If you are planning to travel across Japan by Shinkansen (bullet train) with a large suitcase, there are a few important things to consider.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process smoothly.
What is Considered a Large Suitcase?
For Shinkansen, a “large suitcase” is defined as any baggage where the sum of its dimensions (length + width + height) exceeds 160 cm (approximately 63 inches) but is within 250 cm (approximately 98 inches). This size typically corresponds to the checked baggage size on international flights.
What to do if you have Large Suitcase?
If your suitcase falls into the “large” category, you must reserve a specific type of seat on the Shinkansen that can accommodate your baggage.
Reserving an oversized baggage space incurs no additional charges.
However, passengers traveling with a large suitcase without a reservation will be subject to a baggage fee of 1,000 yen.
- Reserve Seat with Oversized Baggage Space:
These are seats located at the rear of certain cars, providing extra space behind the seat for your suitcase.
(image from JR-Central) - Reserve Seat with an Oversized Baggage Compartment:
This is a designated baggage storage area near the train’s entrance or exit doors, where you can securely store your suitcase. These areas are equipped with a locking mechanism that you can operate using a contactless IC card.
Watch this YouTube from JR-Central website to see how to use the compartment.
(image from JR-Central )
How to Reserve a Seat with Oversized Baggage Area/Compartment
If you have a large suitcase, you must reserve a specific seat with an oversized baggage area or compartment.
- Online Reservation
Use services like “SmartEX” or “JR West Online Train Reservation” to book your seat in advance.
- Ticket Machines
You can also reserve your seat at ticket machines available at major train stations.
Japan Rail (JR) Pass holders:
If you plan to use a JR Pass and bought the voucher in US, be sure to exchange your voucher for the pass in Japan first, as you can’t make seat reservations without it.
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If you bought the JR Pass through the official Japan Rail Pass website, you can book a reserved seat on the dedicated website before arriving in Japan.
The official website allows you to make seat reservations for Shinkansen and limited express trains online, up to one month before your travel date.
Key Points to Keep in Mind
- Early Reservations:
Seats with luggage space are limited and can fill up quickly, especially during peak travel seasons. It’s advisable to book as early as possible. - Baggage Size Limits:
If your suitcase exceeds 250 cm in total dimensions, it cannot be brought onto the Shinkansen. - IC Card for Locking:
You will need a contactless IC card (such as a Suica or Pasmo) to secure your baggage in the oversized baggage compartment. Make sure you have one ready.
Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling with Oversized Baggage
- QCan I reserve a “seat with oversized baggage space” even if my baggage is small?
- A
Yes, you can make a reservation if you need the baggage storage for any reason or if you are traveling with someone who has oversized baggage. However, since the number of such seats is limited and reclining may be restricted due to the storage of large baggage, please consider reserving other seats as well.
- QCan I freely place my baggage in the space at the rear of the train car?
- A
The rear space is reserved exclusively for customers who have booked a “seat with oversized baggage space,” so it cannot be used by those without a reservation.
- QIs there a weight or quantity limit for baggage brought onto the Shinkansen?
- A
You may bring up to two pieces of baggage with a combined total of dimensions (length, width, height) up to 250 cm and weighing no more than 30 kg each. However, for oversized baggage (total of dimensions between 161 cm and 250 cm), a reservation for a “seat with oversized baggage space” or a “seat with oversized baggage compartment” is required.
- QWhat should I do if I want to bring a stroller, sports equipment, or musical instruments?
- A
The oversized baggage rules do not apply to strollers, sports equipment, or musical instruments. However, if you wish to use the “oversized baggage space” or “oversized baggage compartment,” please make a reservation in advance.
- QWhat should I do if my plans change after reserving a “seat with oversized baggage space” or “seat with oversized baggage compartment”?
- A
Please change your reservation before boarding. You cannot bring oversized baggage onto a train without a reservation for these specific seats.