Packing can seem like a daunting task, so I like to provide little guides to help you remember all the necessities and maybe even give you a few NEW ideas for your travel plans.
Backpacking all over Japan for 21-days meant I needed to be organized and practical with my choices. I also had to pack for a variety of temperatures because for half of the time I was in Tokyo where it averaged 30-50*F and the other half of my trip I was snowboarding in Niseko where the weather ranged 15-30*F. Since I was snowboarding I also had to pack all my gear, but still keep it as light as possible.
I am here to give you my best packing advice for a winter adventure in Japan.
January 10 - January 31 I set out to explore the cultural explosion of Japan. On my trip I stayed in AirBnbs in Shanghai (layover) and Tokyo, a ryokan in Nagano, and an apartment in Niseko. A ryokan is a Japanese inn that has kept traditional structure and equipment. So think sliding panel doors, pillows around coffee tables, bath houses, and mats to sleep on. It was everything I dreamt.
Through my unforeseen shortcomings and/or life-saver moments I complied a list of things you will DEFINITELY NEED and some travel tips that will help you plan your Japan adventure.
CARRY-ON
Wandrd day pack filled with everything listed in What to pack in a carry-on for long flights or layovers
Toiletries pouch
Travel-Sized Liquids in Zip-lock baggie
Sunglasses
Exercise band
Pair of sweatpants
Pair of warm socks
CLOTHES
Scarf
Gloves - mittens, tech fingers
Undies
Wool socks
Sports bras
Short sleeve graphic tee
Long sleeve thermals
Sweaters
Dressy top
Turtleneck
Coat
Blue jeans
Black jeans
Long leggings: cotton & athletic
PJ sweats & shorts
Belt
Walking shoes/workout shoes* - There are so many places to explore, so make sure you bring your most comfortable pair.
Boots
TOILETRIES
Chapstick/Aquaphor
Moisturizing eye drops
Face & Body lotion
Sunscreen
Face wash
Deodorant/sample perfume bottles
Makeup
Q-tips
Hairbrush & hairties
Toothbrush/Paste/Floss
Razor/Tweezer
MISC.
Extra vitamin C
Tea
Face towel
Curling iron
Jewelry
Laundry tote (I like reusing Free People tote bags)
SNOW GEAR
Goggles
Beanie
Ear warmer headband
Gloves
Jacket layers (fleece, quilted puffy, windbreaker)
Pants
Boots
Snowboard & bindings
Snowboard bag with wheels
Onesie by Tipsy Elves - Best idea ever because it is so easy to slip on to run out the door. It is also great because snow doesn't creep down your pants.
So that's my packing list for a chilly trip to Japan. Next read about the best places to explore on your trip!