Ultimate Japan Pre-Arrival Checklist: Immigration, Transport, SIM Cards, and Travel Essentials

The only pre-travel checklist you’ll truly need.

Travelling to Japan is exciting, but waiting until you arrive to handle practicalities can be costly, time-consuming, and sometimes stressful. To maximise your time, comfort, and enjoyment on this incredible journey, here’s a complete list of essential tasks to complete before boarding your flight.

What You’ll Cover in This Guide:

1. Complete Immigration & Customs Declarations Before You Fly

2. Suica transit cards (virtual & physical)

3. Mobile Internet: SIM cards & pocket Wi‑Fi

4. Airport-to-hotel transfers

5. JR Rail Pass planning

6. Travelling with infants or toddlers

1. Complete Immigration & Customs Declarations Before You Fly

Why You Must Do This Before Arrival

Japan’s immigration and customs process is streamlined for travellers who prepare in advance, saving you time and stress at the airport.

By completing your documentation online before your flight, you’ll:

• Breeze through immigration and customs faster

• Avoid unreliable airport Wi‑Fi

• Stay compliant with Japanese entry laws

• Prevent any last-minute surprises at the gate

Step-by-Step: Prepare All Travel Documentation

1. Register with Visit Japan Web (Immigration & Customs Forms)

Japan has an official, government-operated system for entering traveller info online.

Link: Visit Japan Web Portal – Immigration, Customs, Quarantine Registration (MOJ)

Through this portal, you can:

• Register personal and flight information

• Upload your passport details

• Fill in customs declaration forms

• Complete immigration details

• Generate a QR code for airport processing

When to complete:
You can register up to 2 weeks before departure.

Important:
Use a screenshot of your QR code, as airport internet might be slow or unavailable.
Keep a backup printed copy just in case.

2. Know What You Can and Cannot Bring into Japan

Japan has strict customs regulations on food, medicine, and electronics. If you don’t declare restricted items, you may face heavy fines or entry denial.

Official Links for Customs & Prohibited Items:

• Japan Customs – What You Can Bring

• Japan Customs – Prohibited & Restricted Goods

• Japan Customs – Carrying Food & Plants

• Japan Quarantine Rules (Animal & Plant)

3. Travelling with Medication? Read This First

Japan strictly controls medications, especially those containing stimulants (including common U.S. prescriptions and over-the-counter meds).

Medicine-related rules:

• Importing Medication into Japan – Ministry of Health

• Yakkan Shoumei Application – For personal medicine import

If you need to bring prescription meds (including asthma inhalers, ADHD meds, sleep aids), you may need a Yakkan Shoumei (import certificate).

4. COVID-19 & Health Guidelines (if applicable)

Although most restrictions have eased, some temporary regulations could still apply.

Check the latest entry health rules:

• Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Entry Requirements by Country

Pro Tip: Always Save a Backup

• Screenshot your Visit Japan QR code

• Print your flight booking, hotel confirmation, and passport copy

• Keep key documents in cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox, etc.) for emergency access

Summary: All Essential Links to Bookmark Before Travelling to Japan

2. Set Up Your Suica Transit Card

Why Suica is a Must-Have

The Suica card isn’t just for trains, it’s one of the most convenient tools in Japan for everyday transactions. Whether you're navigating public transit or making a quick purchase at a store, Suica helps you go cashless with ease.

• Use it for trains, buses, vending machines, and store payments

• Works on most major transport lines across Tokyo and the surrounding regions

• Available as a virtual (mobile app) or physical card

A. Virtual Suica (Mobile Version)

Steps to prepare before arrival:

1. Download the Suica app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store

2. Set it up on Apple Wallet (iPhone) or Google Wallet (Android)

3. Add funds by linking your credit card or with cash at station kiosks

4. Enable auto top-up for continuous usage

Download Links:

• Suica on Google Play Store

• Suica on the Apple App Store

Some regional settings may prevent app access. Check your device’s compatibility for Japan.

B. Physical Suica Card

Where to get one:

• Haneda or Narita Airport (JR East Travel Service Centres)

• Major stations: Tokyo, Shinjuku, Ueno, Shinagawa, Shibuya, Ikebukuro

• Look for Commuter Pass Vending Machines or Green JR Ticket Offices

Starting balance tip

Load ¥3,000–¥5,000 when you first buy or set up the card.

Use Suica for Everyday Payments

Besides public transport, Suica cards are accepted nationwide at many stores and facilities, making it a powerful digital wallet, especially helpful when you're avoiding coins or language barriers.

