Things to Bring with You

Japan is a modern, internationalized country where you can find almost everything you need to live. However, the market is primarily focused on Japanese consumers, and NAIST is located in a fairly rural area, which means that store selections may be limited. Many students recommend checking Amazon Japan or other online retailers when shopping locally.

Some students and scholars regret not bringing certain items from home, including comfort foods, specialty products, or items that are more expensive in Japan. Others prefer to shop locally and explore Japanese stores.

Based on a survey of the international community at NAIST, here are some suggested items to consider bringing:

＊Please check in advance with quarantine and customs regulations to ensure that the items you carry can be legally exported from your country and imported into Japan.

Suggested Items:

Food & Cooking:

• Spices, herbs, or specialty ingredients not easily available in Japan.
• Comfort food and snacks from home
• Tea, coffee, or instant drinks you prefer

Clothing & Footwear:

• Bigger-sized clothes and shoes (sizes in Japan tend to run smaller)
• Long-sleeved or modest clothing for Muslim women
• Comfortable shoes that are easy to slip on and off
• Warm clothing for winter (Ikoma can get cold)
• Light jackets or sweaters for air-conditioned indoor spaces

Personal Care & Health:

• Prescription medicines (with documentation in English)
• Vitamins and supplements
• First aid supplies (plasters, painkillers, allergy medicine, cold medicine)
• Deodorant, shampoo, soap, hair products, feminine hygiene products you prefer.
• Extra eyeglasses or contact lenses

Study & Work Supplies:

• Textbooks (often more expensive in Japan)
• Stationary you like: notebook, pens, sticky notes, highlighters
• Laptop, chargers, and accessories
• SIM-free mobile phone

Electronics & Accessories:

• Power adapters or converters for your country's plugs and voltage
• eSIM or temporary SIM card for the first week at the dormitory (to access mobile data and calls before getting a Japanese phone plan)

Official & Legal Documents:

• Driver's license (can be converted to Japanese license)
• Health records, vaccination certificates, or medical documents
• Seals (inkan/hanko) for opening a bank account

Personal &Cultural Items:

• Small gifts for new friends or colleagues
• Pictures, decorations, or items to make your room feel like home