Can you hold luggage airport japan

Quick recommendation: For arrivals or between connections, use coin lockers located in arrival halls and station concourses for small-to-medium carry items – expect fees roughly 300–800 JPY per 24 hours (small ≈ 35×30×25 cm, medium ≈ 55×35×50 cm, large ≈ 70×45×60 cm). Several locker banks accept IC cards (Suica/Pasmo) or coins; keep the key or digital code and check the posted maximum storage duration (many units enforce removal after 72 hours).

Staffed baggage counters (examples: JAL ABC, airport-bound cloak services) handle oversize or fragile pieces and offer same-day to multi-day storage. Typical tariffs range from about 600 to 1,800 JPY per item per day depending on size; counters normally operate roughly 06:00–22:00 but schedules vary by terminal and flight schedules – confirm hours on arrival. Presentation of ID and retention of the issued claim slip is required for retrieval.

For transfers to hotels or longer-term options, use courier/takkyubin providers (Yamato Transport, Sagawa). Prices from major terminals to metropolitan hotels commonly fall between 1,200 and 2,500 JPY for standard box sizes with next-day delivery across most urban areas; delivery to remote islands or next-day service after weekends may add surcharge. Couriers offer pick-up desks at terminal arrival zones and pre-booking via counters or apps.

Practical safeguards: avoid depositing high-value items; photograph contents and keep the receipt secure; label stored items with a phone number and destination address when possible; verify size limits and operating hours before leaving the terminal area. During national holidays and peak tourism periods locker availability tightens – plan alternatives (staffed counters or courier) in advance.

Baggage storage options at national air terminals

Prefer staffed storage counters for items exceeding locker dimensions; use coin lockers for short daytime deposits; arrange takkyubin courier the evening before inter-city travel for door-to-door delivery of large suitcases and boxes.

Coin lockers: typical sizes – small (~35×34×41 cm), medium (~35×57×41 cm), large (~35×92×41 cm). Typical fees: small 300–400 JPY/day, medium 400–700 JPY/day, large 700–1,000 JPY/day. Payment methods: coins and IC cards (Suica/Pasmo) are widely accepted; some modern units accept credit or mobile pay. Locker rental periods often reset only after manual retrieval; maximum unattended durations vary by terminal (many clear contents after 3–7 days).

Staffed counters (examples: JAL ABC and terminal service centers): fees usually 600–1,500 JPY/day depending on size; long-term storage options available up to 30 days at select locations. Counters issue a receipt/check tag; present ID when dropping off or collecting for high-value items. Operating hours typically follow terminal hours but vary by facility – confirm on the terminal’s official site before planning arrivals outside 06:00–22:00.

Takkyubin (courier) services: Yamato Transport, Sagawa and Nippon Express offer next-day or two-day delivery nationwide. Typical one-way rates from major terminals to metropolitan hotels: small (~60 cm total) 1,200–1,800 JPY; medium (~80 cm) 1,500–2,200 JPY; large (~100+ cm) 2,000–4,000 JPY depending on distance. Same-day airport pickup/drop-off sometimes available at premium rates or with reservation.

Restrictions and documentation: hazardous goods (compressed gas, large lithium batteries), perishables, and high-value items may be refused. Declare fragile or high-value articles at drop-off; liability limits differ by provider (standard indemnity often low unless declared and insured). Retain all receipts and note collection deadlines printed on tags to avoid disposal fees or auctioning after long abandonment periods.

Where to find coin lockers and staffed baggage storage at Narita, Haneda, Kansai and other terminals

Use staffed counters operated by JAL ABC, Nippon Express or local terminal baggage offices in arrival lobbies for secure short- or long-term bag storage and delivery; coin lockers are concentrated at train-station levels, arrival halls and transfer corridors–have coins or an IC card ready for electronic lockers.

Narita (NRT)

Terminal 1: coin lockers at station level (B1) near JR/Keisei platforms and in the arrival concourse; staffed baggage desks in the arrival lobby (central/wing exits) with typical hours ~06:00–22:00. Terminal 2: lockers at the basement station and arrival floor; staffed counter at the arrivals zone offering same-day storage and nationwide delivery. Terminal 3: smaller number of lockers near the arrival hall and a staffed service desk for oversized suitcases and long-term storage.

