How to Travel Around Japan with Luggage: Tips for a Smooth Trip
How to Travel Around Japan with Luggage: Tips for a Smooth Trip
2025/10/21
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Traveling in Japan with luggage can be challenging, especially if you are carrying multiple suitcases or traveling with children. Japan’s efficient transport system is amazing, but crowded trains, narrow streets, and multiple transfers can make moving around stressful.
In this guide, we cover the best options for handling luggage in Japan, plus tips for making your journey smooth — including why hiring a private driver in Japan can be the easiest solution.
Why Luggage Can Be Tricky When Traveling in Japan
Traveling in Japan with luggage can sometimes be surprisingly difficult, even though the country’s transportation system is highly efficient. Narrow streets, crowded train stations, and multiple transfers can make moving around a challenge, especially for families or travelers with multiple suitcases. In this section, we’ll explain why luggage can complicate your trip and what to watch out for.
Many areas in Japan have narrow sidewalks and busy train stations, especially in Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto.
Carrying luggage through these crowded spaces can be difficult, particularly during rush hours or peak tourist seasons.
Family Travel or Multiple Suitcases Can Make It Harder
Traveling with kids or multiple suitcases increases the challenge. You may need to manage strollers, child seats, or extra bags, making public transportation less convenient.
Main Options for Handling Luggage in Japan
There are several ways to manage your bags while traveling around Japan. From coin lockers and luggage delivery services to staying light or booking a private driver, each option has its advantages and limitations. This section introduces the main solutions so you can decide which works best for your trip.
1Using Coin Lockers at Stations
Many train stations have coin lockers, ideal for short-term storage while sightseeing.
Pros: Easy, widely available, low cost
Cons: Size limitations — large suitcases may not fit
2Sending Luggage via Takuhaibin (Courier Service)
Japan’s luggage delivery service (Takuhaibin) allows you to send your bags between hotels or directly to airports.
Pros: Hassle-free, reliable, door-to-door service
Cons: Cost per bag, requires planning one day in advance
3Staying Light & Using Public Transport
If possible, travel with minimal luggage or only carry what you need for a few days.
Pros: Maximum mobility, no extra costs
Cons: Limited flexibility, not ideal for long trips or families
4Booking Luggage Storage Services
Some hotels, stations, and dedicated storage facilities offer temporary luggage storage.
Pros: Convenient for sightseeing or shopping stops
Cons: May require reservations and additional fees
Pros: Door-to-door convenience, no transfers, family-friendly
Cons: Higher cost than public transport, but worth it for comfort and ease
Comparing the Different Methods
With multiple options available for handling luggage in Japan, it’s important to weigh the costs, convenience, and time savings. Here, we compare lockers, delivery services, public transport strategies, and private drivers so you can choose the most efficient method for your travel style.
Cost Differences
Coin lockers: cheap (few hundred yen/day)
Takkyubin: moderate (1,500–3,000 yen per suitcase)
Private driver: higher, but includes time-saving and stress-free travel
Convenience & Time Savings
Lockers and storage: require walking or repeated visits
Takkyubin: requires coordination and hotel delivery
Private driver:door-to-door, flexible schedule, perfect for families or groups
Why a Private Driver Is the Easiest Way to Travel with Luggage
If you want the most stress-free experience while traveling in Japan with luggage, a private driver is often the best solution. This section explains why door-to-door service, family-friendly vehicles, and flexible schedules make private drivers ideal for travelers with multiple suitcases or children.
Door-to-Door Service No Carrying or Transfers
With a private driver, you don’t need to worry about stairs, transfers, or luggage logistics. Simply get picked up at your hotel or airport, and enjoy stress-free travel.
Perfect for Families, Groups & Long Trips
Families with kids, large groups, or travelers with multiple suitcases can benefit from spacious vehicles and child seat options, making every trip more comfortable.
Airport Pickups & Multi-City Transfers Made Simple
A private driver in Japan can handle airport pickups, day trips, and multi-city transfers seamlessly. No need to drag luggage onto trains or buses — travel relaxed and on your schedule.
Book Your Private Transfer for a Smooth Japan Trip
Don’t let luggage slow down your journey. Booking a private car service in Japan ensures comfort, convenience, and a stress-free trip, whether you’re traveling alone, with family, or in a group. Book your private transfer today and travel around Japan with ease!
