Tracy,
They have similar standards for baby items, and you can find brand name products that you know here as well. It's really expensive to ship big things there, but some items are much more expensive there than in the US (i.e. car seat, stroller). So it may be worth brining the bare minimum... Where in Japan are you going to be moving to?
Check on this site for great prices. They have excellent service, too. Although it is in Japanese, you'll be able to see the pictures and prices.
http://www.rakuten.co.jp/tsukasa/
If you need any help, please feel free to contact me directly at
[email protected]. My first language is Japanese. I can give you suggestions on what to bring, what to buy there, etc. I grew up in Japan. Good luck!
Ura