What is the baggage limit 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.



The Shinkansen (Japanese Bullet Train) has a generous baggage policy, but it features specific rules regarding "oversized" items that were strictly enforced into 2026. Each passenger is permitted to bring up to two pieces of luggage, with each bag weighing no more than 30 kg (66 lbs). The total dimensions (length + width + height) of each bag cannot exceed 250 cm. Crucially, any bag with total dimensions between 160 cm and 250 cm is classified as "oversized" and requires a mandatory, though free, advance reservation on the Tokaido, Sanyo, and Kyushu lines. If you board without a reservation for an oversized bag, you will be charged a 1,000 yen penalty fee and may be required to move your bag to a different area. Small and medium suitcases (under 160 cm) do not require a reservation and can be stored in the overhead racks. Items like strollers, musical instruments, and sports equipment are generally exempt from the oversized reservation rule, though they still count toward your two-bag limit.

People Also Ask

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.

MORE DETAILS

Each passenger may bring two personal items, 25 lbs. (12 kg) and 14 x 11 x 7 inches each, and two carry-on items, 50 lbs. (23 kg) and 28 x 22 x 14 inches each, onboard.

MORE DETAILS

Japan Airlines Checked Baggage Allowance: Economy and Premium Economy Class passengers on international flights may check two 23 kg (50 lbs) bags, free of charge. Business and First Class passengers can check three 32 kg (70 lbs) bags. No checked bag should measure more than 203 cm (79.9 in) in total dimensions.

MORE DETAILS

Reserving your Shinkansen bullet train seat ticket with an oversized baggage area will automatically include this reserved space for your luggage. In other words, you will go through the usual seat reservation process and need not reserve the storage area specifically.

MORE DETAILS

If your bag is over 50 lbs (23 kg), or if its length, width, and height added together are over 62 inches (157 cm), you may be charged an additional fee, on top of the normal bag fee.

MORE DETAILS

That depends if you have several kg overweight and are asking for the price per kg or if you really just only have one single kg extra. For a singe kg above the limit you most probably will not get charged, especially not on a full service airline. There is usually a tolerance in the range of 2–3kg, sometimes up to 5.

MORE DETAILS

When you travel with us, you can carry-on two free pieces of luggage. Each item should not exceed 50 lbs.

MORE DETAILS

Checked baggage allowance 2 large checked items. Maximum weight per item: 23 kg (50 lb.). Maximum linear dimensions per item: 158 cm (62 in.)

MORE DETAILS

There are luggage racks at the ends of each car for large luggage pieces, and smaller hand luggage and backpacker packs easily fit in the overhead racks above the seating. As the overhead luggage racks are the easier option, don't underestimate the weight of your luggage.

MORE DETAILS

You may bring up to two pieces of baggage on board free of charge. For each bag the total of the length, width and height must not exceed 250 centimetres, the length must not exceed two meters and the weight must be no more than 30 kilograms.

MORE DETAILS

Eating and drinking on Japanese trains You should eat on trains only when taking a long-distance train, such as the Shinkansen. These types of trains have a tray and cup holder at every seat, and snacks are sold from a vendor trolley. When taking this type of train, it is also acceptable to bring your own food.

MORE DETAILS

On all flights, except to and from the United States, each passenger can purchase a checked luggage weight allowance of 20 kg, 25 kg, 30 kg, or 40 kg. It doesn't matter how many bags the total weight is split into, but no bag can be over 32 kg (70 lbs) in weight and 319 cm (126 inches) in total dimensions.

MORE DETAILS

Maximum weight If you have a checked-baggage allowance of 35 kg or 40 kg your baggage must be split over at least two bags, with no bag weighing more than 32 kg . If any single bag or item weighs more than 32 kg it must be carried as freight.

MORE DETAILS

What if my luggage is 0.5 kg overweight? It's over the limit so assume you will be charged. There must be something in your hand luggage you can put in your pocket to get it under. Wear a coat with big pockets.

MORE DETAILS

While flip flops are a big no-no for most occasions (save for a trip to the beach or a midnight run to the conbini), comfy ballet flats, loafers, boat shoes, or even a nice pair of slip-on sneakers are practical options. You might also notice that open-toed shoes and sandals are uncommon.

MORE DETAILS

You are still allowed to carry on two pieces of baggage weighing 30 kg or less and with total dimensions of 250 cm or less and a maximum length of 200 cm. However, you need to reserve a seat with an oversized baggage area or a seat with an oversized baggage compartment if you intend to travel with oversized baggage.

MORE DETAILS

Shinkansen, limited express trains, and express trains have reserved Green car seats, reserved standard car seats, and non-reserved seats. Some trains do not have non-reserved seats (all seats are reserved).

MORE DETAILS

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.

MORE DETAILS