Travel Preparation Guide

  • Japan | May 5–17, 2026

    Tokyo • Kyoto • Osaka • Okinawa

This guide will help you arrive comfortable, prepared, and ready to enjoy every experience — from temples and shopping to Mario Kart racing and a beachfront birthday celebration

Before You Arrive

Complete forms online:
Japan requires passengers arriving from abroad to complete their disembarkation and customs forms online through the official Visit Japan Web platform before landing. Having your QR code ready on your phone speeds up immigration significantly.

Weather & How to Dress

  • Overall climate: Mild, pleasant spring weather with low humidity

  • Average Temperatures

    Tokyo / Kyoto / Osaka:
    Day: 65–75°F (18–24°C)
    Night: 55–65°F (13–18°C)
     
    Okinawa:
    Day: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
    Night: 70–75°F (21–24°C) 

  • Daytime Touring

    · Light layers (breathable tops, light sweaters)
    · Comfortable walking shoes (very important)
    · Sunglasses & sunscreen
    · Small umbrella or packable rain jacket

  • Evenings & Dining

    · Dressy casual to elegant outfits
    · Lightweight jacket or wrap for cooler evenings
    · One or two elevated looks for Michelin dining & birthday dinner

  • Okinawa Resort Wear

    ·       Swimwear
    ·       Resort sandals & cover-ups
    ·       Linen or airy outfits for beach dinners
    ·       Sun hat

Cultural Dress Etiquette

  • Temples/shrines: shoulders covered, no extremely short skirts
  • Easy-to-remove shoes (some restaurants & temples require shoe removal)
  • Socks are helpful for indoor sites

Booking and Transport

Booking and Transport: Use resources like Klook for booking attractions and the Smart EX site for Shinkansen (Train) reservations. Download apps as well.

Mario Kart / Go-Kart Racing (IMPORTANT)

If you plan to participate in Mario Kart street racing, Japan requires an International Driving Permit (IDP).

What You Must Do:

  • Visit any AAA office in the U.S.
  • Cost: $20 USD
  • Bring: Valid U.S. driver’s license
  • Passport photos (AAA can take them)
Processing is usually same-day
Without an IDP, you cannot legally drive in Japan, even with a U.S. license.


Flights You Must Book (IMPORTANT)

International Flights

  • Book your round-trip flight to Tokyo (HND or NRT) 
  • Arrival: May 5 (depending on your personal schedule) 
  • Departure window: May 15–17 (depending on your personal schedule) 

Domestic Japan Flights (Guest Action)

Each guest must book two short domestic flights during the trip in Japan:

Osaka → Okinawa

  • Date: May 13, 2026 (morning flight)
  • Recommended flight time selection of 9am or 9:30am to Okinawa
  • Flight time: ~2.5 hours
  • Suggested airlines:
    • ANA
    • Japan Airlines (JAL)
    • Peach Aviation
    • Skymark

Okinawa → Tokyo

  • Date: May 15, 2026 
  • This returns you to Tokyo for international departure or overnight
  • These flights are not included in group bookings — please book once your international flight is confirmed.

Advance Ticket Purchase: Theme Parks, Museum, teamLab, Sumo Event (IMPORTANT)

To avoid sellouts, long wait times, and price increases, all theme park express passes should be purchased 2 months in advance.

Parks on This Trip That REQUIRE Advance Booking:

Universal Studios Japan (USJ)

Why This Matters:

  • May is peak spring travel season in Japan
  • Express Passes for USJ + Super Nintendo World routinely sell out

  • Advance booking:
    Saves 1–3 hours per day in lines
    Guarantees entry at preferred times
    Reduces group stress and schedule disruption

Other Activities on This Trip That REQUIRE Advance Booking:

Pro Tips for Guests:

  • Purchase tickets as soon as dates are confirmed
  • Match Express Pass times to the itinerary day
  • Screenshot tickets + save to phone wallet
  • Bring a portable charger on park days

Luggage & Shopping Tips

Japan is shopping heaven — plan accordingly.

Smart Packing Advice:

  • Bring at least one expandable suitcase or
  • Pack a foldable duffel bag for souvenirs or you can buy one when you arrive in Japan
  • Luxury brands, Pokémon merch, and Japanese exclusives add up fast

Luggage Transfers:

  • Japan offers hotel-to-hotel luggage forwarding
  • Highly recommended between Tokyo → Kyoto → Osaka
  • Allows hands-free Shinkansen travel

Money & Payments

  • Credit cards widely accepted in cities
  • Carry some cash for temples, local trains, markets, and smaller shops
  • ATMs at 7-Eleven work with U.S. cards (When you get Yen from an ATM, always have the transaction go through in Yen, not USD).

Connectivity

  • Recommend eSIM or pocket Wi-Fi (It's generally better to buy and install your Japan eSIM before you arrive in Japan.)
  • Essential for navigation, translation, and reservations

Health, Comfort & Practical Tips

Japan involves a lot of walking — comfortable shoes are essential·

Bring:

  • Personal medications
  • Blister pads
  • Light compression socks for flights
  • Tipping is not customary in Japan


Special Occasion Notes

  • Okinawa birthday dinner will be elegant but relaxed
  • Guests should pack one standout outfit for beachfront photos
  • Neutral, light colors photograph beautifully at sunset

Travel Documents Checklist

  • Passport (valid for duration of stay)
  • International Driving Permit (if kart racing)
  • Copies of passport & ID (digital or printed)
  • Travel insurance (optional)

Final Advice

Arrive comfortable, layered, and ready to walk — Japan rewards travelers who pack smart and travel light (with room to bring treasures home).