Coins, extra bag space and safe ways to bring home the things you fall for, from knives to ceramics.
Japan still runs on coins: 100-yen and 500-yen pieces pile up fast from vending machines, lockers, shrine offerings and small shops. A separate zip pouch keeps them out of your pockets and makes paying at a counter quicker.
Keep in mind: Many trays at Japanese registers are for placing money, not handing it over. Put coins in the tray and wait for change there.
Knives from Osaka, ceramics from Kyoto, snacks from a food hall: souvenirs add up, and airline weight limits don't care. A hanging scale lets you check before you get to the counter.
Keep in mind: Weigh your bag at home before you leave so you know how much room you have.
Fold it flat in your suitcase on the way out, and use it as an extra bag for shopping on the way home. Cheaper than buying a suitcase in a tourist district.
Keep in mind: Check your airline's checked-bag allowance before you count on a second bag.
If you buy kitchen knives in Osaka's Doguyasuji, many shops wrap them well, but a set of edge guards protects the blades (and your bag) once the original box comes off.
Keep in mind: Knives must travel in checked luggage, never carry-on. Keep new knives boxed and wrapped while you're out and about in Japan.
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