Japan Locker-to-Hotel Luggage Delivery Service
As Japan’s tourism industry continues to surge, a convenient solution is gaining momentum—a same-day luggage delivery service from train station lockers directly to hotels. Designed to ease the burden of travelling with bulky suitcases, this growing service is becoming a game-changer for visitors navigating the country’s busy transportation systems.
Originally launched by West Japan Railway (JR West) and Osaka Metro in Osaka Prefecture, the service has gained popularity, especially with the influx of travellers drawn to the upcoming World Expo. Now, it’s expanding rapidly, with East Japan Railway (JR East) and Tokyo Metro introducing the service at more stations across Tokyo.
The premise is simple: tourists deposit their luggage in designated lockers and have it delivered to their accommodation the same day—no need to drag suitcases through crowded train platforms or buses. With suitcase-laden tourists often contributing to congestion on public transport, the service offers a much-needed solution for smoother urban travel.
How It Works
To use the service, travellers must place their luggage in specific lockers designated for delivery. The cost varies depending on luggage size and location, typically ranging from ¥1,500 to ¥3,500.
In Osaka, the service began in March last year with lockers at Shin-Osaka Station and Universal City Station, located near Universal Studios Japan. Since then, it has expanded to seven stations, and usage has tripled between March and May this year compared to the earlier period. A JR West representative attributes the increase mainly to strong demand from international tourists.
Collaborations and Expansion
The service is operated in partnership with Spacer, a Tokyo-based company that manufactures and manages the delivery lockers. According to Spacer’s president Daisuke Tokunaga, the service was introduced in anticipation of post-Expo travel surges, and has since been spreading steadily. Osaka Metro joined the initiative in December last year.
In Tokyo, the Tokyo Metro launched the service at Oshiage Station in May and aims to expand to around 20 stations. Meanwhile, JR East Smart Logistics, which entered the business in September last year, has already installed lockers at 15 key stations, including Tokyo and Shinjuku.
The service is also extending to other regions. In April, Keihan Electric Railway partnered with JR East Smart Logistics to install lockers at four stations in the Kansai region. In June, Kyoto Station joined the network through a collaboration with Central Japan Railway.
A Smart Solution for a Growing Challenge
With more travellers opting for convenience and efficiency, this locker-to-hotel delivery service is poised to become a staple of Japan’s tourism infrastructure. Not only does it enhance the travel experience, but it also helps alleviate pressure on the country’s already-busy transport systems, making tourism more sustainable for everyone.
Whether you’re arriving in Tokyo, Osaka, or Kyoto, the Japan Locker-to-Hotel luggage delivery service could be your next travel hack for a smoother, lighter journey through Japan.
Main photo credit: Japan Times / Jiji