Use Suica at these major convenience store chains:

You can use your Suica balance to pay at the register (just tap and go) at virtually every convenience store in Japan, including:

• 7‑Eleven (セブン-イレブン)

• Lawson (ローソン)

• FamilyMart (ファミリーマート)

• Mini Stop (ミニストップ)

• Daily Yamazaki (デイリーヤマザキ)

• NewDays (ニューデイズ) — found in many train stations

• Seicomart (セイコーマート) especially in Hokkaido

• Poplar (ポプラ)

These stores accept Suica for:

• Food, drinks, and snacks

• Toiletries and travel goods

• Bill payments (in select cases)

• Printing, ATMs, and ticket purchases (some services may vary)

Other Suica-compatible stores:

Suica can also be used at:

• Most vending machines

• Coin lockers at stations

• Some taxis and cafes

• Select department stores (especially inside stations)

Refunds & Rollover

• The physical card allows refunds of unused balance when you return it (minus ¥220 handling fee)

• The virtual card cannot be refunded, but the balance can be reused on your next visit

3. Secure SIM Cards & Pocket Wi‑Fi

Why You Need Internet on Arrival

• Book taxis instantly

• Navigate with Google Maps

• Use translation tools effortlessly

• Check emails and flight updates immediately

A. Airport Rentals vs. Convenience‑Store Options

Airport kiosk rentals are easy but often overpriced (¥1,500–¥2,000/day). Instead, consider pre‑booking your connectivity for better rates online or purchasing at convenience stores.

Pre‑Book Pocket Wi‑Fi Before You Travel

Here are reliable providers offering online reservations pre-arrival:

• Japan Wireless – Daily plans (~$1.20–$2.10/day depending on data) including SIM kits

• WiFiBOX by Telecom Square – Self-service Wi‑Fi pick-up at airports

• MATCHA Japan - Wi‑Fi Rental – Great overview of budget Wi‑Fi and SIM providers

• NINJA WiFi – Unlimited SoftBank data from ¥440/day (~¥440–1,980 depending on speed/data plan)

• SoftBank Global Rental – Approximately ¥860/day (plus ¥330 handling fee and optional courier delivery)

• eConnect Japan – Pocket Wi‑Fi from ¥231/day; SIM cards from ¥5,400; eSIMs from ¥2,600

• Global Mobile – Fixed ¥480/day for 2+ days; ¥6,000/month for monthly plan (≈¥200/day)

• FoxWifi Tokyo – Unlimited data plans with airport and hotel pickup; exact pricing on their website

Pricing Summary

B. Save Money with 7‑Eleven & Other Stores

If you prefer buying in person, 7‑Eleven Pocket Wi‑Fi units are usually cheaper than airport kiosks easy to return at any 7‑Eleven before your departure.

Providers & availability:

• 7‑Eleven: Affordable Pocket Wi‑Fi

• SoftBank / au / NTT Docomo: SIM cards in convenience stores and train-station booths

• Airport kiosks: Convenience, but higher rates

• Train stations (Tokyo, Shinjuku): SIM & Wi‑Fi vending booths

Top tip: Buy and reserve your Wi‑Fi/SIM before boarding, returning them at your gate is fast and easy.

Why Booking Early Matters

• Better pricing than airport rentals

• Lock in a plan that fits your data needs

• Avoid sold-out situations during peak travel seasons

• Options for pickup at the airport, hotel, or convenience store

For example:

• eConnect Japan offers ¥231–¥240/day Pocket Wi‑Fi, or SIM/eSIMs starting at ¥2,600

• Global Mobile gives a generous monthly option (~¥200/day equivalent)

• Japan Wireless provides daily SIM options as low as $1.20

4. Arrange Your Transfer from Airport to Hotel

Why Pre‑Booking Beats Hailing on Arrival

• Avoid high taxi fares (¥6,000–¥26,000 in peak hours)

• Skip wait times and inconsistent availability

• Enjoy peace of mind after a long flight

A. Taxi & Private Transfer Options

• GO Taxi, MK Taxi, and others operate rideshares and private bookings

• Family or group travel? Book early, some services require 4+ weeks’ advance notice

B. Public Transit (Both Airports)

From Haneda Airport

1. Tokyo Monorail → Hamamatsucho → JR Yamanote Line

2. Keikyu Line → Shinagawa → connect onward
   Info: use [Tokyo Haneda Access Guide]

From Narita Airport

1. Narita Express (N’EX) → Tokyo, Shinagawa, Shibuya

2. Alternative: Access Express / Skyliner to Ueno/Asakusa
   Info: visit [Narita Airport Train Options]

C. Choose a Hotel Near Yamanote Line

• Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ikebukuro, Shinagawa = ideal for transit

• Yamanote Loops around Tokyo, fully JR-covered

• Tip: Use JR coverage for free rides and the JR Pass use

D. Summer-Trip Tip

Booking a private limousine/taxi 4–8 weeks in advance can save you money and eliminate uncertainty, especially when travelling with family or lots of luggage.

