So You’re Going to Japan and Don’t Know What to Pack… Here’s a Quick Guide
PC: Pinterest
If I’m being completely honest, I don’t really know how to feel about the influx of tourists in Japan right now. I’m Japanese, and growing up, no one ever mentioned Japan let alone visited it. I loved having this little “secret” — a bit of peace and quiet back at home. As a mixed kid, I was practically the whitest thing you could find in Japan. It’s one of the most homogenous countries so I always got weird stares for standing out. It’s a bit jarring now to see the amount of foreigners there, so please extend me grace as I take time to adjust my eyes.
Don’t get me wrong, I really appreciate that everyone seems to hold Japan in such high regard. My concern only comes when I see people completely misbehaving in my culture, and one of the ways they do so is in how they dress. Japan is a very conservative country, and there are a few rules to follow (and if you’re reading this thinking well I’m a foreigner and the rules don’t apply to me, please cancel your trip). Last Spring I was walking from place to place and saw several girls running in leggings and a sports bra. You may have guessed, but that’s a big no-no. This isn’t to shame anyone — how could they have known that was taboo? My aim here is to provide a little guidance on dressing in Japan and help you pack your suitcase in a way that abides by the Japanese rules. I hope you take this as a respectful guide and appreciate Japan’s culture without offending it. Let’s get into it!
Tops That Cover The Shoulders
No matter how hot it is, women do not show their shoulders or chests in Japan. You will stand out if you leave your skin bare, so pack a couple of lightweight tops (they can be loose and breezy if you’re worried about getting hot). While we’re on the topic, try to avoid super form-fitting shirts as well. You want to stay modest and wear clothing that don’t hint at what’s underneath.
Wide Leg Pants
Once you get to Japan you’ll see just how loved wide-leg pants are. Skinny jeans are hardly ever seen and you will get weird looks if you wear them out and about. Same goes for leggings or any other form-hugging pants. Try to stick to loose and long skirts or pants.
Comfy Leather Shoes or Sneakers
Assuming you’re going to do a lot of sigh seeing, I recommend a pair of comfortable leather shoes or sneakers to get you through the day. Leather will look more chic, but sneakers provide more stamina. It’s good to have both to rotate through the days. Something not to pack are open-toed shoes! Keep them piggies hidden.
Don’t forget, you’re going to want a good carry-all tote to adventure around with as well. And aside from miscellaneous items like cameras and wallets, I recommend you pack a nice sun hat in the summer and plenty of SPF as well.
What NOT To Pack
Open toed shoes
Spaghetti strapped tops
Leggings (at least don’t wear them out and about)
Tube tops
Mini skirts or shorts
Tops that show off the belly
Really intense perfumes
