If you're planning a trip on Japan's Shinkansen, it's important to be aware of the latest baggage policies. From baggage size restrictions to the necessity of reserving a seat, these regulations will affect your travel arrangements. In this article, we'll explain the Shinkansen baggage requirements in detail and how you can easily make your trip go more smoothly. Whether you are carrying large luggage or small items, the information here will help you to be well prepared.
Overview of new baggage requirements
As a result of the updated baggage policy on the Shinkansen, you will be required to reserve baggage storage space on some routes. This requirement is mainly for baggage sizes between 161 and 250 centimeters to ensure that you have enough space for your bulky baggage during your journey. If your baggage measures 160cm or less, you do not need to make a reservation. For your convenience, all travelers should be aware of this policy in advance to avoid unnecessary hassle.A complete guide to purchasing tickets for the Shinkansen in Japan! Learn how to buy tickets in one go!
Luggage Size Classification
Shinkansen has a very clear classification of baggage size. Baggage sizes of 160cm or less can be carried on without reservation, while baggage with a combined length, width and height of between 161 and 250cm requires a specific seat reservation, and baggage exceeding 250cm cannot be carried on the train at all. It is important to know the size of your luggage to help you organize your trip efficiently.
Baggage Reservation Requirements
If your luggage measures between 161 and 250 centimeters, you must reserve luggage storage space before traveling on certain new routes. This not only ensures that your luggage is properly accommodated, but also provides you with greater comfort on board. Reservation of luggage storage space will be available in some cars from May 2023, and it is recommended that you make a reservation in advance to ensure that you have enough space.
In order to reserve luggage storage space, you will need to select the appropriate service when purchasing your ticket. These special baggage areas are usually located in the last row of the train, and you will need to reserve a specific spot on the train at the same time in order to safely store your luggage. Reservations are no more expensive than regular seats and are free if you have a JR Pass. Please note that if you have purchased a ticket without a seat reservation, you will not be able to use the luggage storage space.
Baggage Reservation Process
When traveling on the Shinkansen, please make sure to make a reservation in advance if you need to bring large baggage with you. In the case ofNew rules for Shinkansen! Reservations are required for oversized baggage.You can find detailed information and guidelines on how to handle your baggage reservation efficiently.
How to reserve a seat
To reserve a seat on Shinkansen, you can do so at JR station service counters, ticket vending machines, or online. Ensure that your chosen seat type allows for luggage and select the required luggage space when making your reservation to ensure that you can carry your belongings safely and comfortably.
Notes on reserving luggage storage space
When reserving baggage storage space, you must confirm that the reserved seat and space are in compliance with the latest baggage policy of Shinkansen. It is recommended that you measure your luggage in advance to ensure that it does not exceed the required dimensions. In addition, this service is only available on certain train types, so it is important to make a reservation or you may not be able to bring your luggage on board.
Please note that baggage storage space reservations are only available on some Shinkansen Nozomi, Hikari and Kodama cars. When making your reservation, please take note of the available storage space dimensions, including 80 x 60 x 50 cm for the upper deck and 80 x 60 x 40 cm for the lower deck, to ensure that your luggage will fit. In addition, JR Rail Pass holders are entitled to a free baggage storage reservation, which is a great deal for frequent Shinkansen travelers.
Measurement of luggage size
To ensure that your luggage complies with Shinkansen's policy, you will need to carefully measure the width, height and depth of your luggage. Add these three figures together and if the total dimensions are within 160 centimeters, no reservation is needed; if they are between 161 and 250 centimeters, you must reserve a specific seat. luggage over 250 centimeters cannot be carried on the train, so please be sure to check in advance.
Measurement Techniques
When measuring with a tape measure, make sure to measure at the widest, tallest and deepest part of the bag and add up the three figures. If you are concerned about inaccuracy, there are special baggage size measuring devices available at all Tokaido Shinkansen stations for easy confirmation at any time.
Handling of special baggage
Certain types of baggage, such as sports equipment, musical instruments, wheelchairs and strollers, do not require seat reservations regardless of size. However, we recommend that you reserve extra seats for these types of luggage to enhance your comfort during your trip.
