I Never Miss Japan’s Cherry Blossom Season — and These Are the 17 Travel Essentials I Bring Every Year

Each time I travel to Japan, I feel the same level of excitement I experienced during my first visit nearly 10 years ago. The adrenaline rush of walking below sparkling sky-high buildings, the kitschy cafes and sleek Michelin-starred restaurants, and the charming quirkiness of the must-see Samurai Restaurant Time show have given me some of my best travel memories. And although cities like Tokyo and Kyoto see the largest surge of travelers during springtime for cherry blossom (or sakura) season, the crowds don’t deter me from witnessing their magnificent bloom each year. 

In a few weeks, I’ll be returning for my annual visit, this time staying at the Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills. I’ll be armed with an airtight itinerary to see as much of the metropolis of Tokyo as I can: a rooftop sakura mixology class, omakase at Sushi M where fish is sliced with surgical precision, and walking through my favorite bookstore in the world, Daikanyama T-Site. Over the years, I’ve learned that comfortable walking shoes, lightweight rain gear, and a backup outer layer are necessary for springtime in Japan (as is a fabulous outfit to enjoy the country’s nightlife). But the list doesn’t stop there. Keep scrolling for my other must-have spring Japan travel essentials so you’re ready for anything. 

Muji Passport Case With Pocket

Known for its minimalist and functional aesthetic, Japanese retailer Muji is a brand I fell in love with years ago. However, I recently discovered its passport case holder, which is perfect for international airport travel and hotel check-ins when you need fast access to important documents and credit cards. The zippered accessory comes with three clear pouch refills, and the inside is made with a six-hole punch design that allows you to customize inserts that can hold items like money, receipts, and tickets issued for train travel throughout Japan. 

Monos Metro Mini Crossbody 

Long days of exploration are easier with bags that don’t require you to remember you have them on. The Metro Mini Crossbody from Monos is a lightweight, on-the-go companion that I never leave home without when I travel. Made from soft, water-resistant vegan leather, the bag includes an open interior compartment with a passport pocket, two card slots for secure storage, and a back pocket on its exterior. 

Fun fact: The brand name Monos is inspired by the Japanese concept of mono no aware, which encourages seeing the beauty of fleeting moments. I feel this core sentiment every time I see the cherry blossoms in Japan, knowing how incredibly transient their bloom is makes me appreciate their beauty even more.  

Bestek Japan Travel Adaptor

I’ve had many travel moments that included a near-dead phone and no adaptor to change the course of things. Avoid my mistakes and pack this travel plug from Bestek, which is compatible with outlets in Japan. Additionally, it’s compact and lightweight, and will come in handy when it’s time to charge your phone, camera, or tablet. 

Hoka Clifton 9 Running Shoe

Long walking days call for ultra-supportive shoes, which is what led me to the Hoka Clifton 9s. Past shoes from top brands left me with foot pain on travel days, but this style offers the perfect amount of comfort and cushioning to keep me on my feet without any problems. In fact, this iteration is a lighter and more cushioned version, with a level of support and shock absorption that ensures your feet are not aching after a day of sightseeing. The knit exterior encourages great foot breathability too.

Naturalizer Connie Slingback Flats

And speaking of shoes, a dressy pair most certainly deserves a spot on your packing list so you can match the dress code of Tokyo’s stunning restaurants — whether you’ve made a reservation at the Michelin-starred restaurant est or The Pizza Bar on 38th. After all, Japan has some of the finest dining and bar experiences in the world, so a pair of comfortable yet chic shoes will definitely be useful. 

When the itinerary calls for fancy, I like to break out my kitten-heeled Franco Sarto Marlina Mules but you can achieve the same level of elegance and support with the Naturalizer Connie Slingback Flats, which are currently on sale. 

Veektomx Portable Charger

Prevent the dreaded moment of a dead phone while traveling with this portable charger from Veektomx. Three integrated cables, allow you to charge multiple devices at once with a power bank that fully recharges in just under five hours. An extra perk includes a detachable wrist strap for hands-free convenience. I have my eye on a few exciting tours with Deeper Japan, including a visit back to the famous Toyosu fish market with a sushi chef and samurai sword masterclass that I know I’ll need a full battery charge for to capture pictures.

Gap 100% Cotton Cropped V-neck Cardigan

As spring temperatures in cities like Tokyo and Kyoto can easily teeter between cold and warm, having a cardigan handy is important. This pick from Gap is made with 100 percent cotton and has a stylish cropped V-neck that makes it good layering for (or showing off your favorite necklace). The cropped fit is great to pair with high-waisted pants or a skirt like this timeless bubble silhouette option from Garnet Hill that I’m currently swooning over and eyeing for my next purchase. 

