Complete Guide to Shinkansen Luggage Rules

Each passenger on the Shinkansen is allowed to bring up to two pieces of luggage and one personal item onboard free of charge. These must fit within standard Shinkansen luggage size guidelines. Bags must be stowed in overhead racks, at your seat, or in designated luggage spaces.

You can carry everyday items like backpacks, medium-sized suitcases, and handbags. However, items like musical instruments, sports gear, or strollers may require extra care when boarding. For oversized items, specific reservations and rules apply. Knowing what counts as oversized is crucial for avoiding extra fees.

Any piece of luggage with total dimensions (length + width + height) between 160 cm and 250 cm is considered oversized baggage on most Shinkansen trains. Examples include large suitcases, sporting equipment, or items often used for international flights.

To bring oversized baggage, you must reserve a seat with oversized baggage space in advance. This rule applies primarily to the Tokaido, Sanyo, and Kyushu Shinkansen lines. The last-row seats in both Ordinary and Green Cars are equipped for such items. According to current Shinkansen luggage limit policies, any item exceeding 160 cm in total dimensions (length + width + height) is considered oversized and requires a special seat reservation. Failing to reserve a seat for your large luggage in advance may result in an additional fee or even denial of boarding.

Failing to reserve an oversized baggage seat could result in a fine of ¥1,000 (around $7) and inconvenience for you and other passengers.

On popular Shinkansen routes like the Tokaido and Sanyo lines, passengers carrying oversized luggage must reserve designated seats in advance. These are typically the last-row seats in reserved cars, which come with additional space behind the seats to securely store large bags without blocking aisles or exits.

This setup ensures a smoother travel experience for both you and other passengers. However, the availability of these seats is limited, and they can sell out quickly during busy travel periods, such as holidays or weekends. For this reason, it’s strongly advised to book early if you plan to bring large suitcases or bulky items.

Note that boarding with oversized luggage without a reservation may lead to denied access to the train or additional fees. Booking the correct seat ahead of time helps you stay within the rules and travel stress-free.

For passengers traveling with standard-size luggage (total dimensions under 160 cm and weight under 30 kg), the Shinkansen provides two main storage options: the overhead baggage rack and designated storage areas near car entrances. The overhead rack, located above your seat, is perfect for carry-on suitcases, backpacks, and duffel bags. Designated baggage spaces near the train doors accommodate slightly larger items that still meet standard limits. To ensure a smooth experience, place your luggage securely to prevent it from shifting during the ride. Avoid blocking aisles, walkways, or emergency exits, and refrain from stacking multiple bags in a way that might inconvenience others. If space appears limited, it’s a good idea to board early or consider using the oversized baggage reservation system. Keeping your items stored properly helps maintain comfort and safety for all passengers.

If you’re traveling with a Japan Rail Pass, it’s important to know that luggage rules still apply – having the pass doesn’t exempt you from seat or Shinkansen luggage restrictions. For a complete understanding of how to navigate routes, classes, and booking, refer to our Shinkansen train guide.

When bringing oversized luggage on Shinkansen (over 160 cm in total dimensions), you must reserve a designated oversized baggage seat in advance. This can be done at JR ticket offices, on automated ticket machines, or through online reservation systems available on official JR East, Central, or West websites.

During the booking process, be sure to select a “seat with oversized baggage” or choose a seat in the last row of the designated car, where luggage space is provided. If you do not reserve a seat for your large luggage ahead of time, you may be denied boarding or asked to pay an oversized baggage fee.

Among Shinkansen options, Kodama trains on the Tokaido and Sanyo lines tend to be more accommodating for oversized baggage. These slower bullet trains often offer additional space near the last rows of certain cars, making them a practical choice for travelers with large suitcases.

Faster services like Nozomi and Hikari prioritize speed but still feature designated oversized baggage compartments. Reviewing the train car layout before your trip helps you find the best seat and storage option, making your journey smoother and more convenient.