Haneda (HND), Kansai (KIX) and other major terminals

Haneda: Terminals 1 & 2 (domestic) – lockers at B1 near monorail/Keikyu stations and beside the baggage claim; the International Terminal (T3) has lockers on the arrival floor and at the station, plus staffed storage/delivery counters in the arrivals area (common operator: JAL ABC). Kansai (KIX): coin lockers at Terminal 1 arrival lobbies and Kansai Airport Station (JR/Nankai); staffed baggage service counters in the arrival hall and international arrivals area, with collection tags and card payments accepted at many desks. Regional hubs (NGO, CTS, FUK): lockers usually at train/subway station levels and near arrival conveyors; staffed counters located in the arrivals lobby or courier service desks.

Practical details: small/medium/large locker fees typically range ~300–900 JPY/day (largest boxes or oversized items higher, 1,000–1,500 JPY); lockers often accessible 24/7 but terminal access can restrict overnight retrieval. Staffed counters commonly operate roughly 06:00–22:00, accept credit cards and offer bag delivery (TA-Q-BIN/Yamato) to hotels or stations – advance booking advisable for peak travel days and very large items. Always consult the terminal map or official operator page for exact counter location and current hours.

Step-by-step: using coin lockers and automated storage machines

For same-day bag storage, choose coin-operated lockers; for overnight or multi-day needs, use automated storage machines that issue QR or numeric retrieval codes and accept cards. Typical coin-locker rates: small 300–400 JPY, medium 600–800 JPY, large 1,000–1,200 JPY per 24 hours; automated machines typically 800–2,500 JPY depending on size and duration.

Coin locker procedure

Locate the locker area near arrival halls, train concourses or central corridors; look for signs reading “Coin Locker” or ロッカー.

Measure the bag before approaching: small ≈34×34×45 cm, medium ≈40×40×60 cm, large ≈55×45×70 cm. Items exceeding these dimensions require staffed counters or special oversized storage.

Open chosen compartment, place the bag inside, close the door and either insert coins or tap an IC transit card (Suica/PASMO) on the reader. For key-type lockers, collect the metal key and the paper ticket; for card-type, keep the IC card or receipt showing the locker number.

Note the time limit printed on the locker (most are 24 hours). To extend, return to the locker and pay the additional 24‑hour fee shown on the panel; failure to pay may trigger collection procedures by facility staff.

At retrieval: for key lockers, insert the key into the release slot; for IC/card lockers, tap the same reader. For lost keys or receipts, contact the nearest service counter immediately and present ID for verification; an extra fee for extended storage may apply.

Automated storage machine procedure

Approach the machine, select language, choose compartment size on the touchscreen, then register contact details if required (phone or email). Payment options usually include credit/debit card, mobile QR payment and major transit IC cards.

Place the bag into the assigned compartment; the door will lock and a printed receipt or on-screen QR/numeric code will be issued. Photograph or screenshot the code and check the retrieval deadline shown on the receipt.

To retrieve, enter the code or scan the QR at the machine; the compartment will unlock. For extra days, follow on-screen prompts to pay additional fees before pickup.

For items marked prohibited, valuables such as passports or high-value electronics and for oversized cases, use staffed baggage counters which accept larger dimensions and may require ID and a written receipt; fees and retention policies are higher than for lockers.

Operational tips: measure bags beforehand, keep keys/QR codes secure, avoid storing prohibited items, treat lockers as unsecured (insured items should go to staffed counters), allow an extra 20–30 minutes before departures when collecting items, and note the service-desk phone number printed on machines for lost-ticket or after-hours assistance.

Typical prices, size categories and maximum storage durations

Recommendation: use medium automated lockers for single-day stays (expect around ¥400–¥700); choose staffed baggage counters for multi-day, oversized or high-value items (rates start near ¥800/day with weekly discounts available).

Size categories with typical internal dimensions and suitability: small ≈ 35×34×52 cm – fits daypacks, small handbags; medium ≈ 35×54×52 cm – fits most 55 cm carry-on suitcases if handles are collapsed; large ≈ 35×54×117 cm – fits one checked-size case or two small carry-ons; extra-large/odd-shaped items (skis, strollers, surfboards) are accepted only at staffed counters or special handling desks.

Typical pricing (major international terminals such as Narita, Haneda, Kansai as reference): automated small lockers ¥300–¥400 per 24 hours; medium ¥400–¥800 per 24 hours; large automated ¥700–¥1,200 per 24 hours where available. Staffed counters charge roughly ¥800–¥1,500 per item per 24 hours for standard checked-size pieces; oversized items or special handling from ¥1,500–¥3,000/day. Weekly or monthly rates apply at some counters: expect roughly ¥3,000–¥8,000 per week depending on volume and storage length.

