Japan Travel: Managing Baggage

Packing for a trip to Japan requires some strategic thinking. 

If you've traveled elsewhere in Asia or Europe, North America, etc., you might assume Japan's excellent rail system means you can easily shuttle your massive suitcase from city to city. 

But here's the reality: Japan's transportation system, including the famous bullet trains, probably didn’t have large luggage in mind when designed originally.

The Reality of Train Travel in Japan

The bullet train (shinkansen) might be a marvel of engineering, but its luggage space is decidedly modest. 

Most seats offer overhead storage that can generally hold carry-on sized bags, plus a few dedicated luggage areas near the doors. However, these spots are limited and often require advance booking.

What happens when tourists bring oversized bags aboard? They end up blocking aisles, occupying empty seats or creating obstacles for other passengers. In Japanese culture, this falls under the concept of "meiwaku": causing trouble or inconvenience for others. You don't want to be that person.

The situation becomes particularly challenging during peak travel seasons. Golden Week (late April to early May), cherry blossom season (late March to early April) and autumn foliage season (November) see trains packed with both domestic and international travelers. Adding large luggage to this mix creates unnecessary stress for everyone involved.

Size Matters: Understanding Japanese Spaces

The challenge isn't limited to bullet trains. Local trains, subway cars & buses present their own space constraints. 

During rush hour, maneuvering a large suitcase through packed train cars becomes a feat worthy of an Olympic sport: one that fellow passengers won't appreciate.

Japanese cities have incredibly efficient public transportation systems, but they're designed for commuters carrying minimal baggage. Finding the elevator or escalator can be a challenge, depending on the station, meaning you might need to carry your luggage up several flights of stairs. 

Smart Solutions for Luggage Management

When it comes to managing your luggage while traveling within Japan, you’ve got some good options… and a bad one.

1. The Carry-on Only Approach

Traveling light in Japan is pretty much a pro move. A carry-on sized bag (typically under 22 x 14 x 9 inches) will fit in overhead compartments & won't make you public enemy number one on crowded platforms.

The advantages of traveling with only carry-on luggage extend beyond train travel. You'll find it easier to navigate narrow hotel corridors, small elevators & compact hotel rooms. Many Japanese hotels, particularly in major cities, have rooms significantly smaller than what Western travelers might expect.

Having said that, a smaller bag can present other issues, such as if you’re traveling in the winter time and/or for multiple climates. Still, it’s doable, it just takes some ingenuity. 

But what about souvenirs, you might ask? You’ve got options for these as well. 

• Either bring a duffel bag that can fold up into your suitcase on the way to Japan, and fill it with souvenirs in the last city before going home

• Or buy a bag while in Japan, and do the shopping later in the trip

• You can also buy items and send them home by mail or express services

For more on this topic, check out our article on How to Pack Light For Your Japan Trip.

2. Advance Reservations on Trains for Larger Bags

If you absolutely need that full-size suitcase, reserve a seat with extra baggage space when booking your bullet train tickets. These spots are limited but worth the effort to secure.

The Japan Rail Pass, while sometimes a good value (and other times, not so much), doesn't automatically include luggage space reservations. You'll need to make these separately, ideally before arriving in Japan. 

Some train services offer optional luggage delivery right at the station, but these services require advance booking and aren't available on all routes.

Your reserved luggage space could be directly behind the seat itself; or it might be in a luggage compartment near the door with a number that you’ve been assigned.

3. Japan Travel Hack: Takkyubin Services

Here's where Japanese efficiency stands out. 

Takkyubin (luggage delivery services) offered by companies like Yamato & Sagawa Express can transport your bags between destinations while you travel unencumbered.

The process is straightforward: drop off your luggage at a convenience store (konbini) or hotel (or at the nearest Yamato or Sagawa agent, if one isn’t too far); fill out a fairly straightforward form & your bags will appear at your next destination (e.g. your hotel), usually within 24 hours. 

Many travelers use this service right from the airport, sending their larger bags ahead while keeping essentials in a smaller bag.

Just remember, when using the express service from city to city, to plan ahead and carry a smaller bag with you, containing a change of clothing, toiletries, medication, etc.

Making the Most of Takkyubin

These delivery services are fairly affordable, with prices typically ranging from ¥2000-3000 per bag for same-day or next-day delivery. 

Hotels throughout Japan are familiar with these services and will handle both sending and receiving luggage for guests. Most airport service counters offer takkyubin delivery as well, though prices from airports tend to be slightly higher than standard rates.

