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    Luggage forwarding (takkyubin) with the JR Pass

    Takkyubin is Japan's overnight luggage delivery service. Pairing it with the JR Pass lets you ride the shinkansen with only a small day bag while your suitcase arrives at the next hotel.

    01

    How takkyubin works

    • Drop your suitcase at the hotel reception or a convenience store.
    • Fill in a slip with the next hotel address (staff usually help).
    • Bag arrives by 17:00 to 20:00 the next day.
    • Major operators: Yamato Transport (kuroneko) and Sagawa.
    02

    Typical prices

    • Standard suitcase under 25 kg: 2,000 to 3,000 yen between cities.
    • Tokyo to Osaka: around 2,200 yen.
    • Tokyo to Sapporo: around 3,400 yen, 2 day delivery.
    • Airport to hotel: from 2,500 yen.
    03

    Why combine with the JR Pass

    Oversized luggage on Tokaido, Sanyo and Kyushu shinkansen now requires a free advance reservation. Sending bags ahead avoids the rule entirely and lets you ride any service. You can also skip station coin lockers, which sell out in major cities by 10:00.

    Frequently asked questions

    Quick answers to common questions.

    Can I send luggage to the airport before my flight?

    Yes. Drop your bag the morning before departure; it arrives at Narita or Haneda the next day.

    Is takkyubin covered by the JR Pass?

    No, takkyubin is a separate paid service. The JR Pass only covers your personal transport.

    How early should I send my bag?

    Allow at least one full day between cities, two days for Hokkaido or Okinawa.

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