Can I bring my luggage on Shinkansen?

How much luggage can I bring onto the shinkansen? Each passenger is allowed to bring on two pieces of oversized luggage each. Each of these pieces of luggage cannot exceed 250 cm in total dimensions as previously stated. Additionally, each piece of luggage cannot exceed 30 kg (66 lbs) in weight.



Yes, you can bring luggage on the Shinkansen (Japanese bullet train) in 2026, but there are specific rules regarding "Oversized Baggage." Any bag with total dimensions (length + width + height) between 160 cm and 250 cm is classified as oversized. To bring such a bag on the Tokaido, Sanyo, or Kyushu Shinkansen lines, you must make a reservation for a seat with a designated baggage area (usually the last row of a car). This reservation is free if made at the time of ticket purchase, but if you board with an oversized bag without a reservation, you will be charged a ¥1,000 "carry-on fee" and the bag may be moved to a different location by the conductor. Bags smaller than 160 cm do not require a reservation and can be stored on the overhead racks, which are surprisingly deep and can accommodate most standard suitcases. It is important to note that bags exceeding 250 cm are strictly prohibited from the Shinkansen entirely. For travelers with multiple large suitcases, the "pro-tip" remains using a "Takkyubin" (luggage delivery service) to ship bags from hotel to hotel, allowing you to travel on the bullet train with just a small daypack for maximum comfort.

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You + Two Bags = No Extra Charge (12 kg) and 14 x 11 x 7 inches. two carry-on items, 50 lbs. (23 kg) and 28 x 22 x 14 inches each (Pacific Surfliner: up to 28 x 22 x 11 inches each)

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Passengers must be able to safely lift carry-on items over their heads onto the luggage shelf. Please note that bags must fit in the sizer at the station. If they do not fit, speak with an agent or visit Amtrak.com to determine if your train offers checked baggage service.

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Can't find the luggage rack? Unlike trains you may be used to, Shinkansen do not have a specific area in each carriage for bags, so you will need to either place them behind the very last row of seats in the car, or smaller items can be placed on the overhead rail.

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Carry-on baggage must be stowed either overhead or under the seat in front of you (standard Amtrak trains usually have rather large overhead areas for storing luggage).

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As for other (non-shinkansen) trains in Japan: while some do have some space overhead for small bags, many have none at all. For all of these reasons, we recommend traveling either with a small rolling suitcase or backpack, if at all possible.

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There are no crowds on the intercity Shinkansen trains so free seats tend to be available. However, it is recommended to book a seat before boarding any train during the following peak seasons: April 27 to May 6. August 11-20.

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Though it isn't ideal, boarding the Shinkansen with large baggage without a reservation is still possible. However, once the train attendant comes by to confirm passenger tickets, they will be asked to purchase new train tickets and exchange their seats for an oversized baggage seat and pay a 1000 yen fee.

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Hazardous materials, sharp objects*1, furnaces / stoves, animals*2, deceased biological material, unclean objects, objects that emit offensive odors, items that may hurt other customers, and objects that may damage the train are not allowed on board. *1: Sharp objects packed as to not hurt other customers are allowed.

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When you travel with us, you can carry-on two free pieces of luggage. Each item should not exceed 50 lbs. (23 kg) and needs to be 28 x 22 x 14 inches in size.

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Checked baggage service is available at a number of our stations and on many trains and Thruway Services. Not all trains or locations are equipped to handle checked baggage. Before you travel, make sure to check and see if your train and origin and destination stations accept checked baggage.

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Similar to cruise ships, most trains do allow you to bring aerosol products onboard. So, thankfully, there is no need to worry about the possibility of hindering your daily beauty regimen on your long overnight train ride. Traveling with small personal aerosol products on a train is safe and simple.

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Train crews will direct you to the appropriate car and will help with your luggage. When should I arrive at the station? Unless you're taking the Auto Train, plan to arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled departure. If you need assistance with baggage and/or ticketing, we recommend you arrive 60 minutes early.

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Arriving at the Station Plan to arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before your train is scheduled to depart (Auto Train passengers should arrive at the station at least two hours prior to departure).

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You may bring your own food and beverages onboard for consumption at your seat or private Sleeping Car accommodations. However, you can only consume food and beverages purchased in Dining and Lounge Cars in those cars. Personal food and beverages are allowed in the upper level of Superliner Sightseer Lounges.

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There are no strict luggage limits on trains in mainland Europe. Eurostar allows each adult two pieces of luggage each, each measuring up to 85cm, so large suitcases are no problem. You'll also be able to take a piece of hand luggage each, as well as pushchairs and prams at no additional charge.

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Immediately report the theft to the railway authorities: Inform the railway officials about the theft and file a complaint with them. They will provide you with a form to fill out and will take down your details. Contact the police: Lodge a police complaint as soon as possible.

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