GUIDE to Traveling with Luggage in Japan: Bullet Train, Bus or Airplane

[@KenshoQuest]

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[@evabrandner6236]

If I ever get to travel to Japan oneday, i'd take two medium sized suitcases with me. One is for things I actually need for the Trip and the other for Souvenirs.😅

[@omegawynter]

I'm going there on March 29th, and I'm bringing 28 inch sized luggage. Because I'm going to Japan for a week, then Thailand for a week. 2 totally different climates

[@GiantEagle610]

Consider a video on luggage and hotel rooms. My first time in Osaka, I made the mistake of booking a Business hotel next to the train station. I had a large suitcase. The room was so small and narrow that I had to open the suitcase outside my room in the hallway

[@KenshoQuest]

Good point! Thanks for the suggestion.

[@edeleedr]

Super useful! Thank you! Traveling to Japan for The first time.

[@KenshoQuest]

Glad it was helpful! We share lots here on Kensho Quest about traveling in Japan.

[@cameralabs]

Excellent information, well-researched, clearly presented and obviously with a lot of travel experience, thanks!

[@KenshoQuest]

You’re welcome! ☺️

[@connorlegg]

Great video! I will be visiting here later in Novemeber for my first trip to Japan. I look forward to it !

[@KenshoQuest]

Exciting! Have a wonderful time in Japan!

[@Chocito_1976]

Exactly the information I was looking for. Thank you so much! Keep up the great work. ありがとう。

[@KenshoQuest]

Dōitashimashite!

[@c.t.4955]

Super informative video! Thank you so much!

[@KenshoQuest]

You're very welcome!

[@yve_w40]

this is most informational video I found on this topic. thank you!

[@KenshoQuest]

You’re welcome!

[@PCKodachi]

The video is so clear, concise, and viewer digest. ❤ Thank you so much 🎉

[@KenshoQuest]

You're welcome! Are you heading to Japan soon?

[@PCKodachi]

@KenshoQuest Sorry for the delay. Was in Japan, and yes, the measurement saved us the hussle! 😆 You guys rock!

[@Im_dcc]

Thank you so this beautiful reading 🙏🏼❤

[@nateshf9303]

My wife and I bring only one medium size, mostly empty North Face base camp bag as carry-on and wear one set of athletic outfit and buy what we need when we get there. (We bring a few more items when we do road trips in the States.)

[@KenshoQuest]

That’s traveling light!

[@nateshf9303]

@@KenshoQuest Having to haul big stupid luggages around Japan is miserable and no fun.

[@FeHopeCyndiW]

Thanks for these helpful videos! I am headed there to race in September (an Ironman triathlon). I like to travel light on vacation, but it is hard to travel light with all the triathlon gear! I was in Japan during the summers long ago (1992 and 1993) and loved it there. Looking forward to returning!

[@darrylk808]

We got lucky on Peach. They didn't weigh the bags. My 22" roll aboard is 30 lbs. My backpack is over 10 lbs. Whew! We were fully prepared to pay to check it, but wanted to keep it with us. Got lucky!

[@KenshoQuest]

You're lucky! Since we have lots of separate backpacks and bags they're probably more likely to weigh our bags. It's kind of silly they made us shuffle things around, when it was still the same total weight we brought onto the airplane. Now I know to weigh our bags before heading to the airport!

[@barbarah.5554]

Your Videos are a relief for someone like me with high travel anxiety. ❤

[@XaviInc]

Love the video - VERY thorough. Appreciate it!!

[@KenshoQuest]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Sergei-ud4op]

So much helpful information presented in a very organised way! Thank you!

[@KenshoQuest]

You’re welcome!

[@vinyalonde]

On my trip in the Fall of 2023 (November, December, for four weeks), I took a rolling duffle case that is just a bit too big for airplane carry on. On the plane, I took a small day bag and a very small camera bag. If for some reason I lost the duffle case, I had a change of clothes and all my electronics with me. It was easy to travel with this luggage while in Japan because I used Yamato transport to get my large case to my hotel (except from the airport on arrival - I treated myself to a cab). Yamato transport is a life saver. I wish that this service was available in Europe. Overall, I have found Japan to be a relatively easy place to travel. The only snag I encountered was in getting from my hotel in Takayama to Tokyo. The hotel did not offer a forwarding service although it was available from a local convenience store. It was a fairly new hotel and it had not sorted out all the kinks yet and perhaps Takayama has a smaller volume of tourists. It certainly seemed that way when I was there in December of 2023.

[@KenshoQuest]

Thanks for sharing your experience!

[@elcasho]

Great video!

[@Traveljet14]

Thanks for your super helpful videos.

