Oversized luggage
Rules for large baggage on Shinkansen
Luggage size categories
The size of your luggage is measured by adding the height + width + depth together.
Under 160 cm
A + B + C combinedMost check-in "23 kg" sized suitcases fit in this category and do not require any special reservation on the Shinkansen trains.
161-250 cm
A + B + C combinedIf your bag measures 161-250 cm in height + width + depth, you must book a seat with extra large luggage area.
Check if your luggage fits
Add the height, width and depth of your suitcase. We add them together and tell you which baggage rule applies on the shinkansen.
Fits as normal luggage
Under 160 cm combined. No reservation needed, use the overhead rack or the space behind the last row of seats.
Shinkansen Luggage
Plan big bags before you leave the hotel
Shinkansen Luggage is our free companion site for large bags on Japan's bullet trains. It explains the oversized baggage rules, shows which trains and seats have room for big suitcases, and lists luggage forwarding as an alternative when a bag is too large to board.
- Oversized baggage rules explained clearly
- Which trains and seats have luggage space
- Luggage forwarding alternatives
Made by the GetJRPass team. See all Japan travel tools
Extra large luggage area
These seats are called "Seat with larger luggage area" and must be reserved beforehand. Apart from these seats, there are also special racks for larger bags in the entry and exit area of the train wagon.
Both options are free and included in the Japan Rail Pass, but limited to a few per train car. If the train is out of these seats, trains run so frequently that you can likely get a seat on the next train within 20-30 minutes between larger cities.
Normal luggage racks
The overhead racks are actually much wider than on a normal plane or train and will fit your large check-in sized suitcases and bags without a problem. This area is for your check-in and carry-on sized bags and can easily fit bags under 160 cm.
Is the ticket more expensive?
A seat with larger luggage space does not come with any extra cost as it's included in the Japan Rail Pass. You book it as normal, but it may require some more planning beforehand as they may run out at popular hours quickly.
Try to travel with a bag smaller than 160 cm in height + width + depth instead and save yourself the headache of looking for special seats on every train as normal sized check-in bags are allowed without a reservation.
How to reserve a seat with oversized luggage space
Scan your JR Pass QR code
Find any Shinkansen ticket machine at the station and scan the QR code on your Japan Rail Pass.
Select your train and route
Choose your departure time and destination as you normally would.
Choose oversized luggage seat
When asked, select "seat with larger luggage space" instead of an ordinary seat.
Need help? You can also get assistance from JR staff at any JR service desk. Both options are free of charge and included in your Japan Rail Pass.