With the number of overseas travelers visiting Japan increasing every year, the three Japanese railway companies have decided to implement a new rule from May 2020 that requires passengers with oversized luggage to make a reservation to board the train in advance in order to provide a more comfortable travel experience. This new measure is designed to minimize the disruption caused by insufficient space for luggage and to ensure that every passenger enjoys a safe and convenient journey. If you are planning to travel on the Shinkansen, it is important that you are aware of this requirement.
Summary of new requirements
In order to provide you with a more comfortable travel experience, from May 20, 2020, the three Japanese railway companies (JR Tokai, JR Nishinihon, and JR Kyushu) will implement a new rule that requires passengers with oversized baggage on the Shinkansen to make a reservation in advance. If you do not make a reservation, you will have to pay a handling fee of 1,000 yen to have your luggage delivered to a designated location. This is intended to minimize the impact of luggage on other passengers and to ensure that every passenger enjoys a safe and comfortable ride.
Oversized baggage definition
According to the new regulations, oversized baggage is defined as items with length, width and height combined between 161 and 250 centimeters (excluding 160 centimeters), which is equivalent to the size of paid checked baggage for international flights. If your baggage meets this standard, you must book baggage storage service in advance to avoid inconvenience on the new route.
Prior appointment requirements
Starting April 20, 2020, you can make a reservation for oversized baggage holding either online or at a station ticket machine. Whichever booking method you choose, it is free of charge, but please note that advance booking is essential, otherwise an additional storage handling fee will be incurred on your ticket.
To ensure that your oversized baggage is properly secured, it is recommended that you make a reservation one month in advance. If the baggage storage service for that particular departure is full, you may choose to travel earlier or later, and please note that free seats are also subject to storage handling charges. Therefore, to avoid any inconvenience, it is important to arrange your baggage storage reservation in advance.
Reservation Method
If you plan to bring oversized luggage on the Shinkansen, you must make a reservation in advance. Reservations can be made online or directly at the station to ensure that you have enough space for your luggage. For details, please refer to Shinkansen Ticket Purchase Tutorials and Seat Types! Must-see Tips for JR Train Rides in Japan.
online reservation
Starting April 20, 2020, you will be able to choose the Extra Large Baggage Storage Service when you book your Shinkansen reservation online. This service will be included in the original ticket price at no extra cost, making your journey even smoother.
Station Reservation
If you prefer to make your reservation in person, you can do so at the ticket machines or ticket counters at the Shinkansen stations. It is advisable to arrive early, especially during peak hours, to ensure you have space for your luggage.
When making a reservation at a station, please be sure to leave enough time in advance to prevent waiting in line. Again, there is no extra charge for reservations, but if you fail to make a reservation in advance, you will be charged a handling fee of 1,000 yen. Therefore, in order to ensure that your oversized baggage is properly secured, it is recommended that you make reservations well in advance of your departure. This will not only minimize unnecessary hassle, but will also make your trip more comfortable.
Custody area for oversized baggage
Starting from May 20, 2020, the back of the last row of seats in some Shinkansen compartments will be designated as a dedicated area for oversized baggage. This dedicated area will be available for reservation holders to ensure that your baggage can be safely placed during the journey without being confused with other passengers' baggage or taking up space.
Luggage Placement
You can store your luggage properly in Shinkansen's extra-large baggage storage area. This area is set up as a shared space in groups of five seats for your convenience and that of other travelers.
Priorities and Limitations
Under the new rules, priority will be given to passengers who have made reservations for oversized baggage placement. While strollers, wheelchairs and other large items can still be carried directly on board, these spaces will be given priority to passengers who have made a reservation to ensure the safety and convenience of their luggage.
When using the oversized baggage storage service, you should be aware that the space in these storage areas is limited, so it is recommended that you make a reservation one month in advance. If you do not make a reservation in advance, you may not be able to place your baggage in this area and will have to pay an additional storage fee, as well as inconvenience other passengers by carrying your own baggage. Please plan well to get the best out of your ride.
Special Carrying Regulations
In addition to oversized baggage, you should also be aware of the rules for special items when traveling on the Shinkansen. Items such as strollers, wheelchairs, large musical instruments and sports equipment can be carried on board, but to ensure safety and comfort, we recommend that you read the following in advance. The latest baggage policy for Shinkansen in Japan! Guide to Baggage Regulations for Traveling by Train at a GlanceThis will enable you to make appropriate arrangements.
Baby carriages and wheelchairs
If you have a stroller or wheelchair, these items can still be carried without a reservation. When traveling on the new route, these special needs passengers can use the space at the very back of the train to accommodate these items. Reservations are not required, but it is recommended that you consider the needs of other passengers and use the space wisely.
Large Musical Instruments and Sports Equipment
For large musical instruments and sports equipment, the new rules still allow you to carry them without prior reservation. These items, if they meet the required dimensions, can be placed in designated spaces on the train, making it easier for you to travel. If you plan to carry items such as flutes, guitars, or racquets, remember to choose the right compartment and place them properly to enhance your comfort.
Fees for Baggage Storage Services
Passengers traveling on Shinkansen who need to carry oversized baggage can use the Baggage Storage Service. The service is free of charge and details can be found atA complete guide to purchasing tickets for the Shinkansen in Japan! Learn how to buy tickets in one go!The relevant instructions.
Free Reservations
There are no handling fees when you select oversized baggage storage in advance when booking your ticket. Please remember to make your booking online or at the ticket machine to ensure that you have enough space for your luggage.
Additional fees not booked
If you do not make a reservation for the oversized baggage storage service, a handling fee of 1,000 yen will be charged. This fee will be collected in cash when you board the Shinkansen, so it is recommended that you make a reservation in advance to avoid unnecessary expenses.
With this new rule, if you do not make a reservation for baggage storage, your baggage will be taken to a location designated by the train crew and you will have to pay an additional fee of 1,000 yen. This measure will not only increase the cost of your trip, but may also cause inconvenience in handling your luggage, so it is recommended that you make sure to make a reservation in advance to ensure a smooth and comfortable trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Before you take Shinkansen with oversized baggage, there are a few frequently asked questions that will help enhance your experience. For example, you can make a reservation for baggage storage service online, at a station ticket machine or at a window, and if you are unsuccessful in making a reservation, you should be aware of the associated fees and baggage storage regulations.
Failure to make an appointment
If your baggage storage reservation is unsuccessful, we recommend that you change your booking to another flight or consider reducing your baggage to a size that will not incur a 1,000 yen handling fee. Timely planning will minimize unnecessary hassle.
Baggage Restrictions and Recommendations
According to JR Tokai, JR Nishinihon and JR Kyushu, oversized baggage must measure between 161 and 250 centimeters on all three sides combined, so don't forget to make a reservation in advance if your belongings meet this requirement. To ensure a smooth ride, it is recommended that you complete your reservation a month in advance and pay attention to whether or not your belongings meet the baggage allowance.
New rules for Shinkansen! Reservations are required for oversized baggage.
With the new rules in place, it is important that you make a reservation in advance if you wish to carry oversized luggage on Shinkansen to ensure that your luggage can be stored safely. Starting May 20, 2020, passengers who do not make a reservation will be charged an additional handling fee. This new service will not only enhance your experience, but will also minimize inconvenience for other passengers. Remember to choose the right reservation channel within the stipulated time to make your trip smoother!
