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Bringing medicine into Japan: what to check first

Some medicines are restricted in Japan. Learn the steps to check your medicine, carry it safely and keep the papers you need for customs.

Updated Oct 10, 2026 · PracticalRead the post

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Practical5 min readCash, cards or both: what to carry in JapanMany shops in Japan still prefer cash, and some take only cash. Learn when to carry yen, when a card works, and how to find a restaurant that takes cards.

Practical5 min readEarthquake safety for visitorsJapan has earthquakes often. Learn how to get alerts, what to do during shaking, and how to plan a meeting point with your family before you go.

Practical5 min readeSIM or pocket Wi-Fi: which suits your groupChoose between an eSIM and a pocket Wi-Fi for your group. Compare phone needs, shared data, charging and returns before you pay for any plan.

Festivals6 min readGion Matsuri: a Kyoto July explainerGion Matsuri is Kyoto's major summer festival, held in July. Learn what the parades are, how the festival works and how to watch it without getting lost.

Practical5 min readSuica or ICOCA: which IC card to get on arrivalAn IC card lets you tap onto trains, subways and buses. Learn how Suica and ICOCA differ, where to buy one, and how to avoid gate problems.

Practical5 min readA break-even test for the JR PassMost first-time visitors need a clear test before they buy a Japan Rail Pass. Use this method to compare the pass with single tickets for your own route.

Festivals5 min readKanda Matsuri: a festival near AkihabaraKanda Matsuri is one of Tokyo's big shrine festivals, a short walk from Akihabara. Learn what happens, where to stand and what to check first.

Practical5 min readGetting to Kinkaku-ji without a taxi: buses and walkingKinkaku-ji is best reached by city bus, not by taxi. Here is how to plan the bus, board and pay, and when a walk makes sense.

Festivals5 min readKyushu Grand Sumo in Fukuoka: a November visitThe Kyushu sumo tournament is held in Fukuoka in November. Learn how the day works, how tickets are sold and what to check first.

Practical5 min readSend your bags ahead to the hotelSending luggage ahead lets you travel light between cities. Learn the options, the labels to use and the items to keep with you.

Festivals5 min readNagasaki Lantern Festival: a late winter explainerThe Nagasaki Lantern Festival lights the city's streets in late winter. Learn how it works, what to check and how to plan a visit.

Festivals5 min readObon: why Japan is busy in mid-AugustObon brings many people home in mid-August. Learn how it affects trains, sights and hotels, and how to plan your trip around it.