Where do you put large luggage on trains?
In short
Good to knowKeep luggage where it does not get in others’ way. On the Tokaido Shinkansen and some other lines, bags over 160 cm in total dimensions need a reservation.
When does this apply?
On the Tokaido, Sanyo, Kyushu and Nishi-Kyushu Shinkansen, a bag whose length + width + height totals 161–250 cm requires a "seat with oversized baggage area" reservation. Bringing one without a reservation costs a 1,000 yen fee, and bags over 250 cm are not allowed.
Why?
In crowded trains and stations, big bags blocking aisles or doors slow down boarding and can cause accidents. The Japan Tourism Agency also asks visitors to avoid bringing large luggage into crowded places and to use lockers or luggage delivery services.
What to do
- Reserve the oversized baggage area together with your Shinkansen ticket
- On regular trains, keep bags at your feet or on the rack, clear of aisles and doors
- Use coin lockers or a luggage forwarding service (takkyubin) between hotels
Better to avoid
- Leave a big suitcase in front of the doors or in the aisle
- Board packed rush-hour trains with large luggage
Exceptions and differences
The oversized baggage reservation rule applies to the Tokaido, Sanyo, Kyushu and Nishi-Kyushu Shinkansen; conventional lines do not need a reservation. Other lines may have their own rules, so check the railway’s guidance.
Manners can differ by region, facility and generation. Local signs and staff instructions come first.
Check with a quiz
You want to take a suitcase measuring 200 cm in total (L+W+H) on the Tokaido Shinkansen. What do you do?
Choose an answer
Sources
- Luggage information (Tokaido Shinkansen oversized baggage)(opens in a new tab)
- Travel Etiquette for the Future (Promoting sustainable tourism)(opens in a new tab)
- Japanese Customs and Etiquette(opens in a new tab)
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This text was written with AI assistance and has not yet been proofread by a person.