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Need a License?! Why You Should Never Bring Ride-on Luggage to Japan

• Written by: Shingo Teraoka

Date published: 10 March 2026

If you own a ride-on electric suitcase (Airwheel, Modobag, etc.) and are planning to bring it to Japan, please read this urgent warning. Using these devices in Japan will lead to police intervention. What you might view as a "fun way to get around the terminal" is considered a serious legal violation here. Don't let a "moving bag" ruin your long-awaited trip. Here is why you must leave your motorized luggage at home.

(Main image generated by AI)

The primary issue lies in Japan’s Road Traffic Act. Since most electric suitcases are self-propelled by a motor, they are legally classified as "Mopeds" (Motorized Bicycles). In the eyes of the law, your suitcase is actually an "unregistered, poorly maintained motorcycle" lacking a license plate and safety equipment. Therefore, riding one on public roads or sidewalks is strictly illegal in Japan.

The “I’m just a tourist” excuse will not work. In June 2024, a foreign woman in her 30s riding an electric suitcase on a sidewalk in Osaka was referred to prosecutors for violating the Road Traffic Act (driving without a license). Despite her claim that she “didn’t realize it was a vehicle,” police took formal action. Similarly, a young boy from Southeast Asia was stopped by police while riding one with his family. These incidents have been widely reported, and enforcement by Japanese authorities has intensified nationwide.

You might think, “If roads are off-limits, the airport should be fine,” but that’s not the case. Major airports including Narita (Narita International Airport), Haneda (Haneda Airport), Kansai (Kansai International Airport), Chubu (Chubu Centrair International Airport), Fukuoka (Fukuoka Airport), and New Chitose (New Chitose Airport) have officially banned the use of electric suitcases within their facilities for safety reasons. You risk being stopped by security, having your suitcase confiscated, or being asked to leave the premises.

Riding in train stations, shopping malls, or any crowded area is considered dangerous and should be avoided entirely.

Whether it’s power-assist, ride-on, or auto-following, authorities in Japan will likely categorize them all as restricted “electric suitcases.” While they might be legal in your home country, in Japan they are viewed as “dangerous, illegal vehicles” rather than “handy travel gadgets.” To ensure your trip to Japan is fun and stress-free, please leave motorized luggage at home.

Written by:

Shingo Teraoka

Deputy General Manager

LIVE JAPAN

From Chiba Prefecture, he works extensively with Japan's Tourism Agency and local governments to promote the country's appeal worldwide, frequently traveling across Japan. His diverse achievements include the comprehensive production of a Japanese cuisine event at the National Treasure Geihinkan Akasaka Palace and delivering seminar lectures for the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games Preparation Bureau. Drawing from past experiences, he developed a multilingual information system to assist foreign tourists during major disasters. Recognized by the Japan Institute of Information Technology as an "exceptional professional in IT-related fields," he brings a wealth of expertise to his work. In his free time, he enjoys visiting onsen, exploring cities, and savoring good drinks. Driven by the philosophy of "striving for the 1%," he oversees service operations, aiming to create truly valuable experiences.

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