[@KenshoQuest]

Thank you!

[@TTACKERMAN]

helpful tips thank you so much

[@GabrielAndrade-ei3bi]

Excelente video, resolviste muchas de mis dudas ! Thanks u so much!

[@KenshoQuest]

De nada!

[@omegawynter]

Great information!

[@KenshoQuest]

Glad it was helpful!

[@birdflox1337]

We're going to Japan with three people and while not packing too much shouldn't be that hard, I was planning on buying a lot of souvenirs and merchandise. I hope the fly back won't be a problem, or public transport too much of a hassle.

[@jampeldorje7703]

Thanks

[@angelasands1643]

so informative! thank you! ✍✍✍

[@KenshoQuest]

You’re welcome! 🌸

[@roybateman5840]

Thank you for this comprehensive information!

[@KenshoQuest]

You’re very welcome! Are you headed to Japan soon?

[@roybateman5840]

@@KenshoQuest I'd like to go back to Japan sometime in the next year. I'll have to get used to the new luggage rules for the Shinkansen. Maybe if I do laundry more frequently, I can bring less luggage.

[@mikechun4734]

Wait, did you just say, “travel full-time”? Wow 👏

[@KenshoQuest]

We were full time travelers. Now we’re expats living abroad as digital nomads. 😂

[@raymyray]

Needed this, thank you for the info 👌

[@KenshoQuest]

You’re welcome!

[@lawd.9829]

Thank you for the guide! very useful and helpful! Would you recommend someone to fly in Japan with just a backpack and a small carry on suitcase? Then buy a check in luggage at the market. We want to travel light as possible.

[@KenshoQuest]

Yes, I would recommend flying to Japan with just a backpack and small carry-on size suitcase. Then once you are in Japan you could buy whichever size suitcase or duffle bag you need for bringing purchases home. Here’s my follow up video with packing tips. We wished we left our checked suitcase at home on our last trip. kzbin.info/www/bejne/n5nCd6ahptSajLcsi=0L1YO34zCyrrLtok

[@jonathanserrano1471]

Very informative video, thank you for taking the time to research and create it. I had a question about the Limited Express trains. Would I be able to take a backpack, my carryon suit case, and my checked bag (suitcase) with me on the train? I am only able to purchase a regular ticket from Kyoto to Kansai Airport and there is no indication about oversized luggage areas.

[@KenshoQuest]

That should be fine if you will take the Haruka Express to Kansai Airport. There is luggage space on the train.

[@happy_sady]

I've just viewed over 6 of your Japan travel videos....they're simply amazing. So much so, that I plan to return some items, and then use your links to purchase them (again) on amazon through your links. That said I have a few questions. We'll be traveling in July-August 2024 and you mentioned you had a video on what to pack in July - I can't seem to find the video. Also, Heidi mentioned that she can share her what to pack list, I saw it with check boxes on a video, but I'd love to have a link for the actual document. I believe she mentioned she uses an app on her phone? I have an iPhone and would be fine with downloading an app (although I like your google sheets suggestion too). Thank you & gracias, from Miami.

[@KenshoQuest]

Thanks for watching! There's no need to return items. If you click through one of our Amazon affiliate links and purchase anything, we get credit, even if it's not the item we were recommending. Here's our video on everything we packed for our summer trip: kzbin.info/www/bejne/g4PMi2aqqJ6CZ80 In this other packing tips video I showed how we organized our bags for our winter trip, although we should have left the large suitcase at home! This gives tips on what we bring onto the airplane with us: kzbin.info/www/bejne/n5nCd6ahptSajLc Sorry, I don't have a shareable version of our packing list at the moment. I use the Google Keep app on my iPhone and make a packing list for each of our bags. When you have a packing list open, you can click on the "+" in the bottom left hand corner and add a photo. I like to add a photo of the bag fully packed or the items spread out. I might have been referring to this separate video, which is a checklist of things to do before a Japan trip: kzbin.info/www/bejne/d3echox8fpJ8aZo Safe travels! 🌸 Heidi

[@Dakotarunner2013]

The luggage delivery services are cheap, fast, and reliable. So much easier.

[@KenshoQuest]

Agreed!

[@Teezyqt]

We are planning a bike trip around Izu for a section of our trip to Japan, but are trying to figure out what to do with our luggage during that time. Currently the plan is to leave our luggage at a hotel in Shizuoka for 3 days that is part of the "ecbo" service. Do you have any recommendations for alternatives? It seems Train station coin lockers are typically 1 day max?

