If you are planning to travel or stay in Japan for a long period of time, have you ever wondered how to store your luggage? For example, when you move from one hotel to another for sightseeing, or when you move into a short-term rental apartment, you do not know how to handle suitcases and large luggage. There are also many tourists who visit Japan and suffer from the stress of moving with heavy luggage. However, there is no need to worry. This article details the luggage storage options in Japan and gives you concrete ways to make your trip and stay more comfortable, to leave your worries about luggage management behind! This way you can enjoy your stay in Japan to the fullest.
Luggage storage services at hotels and lodgings
Many hotels and inns offer convenient luggage storage services after check-out.
For example, at major hotels in Tokyo and Osaka, you can leave your luggage at the front desk for free or for a small fee.
Many establishments, from business hotels to luxury ryokans, offer this service.
When choosing a place to stay, check on the reservation website or official website to see if luggage storage is available and, if necessary, call or e-mail in advance. This will help you plan your trip with peace of mind.
Luggage lockers at stations
Japan’s train stations have a wide range of coin-operated lockers, which are handy for short-term luggage storage.
At the larger stations, such as JR Tokyo, Shinjuku and Kyoto, there are lockers of various sizes to store anything from small bags to suitcases.
Rates range from 300 to 700 yen per day and are available 24 hours a day. They are ideal for leaving luggage between visits and exploring the city empty-handed.
However, there are a few points to keep in mind. First, keep in mind that the lockers tend to fill up during peak periods. Also, coin-operated lockers are usually available for a maximum of one to three days. If the period of use is exceeded, additional charges may be incurred or the locker may be discarded.
When you arrive at the station, first check the location of the lockers and verify their availability. Early in the morning is recommended. Once your luggage has been deposited, make the most of your sightseeing tour!
Temporary luggage locker service
At stations, airports and around tourist attractions, there are luggage lockers where you can leave large items for a few hours to several days.
At Narita Airport and Kansai International Airport, luggage storage services are available at specialized counters, with rates ranging from ¥500 to ¥1,000 per day.
Check in advance the location and opening hours of the left-luggage desks according to your travel schedule. It is also advisable to store luggage before leaving the airport.
Luggage storage via courier service
In Japan, luggage can be temporarily stored using a courier service, with flexible plans available.
Services provided by courier companies such as Yamato Transport and Sagawa Express allow you to send your luggage to a certain location and pick it up later. For example, if you are traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto, you can send your luggage to your hotel in Kyoto in advance, allowing you to go light during the trip.
The fee varies according to size and distance, but is usually around 2,000 yen.
When sending luggage, specify the location (hotel or store) and pick-up date and time and incorporate it into your travel plans. Advance planning is key.
Use rental storage services
If you plan a long stay or live in Japan, you can use a rental storage service to keep your belongings safe.
Rental storage facilities abound in urban areas such as Tokyo, Osaka and Yokohama, starting at just a few thousand yen per month.
They are secure and ideal for storing large items such as clothing and household appliances.
Calculate the length of your stay and the amount of luggage, choose the right storage facility and book in advance. Discounts may be available for long-term plans, so compare and consider.
Make your stay in Japan comfortable with a luggage locker
To truly enjoy your trip and your life in Japan, it’s essential to keep an eye on your luggage. Being able to freely explore tourist attractions and smoothly start a new life without being tied down by heavy luggage is an important asset for everyone. Your experience in Japan will be more enriching if you know where you can safely leave your luggage.
