If I told myself last year I’d be traveling to Japan during my busiest wedding season, I probably wouldn’t have believed you. With only a few weeks to go, this wild season is in full swing and I wanted to take you along and share the things I am packing and what I am doing to prepare!
In the midst of so much work, I am definitely finding it hard to take time to prepare for this trip during this busy wedding season. But after 6 years of shooting weddings full time, I know it’s super important for me to take the personal time whenever I can, because life is so much bigger than what you do for work! Getting to travel to Japan with family (my husband, parents and most of my siblings) to see family and be all together is a once in a lifetime thing, and I couldn’t pass up on it. Let’s walk through my Japan travel packing list!
First things first, comfy clothes high on the packing list. Loose-fitting and breathable outfits paired with comfortable shoes are a lifesaver for city trips always. I’ve heard the walking and humidity is A LOT in Japan, so the plan is to packing lots of dresses, loose breathable pants and comfy versatile sneakers! I am going to be packing light, because I am excited to also shop while we are there.
Other things on my list: light but spacious bag to pack for each day’s adventures, a portable charger for long days out, good deodorant (since they don’t sell the same strength of deodorant in Japan), a good hat and sunglasses, and light layers for the mornings and evenings. Of course also getting my Suica card in advance so we can get around easier, and my E-SIM so my phone works seamlessly!
As a photographer, I gotta bring my camera gear (check out some of my favorite gear here!). But since it is not a work trip, I am trying to to pack super light! I am going to definitely bring my Contax t2, lots of film and hopefully a small digital travel camera as well! I, of course, want to bring my Canon AE-1 but I gravitate towards the Contax since it is just smaller, easier, and more travel friendly.
There’s so much to see and do, and I truly can’t wait. But I am most excited to eat all the food! Which is perfect because my family is full of foodies and we will be eating constantly.
As someone who is half Japanese, but has never been, I’m so pumped to connect with my roots, see family, and embrace more of my cultural identity with my husband and family. Recap blog coming upon return and I can’t wait to share all the epic moments with you!
If you’ve been to Japan, and have any tips or recommendations for my Japan travel packing list, send them my way! Comment below or head on over to my Instagram and send me a message! Don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest for all things photography, weddings, and travel.