For special baggage, you can rest assured that there are no restrictions on the size of these items and no additional reservations are required, but it is much easier and safer to pack them in advance. It is also wise to inform station staff in advance if you intend to bring large sports equipment or musical instruments to ensure that they do not cause inconvenience on the train.
Affected Shinkansen Routes
If you are planning to take the Shinkansen, please be aware of the following affected routes: Tokaido Shinkansen (Tokyo to Osaka), Sanyo Shinkansen (Osaka to Fukuoka), and Kyushu Shinkansen (Fukuoka to Kagoshima). These routes are major transportation arteries in Japan, and the Tokaido Shinkansen in particular is a popular choice for your travel between Tokyo and Kyoto. For more information on carrying bulky luggage, please refer toShinkansen Ticket Purchase Tutorials and Seat Types! Must-see Tips for JR Train Rides in Japan.
Major Route Review
With the new regulations on these major routes, you will need to book the relevant luggage storage space in advance, especially if your luggage size is between 161 and 250 centimeters. Choosing to make a reservation not only avoids unnecessary hassle, but also ensures that your journey is more comfortable.
Updated baggage storage services
From May 24, 2023, you will be able to reserve luggage storage space on the Tokaido Shinkansen and Sanyo Shinkansen. This service provides you with a convenient way of storing large luggage, including upper and lower storage spaces of 80 x 60 x 50 cm and 80 x 60 x 40 cm.
This updated baggage storage service is limited to certain cars, such as Shinkansen Nozomi, Hikari and Kodama trains. Remember, you'll need to reserve a specific seat before you can place your luggage in the designated baggage area, and utilize the IC card to lock your baggage location so you can focus on enjoying your trip with peace of mind.
Luggage Transportation Alternatives
If you are inconvenienced by Shinkansen's baggage regulations, consider using a baggage shipping alternative. There are many baggage shipping services in Japan that can send your luggage to your destination quickly and easily, so you don't have to worry about handling large bags during your trip.
Shipping Options
In Japan, you can choose from a wide range of luggage delivery services, such as Takkyubin, and most of these services can be handled at stations or hotels. The cost of sending your luggage is usually based on size and distance, making it easy for you to enjoy an affordable trip.
Travel Tips
When arranging for baggage delivery, it is recommended that you plan ahead, especially during popular seasons. Be sure to check the time of delivery to ensure that your luggage arrives on time at your destination to avoid delays that may affect your itinerary.
In addition, using the Baggage Delivery Service can help you feel more relaxed when traveling on Shinkansen. When your luggage no longer takes up space, you can enjoy your ride more comfortably and save yourself the hassle of reserving a seat for large luggage. Remember to check the requirements and timings of each shipping service in advance to make your trip smoother.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you would like to know the baggage policy for the Shinkansen Line in Japan, please note that if you are traveling with large baggage that exceeds 160cm on all three sides, you will need to make a reservation for a special seat.
Reservations and Usage Issues
When traveling on Shinkansen, it is important to reserve a seat in advance to ensure luggage space if you need to carry baggage measuring between 161 and 250 centimeters. This service is usually booked together with your ticket and is convenient and inexpensive. JR Pass holders can reserve a luggage storage area free of charge.
Handling of Special Circumstances
If you have special luggage needs, such as sports equipment or musical instruments, you do not have to reserve a seat, even if it is large in size. However, it is recommended that you plan ahead to ensure a smooth journey.
In special cases, such as when you need to bring large sports equipment or musical instruments, you can bring them directly to Shinkansen without having to make a reservation. However, to avoid unnecessary hassle, it is recommended that you contact Shinkansen Customer Service to confirm policies and storage requirements before traveling. This will help ensure that your belongings can travel with you safely and smoothly, and avoid confusion when boarding the train.
in conclusion
When traveling on the Japan Shinkansen, it is important to be aware of the latest baggage policy for your journey. If your total baggage size is under 160 centimeters, you can board the train without a reservation. If your baggage size is between 161 and 250 centimeters, you will need to reserve a seat in advance to accommodate your baggage. In addition, from May 2023, you will be able to reserve space in the baggage area on the Tokaido Shinkansen and Sanyo Shinkansen to ensure that your large baggage is properly stored. Please plan ahead to make your journey smoother.