Travelling Light and Smart in Japan: Your Ultimate Luggage Guide
- Tripping Japan
- Jul 19
- 4 min read
Travelling around Japan is easy thanks to its reliable trains and efficient transport. However, managing luggage can sometimes be challenging, especially on bullet trains, at busy stations, and in compact accommodations. With the right strategies, you can make your trip more comfortable and hassle-free.
Here are essential tips to help you travel smart with your luggage in Japan.
Bullet Train Luggage Tips
The Shinkansen (bullet train) is the fastest and most convenient way to travel between cities, but there are some rules and limitations for luggage.
Booking seats with luggage space: You can reserve seats that have extra space for large luggage at no additional cost. This is recommended during busy seasons.
Storing large suitcases: If all seats with dedicated luggage space are booked, you can still store large suitcases in the overhead racks above the seats, provided you can safely lift your luggage overhead yourself.
If you cannot lift your luggage safely: Consider sending your bags ahead using luggage forwarding services to avoid struggling with heavy suitcases (see below).
Size limits: Generally, luggage up to 250 cm total dimensions (length + width + height) is allowed. Oversized bags may require special arrangements.
Travel light when possible: Using a manageable suitcase or backpack makes train transfers and station navigation easier.
Luggage Forwarding Services (Takuhaibin)
Japan’s luggage forwarding, or takuhaibin, service is a traveller's favourite for convenience.
How it works: Drop off your luggage at convenience stores, hotels, or shipping counters (even at the airport), and your bags will arrive at your next destination within two days.
Cost: Typically between 1500 and 4500 yen per item, depending on size and distance.
Major providers: Yamato Transport (Kuroneko Yamato), Sagawa, and Japan Post.
Ideal for: Avoiding heavy bags on trains, day trips, or multi-city itineraries.
Coin Lockers: Convenient Temporary Storage
Coin lockers are a popular and handy option for storing your luggage temporarily while you explore stations or nearby areas.
Availability: Most major and many smaller train stations have coin lockers in various sizes—small, medium, and large.
Size matters: Small lockers fit backpacks or small bags, but large suitcases may not fit in many lockers. Large lockers are limited and often quickly occupied, especially at busy stations.
How to use: Lockers typically operate with coins or IC cards (like Suica or Pasmo), making payment easy and cashless in many locations.
Tips:
Arrive early to secure a locker, especially during peak travel times.
If no lockers are available, some stations offer manned luggage storage services for a fee.
Always check the maximum storage time allowed, usually from a few hours up to 3 days.
Using coin lockers can make your travel lighter and more flexible by letting you explore hands-free before or after train rides.
Other Luggage Storage Services
If coin lockers are full or you prefer more flexible options, Japan offers several convenient luggage storage services:
Bounce: A popular on-demand luggage storage and delivery service operating in major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. You can book online to drop off your bags at partner stores, hotels, or lockers and pick them up later at your convenience, often without strict time limits. Bounce offers a user-friendly app and website in English. Prices start around 600–700 yen per day per item.
Ecbo Cloak: Similar to Bounce, Ecbo Cloak partners with cafes, shops, and hotels to provide temporary luggage storage spots throughout cities. It’s great for short-term storage while sightseeing.
Station Luggage Services: Some large train stations have manned baggage storage counters where you can leave your luggage for a few hours or days for a fee. This is handy if lockers are unavailable or your luggage is oversized.
Hotel Concierge: Many hotels will hold your luggage before check-in or after check-out for free or a small fee, allowing you to explore without your bags. Some hotels will even let you store your luggage for a few days if you plan on returning to stay later in your trip (perfect for side trips to nearby cities).
These services offer flexibility beyond traditional coin lockers and luggage forwarding, especially if you want to store bags temporarily without worrying about size or pickup schedules.
Washing Options to Pack Light
Coin laundries: Widely available across cities, often near stations or residential areas. Many are open 24/7 and have both washers and dryers.
Accommodation washing machines: Many business hotels, guesthouses, and Airbnb apartments offer washing machines, allowing you to pack fewer clothes.
Affordable clothes shopping: Japan has inexpensive clothing stores like Uniqlo and GU where you can buy affordable basics if needed.
Considerations When Travelling with Luggage
Station stairs: Many train stations, especially smaller or older ones, have stairs with limited elevator or escalator access. Carrying heavy luggage up and down can be difficult.
Luggage storage lockers: Coin lockers are available at many stations but vary in size and availability. Large lockers are limited, so plan ahead.
Compact hotel rooms: Japanese hotel rooms, especially in cities, are often compact with limited space for large suitcases. Packing light or using luggage forwarding can make your stay much more comfortable.
Label your luggage: When forwarding bags, always include clear name tags and destination details.
Reserve early: Book Shinkansen seats as early as possible if travelling during busy seasons or with large luggage.
Final Thoughts
Travelling in Japan with luggage is easy when you know the options. Using luggage forwarding services, packing light, and understanding train luggage policies can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
If you want personalised advice or a customised itinerary designed around your travel style and luggage needs, we’re happy to assist.
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