Shinkansen Luggage Policy
Travelers preparing to use the Shinkansen should familiarize themselves with the luggage regulations to avoid any inconveniences during their journey. This section outlines the carry-on limitations and excess baggage charges.
Carry-On Limitations
Passengers are permitted to bring two carry-on items on the Shinkansen, with each item required to have combined dimensions (length, width, and height) no greater than 250 centimeters and a maximum weight of 30 kilograms. Personal items such as umbrellas, canes, and purses do not contribute to this two-item limit.
Most Shinkansen lines implement the following guidelines for luggage:
| Limitations | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Number of Items | 2 per passenger |
| Maximum Dimensions | 250 cm (length + width + height) |
| Maximum Weight | 30 kg per item |
If luggage exceeds the specified size or weight, it may need to be accommodated in designated areas, and new mandatory seat reservations for oversized luggage are enforced on specific lines as of May 2020. Passengers with luggage between 161 and 250 cm must reserve a seat for their oversized items. Failing to do so may result in needing to board a different train.
Excess Baggage Charges
For travelers bringing oversized baggage measuring more than 160 cm onto the Tokaido-Sanyo-Kyushu Shinkansen, it is necessary to reserve a seat in the oversized baggage area. The dimensions for this area are similar to those that typically incur baggage fees on international flights (Rail Monsters).
Passengers who do not reserve a seat in the oversized baggage area will face an excess baggage charge of 1,000 yen, inclusive of tax. Understanding these charges and reservation requirements helps travelers better plan their trip and luggage management while using the Shinkansen.
For additional information on booking, travelers can explore how to book shinkansen tickets online or take advantage of various shinkansen travel hacks.
Oversized Luggage Guidelines
Reservation Requirements
Travelers planning to bring oversized luggage on the Shinkansen should be aware of specific rules regarding dimensions and reservations. Luggage with total dimensions exceeding 250 cm is not permitted on the bullet train. Most large suitcases typically fall under 200 cm in overall dimensions Tokyo Cheapo.
Each passenger is allowed to bring two pieces of oversized luggage, with each piece not exceeding 250 cm in total dimensions and 30 kg (66 lbs) in weight. This limitation excludes hand-carry items like backpacks or purses Japan Train Travel.
| Luggage Size | Maximum Dimensions | Maximum Weight | Reservation Needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oversized | Up to 250 cm | Up to 30 kg | Yes |
| Standard | Up to 160 cm | – | No |
Storage Instructions
For passengers with large luggage, designated seat areas are available in the last row of the standard cars (5 seats) and Green cars (4 seats). Travelers are required to sit in these designated seats, where they can store their oversized baggage behind them in the allocated space Japan Rail Pass.
In May 2020, stricter Shinkansen baggage rules were put in place by JR, requiring travelers with luggage ranging between 161-250 cm in size to reserve specific seats on certain Shinkansen routes Tokyo Cheapo.
If a passenger boards the Shinkansen with large luggage without a reservation, a fee of 1000 yen will be incurred. Additionally, passengers will be required to purchase new train tickets and may need to exchange their seats for those accommodating oversized baggage Japan – Rail Monsters.
For luggage under 160 cm in linear dimensions, no seat reservation is necessary. This smaller luggage can be placed in front of the passenger or in the overhead rack, provided it is light enough to lift and does not protrude in a way that could cause it to fall or be bumped Tokyo Cheapo.
Understanding these shinkansen luggage rules can enhance the travel experience, ensuring a smooth journey across Japan.