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PACKED AND READY TO GO TO FRF

Last year the cheapest beer at Fuji Rock cost 600 yen, a cocktail in a plastic cup was a little more, and a plate or bowl of food from a vendor was generally in the 500 to 800 yen range. Keep in mind, you’re not allowed to bring in outside food and beverages, and there are some cursory bag checks at the main entrance.

Next, what to bring? I’ve checked back through the Fujirockers archive, and here are our top recommendations:

BUG REPELLENT: Mosquitoes can be annoying, but ticks and spiders pose greater dangers. Dom recounts the grapefruit-sized swelling that resulted from a spider bite, and also gives recommendations for how to keep them away: here

FOOTWEAR: There’s a long-running debate among veteran Fujirockers on waterproof hiking boots vs. full rubber Wellies. Whatever your decision, be prepared for ankle-deep mud. In one post (here), I’m cited as recommending GoreTex Nikes, and while I do like those shoes, they’re too low to keep the mud out and not waterproof enough for a potential 3-days of wading. Dry, comfortable feet will make a big difference. I usually opt for cheap rubber/plastic fish market boots, then stuff a pair of running shoe insoles for better comfort. They’re not great to dance in though, so I bring the running shoes as well. Here are some more ideas:

Jeff recommends getting a good pair of Wellington boots in advance: here

Dom found some fashion rubber boots in women’s sizes in Shibuya: here

and here are some Wellies that can recharge your ipod: here

RAIN GEAR: I carry at least one plastic disposable raincoat at all times. They are cheap and fit in your pocket, so you always have it. If you’re going to buy an expensive jacket, make sure it is “100% waterproof”, not just “water resistant”.

CAMP CHAIR: some people like ‘em enough to carry around at all times, and when you do want a seat, they sure come in handy. Read a post in praise of the camp chair: here

SUNSCREEN: If you don’t bring it, we are sure to see blazing sun all weekend. So please, leave it at home.

OTHER STUFF: Commonly recommended items include a torch/flashlight, towel, hat, earplugs, money (there are no ATMs at the festival), portable ashtray and something to mark your tent.

Still want to know more? There’s a pretty good guide we’ve linked to before on Tokyo Gig Guide. It covers quite a lot, and if you’ve never been to the fest before, consider it required reading. Take a look: here