Luggage Size For our tours, we recommend one medium-sized suitcase that is about 25 inches or smaller, and one backpack. The 25-inch suitcase is the ideal size because it fits in the overhead luggage compartment on the Shinkansen, and it's under the size restriction for large suitcases.

When traveling to Japan in 2026, the consensus among frequent travelers is that a medium-sized (24–26 inch) checked suitcase is the "sweet spot" for most trips. While it is tempting to bring a large (28+ inch) suitcase, doing so can be physically taxing when navigating crowded subway stations, narrow hotel hallways, and small elevators. Japanese hotel rooms are notoriously compact, and a giant suitcase often cannot be fully opened on the floor without blocking the door. If you plan on taking the Shinkansen (bullet train), remember that bags with total dimensions exceeding 160 cm (63 inches) require a specific seat reservation in the oversized baggage section. For the most seamless experience, many travelers now use a "carry-on plus duffel" strategy or utilize Japan's incredibly efficient Ta-Q-Bin (luggage forwarding) services, which allow you to ship your suitcase from one hotel to the next for about $15–$25. This allows you to travel light on the trains with just a backpack while your main suitcase meets you at your next destination, ready to be filled with souvenirs.