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi. Our next video will be on this topic. While most train station lockers are for 1 day, there are some for 3 days. You could check at the station. ECBO Cloak is also what we would suggest, although we have not personally used it. Another option would be to forward your luggage to the next hotel you will stay at after bicycling Izu, and schedule the delivery date for the day you will arrive at that hotel.

[@janthe6th]

How exactly do you forward/ship your big luggages to destinations ahead of time? How do you collect the luggages?

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, please watch this video for the details: GUIDE to Luggage Delivery Services in Japan, Travel Hands-Free! kzbin.info/www/bejne/rZ-9pqloqZ59Z7s

[@BROOKS39]

We were travelling on the Shinkansen from Hiroshima to Kyoto in a green carriage and I just shoved my oversized suit case in the reserve area as we were like the only people in that carriage. A pissed off conductor came along and told me to move it 15 minutes into the trip. We knew nothing about the reserved bag area as we bought our tickets online from overseas before our trip and had them delivered to our hotel in Hiroshima. The company that sends bags ahead for you won’t deliver it until the next day so it’s sort of useless

[@ap2445]

Thank you for superb information on your channel. To add reservation for oversized baggage area/compartment during in the ticket machine, can we do that 1-2 day before the departure time ?

[@KenshoQuest]

Yes you can.

[@ap2445]

@@KenshoQuest thank you

[@RyuSaga99]

Back in 2019 before they had the oversized luggage rule, we had put our luggage at the back behind the seats. Some European tourists came into the shinkansen at a few stops after us.. removed our suitcases and put theirs in.. and left our suitcases out in the hallway where the doors to the train was.. I was coming back from the bathroom and noticed my suitcase in front of the train doors... I was furious... I almost did the same thing to them but I didn't want to block the door for the other passengers.. I tried to put my suitcase back and even arranged theirs so it fit.. They also missed their stop And panicked like chicken with their heads cut off trying to drag their suit cases out of the shinkansen..

[@alterna29]

Wow u re too kind and they were so rude! maybe next time you can “teach” these people by removing theirs as they might not know how to behave 😂

[@gabrielcaluya4961]

I plan to take a sleeper bus from tokyo to osaka, is a 22 in luggage too big? I can’t find it on their website. Its just a carryon.

[@KenshoQuest]

Since it's a sleeper bus it's probably fine to bring a 22" carry-on suitcase. There will most likely be a luggage storage compartment under the bus. 🌺 Heidi

[@kellib5291]

Hi there, great content! For Shinkansen are we allowed 2 pieces of luggage plus one personal item (purse) or two pieces total including the purse? Thanks

[@KenshoQuest]

2 pieces of luggage plus personal item. And it’s not strict like on airlines. 🌸 Heidi

[@kellib5291]

@@KenshoQuestThanks!

[@soniaperez9269]

Hi! Re coin lockers - are these generally safe to leave stuff in for a few days do you think? Also, are there ones big enough for a check in size suitcase?

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi. Most coin lockers are for one day only. There are some that you can use for 3 days straight, but those are not as common. A large size locker should fit a regular checked suitcase. Here’s our video specifically about luggage lockers and other storage options: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mqS4eKGZjLmJo5osi=HahiePpraeP7glHB In general coin lockers are safe, but I wouldn’t leave valuables inside.

[@soniaperez9269]

@@KenshoQuest Thank you for your response, and so promptly! I am checking out your other video now :-)

[@kalitalamba4711]

Hi! Can I carry 2 medium sized suitcases + 1 cabin sized suitcase on the Shinkansen? Also, are there any luggage restrictions on local trains eg. from Osaka to Nara?

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, yes you can on the shinkansen. On local trains, I don't know of any restrictions, however do take into consideration that they are not set up for a lot of luggage, so try to avoid rush hours as the trains get jam packed and it can be hard to maneuver.

[@kalitalamba4711]

@@KenshoQuest Thanks for the quick response :)

[@edras90]

So is it okay to bring 24 inch suitcase without reservation on shinkansen?

[@KenshoQuest]

Yes, no problem

[@maddymaddyval]

what happens if i made reservations but oversized seats are full? will they give me the next train? or ill have to pay fine?

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, it would be a very rare instance for oversized seats to be full. If it does happen, just visit the ticketing office and they will help you get on a train where you can get a reserved seat designated for luggage.

[@maddymaddyval]

@@KenshoQuest thank you!!

[@michellegray5899]

We are arriving into Japan on celebrity cruise ship in Tokyo and staying at the Hyatt Regency in Shinguku. Do you know if there are any luggage services at the cruise port? I have looked and cannot find the information. Thank you!