Maximum storage durations and rules: automated lockers usually allow 24–72 hours before items are removed to staff custody and additional fees apply; unattended items left beyond the allowed window may be treated as abandoned and subject to transfer and disposal policies. Staffed counters routinely accept deposits for 7–30 days; longer-term warehousing (up to several months) is available through cargo/storage services with formal receipts and documented inventory. Valuables and fragile items should be stored at staffed desks for insurance and tracking; automated lockers do not provide declared-value coverage.

Practical reminders: measure suitcase dimensions against locker dimensions before choosing; retain receipts and take photos of tags; request a written receipt and insurance options at staffed counters for high-value pieces; for vehicle-mounted carrying solutions see best luggage rack for subaru outback.

Prohibited items and those requiring declaration when leaving baggage in storage

Declare cash and negotiable instruments over JPY 1,000,000 (≈ USD 6,800) to customs; do not deposit weapons, explosives, combustible gases or other hazardous materials into unattended lockers.

• Firearms, ammunition and weapons

  • Firearms and ammunition are prohibited in unattended compartments unless presented to a staffed storage desk with proper permits and police/transport notification. Transport or storage without declared permits risks seizure and criminal charges.
  • Swords, daggers and edged weapons: many facilities ban sharp implements; antiques or ceremonial blades may require export paperwork or special handling by staff.

• Explosives, fireworks and flammable substances

  • Black powder, fireworks, ammunition primers, detonators, gasoline, lighter refills, paint thinners and similar flammables must not be placed in lockers or unattended storage.
  • Compressed gas cylinders (camping gas, CO2 cartridges) are forbidden in most storage machines and require airline/authority approval even if handed to manned counters.

• Lithium batteries and electronic power sources

  • Spare lithium-ion batteries above 100 Wh require carrier approval; those above 160 Wh are not accepted for carriage. For storage, many operators ban loose spare batteries–keep them installed in devices or ask the staffed desk for instructions.
  • Power banks are often rejected from coin lockers; use staffed storage and declare capacity in Wh if unsure.

• Hazardous chemicals, corrosives and toxins

  • Bleach, pesticides, acids, radioactive materials, and other hazardous chemicals are prohibited from both unattended lockers and most manned storage units.
  • Small quantities of household aerosols may be restricted; check facility rules before deposit.

• Illegal drugs and controlled substances

  • Possession of narcotics, unauthorized prescription narcotics or other illegal drugs will lead to immediate seizure and possible prosecution. Staff will report suspicious items to law enforcement.

• Agricultural products, live animals and biological materials

  • Fresh fruit, plants, seeds, meat, dairy and other animal products are subject to quarantine and may be confiscated. Live animals are not accepted by standard storage services.
  • Phytosanitary certificates or veterinary documents are required for regulated items; storage operators will refuse items lacking paperwork.

• Protected wildlife and CITES-listed goods

  • Ivory, tortoiseshell, certain furs, corals and similar items require CITES permits for export/import. Storage without permits risks confiscation and heavy penalties.

• Cultural property, antiques and high-value art

  • Antiquities, archaeological finds and nationally protected cultural objects often require export licenses. Do not place such items into unattended storage without documentary proof of legal ownership and permits.

• Valuables and travel documents

  • Cash, passports, ID documents, securities and high-value jewelry are frequently forbidden in coin lockers; use manned storage with an itemized receipt or keep them on person.

Recommended actions before depositing items:

1. Consult the storage operator’s prohibited-item list and present any required permits or certificates at a staffed counter.
2. Obtain a written inventory/receipt for accepted items; photograph contents and container condition at drop-off.
3. When carrying large sums of cash or export-restricted goods, complete customs/CITES/cultural-property declarations at the border control office rather than leaving those items in unattended storage.
4. If uncertainty exists about a specific item, request written confirmation from the storage provider; refusal to accept hazardous or restricted items is standard practice.

Rules for storing baggage before or after immigration, security and during transit

Keep passports, boarding passes, cash and high-value electronics on person; deposit only bulky or low-value items at staffed counters or automated lockers.

Before and after immigration and security

Landside storage is generally available to arrivals and departures outside the sterile zone; airside/transfer-area storage is often limited to passengers presenting a valid boarding pass and passport. For arrivals who must reclaim checked bags and recheck for a connecting service, retrieve belongings at baggage claim and clear customs before using public storage facilities. Goods subject to customs duty or quarantine requirements must be declared to border authorities even if placed in a storage facility; storage tickets do not replace a customs declaration.

Staffed counters may request opening of items for inspection; refusal to cooperate may result in denial of service and notification of authorities. Most operators prohibit storage of items that are odorous, leaking, contaminated or present biohazard risks; such items may be refused or removed and disposed of without compensation.

