Japan Trip Planning Checklist

Your complete timeline for planning the perfect Japan trip

japantravelguide.com

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Open Packing List by Season Open JR Pass Calculator

112-6 Months Before

Research best time to visit based on your prioritiesBook international flights (especially for peak seasons)Apply for JR Pass if planning multi-city travelReserve hotels in Tokyo and Kyoto (book early for cherry blossom/fall foliage)Check passport validity (6+ months recommended)Research visa requirements for your country

23-6 Months Before

Book accommodations in smaller citiesReserve special experiences (sumo tournaments, tea ceremonies, Ghibli Museum)Plan rough daily itineraryBook popular restaurants (especially kaiseki, sushi omakase)Research and book ryokan staysLook into travel insurance options

31-3 Months Before

Book specific Shinkansen tickets if neededReserve timed-entry tickets (teamLab, popular temples)Purchase travel insuranceDownload essential apps (Google Maps, Hyperdia, Google Translate)Set up mobile payment options (Suica/Pasmo)Notify bank of travel dates

42-4 Weeks Before

Check cherry blossom or fall foliage forecastsConfirm all reservations and bookingsExchange some currency to Japanese YenArrange airport transportationPrint important confirmationsResearch local customs and etiquette

51 Week Before

Check weather forecast and adjust packingDownload offline maps for your destinationsCharge all devices and portable batteriesPrepare day bag and organize luggageSet up international phone plan or pocket WiFiMake copies of important documents

📦 Packing Essentials

Passport and copiesJR Pass (if purchased)Credit cards and cash (Yen)Phone and chargerUniversal power adapterComfortable walking shoesLight layers (weather varies)Small towel (for onsen)Umbrella (compact)Reusable shopping bag

Pro Tip: Book accommodations 3-6 months ahead for cherry blossom (late March-April) and fall foliage (November) seasons.

Best Time to Visit Japan - Complete Planning Resource