I have been planning my first 2-week trip to Japan (in June) for two years and I am trying to pay attention. I am trying to keep my needs as low as possible, and as part of this I was hoping to come in with only a smallish size backpack rather than lots of luggage. I'm a middle-aged man.

Then I saw how-to #11, which seems to equate backpacks with rude Westerners. There is almost nothing I want to appear to be less than a rude Westerner. Should I just go ahead and expect to pack "real" luggage? I was not expecting to "wear" the backpack except when actually walking.

Also, how do I carry things around in Japan? If I go to the onsen and bring a towel, soap and shampoo, where do I carry them? Aside from the backpack idea, I only have my pockets. I would expect to walk or take public transportation to get there.

I feel as though I'm repacking already in my head.

Thanks so much.

Japanese people like the hardcover style suitcases on wheels..
so if you want to blend in..

As for onsen.. just a small sports type bag should do it?

Got it. Thanks.