5. Order Your JR Rail Pass

Why the JR Pass is a Game-Changer

The Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) offers unlimited travel on most JR-operated trains, including the high-speed Shinkansen (bullet trains), limited express routes, and local lines. It’s ideal for tourists planning to visit multiple cities, and it provides massive savings compared to buying individual tickets.

Who can use it?
Only foreign tourists with "Temporary Visitor" status can purchase and use the JR Pass. Japanese citizens and residents are not eligible.

Where to buy it?
The JR Pass must be purchased before arriving in Japan. You cannot buy it inside Japan unless there’s a special campaign or promo.

A. Choose the Right Pass for Your Trip

Common routes include:

• Tokyo → Yokohama → Nagoya → Kyoto → Osaka → Hiroshima → Nagasaki

• Also valid for local JR lines within cities, such as the JR Yamanote Line in Tokyo

B. Where & How to Buy Your JR Pass

1. Buy in advance from:

• Official Japan Rail Pass Website

• Authorised agencies in Europe, the USA, Australia, and Southeast Asia

• Travel offices, such as Klook, Japan Experience, JRailPass.com, and more

Delivery: You’ll receive an Exchange Order by mail, which you will redeem upon arrival in Japan.
Validity: Must be exchanged within 3 months of purchase.

Redeeming Your JR Pass in Japan

Once you arrive in Japan:

1. Visit a JR Pass Exchange Office, typically found at major airports and stations (Tokyo, Narita, Haneda, Osaka, Kyoto, etc.)

2. Present your passport (with Temporary Visitor stamp)

3. Select the start date for your pass

4. Receive your actual JR Pass paper ticket

Extremely Important Notice: Safeguard Your JR Pass!

Very Important – Must Read!

Once your pass is activated and issued as a physical paper ticket at any JR Pass counter, that version is your ONLY pass. There is no digital or electronic JR Pass.

If your physical JR Pass ticket is lost, stolen, or damaged, it cannot be reissued even if:

• You still have your passport and proof of purchase

• You know your reservation details

• You reported the loss to police or station staff

Why?
The JR Pass system operates entirely on paper validation. Once a pass is printed, it cannot be duplicated or reprinted for any reason.

How to protect your pass:

• Keep it in a secure travel wallet or passport holder

• Never leave it inside a pocket, loose bag, or unzipped pouch

• Do not fold, crease, or laminate the ticket; damage could affect train entry gates

• Consider scanning or photographing it for backup information only (but note, this won’t replace it)

Treat it with the same care as your passport or credit card

JR Exchange Office Locations (Major Cities)

Final JR Pass Reminders

• Purchase in advance outside Japan

• Exchange within 90 days

• Choose the right plan length

• Keep your paper pass safe at all times

• No digital option exists (as of 2025)

6. Travelling with Infants or Toddlers in Japan

Japan is an incredibly family-friendly country, known for its cleanliness, safety, and efficiency, but travelling with young children (especially infants or toddlers) still requires special preparation, especially when it comes to customs, food, and local expectations.

This section will help you navigate the official regulations, make smart packing decisions, and enjoy a smoother trip with your little ones.

Can You Bring Baby Food Into Japan?

Yes, you can bring baby food, formula, and snacks, but there's a catch: you must declare them upon arrival.
Japan enforces very strict customs laws, especially regarding food and agricultural products. While baby food is allowed, all food items, including those for babies, must be declared at customs.

Our Experience

"We declared that we were carrying baby food. The customs officer smiled and said, ‘Baby food? That’s okay!’ 😊
Still, it’s always better to be honest and follow the rules.”

Declaration Rules: What You Need to Know

What happens if you don’t declare it?

