However, much preparation is needed before being able to embark on this study-abroad journey, one of which is in terms of packing. If you are a soon-to-be international student in Japan, or if you are planning to pursue your studies in Japan, then this article is for you! Here’s GoEMON’s comprehensive guide to what you should pack to be prepared for your study abroad journey in Japan!

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1. Essential documents

Passport and visa: Make sure to obtain the appropriate student visa and for the sake of simplicity, ensure that your passport is valid for the entire duration of your stay. However, you can always renew your passport in Japan if it ends up expiring before the end of your study. You should also bring photocopies (both online and physical copies, if possible) of these documents. The photocopies will be handy in case you accidentally lose the originals.
Academic documents: Don’t forget to bring important academic documents such as a letter of acceptance and/or enrollment, academic transcripts, and certificates. These might be needed for administrative purposes at the university or during application for scholarships and the like.
Health insurance and Medical Records: These documents are crucial, especially to those with chronic medical conditions or who are currently under frequent medication. Bring along copies of your medical history, vaccination record, and prescriptions along with a confirmation letter from your doctor on your medical condition and the medicine you take, if applicable.

2. Clothing

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Weather in Japan can be quite extreme depending on the region you live in, so it is advisable to pack versatile clothing to wear throughout the season. However, since clothes take up a lot of space, we advise only packing the essentials to make up space for other items, as you can always buy new clothing in Japan at reasonable prices and great styles. How low or how high the temperature can drop also varies drastically depending on the region you are going to stay, so make sure to keep that in mind as well!

Some clothing items that we recommend bringing according to the season include:

Spring and autumn: Light jackets and layers to adjust to changing temperatures
Summer: Breathable clothing, sunglasses, and hats are optional
Winter: Thick coat, thermal wear, gloves, and a scarf

We also advise bringing some formal attire in case of ceremonies, interviews, or internships. Comfortable shoes that are easy to walk around in will also be your best ally.

3. Electronics and Gadgets

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Bring basic electronics, such as a laptop and mobile phone. For your phone, you can buy a Japanese SIM once you arrive in Japan. People tend to be quiet in public spaces, so you can also consider getting headphones or a pair of earphones for listening to music or using your phone.
Chargers and adapters are also a must. Make sure to check whether your charger is the same type that is used in Japan (type A and B plugs, with a standard voltage of 100 V at a frequency of 50/60 Hz. If they are not, you should get some plug adapters beforehand.

4. Study materials

Japan is famous for its wide range of high-quality and visually pleasing stationery, so you most likely will be able to find everything you need here. However, it might be better to bring the basics with you at first.
Check beforehand if your program requires any specific textbooks and whether you can get them in Japan or not. If not, make sure to get them before your trip. However, you will most likely be able to get them in Japan, sometimes at much cheaper prices with student discounts.
You can also bring along any other study materials that you think may be needed for your future studies. For documents that are too heavy, consider scanning and storing them virtually instead.

5. Comfort items

Homesickness is par for the course when it comes to moving to a different country, even though it is just for a short period of time. Therefore, bring along some comfort items, such as your favorite snacks back at home to munch on or small items to decorate your new house to remind you of your hometown and feel less homesick.

6. Medication

Source: Health-affairs

As previously mentioned, this is especially important for those with chronic medical conditions or who are currently under frequent medication. Bring enough prescribed medicine to last your stay or at least a few months, along with other documents such as a doctor’s note. Japan has strict rules on medicine, so make sure to be prepared.

Finally, don’t overpack! Only bring what you really need and are sure you will definitely use.

Packing for a study abroad program is definitely no easy feat, but hopefully, you found GoEMON’s article useful! We wish everyone the best of luck on their new journey!

Is anyone moving to Japan soon? Let us know in the comments down below!

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