During rush hour in Japan, it is best to avoid traveling with a large suitcase if possible. However, if you must travel with a big suitcase, aim for the very front or back carriages, where there may be more space.
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For our tours, we recommend one medium-sized suitcase that is about 25 inches or smaller, and one backpack. The 25-inch suitcase is the ideal size because it fits in the overhead luggage compartment on the Shinkansen, and it's under the size restriction for large suitcases.
Oversized luggage is not allowed in non-reserved cars. Passengers without a reservation for their oversized luggage will be asked to move their luggage to a space specified by the train conductor and pay a 1000 yen surcharge which is not covered by the Japan Rail Pass.
Four-wheeled spinner suitcases are the most common type of suitcase in Japan. They're easier to keep next to you as you're walking, roll in front of you to get on a train, go up escalators, or get into elevators.
On trains. There is not much room for large suitcases on urban and long-distance trains especially during rush hours. Some exceptions are airport trains such as the Narita Express and Haruka, and an increasing number of shinkansen in eastern Japan, which have designated storage space for large luggage.
When traveling on subways and trains in Japan, there is usually no designated space for luggage. It is best to avoid seating near the carriage doors and instead store your bags in the small space between the doors and the seating. For small suitcases and bags, there is overhead storage.
The likelihood that credit cards are accepted decreases in small cities and towns, and thus it is advisable to keep cash at hand when visiting rural areas. Cash is often the only way to pay for small entrance fees at tourist sights, smaller restaurants and small shops. Many lockers also require coins.
So roughly 2,000 USD per person for lodging, transportation in Japan, food, and souvenirs. You can do it for less, but that was fun for the whole trip. I highly recommend ordering about 50,000 yen in cash from your bank before going.
Items designated as prohibited by the Civil Aeronautics Act cannot be placed inside checked baggage. (Examples include toxic gases, flammable gases, flammable liquids, compressed gases.) Although dry ice, alcoholic liquids, and cigarette lighters fall under the “Prohibition for Carriage of Explosives etc.
Checked bags that exceed 62 (157.48 cm) in overall dimensions (length + width + height) or exceed 50 pounds (22.68 kg) will incur additional fees. Maximum weight is 50 pounds and maximum size is 62 inches (length + width + height) per checked piece of luggage.
Most airlines will allow one main check in piece up to 50lb and not exceeding 70lb but can vary depending on airline and travel class. Regular packing with normal items in a large suitcase will generate a weight between 44lb to 57lb. Medium suitcases will generate a weight between 33lb to 44lb with regular packing.
Is it ok to wear a backpack in Japan? Of course you can wear a backpack in Japan. However, there are some tips to keep in mind if you want to have an easy time blending in. Especially if you're in a big city like Tokyo, it can be beneficial to bring a smaller bag.
For a one to two week vacation, a medium sized suitcase might be ideal. However, if you're traveling for several weeks or even months, you'll probably need a large or even extra-large suitcase.