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, I believe that the Courier Service Counter/ Parcel Delivery Counter on the 2nd floor should offer luggage forwarding to your hotel. www.tptc.co.jp/terminal/guide/cruise/facility#facilities

[@KenshoQuest]

Hello again. We checked with someone in Japan and they said that the Courier Service Counter at the Tokyo cruise terminal is normally unmanned. If you booked your cruise through a travel agent, the agent might be able to help you arrange luggage forwarding. Otherwise, sending it from a nearby convenience store might also be an option. 🌸 Heidi

[@skylarl.4571]

Hi! May I ask how much the taxi you took to the airport was?

[@KenshoQuest]

I think it cost around USD $130 for the van taxi to the airport.

[@jack3088]

Do I need reservation for normal train except Shinkansen ?

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, for local trains you do not. However, many express trains besides shinkansens do require reservations. So please check. Also many Shinkansen and express trains offer both reserved and non reserved seating. So depending on where you are traveling you may or may not be required to have a reservation.

[@KingTode]

I have a suitcase that's bigger than a medium but not quite 160cm. It's 28" x 15" x 14" to be precise. Is that too big for the overhead compartment?

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi. I would not feel comfortable putting that large of a suitcase in the overhead rack of a Shinkansen train. If you definitely want to bring it with you on the train, you can reserve a seat that comes with oversized luggage storage, even if you're suitcase isn't technically "oversized". What we do with that sized luggage is forward it to our destination with Yamato Transport. Here's our video about that: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rZ-9pqloqZ59Z7s 🌸 Heidi

[@hokudadog7637]

kg = kilograms

[@NikkiCN]

❤❤

[@raylee011gamil]

How much does it cost to take Taxi to Tokyo area?

[@KenshoQuest]

From where?

[@raylee011gamil]

From Haneda

[@maxstevanus8834]

Do Yamato transport can deliver luggage from tokyo to hakone?

[@KenshoQuest]

Yes. Also once you reach Hakone-Yumoto Station, there is a counter for forwarding luggage to a hotel in Hakone.

[@lihihongan5289]

I've seen Japanese passengers...not gaijin...travel to Hakone on Romance train with full size luggage ,half of them hang on the edge....and not just one guy,almost half of passengers on train did that...

[@theinternationalist1357]

Does the taxi take credit cards?

[@KenshoQuest]

Many of them do!

[@shawnbell6392]

Many indeed do but ask before you get into a taxi. I was tired one day from having a cold and didn't ask and had to dig out cash I wasn't planning on using for a taxi. Remember that in a place the size of Tokyo a taxi can get expensive compared to just using the subway. Using Google maps on your phone using the subway is pretty simple. Research commuter culture before you go regarding using trains/subways.

[@deiadeinha8827]

Nice video! I have a question: How much did you pay for the van taxi?

[@dmvfosterkittens]

Yes

[@nateshf9303]

Ironically, those consider themselves "green" and "environmentally friendly" have the biggest and most luggages.

[@KenshoQuest]

That’s always a struggle! We like to bring reusable items, but it does mean packing more. One thing I definitely recommend bringing is a reusable shopping bag. We gets lots of use out of that, and there are very compact options. 🌸 Heidi

[@sharoncailles302]

Very informative vlog, thank you!

[@KenshoQuest]

You're welcome!

[@TheWanderlees]

Thanks for the informative video! My husband and I and our 20 year old daughter are headed over there and the end of this year. We’re really looking forward to it! 🙋🏼‍♀️

[@nisac.bartholome7696]

This was so helpful! Thank you so much!!

[@KenshoQuest]

You’re welcome! Are you headed to Japan soon?

[@nisac.bartholome7696]

@@KenshoQuest Hi Yes! Going to Korea and then Japan. I was panicking about the luggage situation on the bullet train from Tokyo to Osaka because we booked a 2nd class seat to view Mount Fuji but I forgot about our luggage. I will be using the luggage forward option but I don't know if my friends would. They are paranoid that their luggage will get lost. I trust the process haha. I love your videos!

[@KenshoQuest]

@@nisac.bartholome7696 We’ve never had a piece of luggage lost in Japan, and Yamato Transport handles our suitcases with more care than airlines do. Have a wonderful time in Korea and Japan!

[@nisac.bartholome7696]

Aw I believe it! Thank you so much! I'll be watching more of your videos !

[@hanskevinwiyono7244]

Very clear information thank you very much! thanks a ton its really helpful for me!

[@KenshoQuest]

You’re welcome! We have lots of videos on our channel about traveling in Japan.

[@fernlin90]

Can I use luggage forwarding from my hotel to airport?

[@KenshoQuest]

Yes, but you may need to send it a couple days in advance.

[@ludovic2003]

Backpacks are easier