Japan Luggage Delivery Guide: Takkyubin & Airport Baggage Transfer
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to send luggage between hotels in Japan?
For a standard medium suitcase (Size 120, up to 120cm total dimensions) sent between hotels in neighboring major regions (e.g., Tokyo to Kyoto), expect to pay approximately ¥1,700–¥2,000. Longer distances (e.g., Tokyo to Hokkaido) add ¥300–¥500. Prices are per bag; the hotel front desk or konbini staff will quote the exact price after measuring.
Can I send luggage from the airport to my hotel the same day?
Yes — airport-to-hotel same-day delivery is available at both Narita and Haneda airports. The cutoff for same-day delivery is typically around 12:00–13:00 for hotels in central Tokyo. Bags shipped after that window arrive the following morning. Airport luggage service counters are in the arrivals halls of each terminal, typically open 8:00–20:00.
How do I send luggage without speaking Japanese?
The simplest approach is to ask your hotel's front desk to arrange it for you — they fill out the form, arrange pickup, and you just pay. At convenience stores, point to your bag and ask for "takkyubin" — staff will produce the form. Major shipping points in airports and tourist areas have English forms. You need: your bag, the destination hotel's address in Japanese (from the hotel's business card or your booking confirmation), and your contact phone number.
Is it safe to send luggage by takkyubin?
Yes — Japan's courier services are extremely reliable. Loss rates are exceptionally low; damage is rare. Yamato Transport in particular has a reputation for treating packages carefully. You receive a tracking number after shipping and can monitor delivery in real time. For valuable items, additional insurance is available at an extra fee when shipping.
Can I send luggage to a ryokan?
Yes — ryokan can receive takkyubin shipments just like hotels. Confirm the ryokan's address in Japanese and let the front desk know a package is coming. For smaller, more traditional ryokan without dedicated bell service, calling ahead is courteous. Note that some mountain ryokan in remote areas may have limited courier access — check when booking.