• Items can be confiscated

• You may be subject to fines or entry denial

• It’s treated as a violation, even if unintentional

What to declare:

• Baby food jars, pouches, or powder

• Infant formula (milk-based or plant-based)

• Snacks and rice crackers for babies

• Sterilised water or liquid formula containers

• Packaged baby drinks

You don’t need to declare:

• Baby items purchased inside Japan during your stay

• Empty containers or utensils

Official Customs Guidelines & Links

Be sure to review these before departure:

• Japan Customs – Passenger Guide (Food, Baby Formula, etc.)

• Ministry of Agriculture – Import of Baby Food

• Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency – Personal Imports

What to Pack for Your Infant in Japan

Here’s a smart checklist of baby-related items to bring; many are available in Japan, but not all in your preferred brand or language.

Essentials to Pack in Your Carry-On:

• 3–5 days’ worth of baby food or formula (sealed containers)

• Diapers and wet wipes (enough for the first few days)

• Extra baby clothes (accidents happen!)

• Travel-size sanitiser, hand wipes

• Snacks, teething toys, and pacifiers

• Light blanket or baby wrap for aeroplanes and train rides

• Bottle steriliser bags or portable UV steriliser (optional)

Items to Declare at Customs:

• Sealed jars/pouches of baby food

• Formula powder or ready-to-drink formula

• Herbal baby teas or supplements

Can You Buy Baby Products in Japan?

Yes, Japan has excellent quality baby products, and they’re widely available. However, some international brands may be hard to find, and labels are in Japanese.

Where to buy:

• 7‑Eleven / FamilyMart / Lawson (small selections of diapers, snacks)

• Drugstores (e.g., Matsumoto Kiyoshi, Welcia, Tsuruha Drug)

• Supermarkets (Aeon, Seiyu, Ito-Yokado)

• Baby speciality stores: Akachan Honpo, Babies "R" Us, Nishimatsuya

What’s commonly available in Japan:

• Japanese diaper brands: Merries, Moony, Goo.N

• Baby formula: Meiji Hohoemi, Morinaga, Wakodo

• Baby lotions, powders, and rash creams

• Sippy cups, utensils, teething rings, and bibs

• Baby food pouches (mostly in Japanese flavours)

Tip: Use Google Translate’s camera feature to read Japanese packaging!

Baby Facilities in Japan

Japan is extremely accommodating for families with infants, especially in urban areas.

Facilities you’ll find in most public spaces:

• Nursing rooms (授乳室) – often inside department stores, malls, airports

• Changing tables – available in both male and female restrooms

• Baby chair toilets – small chairs inside restroom stalls for moms/dads travelling alone

• High chairs – common in restaurants and cafés

• Family compartments on Shinkansen (ask when booking)

Pro tip: Google Maps will often show facilities if you search terms like “baby room” or “nursing room” near your location.

Travelling by Air with an Infant

Airline tips:

• Most airlines offer free checked baby items (e.g., stroller, car seat)

• Request baby bassinet seats for long-haul flights (limited availability)

• Bring two full outfits and extra diapers in your cabin bag

• Use baby noise-cancelling headphones if your child is sound-sensitive

Travelling by Train with a Baby

• Use a baby carrier rather than a stroller on busy local trains

• On the Shinkansen, book the rear row for stroller space

• Consider private cabins or reserved seats if travelling long distances

• JR stations usually have elevators and ramps, but avoid peak hours (7:00–9:00 & 17:00–19:00)

Japanese Culture & Courtesy with Babies

Japan is extremely polite, and most people are very tolerant of infants, especially when you’re respectful and considerate. Here’s how to adapt smoothly:

• If your baby is crying on the train, step into the area near the doors

• Don’t change diapers in public seating areas

• Smile and bow in thanks go a long way!

• Expect helpfulness from staff in restaurants, rail stations, and even from strangers

Summary: Baby Travel Essentials for Japan

7. Quick Recap of Pre-Arrival Checklist

✅ Immigration & Customs QR: Complete online, save screenshots
✅ Suica Card: Virtual on iOS/Android or physical from Nokia
✅ Mobile connectivity: Pre-purchase a SIM or Pocket Wi‑Fi in 7‑Eleven
✅ Airport-to-city: Book taxis/transfers or use public rail
✅ Rail Pass: Plan routes, pick a pass length, buy outside Japan, and order early
✅ Infants/toddlers: Declare baby food, keep packaging, review regulations

If you are interested in other cultural places in Japan, click on the links below:

• Kyoto - Gallery

• Tokyo - Gallery

• 15 Best Places You Must See in Kyoto, Japan

• 15 Best Places to See in Osaka, Japan

• Top 20 Must-Visit Places in Nara, Japan: Temples, Deer, and Hidden Treasures

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