During transit and prohibited items

Storage services routinely refuse firearms, ammunition, explosives, pyrotechnics, compressed gas cylinders, flammable liquids, corrosive or toxic chemicals, live animals, fresh fruit, plants and soil. Spare lithium batteries and loose power banks should remain in carry-on baggage only; many storage operators and carriers will not accept them. Aerosol cans, gas cartridges for lighters, and pressurised camping fuel are commonly banned.

Operators set maximum dimensions, weight limits and storage-period rules; unattended items left beyond the allowed period will incur additional fees and may be opened and forwarded to lost-&-found or disposed of according to operator policy. Liability limits are small; declare high-value items at staffed counters if a declared-value service exists and retain the receipt. Photograph contents and record locker/ticket identifiers; check counter operating hours and retrieval procedure before leaving items in any terminal facility.

Alternatives: takuhaibin, hotel storage and private pick-up services

Primary recommendation: arrange takuhaibin (door-to-door courier) with Yamato (Kuroneko) or Sagawa for fastest, cheapest transfer of suitcases between terminals, hotels and stations; next-day service within major metro zones costs roughly ¥700–¥2,500 per item depending on size, same-day options start around ¥2,000–¥5,000.

• Takuhaibin specifics
  • Booking: online, phone, or via hotel/concierge; pickup windows normally 08:00–20:00 with cut-off ~17:00 for next-day delivery in metropolitan corridors.
  • Size/weight: common categories 60/80/100/120 cm (sum of length+width+height); typical weight limit 25 kg per parcel; oversize/overweight incur surcharges.
  • Pricing examples: small (60) ¥700–¥1,200; medium (80) ¥900–¥1,800; large (100+) ¥1,400–¥3,500 – regional distance matters (island or remote pickups cost more).
  • Packaging: soft or hard suitcases accepted; use original garment bags or wrapping tape for loose items; fragile-mark stickers available at service counters.
  • Restricted items: lithium batteries, perishables, high-value jewelry often have special rules or embargoes – declare at booking and buy declared-item coverage if needed.
  • Tracking & insurance: door-to-door tracking number provided; basic liability included (low flat rate) – purchase extra insurance for high-value contents.
• Hotel storage / reception hold
  • Common policy: most hotels accept arrivals-before-check-in and short-term post-checkout holding free or for a small fee (¥0–¥1,000 per bag/day). Chain hotels may be more flexible than budget properties.
  • How to arrange: email or call the front desk with reservation number and approximate drop-off time; label pieces with name + reservation code; request a storage receipt.
  • Limits and liability: hotels usually refuse responsibility for high-value items; many limit storage duration to 7–14 days for non-guests – confirm max days in writing if holding longer.
  • Practical tip: if storing large outdoor gear or umbrellas, collapse and wrap wet items before check-in; for compact sun-shade gear consider a lightweight option such as the best budget beach umbrella.
• Private pick-up and concierge services
  • On-demand pickup: local courier marketplaces and some apps dispatch a rider or driver to collect bags from hotels, short-term rentals or lodging hubs; expect pickup fees ¥1,500–¥4,000 plus distance-based fare.
  • White-glove / porter services: available at major terminals and luxury hotels for meet-and-greet, packing and delivery to address; single-item transfers inside metro areas start ~¥3,000–¥8,000 depending on handling and distance.
  • International door shipping: companies like Send My Bag, Luggage Forward provide cross-border transit; allow 3–10 business days, customs duties apply and air-freight options are pricier.
  • Booking checklist: send item dimensions, weight, pickup address, preferred time window and contact phone; request written confirmation with tracking and declared value.
  • Bulky or seasonal items: for RVs, trailers or vehicles, prepare by draining fluids and securing loose parts – a step-by-step guide such as how to winterize your rv blowing out water lines with an air compressor is useful when transporting mechanical gear or RV components.

1. Decision flow: if time-sensitive delivery between a terminal and accommodation, choose takuhaibin; for short-term storage while exploring a city, ask the hotel reception first; for bulky, fragile or international moves, hire a private courier/white-glove provider.
2. Quick checklist before handover:
   • Confirm pickup/drop times and contact number;
   • Remove passports, cash and irreplaceable valuables;
   • Label each piece with name, phone and destination address;
   • Take photos of contents and exterior condition for insurance claims.
3. When comparing providers, verify: delivery guarantees, declared-value limits, prohibited-item lists and the exact pickup/drop window to avoid no-show or weekend surcharge surprises.