Stays

Sending luggage ahead

Send the big suitcase, carry a day bag, and take the train like a local.

What to know

Luggage forwarding is widely used in Japan. Look for counters with the official "Hands-Free Travel" logo, fill in a delivery form and go.
Narita, Haneda and Kansai airports all have counters that deliver bags from the airport to your hotel. At Kansai, same-day delivery to your accommodation is available.
Most major hotels can send bags to your next hotel. Ask at the front desk. Designated convenience stores also accept bags for delivery.
Choose same-day delivery where offered, or delivery on a set date and time.
Bags generally need to be under 160 cm in total length, width and height, and within a 25–30 kg weight limit. Valuables, fragile items, fresh food, liquids and hazardous materials aren't accepted.
Bags can also go the other way, from your hotel to the airport before your flight. Book ahead. At Kansai, the operators take bookings by phone 3–4 days before your flight.
Lost or damaged bags are compensated, though the amount depends on the carrier, and shipments can be tracked.
Coin lockers at most stations cost about ¥300–600 a day, depending on size.

psst, pack the next night's essentials in your day bag. Next-day delivery means you'll arrive before your suitcase.