Quince 100% European Linen Wide-leg Pants

There is always that pair of pants that you wear more than once when you travel for the sheer comfort that they provide. For me, it’s these pants from Quince with their pajama-like comfort made from the brand’s soft linen fabric. The wide-leg shape and elastic waistband give you room to move, and the two front and back pockets make storage easy.

REI Flash Stretch Rain Jacket 

Japan gets its fair share of spring showers, so you’ll want to protect yourself from any downpour with something sturdy and high-performing like REI’s Flash Stretch Rainjacket. It’s made from a layered polyester shell that is waterproof and windproof, but most impressively the jacket is also fully seam-sealed to prevent water from seeping in with an adjustable hood and collar. I often find the rain jacket sleeves are too short, but fortunately, that’s not the case with this one.

Weatherman Compact Mini Umbrella

Another must-have for rainy weather is not surprisingly an umbrella. This option from Weatherman is particularly travel-friendly because of its compact size. Best of all, because its frame is made from industrial-strength fiberglass, it keeps you well-protected against strong gusts of wind and heavy rain.

Pffy Quick-fry Waterproof Bucket Hat 

Last up in the lineup for rainproof gear is this waterproof bucket hat from Pffy. Made with quick-dry polyester, this option provides great coverage against showers as well as the sun. It’s foldable enough to pack in your suitcase or store in your pocket easily.

Everlane The Way High Sailor 2.0 Jean

A pair of casual jeans is a must-have for any trip that requires making your way through city streets. The Way-High jeans from Everlane have a touch of stretch with a straight fit from hip to ankle to create an elongating fit that never feels too restrictive. Made from premium organic cotton, these jeans and sure a comfy fit and pair well with a cute pair of flats or mules. 

Aerie Vintage Lace Midi Skirt

The first time I visited Tokyo’s Harajuku neighborhood, I was enamored by the stylish cool kids that traversed its streets. The way they used contrasting fabrics and colors in ways I had never thought of is something that always inspires any trip I make to Japan. The Vintage Lace Midi Skirt from Aerie reminds me of some of the layered mesh fabrics that embody their style, and I love that you can dress it up and down with an oversized sweatshirt or another one of my favorites from the brand, the silhouette-fitting Daily Tank. 

Splendid x Cella Jane Rib Scuba Short 

Springtime in Japan can bring warmer temperatures, which is why I like to travel with a pair of shorts just in case. Here, the Rib Scuba Shorts deliver an elevated version of the closet staple with their soft ribbed, delicate pointelle, and breathable cotton fabrics. The faux cuff and mid-length make them easy to dress up when needed, but you can also easily embrace the milder weather days by pairing them with the matching short-sleeve sweatshirt.

Naghedi Kyoto Clutch

Every once in a while you stumble upon the perfect clutch, one that quickly becomes the centerpiece for some of your favorite outfits. The Kyoto Clutch from Naghedi is that timeless find for me with its perfectly sized design, handwoven neoprene, and striking color options that command attention in any room. This purse can easily be paired with your favorite pair of pants or a fun dress when it’s time for a night out at Tokyo’s SG Club, a 19th-century-style saloon that has earned several spots on the World’s 50 Best Bars list since 2019.

Alo Triumph Restore Crew Neck Sweatshirt 

I always rely on Alo for the comfy athleisure wear that gets me through long travel days. I recently started wearing their Triumph Restore Crew Neck Sweatshirt and haven’t looked back. A perfect plane companion or top for chilly days, the oversized, tri-blend fleece sweater has an ultra-soft feel that commands a sigh of gratitude as soon as you put it on. Pair it with the Restore Sweatpant to experience a match made in plush heaven.

Aerie Strapless Ruffle Jumpsuit

Cherry blossom season calls for complimentary floral prints to get you springtime-ready. Aerie’s Strapless Ruffle Jumpsuit is made from a flowy organza fabric and can be worn strapless. I was instantly drawn to the wide-leg fit and can’t wait to wear it to a sakura afternoon tea at The Peninsula Tokyo, where the country’s beloved sakura flower influences the shapes and colors of dainty cakes, tea flavors, and Kamon artwork that’s printed on 112 strips of delicate Japanese washi paper. How’s that for setting the mood?

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.