Can I find Western clothing brands in Japan?

Major brands like Uniqlo, H&M, and Zara are widely available. However, sizing runs smaller - Japanese L equals Western M. Plus-size options are extremely limited. Quality basics are better value than designer items.

Should I ship belongings separately?

Only ship if staying 2+ years and items are irreplaceable. Sea shipping takes 6-8 weeks and costs $800-1500 for a small container. Most people regret shipping furniture or bulky items - Japanese apartments are smaller than expected.

What about prescription medications?

Bring 1-month supply maximum without special permits. For longer stays, get yakkan shoumei import permits for prescription drugs. Some medications legal elsewhere are banned in Japan, including common ADHD medications. Research Japanese alternatives with your doctor.

How much luggage can I bring on the plane?

Most airlines allow 2x23kg checked bags plus carry-on for international flights to Japan. Consider paying for an extra bag rather than shipping separately - it's usually cheaper and faster.

How to Pack for Long-Term Living in Japan

Pack for all four seasons with focus on quality basics, bring hard-to-find items like deodorant and large shoes, and leave space for local purchases. Most daily items are available in Japan, but Western-specific products cost more or require hunting.

Pack seasonal clothing strategically. Bring one complete outfit for each season - summer humidity gear, winter layers, rain protection for June/September. Japanese summers hit 35°C with 80% humidity. Winters vary by region but Tokyo averages 5°C. Pack lightweight merino wool base layers and a good rain jacket.
Bring hard-to-find personal items. Stock up on Western deodorant, specific medications, contact lens solution brands, and any dietary supplements. Japanese deodorant is weaker, Western brands cost triple at import stores. Bring 6 months' supply minimum.
Pack shoes in your size. If you wear US size 10+ (women) or 11+ (men), bring multiple pairs. Japanese shoe sizes stop around US 10 for women, 10.5 for men. Athletic shoes are available in larger sizes but cost ¥15,000-25,000 ($100-170).
Include electronics and adapters. Bring unlocked phone, laptop, and Type A plug adapters. Japan uses 100V electricity - most devices work fine but charge slower. Consider a voltage converter for high-power items like hair dryers.
Leave 40% of suitcase space empty. You'll buy bedding, kitchen items, and seasonal clothes locally. Shipping costs to send things home later run ¥15,000+ per large box internationally. Pack light, buy local, donate before leaving.

Can I find Western clothing brands in Japan?: Major brands like Uniqlo, H&M, and Zara are widely available. However, sizing runs smaller - Japanese L equals Western M. Plus-size options are extremely limited. Quality basics are better value than designer items.
Should I ship belongings separately?: Only ship if staying 2+ years and items are irreplaceable. Sea shipping takes 6-8 weeks and costs $800-1500 for a small container. Most people regret shipping furniture or bulky items - Japanese apartments are smaller than expected.
What about prescription medications?: Bring 1-month supply maximum without special permits. For longer stays, get yakkan shoumei import permits for prescription drugs. Some medications legal elsewhere are banned in Japan, including common ADHD medications. Research Japanese alternatives with your doctor.
How much luggage can I bring on the plane?: Most airlines allow 2x23kg checked bags plus carry-on for international flights to Japan. Consider paying for an extra bag rather than shipping separately - it's usually cheaper and faster.