Pre-Departure Checklist & Packing
Get fully prepared for your study abroad journey. Complete your essentials checklist, packing guides, and review pre-flight survival tips.
Before Anything Else: Triple Check These Essentials
Stay Connected From Day One
You will need a Japanese phone number for banking, school registration, and housing. Preorder your voice + data eSIM before you fly.
Cash Warning
Although Japan is adapting to digital pay, it remains heavily dependent on cash. Keep enough yen in cash (approx. ¥100,000) for local travel, transport, and emergencies upon landing.
The Ultimate Japan Study Abroad Packing List
Daily Essentials
- ✓Toiletries you prefer: Skincare, cosmetics, or deodorants (as formulas differ in Japan).
- ✓Prescription Meds: Include doctor certificates. Apply for a *Yakkan Shoumei* certificate if staying long-term.
- ✓Comfortable walking shoes & day backpack.
Clothing (By Season)
- ✓Summer: Lightweight clothes, breathable cotton or linen fabrics.
- ✓Winter: Warm thermal underwear, sweaters, windproof coat.
- ✓Optional larger sizes: Bring extras if your shoe size exceeds 27-28 cm, as large sizes are rare in Japan.
Electronics & Study
- ✓Laptop: Essential for academic study and research files.
- ✓Universal Power Adapter: Japan uses Type A (two-prong flat) plugs, running at 100V.
- ✓Portable power bank, e-textbooks, and dictionary apps.
What NOT to Bring
- Heavy physical textbooks (rely on digital e-books instead).
- Excessive clothing (most basics can be bought cheaply at UNIQLO/GU).
- Restricted agricultural products, raw meats, or forbidden medications.
Quick Packing Recap
Prioritize your legal documents, Yen cash, active international card, and SIM connectivity. Most everyday essentials are easy and cheap to purchase at 100-yen shops (Daiso, Seria) upon arrival.
Banking & Cash
Most Japanese banks require a working Japanese phone number to open an account. Set up your eSIM before landing so you are prepared to open your account immediately.
Making Friends
Accelerate your integration by joining school clubs, participating in local international exchange associations, or getting a part-time job (*arubaito*).
Etiquette & Habits
Respect public etiquette: keep quiet and avoid phone calls on commuter trains, follow complex local garbage sorting rules, and maintain strict punctuality for all classes.