Imagine strolling the cobblestone streets of Kyoto, with its historic temples, or the streets of Ginza, Tokyo, with its glittering fashions, without having to carry heavy suitcases. In Japan, there is an incredibly convenient “luggage forwarding service” that makes such ideal trips a reality.
In this article, we will introduce you to this amazing system, which will enrich and make your experience in Japan even more enjoyable.
- 1.Liberating travel: Japan’s charms without the need to travel with suitcase in hand
- 2.Reliable network: anywhere in the country, reliable delivery
- 3.The procedure is simple: leave it to the concierge
- 4.The best solution for intercity travel: bullet trains are also convenient.
- 5.More than suitcases: secure shipment of souvenirs and special luggage
1.Liberating travel: Japan’s charms without the need to travel with suitcase in hand
Japan’s “parcel service” frees you from burdens and greatly increases the freedom of your trip.
Traveling with sophistication
On a quality trip, such as a trip to a luxury ryokan or boutique hotel, moving large luggage can be more stressful than you might imagine.
Make the most of your time
Send your luggage to your next destination after checking out and you can immediately go sightseeing or dining empty-handed. You won’t have to worry about where to leave your luggage when traveling by bullet train or train. After arriving, you can make the most of your time without having to go directly to your hotel: you can go straight to a business meeting or a theater performance, for example.
Room to enjoy unexpected discoveries.
For example, the day you travel from Tokyo to Kyoto. You can send your luggage in the morning and, in the afternoon, pack light and take a side trip to a museum you’ve been curious about for some time. When you arrive at your hotel in Kyoto in the evening, your luggage will have already been delivered to your room. This lightness gives you the freedom to enjoy unexpected discoveries and encounters.
If you know your next city, think about using this service and plan your trip with more freedom and sophistication.
2.Reliable network: anywhere in the country, reliable delivery
Japan’s parcel service is characterized by its reliability and nationwide network.
Reliable and proven logistics system
Major courier companies such as Yamato Transport (Kuroneko Yamato) and Sagawa Express have been supporting Japan’s logistics for decades. Their culture is rooted in the priority of treating each package with care and delivering it on time.
The convenience of nationwide coverage
The service covers almost every area of Japan, from luxury hotels in major cities to local onsen ryokans and even remote islands. They can be shipped directly from airport to hotel, from hotel to hotel, or even from hotel to airport on the last day.
Trackable and secure
When you check in your luggage, you usually receive a copy of the “waybill”. This contains a tracking number and allows you to check the status of the delivery online, so you can be sure you know where your valuable luggage is. It is also easier to track any delays that may occur.
If you are unsure, talk to the concierge or front desk at your accommodation. They are familiar with the service and can help you make the best arrangements.
3.The procedure is simple: leave it to the concierge
The procedure for using the baggage porter service is surprisingly simple and smooth, especially in hotels.
Simple requests at hotels
In many hotels, especially those with many wealthy guests, you can request postage for your luggage at the front desk or concierge desk. The staff is familiar with the process and, in many cases, simply provide them with the delivery address.
Assistance in filling out the “invoice
The core of the procedure is to fill out the “waybill” (albarán). Hotel staff can fill it out for you and show you where to fill it out. Language is usually not a problem.
Clear rate structure
Rates are determined by the size (total length, width and height), weight and delivery distance of the luggage. They are usually measured and calculated at the hotel upon request and are paid on-site in cash or with in-room credit. The fee structure is clear and there is little risk of unexpectedly high charges.
When making the request, it is helpful if you make a note of the exact details of your next destination (hotel name, address, telephone number, name of your reservation and check-in date).
4.The best solution for intercity travel: bullet trains are also convenient.
For itineraries where you have to travel between cities by train, the baggage courier service is the best solution.
Reducing the stress of Shinkansen travel
The Shinkansen, Japan’s main artery, is very comfortable, but sometimes it can be a challenge to carry large suitcases. This can be a hassle, especially in times of heavy traffic or when the newly introduced oversized luggage spaces need to be booked in advance. If you send your luggage, it will be able to board the train more intelligently.
Ease of getting around the station
Japan’s major train stations are huge, and it’s not uncommon to have to walk long distances or use stairs when changing trains. If you go empty-handed, your steps will be lighter and transfers smoother. You can also enjoy your time at the stations, taking a coffee break or browsing the station stores without worrying about your luggage.
Examples of use on the Golden Route
For example, if you are traveling on the popular Tokyo → Hakone → Kyoto route. Send your main luggage directly from your hotel in Tokyo to Kyoto and head to Hakone with one night’s luggage. Enjoy light sightseeing in Hakone and go directly to Kyoto the next day. Your luggage is already delivered to your hotel in Kyoto, making for smart travel.
Delivery is usually the next day (or the day after if it is far away). Plan your trip according to your itinerary so that you can complete the shipping procedure on the evening of the day before or the day before your travel date.
5.More than suitcases: secure shipment of souvenirs and special luggage
This service can be used to ship not only suitcases, but also a wide range of other items, such as those purchased during your trip or your hobbies.
Be smart with your growing number of souvenirs
As your trip progresses, it’s not uncommon for your luggage to grow with souvenirs and purchases. Bulky items and fragile artwork can be shipped from your hotel to your next destination or to the airport upon your return (*Shipments outside Japan are shipped internationally, with different procedures and rates).
Ship your hobby equipment in advance
You can ship golf clubs on a golf trip, or ski equipment to a hotel for winter skiing. This way, you won’t have to carry heavy, unwieldy equipment yourself, which will make your trip much more comfortable.
Various optional services
In addition to normal delivery, there are also options such as “cold delivery” for sending refrigerated or frozen products. For example, fresh seafood found in local markets can be sent to the hotel where you are staying (check if the hotel can receive it).
If you wish to ship items that are specially shaped, fragile or require temperature control, check with the hotel or delivery desk first to see if they can be handled or if special packaging or additional charges are required.
The Japanese baggage delivery service is one of the very embodiments of the “Omotenashi” spirit. Use this system wisely, free yourself from the stress of heavy suitcases and make the most of your stay in Japan! It is sure to be the most comfortable, memorable and wonderful trip you can imagine.
