Traveling to Kyoto From Tokyo: Luggage Forwarding Options
Updated: Oct 22
Most travelers reach Kyoto from Tokyo by Shinkansen, which takes about two hours and fifteen minutes. The train is fast, but the luggage racks are not always roomy, and big suitcases can be stressful.
Here are the main ways to move your bags between Tokyo and Kyoto, and how to make the last stretch hands-free.
Take It With You
Large suitcases need to be reserved in the oversized baggage area on the Shinkansen. It is possible, but it ties you to your bags for the whole journey.
Japan's Luggage Forwarding Services
Japan's takkyubin services can send bags from Tokyo to a Kyoto hotel, usually arriving the next day. Ask your Tokyo hotel front desk to arrange it. This is a great way to travel with just a small bag on the train.
The Last Mile Inside Kyoto
If you arrive with bags, or you move hotels once you are in Kyoto, KOMATSU can collect them and deliver the same day across the city. KOMATSU offers same-day luggage delivery in Kyoto from 900 yen per bag, with no prepayment. Pickups run from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM, seven days a week.
Sample Plan
Send your large suitcase from Tokyo to your Kyoto hotel, ride the train with a day bag, and spend the afternoon at Nishiki Market or Gion. Your luggage will be waiting.
Tips
Allow at least one day for forwarding between cities, and confirm the hotel accepts packages. Keep valuables, medication and chargers with you.
Tokyo to Kyoto by Shinkansen
The Shinkansen is the fastest way to travel between Tokyo and Kyoto, and it takes about two hours and fifteen minutes. Large bags need planning, so many travelers send their main bag ahead and ride with only a small one.
Which Bags to Send
Send the suitcase you will not need on the train. Keep your passport, cash, medication and valuables in a day bag. KOMATSU does not accept valuables over 50,000 yen, cash or ID documents.
Arriving in Kyoto
If you reach Kyoto before check-in, you can hand your bag to KOMATSU, who will take it to your hotel the same day, starting at 900 yen per bag. Pickups run from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
Moving On From Kyoto
When you leave Kyoto for your next stop, you can also arrange storage near Kyoto Station for the hours before your train.
A Sample Travel Day
Morning in Tokyo: send your large suitcase ahead with a forwarding service and board the Shinkansen with a small bag. Midday in Kyoto: eat at Nishiki Market and walk the old streets. Afternoon: check in and find your bag waiting. A day like this keeps the journey between two cities relaxed.
Plan Your Stay
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Travel Light with KOMATSU
Arrive in Kyoto light and keep the day for the city. KOMATSU offers same-day luggage delivery in Kyoto from 900 yen per bag, with no prepayment. Pickups run from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM, seven days a week.
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