There are lots of details to cover to prepare for this trip ...

Gathering information to base later decisions on:

• Determine what kind of insurance, if any, you want to purchase. Our discussion about insurance can provide some suggestions; areas to consider:
• Trip cancellation or delay
• Baggage loss
• Accidental death
• Flight accident
• Medical coverage
• Emergency medical evacuation


• Find out what kind of insurance you already have. Again, the discussion about insurance can provide some insights.
• Current medical insurance
• Home or renters insurance
• Travel related organizations you belong to (or might consider joining) such as AAA
• Credit card(s) you will be using
• Note: if you pay for the trip with cash, you can save money, but you will not get credit card coverage


• Investigate various sources for insurance purchase; again, our discussion about insurance can provide some suggestions. This way, you should have a plan ready for when you actually put money down for the trip.


• If you will be bringing a cellphone, smartphone, iPhone, pad, tablet, etc. check with your provider about coverage in Japan. (See the Frequently asked questions page and follow the link for 'How do I call japan, and how can I call the States from Japan?')

Paperwork and payments

• Provide two copies of your passport inside front 2 pages; we will use this information for proper spelling of your name on all tickets and other documents.


• U.S. citizens do not need a visa to visit Japan. If you are traveling using a passport from a country other than the U.S., be sure to confirm if you need a visa to visit Japan. If you require a visa and do not get it, you will be denied boarding on departure and your funds will be forfeit.


• Consult with your doctor or other medical provider: ensure you have enough medications for the trip; good to have a signed letter with authorization / description of all drugs you will be taking.


• Provide emergency contact information (names, phone numbers, and email addresses) to the trip leaders.


• Consider creating an account with the STEPS program and enrolling this trip with them; this makes it easier to replace a lost passport as well as allowing you to get alerts from the Embassy.


• Plan for your payment schedule: transfer funds to different accounts if necessary. If paying by check or cash, ensure amount available.


• Sign any necessary release / permissions documents. (See the Checklist page.)

Other preparation

• Practice Japanese using the language pages on the website


• Ensure your carry on luggage is in good shape


• If you will be bringing any electrical items that have three-prong plugs, purchase an adapter that can take your three-prong plug in and use a two-prong plug at the other end


• Plan your wardrobe: make any necessary purchases to supplement what you already have in place


• Especially prepare footware: if you will be buying new shoes, allow time to break them in


• Plan for reading: there will be long plane flights and long train rides.


• Start walking, building up stamina.