Some practical tips for using takkyubin:

• Pack a small overnight bag if sending luggage ahead

• Book at least 24 hours in advance during peak seasons

• Keep valuable items with you in your day bag

• Save the tracking number provided

• Confirm delivery times with your hotel in advance

• Request morning delivery if possible

• Learn basic phrases for dropping off luggage

• Take photos of your bags before sending them

The service is reliable: your bags will arrive at the designated time, in the same condition you sent them (in the rare case that they do not, Yamato & Sagawa both have decent customer service capability in English.

4. Flying in Japan

Air travel within Japan is underrated. It’s a great way to cover longer distances, even if they (deceivingly) appear to be not that far on the map. 

Popular air routes include Tokyo-Osaka (Itami Airport is not far from Kyoto, and if you can add this as the final destination on your ticket to Japan (or starting point on the way home), that’s a pro move right there); Tokyo-Sapporo; Sapporo-Osaka; as well as service to more remote destinations such as Shokoku, further afield in Kyushu, or Okinawa. 

An added benefit to flying in Japan, at least with the major airlines ANA & JAL as well as Skymark (but not with the low-cost carriers such as Peach or Jetstar) is that checked-in luggage is generally included in the ticket fare (which can often be less than the price of taking a train).

Of course, you’ll have to get to the airport, so it really depends on where in the city you’re staying and how you’ll be getting from your hotel to the air terminal (taxi works well with bags; morning rush hour on the Yamanote line, forget about it).

5. Disregard Courtesy & Common Sense, Just Be “That” Tourist

This is the “bad” option we mentioned before.

There are tourists who insist on carrying their big bags all over Tokyo or Osaka, on crowded trains and through packed stations, then forcing the bags into public spaces or (even worse) other passengers’ spaces on the shinkansen.

Of course, you’re not going to do that.

Local Transportation Realities

Even with excellent public transportation, getting from point A to point B in Japan often involves:

• Navigating steep station stairs

• Crossing busy intersections

• Walking several blocks at a time, often among crowds

• Changing train lines multiple times

• Dealing with weather conditions (such as rain, excessive heat, snow, etc)

• Managing rush hour crowds

• Finding specific exits in massive stations

• Locating elevators in older facilities

Each of these becomes significantly more challenging with large luggage. 

Cultural Context: Being a Respectful Traveler in Japan

Japanese cities (and society as a whole) maintain efficiency through cooperation & consideration. 

When tourists drag oversized luggage through crowded spaces, it disrupts this carefully maintained balance. Being mindful of your impact on others isn't just polite: it's essential for maintaining the smooth flow of daily life that makes Japanese cities so pleasant to visit.

This consideration extends beyond train stations. Restaurants often have limited space between tables, shops have narrow aisles & many attractions have minimal storage options for large bags. 

Planning your luggage strategy isn't just about convenience: it's about respecting Japanese customs and spatial limitations.

Planning Your Luggage Strategy 

The key to successful luggage management in Japan lies in advance planning. Here are some factors when deciding how to handle your bags:

• Length of your stay

• Traveling in Japan with a family or group

• Number of destination changes

• Types of activities planned

• Shopping intentions

• Season & weather variations

• Hotel room sizes

• Transportation methods

• Physical stamina for carrying bags

• Budget for luggage services

• Time constraints between locations

Airport Considerations

Japan's major airports offer excellent luggage services, but timing matters. If you're arriving late in the day, same-day delivery might not be available. Some strategies for airport arrivals:

• Research delivery counter locations before landing

• Keep essential items in your carry-on

• Have your hotel's address written in Japanese

• Prepare cash for delivery fees

• Allow extra time for luggage processing

• Consider temporary storage at the airport

• Check delivery time guarantees

• Verify hotel check-in times

With all this in mind, sending your luggage onward from the airport can actually alleviate headaches down the road.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does takkyubin delivery cost? A: Prices typically range from ¥2000-3000 per bag for domestic delivery, depending on size & distance

How far in advance should I book takkyubin services? A: During regular seasons, 24 hours notice is sufficient. During peak times (cherry blossom season, Golden Week), book 48 hours ahead

Can I send luggage internationally using takkyubin? A: Yes, but international shipping takes longer & costs significantly more than domestic service

Are there size restrictions for bullet train luggage? A: Standard overhead storage accommodates bags up to 22 x 14 x 9 inches. Larger items require special reservations

Can I store luggage at train stations? A: Many major stations offer coin lockers in various sizes, but availability isn't guaranteed, especially during peak travel seasons

What happens if I miss my luggage delivery window? A: Contact the delivery company through your hotel. Most companies will attempt redelivery or hold your items at their local office

Are there weight limits for takkyubin services? A: Yes, typically 25kg per item. Additional fees apply for overweight items

Can I pay for takkyubin services with credit cards? A: Major hotels & airports accept cards, but local convenience stores might require cash