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Traveling on Japan's Shinkansen with suitcases is easier than many visitors expect.
This guide explains all storage options available on the Shinkansen and helps you choose the best spot for your bags.
The best place for your luggage depends on its size:
Luggage Size | Best Storage Location | Reservation Needed? |
|---|---|---|
Small (under 115 cm total) | Overhead rack or at your feet | No |
Medium (115–160 cm total) | Overhead rack | No |
Large (160–250 cm total) | Behind the last row | Yes (on certain lines) |
Note: Total size = length + width + height. For detailed size rules and which lines require reservations, see our complete guide to Shinkansen luggage rules.
If you need detailed information about luggage size limits, oversized baggage rules, or which Shinkansen lines require reservations, see our guide:
Shinkansen Luggage Rules: Size Limit and Reservation Guide by Line.
The overhead rack is the main storage space for luggage on the Shinkansen. It runs above the windows on both sides and fits most standard suitcases.
Bags with a total size under 160 cm (about 62 inches) can generally be stored in the overhead rack, as long as they are not too bulky. This typically includes many check-in suitcases up to around 28 inches tall.
To calculate total size, add the length, width, and height together. For example, a suitcase measuring 70 cm × 45 cm × 28 cm totals 143 cm.
The overhead rack is roughly 40–45 cm high and about 40 cm deep, though exact dimensions vary by train. Standard carry-on bags and many medium suitcases usually fit without issue.
Each bag you place in the overhead rack should weigh 30 kg or less. You must lift your bag yourself and secure it properly. If your suitcase is too heavy to lift safely, consider these options:
Passengers are generally expected to handle their own luggage. Staff assistance for lifting bags is not routinely provided. Make sure you can handle your luggage independently before boarding.
If your suitcase measures between 160 cm and 250 cm in total, it should be stored behind the last row of seats. This space is available in each car but is limited, and advance reservation is required only on certain lines.
The space behind the last row of seats in each car can fit several large suitcases.
On the following Shinkansen lines, you must reserve this space when booking your ticket:
These reservations are free but mandatory.
When you book a seat with oversized luggage space, you are assigned one of the last rows in the car. Only passengers with these seat assignments may use the storage area behind those seats.
On lines where reservations are required, bringing large luggage without a proper seat reservation results in a 1,000 yen charge. Train staff check for compliance during the journey. If you did not reserve an appropriate seat, they may ask you to move your bag or pay the fee on the spot.
This rule applies to the Tokaido, Sanyo, Kyushu, and West Kyushu Shinkansen lines. It does not apply to the Tohoku, Hokkaido, Hokuriku, Joetsu, or Yamagata/Akita Shinkansen. However, space behind the last row is still limited on all trains.
Yes, you can place bags at your feet on the Shinkansen. The legroom is generous compared to many other trains and airplanes.
Shinkansen seats offer typically 1,040 mm（42 inches) of seat pitch in standard cars. This is more spacious than economy class on most airlines. The extra room means you can store a small to medium backpack or soft bag at your feet comfortably.
Green Car (first class) offers even more legroom, making floor storage very comfortable without compromising your space.
Strollers, musical instruments, and sports equipment like ski bags receive special consideration. Even if these items exceed 160 cm, you can bring them without reserving an oversized luggage seat. However, booking a seat near the last row helps because it provides easier access to storage space.
Folded strollers can often fit in overhead racks. Skis and snowboards can be stored in the deck area between cars temporarily.
Some newer trains, particularly on the Tokaido and Sanyo lines, feature dedicated luggage compartments in the deck area between cars. These provide an alternative to storing bags behind the last row.
Traveling during busy periods like cherry blossom season, Golden Week, or New Year holidays requires extra planning. Trains fill up quickly, and luggage space becomes limited.
If you have large luggage during peak season, book your ticket as early as possible. Seats with oversized luggage space sell out fast on popular routes. Early booking ensures you have a designated spot for your bags.
Unreserved seats do not have a luggage reservation system. This works well on Tohoku, Hokkaido, Hokuriku, Joetsu, and Yamagata/Akita Shinkansen lines where oversized luggage reservations are not required.
If you choose unreserved seating, arrive at the platform early to board when doors open. Aim for seats near the last row to access the luggage space behind the seats.
During peak hours, unreserved cars fill quickly. Securing a good spot requires patience and timing. Consider reserved seats for a stress-free experience if you carry large bags.
If you plan a day trip without hotel check-in, consider using luggage storage instead of bringing bags on the train. Major Shinkansen stations have coin lockers near ticket gates.
For oversized bags that do not fit in lockers, look for luggage storage services in the station. This is especially helpful at major stations such as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Shin-Osaka.
For details about lockers and luggage services at individual stations, see our guide:
Shinkansen Stations in Japan: Station Navigation Hub for Visitors
Knowing where to put your luggage on the Shinkansen makes your trip smoother.
Most travelers find that overhead racks and foot space provide enough room for standard bags. For larger suitcases, planning ahead and booking the right seat ensures a comfortable journey.
Book your Shinkansen tickets through Japan Bullet Train for an easy online booking process and multilingual customer support.
