Embedded Files
Photocopies of Important Documents
It’s a good idea to make photocopies of digital files of all important documents pertaining to your program before you leave for Japan. Keep at least one photocopy of your passport and at least 2 photographs (4x3cm size, face
only) separate from your actual passport in case you lose. Should you lose any of these documents, contact AFS Japan staff immediately.
Clothes
Smart casual attire is recommended throughout your stay. Also, as previously noted, Please remember to bring your formal clothes such as a tidy shirt / blouse and a skirt / trousers with a jacket (denim, shorts, sportswear, and sandals will be preferable to avoid) or national dress for the courtesy call on local government.
Two-week Temperature Forecast
Money (Credit Cards & Cash)
Most major credit cards are accepted for purchases in larger stores and restaurants in Japan. Such as VISA, Master Card, American Express and Diners Club credit cards with the “Plus” or “Cirrus” mark can be used to withdraw cash from Post Office ATMs and major convenience store ATMs which are conveniently located throughout Japan. For shopping, however, please keep in mind that Diners Club and American Express are only accepted at a limited number of shops.
However, be aware that some small shops in rural areas might only take cash. If you bring cash, Japanese yen or U.S. dollars are preferable. You may exchange U.S. dollars for Japanese yen at the airport on your arrival.
Medical Information
Sometimes it is illegal to bring “over-the-counter” medicine or prescription medication (medicine you can only get with a prescription from a doctor) commonly used overseas into Japan, even if you bring a customs declaration and a copy of the prescription. These illegal items include some inhalers, some allergy and sinus medications and some anti-depressants. If you want to bring these types of medicine, contact the Japanese Embassy in your home country or the Compliance and Narcotics Division, Pharmaceutical and Food Safety Bureau, Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare in Japan before departure to check if it can be brought into Japan. If the medication cannot be brought into Japan, bring a prescription in English in case you are unwell during the program.
Please also read the chapter of Health and Hygiene.
Vaccinations & Immunizations
There are no required vaccinations for entering Japan, but it is recommended to check the recent travel health notices on the web site of the CDC National Center for Infectious Disease, Travelers’ Health:
Glasses & Contact Lenses
If you wear glasses or contact lenses, bringing a spare pair is a good idea. The insurance that AFS provides does not cover expenses for glasses or contact lenses.
Something Introducing Your Culture
Some photographs, books, music, recipes, etc., will be helpful for you to introduce your culture when asked to talk about your country during your stay in Japan. This is a great way for yourself and other people in the community to get to know each other.
Baggage Rules
All participants will use domestic flights in Japan, so please follow the following rules.
Check-in baggage: Up to 20kg / Total outside dimension (length + width + height): within 50cm x 60cm x 120cm
Carry-on baggage: Up to 10kg / Total outside dimensions: within 115cm (W: within 55cm × H: within 40cm × D: within 25cm)
It is your responsibility to carry all your belongings by yourself.
It is also your responsibility to pay any extra costs (ex. excessive charges - JPY100/kg for domestic flights), however, we strongly ask you not to exceed the limit to avoid any troubles at check-in counters.
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