
Japan is a shopping haven, but it's not a large-suitcase-friendly country. If you're planning to travel around with a 28-inch luggage, you might want to think again. Here's why: most trains in Japan don't provide space for bulky luggage, and even if you do find a train with overhead storage, you'll need to lift your 28-inch, 60-lb suitcase up there. That's not easy. Add to that the possibility of having to carry your luggage up several flights of stairs, and you've got a recipe for a very tired traveller. So what's the solution? Well, you could always opt for a smaller suitcase, or you could use a luggage forwarding service, which will deliver your luggage to your hotel for a fee. That way, you can travel light and enjoy your trip without the stress of lugging around a large suitcase.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Suitcase size | 28 inches |
Suitcase dimensions | 28" x 18" x 11" |
Suitcase weight | Under 50 lbs |
Suitcase volume | Less than 0.027 cubic meters |
Suitcase convenience | Inconvenient on trains and subways |
Suitcase practicality | Impractical for travel with many connections |
Suitcase storage | Difficult in small spaces |
What You'll Learn
Luggage size restrictions on Shinkansen (bullet train) routes
Shinkansen luggage rules have been causing confusion for travellers to Japan since 2020. However, the bullet train is still one of the best ways to get around the country.
There are now strict Shinkansen baggage rules dictating both luggage size and storage. These rules apply to the Tōkaidō Shinkansen (Tokyo to Osaka), the San'yō Shinkansen (Osaka to Fukuoka), and the Kyūshū Shinkansen (Fukuoka to Kagoshima).
If your luggage has overall dimensions of more than 160 cm, you will need to reserve a seat with an oversized baggage area. This applies to baggage with total dimensions (length + width + height) of between 160 and 250 cm. Baggage that is too big to store in the overhead luggage racks or squeeze in front of your knees will be a challenge.
If your suitcase is under 160 cm in linear dimensions, you won't need a seat reservation. You can place it in front of you or in the overhead luggage rack, provided it doesn't obstruct the aisle or fall out.
If your suitcase is over 250 cm, it won't be allowed on the Shinkansen.
You can reserve a seat with an oversized baggage area at the same price as a standard reserved seat. You can make a reservation at a JR ticket office, a ticket vending machine, or online.
If you bring oversized baggage without a reservation, you will be charged a fee of 1,000 yen (including tax) and will have to store your luggage in a designated area.
To calculate your Shinkansen baggage size, add the width, height, and depth of your suitcase. For example, if your suitcase measures 28" tall, 18" wide, and 11" deep, the total dimensions are 165 cm (65 inches), which is over the 160 cm limit.
Travellers have reported that a 28" suitcase is a challenge to get onto trains and subways when you can't find an elevator. It is also awkward to carry up and down stairs. If your itinerary involves travel between multiple cities and hotels far from stations, a smaller suitcase or luggage forwarding service may be a better option.
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Luggage storage options on the Shinkansen
Luggage storage on the Shinkansen can be a tricky affair. While the bullet train is a great way to get around the country, there are strict baggage rules dictating both luggage size and storage.
Firstly, it's important to note that the overall size of your suitcase matters more than its weight. If your luggage has overall dimensions of more than 160 cm, you will need to reserve a seat with an oversized baggage area or compartment. This applies specifically to the Tokaido-Sanyo-Kyushu Shinkansen (Tokyo - Shin Osaka - Hakata - Kagoshima-Chuo) route. For context, most American airlines prefer checked luggage to be under 160 cm in total linear dimensions.
If your luggage is under 160 cm, you can store it in front of you (bye-bye legroom!) or in the overhead luggage rack, provided it doesn't obstruct the aisle or pose a safety risk.
Now, if your luggage is between 161-250 cm in overall dimensions, you'll need to reserve specific seats on the Shinkansen. These seats are located in the back row of the Shinkansen carriage, and the space for luggage is shared by the five passengers in the last row. You can reserve these seats at a ticket office, a ticket vending machine, or online, and they won't cost you more than a regular reserved seat.
If you're travelling with a stroller, sports equipment, or a musical instrument, a reservation is not required but is strongly recommended for a more comfortable journey.
If all the spaces for oversized luggage are booked, you could consider booking a seat in the Green Car (Business Class), which offers a bit more legroom and potentially more luggage storage space. Alternatively, you could send your luggage separately with a delivery service or leave it in a luggage storage facility.
Lastly, luggage over 250 cm is not allowed on the Shinkansen at all, so make sure to plan ahead if you're travelling with extremely large items.
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Luggage on local trains
If you're travelling on local trains and subways in Japan, it's important to keep your luggage as close to you as possible and out of the way of other passengers. This is especially important on local trains, which are usually packed with standing passengers. Aim to keep your luggage between your knees and the seat in front of you—this works best with carry-on-sized bags and smaller travellers. Just make sure you don't impede the ability of the seat in front of you to recline.
