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Konnichiwa, fellow travelers! Picture this: you're zipping through Japan on the iconic Shinkansen, taking in the scenic countryside whizzing by your window. But wait, where's your luggage supposed to fit on this sleek bullet train? Fear not, dear wanderers, for Moshi Moshi Travel, Japan is here to unlock the secrets of stress-free baggage handling on the Shinkansen with a touch of Yamato magic.

Shinkansen: Luggage Space Odyssey

Those overhead compartments on the Shinkansen may appear more suitable for bento boxes than bulky suitcases, but fear not, and there are clever ways to stow your belongings

Standard Luggage:

 *Overhead Bins:** Perfect for small backpacks, handbags, and souvenirs you pick up along the way.

 *Space Behind the Last Row:** Your lifeline for larger suitcases! In non-reserved cars, this space is up for grabs, so claim it early. In reserved cars, a special ticket is required – snag one at the ticket counter when booking your train ticket.

Oversized Luggage: What if your luggage won't fit anywhere?

 *Oversized = 160cm+:** If your luggage's total dimensions (length + width + depth) exceed 160 cm, it's considered oversized.

*Reserve an Oversized Luggage Seat:** Book your Shinkansen ticket through the SmartEX app or website or at a ticket counter to reserve a seat with dedicated oversized luggage space. These are typically at the end of the car, behind the last row or in a separate compartment.

All the official information about oversize luggage is available here. - https://global.jr-central.co.jp/en/info/oversized-baggage/

Group Travel (20+ People):

 *Contact the Train Company:** Give them a heads-up so they can help reserve adequate luggage space for your group. This way, you can all ride together without worrying about scattered bags.

Insider Tips - In one of our Shinkansen Journey with a 1-year old

We need to figure it out, and this is what I discovered that day (April 2024). Note, by the time that you are reading this, it might be a different situation, so always make sure to check with JR for up-to-date information.

 *Car 11 on the Tokaido Shinkansen:** This car often has extra space behind the last row, even for those without reservations. Try your luck here if you have a standard-sized suitcase and can't reserve a seat with luggage space.

 *Early Bird Gets the Space:** Arrive early and secure those coveted last-row spots before they disappear!

 *Ask for Help:** Don't hesitate to ask the friendly Shinkansen staff for assistance. They're happy to help you find the best spot for your luggage.

Luggage Solutions, Yamato Style!

Feeling overwhelmed? Simplify your journey with Yamato Transport's legendary takkyubin service!

 *Ship Your Luggage Ahead:** Send your bags directly from Narita Airport (NRT) to your Mount Fuji hotel. You might even get same-day delivery if you ship before 10:30 AM (although not guaranteed). Check out Yamato's Hands-Free Travel service for more details: https://www.global-yamato.com/en/hands-free-travel/scene01.html

Travel Light, Stress-Free:** Explore Japan with just a small backpack for essentials, knowing your luggage is safely on its way.

Hotel to Hotel:** Easily ship your bags between hotels throughout your trip, saving you the hassle of hauling them around.

Pack Light & Smart:** Even with takkyubin, it's wise to pack a small bag with essentials like toiletries and a change of clothes, just in case your luggage is delayed.

Narita to Fuji: Your Bags Fly Solo (Even Same-Day!)

1. Find Your Courier: Head to the airport's baggage delivery counter. The friendly staff (who often speak English) will guide you through the process. Yamato Transport's "Kuroneko" (black cat) service is a popular and reliable choice.

2. Fill Out the Forms: Provide your hotel's name and address (they can help you find it!). If it's more convenient, you can even send your bags to a convenience store near your hotel.

3. Pay & Relax: The cost depends on the size and weight of your luggage, but it's incredibly reasonable. Remember: If you ship your luggage by 10:30 AM, there's a good chance it'll reach your Mount Fuji hotel the same day!

With these tips and tricks, and the help of Yamato's convenient services, you'll be a Shinkansen luggage ninja in no time!

Ready to experience stress-free travel in Japan? Contact Moshi Moshi Travel Japan today to plan your adventure!

For official details on Shinkansen luggage rules, refer to the train company's websites:

Central Japan Railway Company (JR Central):** https://global.jr-central.co.jp/en/info/oversized-baggage/

West Japan Railway Company (JR West):** https://www.westjr.co.jp/global/en/howto/baggage/

Kyushu Railway Company (JR Kyushu):** https://www.jrkyushu.co.jp/english/pdf/oversized_baggage.pdf

Yamato location in Narita Airpot (Narita Airport):** https://www.kuronekoyamato.co.jp/ytc/en/send/services/airport/narita2.html

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