Planning a trip to Japan and wondering whether to bring a backpack or a suitcase? Let’s settle this travel dilemma with calm clarity, so you can focus on the beautiful temples, cozy ramen shops, and neon-lit alleyways ahead.
The best choice depends on where you’re going, how you’re moving around, and your travel style. Here’s a soothing guide to help you choose the perfect travel companion:
🎒 Backpack – For the Adventurous and Mobile
Perfect if you’re city-hopping, using trains, or staying in guesthouses.
- Easier on trains and subways
Japan’s train system is fast and punctual, but overhead storage can be tight. A backpack fits more easily on laps or luggage racks. - Smooth transitions
If you’re exploring places like Kyoto’s cobbled paths or Tokyo’s endless staircases, a backpack saves you from dragging wheels around. - More flexible stays
Great if you’re staying in hostels, ryokans, or smaller Airbnbs that may not have elevators or much storage.
👉 Tip: Choose a backpack with a front-loading zip (like a suitcase) for better organization.
🧳 Suitcase – For the Comfy and Organized
Best for longer stays in one or two cities, or if you like to dress up.
- Ideal for urban hotels
If you’re staying in bigger hotels or centrally located areas like Shinjuku or Ginza, wheeling a suitcase is easy. - Better for neat packers
Hard-shell suitcases keep clothes crisp. If you plan on dressing up for dinners or storing gifts safely, it’s a win. - No heavy lifting
You won’t carry the weight on your back. Japan has plenty of elevators and escalators in train stations—though not everywhere.
👉 Tip: Get a quiet, 4-wheel suitcase. The Japanese are sensitive to noise, and loud rolling bags can turn heads (in a not-so-good way).
🚄 What About Train Travel?
- Backpack = more convenient for frequent shinkansen rides
Less bulk, easier to store. - Suitcase = fine if it’s compact
If your suitcase is over 160 cm (height + width + depth), you need a seat with oversized baggage reservation on some bullet trains.
👉 Either way, pack light—Japanese cities are compact, and you’ll probably be walking a lot.
🌸 Urban vs Countryside?
- Cities (Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto): Both work fine.
- Countryside (Nakasendo trail, smaller islands, mountain villages): Backpack is often easier—less paved paths and fewer transport options.
🛍️ Planning to Shop?
- If you’re bringing home ceramics, fashion, or souvenirs: a suitcase protects fragile finds better.
- But if you’re going minimalist: a backpack with compression cubes can still fit plenty.
🧘♀️ Final Takeaway
- Go with a backpack if you’re moving a lot, traveling light, and want maximum flexibility.
- Choose a suitcase if comfort, style, and structure matter more—and you’re not switching cities every few days.
Either way, pack with intention. Japan rewards simplicity, order, and thoughtfulness.
Safe travels — and don’t forget to leave room for matcha KitKats 🍵✨
