On the Tokaido, Sanyo, Kyushu, and Nishi-Kyushu Shinkansen lines, you can reserve seats with dedicated space for large bags. If your luggage exceeds a certain size, book a seat in either standard reserved or Green Car class to ensure your bags travel comfortably with you.

Shinkansen passengers are allowed to bring luggage with total dimensions (length + width + height) of up to 250 cm, weighing no more than 30 kg, with a limit of two items per person. Depending on the size of your luggage, the storage location and rules may vary. For oversized items, designated storage spaces are available.

There is no need to reserve a luggage space. You can store your bags under the seat or in the overhead compartments.

This is roughly the size of luggage that would typically need to be checked in on international flights (depending on the airline). If you plan to bring this size of luggage on the Shinkansen, you must reserve a seat with an "oversized luggage space" or "oversized luggage compartment" in advance. Keep in mind, oversized luggage is not permitted in non-reserved seating.

Oversized Luggage Space

The "oversized luggage space" is generally located behind the last row of seats in each car. By reserving a seat with an oversized luggage space, you can store your luggage close to your seat for convenience and peace of mind. Since these seats are limited, it's recommended to reserve early.

Oversized Luggage Compartment

The "oversized luggage compartment" is often located in the deck area near the restrooms. Depending on the train, it may be situated away from your seat, so be mindful of this when making your reservation.

It is not allowed on the Shinkansen. You will need to arrange for delivery services instead.

Even items classified as "oversized luggage" (with total dimensions between 160 cm and 250 cm) can be brought onto the Shinkansen without prior reservation if they fall under the following categories:

・Sports equipment
・Musical instruments
・Wheelchairs
・Strollers

However, if you wish to store these items in the "oversized luggage space," a prior reservation is required.

If you reserve a seat with an oversized luggage space in advance, there is no additional fee beyond the regular seat reservation cost. However, if you do not make a reservation in advance, you will need to pay a handling fee of 1,000 yen, and the staff will direct you to place your luggage in a designated area.

1) Reserve from your home country via online booking services
You can easily book and pay for Shinkansen tickets in advance by accessing services like Express Reservation, Smart EX, e5489, or JR Kyushu Internet Train Reservations (English versions available). Simply register your credit card information to complete your reservation from abroad—ideal for international travelers.

When it's time to board, you can either collect your ticket at designated machines or reserved seat ticket counters at Shinkansen stations, or ride ticketless by registering a compatible IC card, which can be used nationwide.

2) Reserve at the station counter
You can reserve a seat and purchase your ticket at a "Midori no Madoguchi" ticket office. Inform the staff that you will be bringing oversized luggage, and they will help you reserve a seat with an oversized luggage space.

3) Reserve at the station ticket machine
If the ticket counter is busy, you can use the reserved seat ticket machines at the station to book and purchase your ticket. When selecting your seat, choose one with an oversized luggage space.

When boarding, check your ticket for the car and seat number. Place your luggage in the designated "oversized luggage space" located behind the reserved seats, then proceed to your seat.

For luggage smaller than oversized (with total dimensions under 160 cm), you can place it in the overhead compartment. Be sure to push it all the way to the back for safety. Keep valuables like your wallet and phone with you at all times.

A. No, oversized luggage space is not available in non-reserved seats or in some designated cars and reserved seats. As the number of these seats is limited depending on the train, it is recommended to book early.

A. Yes, you can reserve these seats if you need a luggage area or are traveling with someone who has oversized luggage. However, keep in mind that the number of these seats is limited. Also, note that due to the large luggage, the seat may not fully recline.

A. No, the space at the back of the car is reserved exclusively for passengers who have booked a seat with oversized luggage space. Those without a reservation are not permitted to use it.

A. You can reserve oversized luggage space starting one month before your travel date, the same as with regular Shinkansen reserved seats.

A. Do not move the luggage yourself. Please inform the train staff, and they will handle the situation.

The oversized luggage reservation system was introduced to make Shinkansen travel more comfortable for everyone. Make sure to measure your luggage, and if it's oversized, reserve a seat with an "oversized luggage space" in advance.

(This article was originally published in June 2020 and updated in September 2024. For the latest details, visit the official website.)