Backpacking in Japan...

volume specifics would be better, but no, you won't have any problems on buses or the shink. Just don't plan on having it in your lap the whole time. Buses have storage below and the shinkansen has storage both above the seats if it'll fit and limited storage at all (or at least most) entrance points.

Cool, thanks...it's a hiking/trail backpack...these are the approximate specs based on a similar model:

Volume: 5000 in3 / 82 liters
Weight: 5 lb. 13 oz. / 2.6 kg
Dimensions:
Length: 37" / 94 cm
Width: 20" / 51 cm
Height: 16.5" / 42 cm

http://www.kelty.com/kelty/products.php?type=4&cat=66&id=30

Yeah, I wouldn't worry about it, though that is a freakin' huge bag. I've spent months with just a 60 liter bag, probably could've gotten away with smaller. Just be careful not to smack anybody around with it. The little old ladies can take care of themselves, but the young ladies are fragile things. ;) This may sound silly, but practice taking it on and off plenty before you go. Be aware of how much it's going to weigh, where it is on your back, and how you're going to maneuver with it through the dense crowds in Tokyo and other metropolises.

Great advice, thanks.

I have been around with this pack for a few years, doing both hiking and city stuff.

Most likely going to leave it in the hostel for the day anyway...

Thanks.

Your biggest problem will be taking the regular trains and subways inside Tokyo, Osaka etc. if you have to do this at all. It will be pretty much impossible to have it on the train at any time near rush hour, and even outside rush hour you can encounter problems if the train gets a bit crowded for some reason (common). You are expected to take your backpack off and hold it near your feet on any train. It's very hard to accomplish this manoeuvre without injuring someone when the train is crowded.

I've had problems before when carrying a backpack of similar size on the shinkansen and ltd express trains. Other than the overhead shelves, I couldn't find anywhere to put large luggage. With sleeping mat strapped to the outside, my pack doesn't fit overhead, so I've ended up wedging it behind the last seat of the car, which puts it out of my sight (not that I'm really worried here though). Crowded trains can also be tricky, I've gotten a few dirty looks, but nothing too bad.

Shinkansens and other special trains (like the narita express) have an area for bags at the far end of each car. Long haul buses have compartments below. However, somewhere between point a and point b you may have to take a subway, commuter train, or local bus. While these do have small metal racks above the seats, a bag that big isn't going to fit easily and if you get stuck riding during rush hour you will get dirty looks. No one will say anything, but some old lady will sigh and huff the entire ride. Aside from packing a smaller bag, you could look into forwarding your luggage ahead. You can do this from the airport, some convenience stores, or call for a pickup... but it will take a day or two for your bags to arrive. Also, I know people can be attached to thier bags, but Japan is full of pavement. If you don't mind carrying a suitcase up stairs a small rolling suitcase is easy to get around with.

Hi im 18 and im thinking about backpacking japan alone. what things do you think ill need and how much time do you think ill need to go from tokyo to osaka. and maybe even kyoto. A friend might be able to come hopefully o.o. but other wise its jsut me. i would be going summer of 09. please help me

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