【Complete Guide to Tokyo Coin Lockers & Luggage Storage】Secrets to Hands-Free Sightseeing!
Hi everyone! I’m Ken, editor-in-chief of Tokyo Insider Guide.
You want to enjoy sightseeing in Tokyo to the fullest, but your heavy suitcases are getting in the way… Have you ever had that frustrating experience?
In this article, I will explain the smartest ways to store your luggage in Tokyo. From station coin lockers and storage counters to convenient delivery services, here are plenty of tips to achieve “Hands-Free Sightseeing”!
1. Master Station Coin Lockers! How to Find, Use, and Important Tips
Major stations in Tokyo are equipped with a large number of coin lockers, a traveler’s best friend. Let’s start with the basics of how to use them.
Stations in Tokyo are Full of Coin Lockers!
Major terminal stations like Shinjuku, Shibuya, Tokyo, and Ueno have many lockers ranging from Small (S) to Large (L) and Extra Large (XL). By using these effectively, you can save the trouble of moving with heavy bags and enjoy sightseeing much more freely.
Tips for Finding a Coin Locker
- Check Station Maps: Look for “Coin Locker” or “Locker” signs on station guideboards and digital signage. Most major stations have multilingual maps.
- Directional Signs: Guide signs like arrows on floors and walls are also great clues.
- Ask Station Staff: If you’re lost, don’t hesitate to ask: “Coin locker wa doko desu ka? (Where is the coin locker?)”
- Ken’s TIP: In large stations, lockers are often scattered both inside (near platforms) and outside the ticket gates. They are also located on different floors, so if one area is full, try another level!
How to Use: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Find an Empty Locker: Choose a locker that says “Empty” or “Available.” This is usually indicated by a lamp color (like green).
- Insert Your Luggage: Open the door that fits your bag size and put it inside. Be careful not to force it in to avoid damaging the door.
- Make Payment: Most lockers accept coins, but many modern ones now support IC cards like Suica or PASMO. Prices vary by size and station, but usually range from a few hundred yen per day.
- Lock It: There are two types: “PIN code” and “Key.”
- PIN Code: Set or receive a 4-digit PIN to lock it. **Make sure to keep the receipt or take a photo of the number so you don’t forget it.**
- Key: Turn the key to lock and keep it with you. **Be extremely careful not to lose the physical key.**
- Usage Time & Extra Fees: Locker fees are generally set per day. If you exceed the initial timeframe, you’ll need to pay an additional fee upon pickup. Note that items left for too long (usually over 3 days) may be collected by the management company.
Important Notes for Coin Lockers
- Locker Shortages: On weekends, public holidays, or during peak morning hours, lockers at major stations can fill up quickly. Plan ahead or consider alternative methods.
- Large Luggage: XL lockers for large suitcases are relatively scarce. If you can’t find one, look for a manned storage counter.
- Security: Lockers are for temporary storage. Do not leave high-value valuables; keep them on your person at all times.
- Duration Limits: You cannot store items indefinitely. Usually, the limit is about 3 days.
2. Luggage Storage Spots: Alternatives to Coin Lockers
If the coin lockers are full or your bags are too big, don’t worry. Tokyo offers various manned luggage storage services.
Station Luggage Counters (Cloak Service)
Major hubs like Tokyo Station, Shinjuku, and Shinagawa have manned counters. This is ideal for oversized items or when you want the extra peace of mind that comes with face-to-face service.
- Pros: Accepts large items, very secure, professional staff.
- Cons: Limited operating hours, can be more expensive than lockers.
Airport Luggage Storage
Both Narita and Haneda airports provide storage services. These are perfect if you want to explore the airport freely before your flight or leave heavy winter gear behind if you’re connecting elsewhere.
Department Store Service Counters
Large department stores (e.g., Isetan Shinjuku, Shibuya Hikarie) often have temporary storage for shoppers. Some are free, others charge a fee, and some are only for purchases made in-store. Check the information desk upon arrival.
Hotel Luggage Storage
Almost all hotels will store your bags for free before check-in or after check-out. This is one of the easiest and most secure methods. If you are moving to another hotel, ask the front desk about sending your bags ahead.
Luggage Storage Sharing Services (e.g., ecbo cloak)
A growing trend is using extra space in cafes, shops, or even karaoke boxes. The most popular service is “ecbo cloak.”
- Pros:
- No need to worry about lockers being full.
- Available in diverse locations beyond just stations.
- Very easy to book for large suitcases.
- Cons: Requires advance reservation and online payment via app/website.
- Ken’s TIP: This is highly recommended when you want to guarantee a spot for a long period or in crowded areas.
3. Super Useful! Luggage Delivery Services
If you’re moving across Tokyo or have bought too many souvenirs, delivery services are a lifesaver. Travel light without the burden of heavy bags!
Hotel-to-Hotel Delivery (Hands-Free Travel)
Major carriers like Yamato Transport (T-Q-BIN) or Sagawa Express can send your bags directly from your current hotel to your next one. You can usually arrange this right at the hotel front desk.
- Pros: Move between hotels without carrying anything.
- Cons: Usually takes until the next day to arrive, and involves a fee.
Airport Luggage Delivery Service
On your last day, sending your luggage from the hotel to the airport makes the journey to your flight much easier. You pick up your bags at the dedicated counter in the airport. Just be sure to arrange it with enough lead time.
Convenience Store Delivery
You can also drop off luggage for delivery at major convenience stores like 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Lawson.
- Pros: Open 24/7, thousands of locations.
- Cons: May require filling out forms in Japanese.
- Ken’s TIP: This is great if your hotel doesn’t offer a delivery service. If you’re unsure how to fill out the form, ask the staff or use a translation app!
4. Solving Other Luggage Troubles
Here are some solutions to common luggage-related issues during travel.
- “My bag doesn’t fit in the locker!”:
- Don’t give up—look for a manned counter or check ecbo cloak for nearby shops.
- XL lockers are rare, but it’s worth checking different floors or nearby exits.
- “I lost the key!” or “I forgot my PIN!”:
- Immediately call the contact number (management company) listed on the locker.
- You will likely need to show your ID (passport).
- Be prepared to pay extra fees for key replacement or opening service.
- “Too much luggage to move comfortably”:
- Actively use the delivery services mentioned above to reduce stress.
- Going back to your hotel to drop off bags mid-day can often save you more energy in the long run.
- Security Precautions:
- Even when stored, always keep your passport, cash, and flight tickets with you.
- Report any suspicious unattended bags to station staff or police immediately.
Summary
To enjoy Tokyo sightseeing to the max, managing your luggage wisely is key.
By using coin lockers, manned storage, and delivery services effectively, you can experience a truly hands-free trip and make your memories of Tokyo even more wonderful!
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