You should never leave your luggage in the aisle next to your seat, as this is a safety hazard and will block the aisle. Similarly, never put your luggage in an empty seat or the floor space of an empty seat, as trains make frequent stops and your luggage can't occupy another passenger's seat. If you're wearing a backpack, it is considerate to turn it around and carry it on your front side.
If you're travelling with a large suitcase, you may need to stand with it by the train door. There is usually ample room to hold four to six suitcases, but someone will need to stand with the suitcases to stop them from moving around the train.
If you're taking the Narita Express (N'EX) from the airport into the city, there are luggage compartments near the doors that are great for storing large suitcases. There are also luggage racks above your seat, which can fit large suitcases.
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Luggage on buses
When it comes to luggage on buses in Japan, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Firstly, local city buses typically do not have space for large luggage. It is recommended to take a taxi to and from the train station if you are unable or unwilling to walk with your luggage. On the other hand, long-distance buses, including airport buses, are coach-style, meaning they have storage compartments underneath for large luggage.
Secondly, some bus companies may not allow very large suitcases or may limit passengers to one suitcase each. It is important to check with the specific bus company beforehand to avoid any issues.
Thirdly, there may be restrictions on what can be stored in the luggage compartments of buses. For example, items that are easily breakable or susceptible to high temperatures may not be allowed. Additionally, valuables such as cash, jewelry, and expensive antiques should not be stored in the luggage compartments, as some companies are not responsible for any damage or loss incurred during the trip.
Lastly, when travelling on buses with luggage, it is important to be considerate of other passengers. Try to avoid travelling during rush hour, as the buses tend to be more crowded, and be mindful of the space your luggage takes up.
Overall, while it is possible to travel on buses with luggage in Japan, it is important to be mindful of the restrictions and limitations, as well as the potential inconvenience to other passengers.
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Luggage forwarding and storage services
Luggage Forwarding
Takuhaibin is a parcel courier service, most often used for overnight delivery, that can be extremely useful for travellers in Japan. It is highly convenient, reliable, secure, and economical. The service costs about 1,500 JPY, and several companies offer it, including Kuroneko Yamato. However, travellers need not worry about choosing a company as most hotels and ryokans will take care of it.
To forward luggage, bring it to the hotel reception before check-out. The concierge or bellhop will take the suitcase and inform you of the shipping charge, which can be paid as part of the room bill. The luggage will be delivered to the next destination, such as a hotel or ryokan, and placed in the room closet, ready for the traveller's arrival.
Luggage Storage
Luggage storage services are also available at airports and major train stations in Japan. These include coin lockers, which are available at Narita and Haneda airports, as well as train stations across the country. The charges for these lockers vary depending on the size and location, typically ranging from ¥300 to ¥1,000 per item.
In addition to coin lockers, there are also staffed luggage storage counters at airports and train stations. These counters are operated by companies such as JAL and Yamato Transport Global, and offer temporary luggage storage services for a fee.
Apps such as Ecbo, Stasher, Bounce, and Vertoe also provide luggage storage options at various locations across Tokyo and Japan. These apps offer convenient booking and payment options, with prices ranging from ¥450 to ¥800 per day.
Luggage on Public Transport
When travelling on the Shinkansen (bullet train), it is important to note that there is limited luggage storage space. While some trains, such as the Narita and Haruka airport express trains, have dedicated luggage storage areas, most trains only have overhead racks or leg and lap space. Therefore, it is recommended to use luggage forwarding services or choose smaller suitcases that can fit in the overhead racks.
New rules introduced in 2020 for specific Shinkansen routes require a free luggage reservation for bags with a combined height, width, and length between 160 cm and 250 cm. Failing to make this reservation will result in a fine of ¥1,000, and passengers may need to upgrade to a reserved seat ticket. Bags larger than 250 cm will not be allowed on board.
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Frequently asked questions
A 28-inch suitcase is not too big for a trip to Japan, but it is recommended that you pack light and use a smaller suitcase if possible. Large suitcases can be difficult to transport on public transport and may not fit in the overhead storage on trains and buses.
On the Shinkansen bullet train, luggage must not exceed total dimensions of 250 cm. Luggage between 161-250 cm requires a reservation for a seat with extra storage space. Luggage under 160 cm can be stored in the overhead rack or in front of you. Each passenger can bring up to two pieces of luggage, each weighing no more than 30 kg.
Yes, there are several alternatives. You can use a luggage forwarding service, such as Takuhaibin, to send your luggage to your hotel. You can also use a taxi, which usually has a large trunk and can accommodate multiple suitcases. Additionally, some hotels offer luggage delivery services to your next hotel for a fee.
It is recommended to use a hardshell suitcase with four wheels, as this is the most common type of suitcase in Japan and is easier to transport and store. Large hiking-style backpacks are not recommended as they can be considered rude on public transport.