7 Kids' Essentials You WON'T Find in Japan — Pack These Now!

When it comes to planning a trip to Japan with little ones in tow, it’s wise to be prepared. While you can find most items in-store here, you can make your life even easier by ordering one of our Travel Essentials Boxes to be delivered straight to your hotel upon arrival.

However, if you’re travelling with young children, there are a few things you might want to pack before jetting off. As in any new country, some items can be tricky to source, or simply not the same as back home. Additionally, OTC treatments in Japan are generally much weaker or simply unavailable compared to other countries and are often prescribed by the paediatrician in small amounts.

Obviously, any prescribed medication needs to be brought with you, but on top of that, there are a few things that you might need that you're used to being able to pop into Boots and grab. Not always the case here, unfortunately. Here’s a handy list of things to consider bringing, along with Japanese alternatives in a pinch if you forget them:

 

1. Calpol (Children’s Tylenol in the U.S.)

If there’s one thing parents swear by, it’s Calpol. This liquid paracetamol is a staple in many British households for a reason. While Japan has children’s pain relief options, they’re often in powder form and might not be familiar or as convenient as what you’re used to. For peace of mind (and easier administration when faced with a feverish tot), pop a bottle of Calpol (or Children’s Tylenol if you’re from the U.S.) into your suitcase.

Japanese alternative: Bufferin Netsu, which contains paracetamol but at a much lower mg. It also contains Diphenhydramine hydrochloride to alleviate sneezing, so it’s not exactly the same product. 

 

2. Teething Gel

For parents with babies cutting their first teeth, teething gel is a godsend. In Japan, “teething” isn’t really seen as something to be medicated. So if you announce that your baby is teething to a Japanese doctor or chemist, they will probably recommend a teething toy or a cold towel for a baby to chew on and that is about it. Japan does offer teething toys, but teething gels like Bonjela or Anbesol are nigh on impossible to find. Bringing your own ensures you have exactly what you need when those first teeth start causing discomfort.

Japanese alternative: There isn't really a medicated teething treatment here—you’d need to rely on a toy or something cold to bite on. My daughter liked this banana teether!

 

3. Sudocrem (or Zinc Oxide Diaper Creams)

When it comes to nappy rash, Sudocrem is often the hero product. While Japan does have its share of diaper creams, they are more like moisturisers so may not have the same effect as trusty Sudocrem or other zinc oxide-based creams. If your little one has sensitive skin or you’re just keen to stick to what you know, this is one to pack.

Japanese alternative: It's not Japanese but you could try Cetaphil if you can find it, as it does exist here, but it’s not readily available in drugstores from my experience.

 

4. Children’s Antihistamines

Allergy season can hit hard in Japan, especially during spring and autumn when the pollen levels are at their highest. While you’ll find antihistamines for adults, children’s liquid antihistamines may be harder to come by.

Japanese alternative: If you ask at the pharmacy, you may be able to access a ‘dry syrup,’ which is basically a powder that you take with water (not popular with children!). However, it’s unlikely you can find much suitable for under 2-year-olds.

 

5. Children’s Cough Syrup

In the UK, cough syrups for children like Calcough often contain glycerol and work to soothe the throat. In Japan, children’s cough syrups may contain additional active ingredients that might not be what you’re used to.

Japanese alternative: Bufferin Kaze seems to be the closest, but it contains a low dose of paracetamol and other active ingredients to help with coughs and phlegm, rather than glycerol.

 

6. Sensitive Baby Wipes

If your child has particularly sensitive skin, you may be used to specific types of baby wipes. While Japan has a wide range of baby wipes that claim to be gentle, you may not find brands specifically marketed as “sensitive.”

Japanese alternative: Most wipes in Japan claim to be gentle, so this may not be a big issue.

 

7. Baby Formula

Japan is known for its high-quality baby formulas, but if your child is partial to a specific brand or needs a special type (e.g., lactose-free or hydrolysed formulas), it’s best to pack enough to last the trip. Importing or trying to find your preferred formula can be expensive and time-consuming.

Japanese alternative: While it is possible to get lactose-free formula in Japan, it’s almost impossible to find it in store.

 

Final Tips

To sum up, careful planning is essential for a smooth trip, especially when it comes to packing items your child may need that could be difficult to find in Japan. Whether it's specific medications or personal preferences, being prepared will help you avoid unnecessary stress and make your travels easier.

And as a final point, it's important to double-check that any medications you're bringing into Japan are allowed. If they're not, no worries—you'll probably just need to apply for special approval. To keep things smooth at customs, make sure to keep your meds (and vitamins) in their original packaging. And don't forget about baby formula, which could raise a few eyebrows if it looks like something suspicious! Better safe than sorry!