Luggage

Traveling in Japan is smooth and efficient - until you’re dragging a suitcase through a crowded station or up a narrow street. Luckily, Japan offers smart and convenient options for handling luggage.

Luggage Delivery Services (特急便 / Takkyubin)

Takkyubin means "Special express delivery" and is a reliable service that transports your suitcase from airports, hotels, or accommodations to your next stop - so you can travel hands-free. Many service providers offer same-day delivery. Check their website or ask at the service shelter for more information.

• Common providers: Yamato (Kuroneko), Sagawa, Japan Post.
• Cost: Around ¥2,000–¥5,000 per suitcase depending on size and distance.
• Tip: Send your luggage 1–2 days in advance; most hotels can help you arrange it.

Here, you can book luggage delivery from the airport to your hotel or between hotels. Same-day delivery is available.

Baggage Storage Services

Coin Lockers (駅ロッカー / Ekki Rokkā)

Coin lockers are secure, short-term storage units you can rent to temporarily store your luggage, shopping bags, or personal belongings. Found at nearly all train stations, especially in big cities, some entertainment complexes also have coin lockers and offer luggage storage services.

• Cost: Depending on the size, it costs approximately ¥300 per day for a small bag and up to ¥1000 per day for large luggage.
• Tips: Use early in the day – they fill up fast in popular areas. Many lockers now support IC cards (Suica/Pasmo) for payment. For long-term storage (up to 3 days), check the station's storage rules.

Storage Service Companies

Some delivery companies, like Yamato and Sagawa, also offer baggage storage services.

Luggage on Trains

Local & Regional Trains

• Space: Very limited. Keep bags small or place on overhead racks.
• Avoid rush hours: Trains are packed, and large luggage is a hassle.

Shinkansen (Bullet Trains)

• Overhead rack: fits small-to-medium suitcases.
• Behind last row: designated space for large luggage.

Reservation required for big bags

If your bag’s height + width + depth > 160cm, you must reserve an oversized luggage seat. Use JR’s website or ask at the ticket counter. 

Tip

• Travel light between cities and send large luggage ahead when possible.
• Pack light: Elevators and escalators aren’t always available, especially in older stations.
• Use a backpack or small roller for daily needs.
• Stay near stations when possible to avoid dragging bags through streets.