Luggage Forwarding in Japan (Takkyubin)

Japan's luggage forwarding service, known as Takkyubin, is one of my favorite travel hacks.

Instead of dragging your suitcases through crowded stations, up stairs, and onto packed trains, you can have your luggage delivered directly to your next hotel or the airport.

The most common provider is Yamato Transport (Kuroneko), but many hotels also partner with other delivery companies.

🧳 How It Works

1. Ask your hotel front desk if they offer luggage forwarding.

2. Fill out a simple delivery form (most hotels can help in English).

3. Leave your luggage with the front desk.

4. Your bags will be delivered to your next destination.

📍 Where You Can Send Your Luggage

• Hotel to hotel

• Airport to hotel

• Hotel to airport

⏱️ Delivery Times

• Same-day delivery may be available in some areas.

• Most deliveries arrive the next day.

• Longer distances may take an additional day.

💴 Typical Cost

Expect to pay around ¥2,000–¥3,500 per bag, depending on the size, weight, and destination.

💡 When I Recommend Using It

• Traveling with multiple suitcases

• Taking the Shinkansen

• Changing hotels frequently

• Visiting places with limited storage space

• Exploring cities before check-in or after check-out

Good to Know

• Carry one small overnight bag if your luggage is arriving the next day.

• Your hotel must be able to receive luggage deliveries.

• Most major hotels can assist with the process.

Travel tip: Tokyo stations can be crowded, especially during rush hour. Using Takkyubin can save time, reduce stress, and make traveling around Japan much more enjoyable.