How to Prepare for a Smooth Trip to Japan (Beginner’s Guide)

How to Prepare for a Smooth Trip to Japan (Beginner’s Guide)

Toon’s 10-day trip to Japan just ended recently, traveling solo from Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, Himeji, all the way to the World Heritage villages in the central region of the country. Japan is so lovely! But before the trip, there were quite a few worries, especially since it was the first time handling everything by herself—from tickets to trains.

So, I want to share “what you should prepare” for beginners who are about to visit Japan without missing a beat!

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📌 1. Passport with at least 6 months validity remaining

Many people forget to check this before booking tickets! I recommend checking your passport right away. If it’s close to expiring, renew it as soon as possible to be safe.

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📌 2. Apps you should download on your phone

I used these apps every day and felt I couldn’t do without them:
• Navigation app (to check train routes/walking directions)
• Translation app for reading menus/signs
• Regional train schedule website
• Accommodation booking app
• Japan entry registration website (should be done in advance)
• Trip planning app that can track expenses and show tourist spot maps

Download them before traveling—it will make everything run much smoother.

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📌 3. SIM/Internet is a must!

I chose to use roaming from my regular network provider because I didn’t want the hassle of changing SIM cards. But if you prefer, you can use an eSIM or buy a Japanese SIM card. Just make sure you have internet from day one—it will make navigation and using services so much easier.

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📌 4. Prepare enough cash

Although Japan accepts credit cards at big stores, small shops, buses, and markets usually only accept cash.

I carried about 50,000 yen (around 12,000 baht) for food, small souvenirs, and the rest I paid by card.

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📌 5. Comfortable shoes are very important!

Each day, I walked no less than 20,000 steps. I chose to wear sneakers with soft soles and comfort (some days I even added extra insoles) because I once wore fashion shoes and the pain almost made me unable to keep walking…

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📌 6. Important documents to carry with you

I printed all documents and put them in a thin plastic folder to carry with me, just in case officials ask, I can present them immediately:
• Passport
• QR Code for entry registration
• Accommodation booking information
• Long-distance train tickets (if any)
• Travel insurance

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🌸 Summary:

Going to Japan isn’t as hard as you think if you prepare everything before departure.
I’m a beginner too, but just by checking these lists, I was able to travel smoothly without any hiccups!

If you’re preparing for your trip, try checking these off. You’ll definitely have a comfortable and fun time in Japan!

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#PrepareForJapanTrip #TravelJapan #TravelJapanSolo