A Complete Guide to Luggage Storage Services at JR Stations Across Japan (2025 Edition)
A Complete Guide to Luggage Storage at JR Stations in Japan
For independent travelers in Japan, dragging heavy luggage between cities can be one of the most frustrating parts of a trip. Fortunately, the coin-operated lockers (コインロッカー) at JR stations are true lifesavers! Whether during a layover, sightseeing, or waiting for a late hotel check-in, these lockers allow you to explore with ease.
This guide compiles essential tips and hidden advice for using luggage storage services at JR stations across Japan, helping you plan your trip efficiently!
1. Types of Coin Lockers at JR Stations
JR station lockers generally come in three sizes (may vary slightly by station):
- Small Lockers (approx. 35×31×64cm): Suitable for backpacks or handbags. Prices range from 300–400 JPY/day.
- Medium Lockers (approx. 35×54×64cm): Fits 20–24-inch suitcases. Prices range from 400–500 JPY/day.
- Large Lockers (approx. 35×83.5×64cm): Accommodates suitcases larger than 28 inches. Prices range from 500–800 JPY/day.
2. Locker Pricing and Rental Duration
- Daily rate: Typically calculated on a 24-hour basis from the time of storage (e.g., if stored at 10:00, retrieval is required before 10:00 the next day).
- Regional variations: Prices are higher at major stations in popular cities like Tokyo and Osaka (e.g., large lockers at Tokyo Station cost around ¥700), while regional stations offer lower rates (e.g., large lockers at Hakata Station in Fukuoka cost around ¥500).
3. Instructions
Locate the locker area: JR stations usually have clear signs ("コインロッカー" or "Locker") located near ticket gates or at platform entrances. First, check if the locker has a green light. If so, it's ready for use.
Select an empty locker: Place your luggage in the locker and press the lock button. The locker's black display will show the locker number. Click Confirm.
Interface operation: Enter the "Put in Baggage" and "Take Out Baggage" interfaces, first select "Simplified Chinese" at the top, then select "Put in Baggage".
Choose a payment method: There are IC cards and cash. IC card payment can be made with Japanese transportation cards such as Suica and ICOCA. Credit cards can also be used.
Select the pickup unlocking method: If you pay in cash, the system will spit out a slip of paper with an unlocking code. Keep this slip and do not lose it.
Pick up items: When picking up items, if you paid by cash, swipe the unlocking code slip on the machine. If you paid by IC card, place the payment card used when paying the money on the payment sensing area and scan it to open the cabinet door.
⚠️There are storage cabinets on multiple underground floors in Japan's large transportation hubs. If you can't find one on the first floor, you can look on the first or second floor below ground level. The empty cabinet rate on these floors is still very high.
4. Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What should I do if the lockers are full?
・Peak hours: Try finding available lockers before 9:00 AM or after 8:00 PM, when vacancies are more common.
・Alternative options: Nearby shopping malls, subway stations, or convenience stores (e.g., some Lawson branches) also offer luggage storage services.
Q2: Will my luggage be removed if I exceed the storage time?
・Grace period: Typically, you can retrieve your luggage within 1–2 days after expiration by paying the overdue fee (some stations may require assistance from staff).
・Long-term storage: Storing luggage for more than 3 days is not recommended, as some stations may clear out items left for extended periods.
Q3: Can I reserve a locker in advance?
・Official apps: Some JR regional companies (e.g., JR East) offer apps like "駅コインロッカー空き検索" (Station Coin Locker Availability Search) to check real-time locker availability online.
