Do you need to purchase special oversized luggage seats for the Shinkansen (bullet train)? If so, how can you do so, and what are the best seats to reserve?
When do you need to purchase “oversized baggage” seats?
I always recommend reserving Shinkansen seats, regardless of whether you have large luggage.
If you have large luggage, you’ll need to book seats that include an oversized luggage area.
Note: There is no extra charge for an oversized luggage seat.
In my opinion, the best seats for oversized luggage are those with storage right behind the seat. These are usually located at the back of the train car. (see photo below)
Note: This space is intended only for the person who reserved the seat in front of it. ‼️
Alternatively, there will be seats where the “oversized luggage” storage is located in the middle of the train, between the cars. This means your luggage will not be next to you during the train ride.
What is considered oversized luggage in Japan?
Shinkansen’s oversized baggage size is luggage that’s between 160 and 250 cm (anything larger is not allowed).
If your luggage is considered “oversized,” you will need a seat with an oversized luggage area or compartment, which must be booked in advance.
How to Purchase Shinkansen Tickets
You can purchase Shinkansen tickets at major train stations (look for the Shinkansen information center), and they can help you book tickets and reserve seats.
I recommend booking tickets at least 48 hours in advance, especially if you’re going to major tourist areas like Kyoto and Osaka.
➡️ Are you traveling to multiple cities in Japan? Consider purchasing an All Japan JR Pass for potential cost savings.
Do NOT do this on the Shinkansen
Do NOT leave your oversized luggage in “open” oversized luggage areas if you did not reserve the area prior to boarding.
Just because it’s open at the moment does not mean it isn’t reserved by someone boarding the train at the next stop.
(Yes, train attendants will walk through the train and ask you to move your luggage.)
Another Option? Luggage Forwarding
If you don’t want the hassle of reserving a special seat or carrying heavy bags through crowded stations, luggage forwarding may be the perfect alternative.
There are many services that do this now in Japan — the most popular being Kuro-Neko.
✨ Insider Tip: Ask your hotel concierge to help you fill out the forms to ship your bags. Most of the time, hotels will offer to schedule the delivery (if it’s between hotels) using their preferred service. They’ll typically offer to hold your luggage and hand it off to the service provider.
I hope that helps!
Like this post? Share this pin on Pinterest!
Leave a Reply