Japan’s Shinkansen has specific luggage size rules and, introduced in 2020, a reservation system for oversized bags. Here is what counts as oversized, how to reserve a space, and the smartest ways to manage large luggage.
JR East and JR Central introduced an oversized baggage reservation system on the Tokaido and Tohoku Shinkansen in 2020. The rule exists because the bullet train’s narrow aisles and overhead racks were not designed for large international travel suitcases, and unreserved large bags were causing boarding delays. Understanding the system before you travel saves confusion at the station.
The Size Limit
Luggage is considered oversized if the sum of its three dimensions (length, width, and height) exceeds 160 centimetres. A typical large checked suitcase (28 to 30 inches) usually falls in the 160 to 200 centimetre range and requires a reservation.
Standard carry-on-size bags (around 55x40x25 cm, with a sum of around 120 cm) do not require a reservation and can be placed in overhead racks as usual.
Oversized Baggage Reservation
If your bag exceeds 160 cm total dimensions, you must reserve a designated oversized baggage space at the end of the carriage when booking your Shinkansen seat.
- How to reserve: At any JR ticket counter when purchasing or reserving your Shinkansen seat. Request an ‘oversized baggage space’ (tokudai nimotsu okiba tsuki zaseki).
- Cost: Free if reserved in advance.
- Fine if not reserved: 1,000 yen charged at the station if you board with oversized luggage without a reservation.
- Space: The reserved space is a specific area at the end of the last row of certain carriages. Your seat is in the row directly in front of the luggage space.
Book early: Oversized baggage spaces are limited per carriage and fill quickly on popular routes. Reserve when you buy your Shinkansen ticket, not on the day of travel.
What the Rules Cover
The oversized baggage rule applies to the Tokaido Shinkansen (Tokyo to Osaka/Kyoto), the Sanyo Shinkansen (to Hiroshima and Hakata), and the Tohoku/Hokuriku/Joetsu Shinkansen. Check current JR guidelines, as coverage may expand. Some smaller regional Shinkansen lines have different rules.
Smart Alternatives to Carrying Large Luggage
Takuhaibin – Luggage Forwarding
Japan’s luggage forwarding service (takuhaibin) is one of the most useful infrastructure features in the country. For around 1,500 to 2,500 yen per bag, you can send your suitcase directly from your hotel to your next destination hotel, with delivery the next day. This lets you travel on the Shinkansen with only a day bag, without needing an oversized luggage reservation or hauling bags through stations.
Services: Yamato Transport (black cat logo) and Sagawa Express are the main providers. Ask your hotel to arrange a collection the day before you travel. Major airports also have takuhaibin counters in arrivals for sending bags ahead to your hotel on arrival day.
Coin Lockers
Every major Shinkansen station has coin lockers in multiple sizes. Store large bags for 400 to 800 yen per day while exploring the city, then collect before departing. Fills quickly at popular stations. Arrive early to secure a large locker.
JR Pass Holders
JR Pass holders must still reserve oversized baggage spaces; the pass does not include them automatically. Make the reservation when you reserve your seat at the JR counter. See the JR Pass guide for general pass advice.
