline: 050-3816-2787.

Use official airline, railway and weather sources—not an old screenshot or timetable.

Keep the phone number and nearest station or airport-bus stop with it.

Japan commonly uses Type A plugs and 100 V power. Check the April 24, 2026 flight rule and every device label.

Keep backups protected; do not post passport or booking details publicly.