Travel Japan Without Heavy Luggage: Baggage Transfer Service Explained

Many travellers don’t realise this, but Japan offers an incredibly efficient baggage transfer service (known locally as takkyubin). It allows you to send your suitcases from one hotel to another — for example, from Tokyo to Kyoto — or between the airport and your hotel. Once you try it, it’s hard to go back.

Why Baggage Transfer Is a Game Changer

Using this service means you can travel luggage-free on Japan’s famous Shinkansen (bullet trains). Instead of wrestling large suitcases through stations, onto trains, or into hotel lifts, you can move freely and comfortably.

It also means you can start sightseeing as soon as you arrive at your next destination. Your bags will be waiting for you at the hotel, often delivered directly to your room or front desk.

Baggage transfer isn’t limited to hotels. You can also:

• Send luggage from the airport to your hotel

• Send luggage from your hotel to the airport before departure

Timing, Cost & Reliability

For same-day delivery over long distances (for example, Osaka to Tokyo), you’ll usually need to speak to the hotel front desk before 11am on the day before your departure. Shorter distances may allow same-day or next-day delivery, depending on the route.

The cost is approximately $20-$30 per suitcase, depending on size and distance — excellent value for the convenience it provides.

Worried about your luggage going missing? Don’t be. Japan’s baggage transfer system is extremely reliable, and lost luggage is exceptionally rare.

How to Use the Baggage Transfer Service

At the Airport

Look for a JAL ABC counter at the airport. Staff will help you fill out the delivery form and arrange for your luggage to be sent directly to your hotel. This is especially useful if you’re arriving early and don’t want to carry bags around the city.

At the Hotel

When checking in, ask the front desk staff if they offer baggage transfer services. Most medium to large hotels do, although some smaller or budget properties may not. The staff will assist with paperwork, timing, and payment.

My Tip

If your Japan itinerary includes multiple cities, I always recommend using baggage transfer at least once. It makes travel smoother, less tiring, and far more enjoyable — especially when using trains.

It’s one of those Japan travel secrets that turns a good trip into a truly effortless one.

Planning a multi-city Japan itinerary? I help travellers design smooth, luggage-free journeys from start to finish.