Coin Lockers in Japan: Types and Prices. Japanese coin lockers can be categorized into two main types. The most common type is the kind you'll find inside most train stations, many of which are located right near the ticket gates. In larger stations, you'll usually find them both inside and around the station.

While it is a safe bet that nearly every major and mid-sized train station in Japan is equipped with "Coin Lockers," it is not a 100% universal rule for the smallest, unmanned rural stations. In cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, you will find massive banks of lockers in various sizes—ranging from "Small" (for bags/backpacks) to "Extra Large" (for full-sized suitcases). In recent years, many stations have upgraded to "IC Card" lockers where you pay with your Suica or Pasmo instead of physical coins. These are incredibly convenient for tourists who want to explore a city for a few hours before checking into a hotel. However, at very small, remote stations in the countryside, you might find that lockers are either non-existent or limited to just a few small units. Furthermore, at popular tourist hubs like Kyoto Station, the lockers can fill up completely by midday. To combat this, many stations now have "Baggage Storage Counters" (managed by companies like Sagawa or Yamato) where you can drop your bags for a flat fee. If you are traveling to a remote area, it is always a good idea to check a "Coin Locker Search" app or website beforehand to confirm availability and ensure you aren't stuck carrying your luggage.