Finally, the big holidays are upon us. Many people will be traveling domestically and internationally with oversized suitcases. We asked JR about the rule.
First of all, oversized luggage is defined as “large luggage with a total of three sides exceeding 160 cm and not exceeding 250 cm. In terms of suitcases, this corresponds to the sizes listed as 10 nights or more, 100L or more, etc. However, sports equipment, musical instruments, wheelchairs, baby strollers, etc. do not require advance reservations regardless of size.
There is “no additional charge” to bring in oversized luggage, but if you bring it in without an advance reservation, you will be charged a “carry-in fee of 1,000 yen”.
And luggage with a total of three dimensions of 250 cm or more cannot be brought on board in the first place. If you are concerned about your luggage, it is recommended to measure it before buying a ticket. At major Shinkansen stations, there are luggage size measuring stands near ticket counters and at the Midori-no-Madoguchi counters.
Seats with oversized luggage space” are located in the last section of the car and the space behind it, and “seats with oversized luggage corner” are located on the seat in question and the deck nearest to it (next to the washroom). Oversized luggage cannot be carried into nonreserved seats and some reserved seat carriages. It is also not allowed to bring it in if the seats with settings are full. Make reservations for the train before or after the one that has seats available.
Seats with Extra Large Luggage Space” and “Seats with Extra Large Luggage Corner” can be reserved online (Express Reservation, Smart EX, e5489, JR Kyushu Internet Train Reservations) and at ticket vending machines at stations.
Incidentally, since luggage storage and seating are “always in one set,” it is impossible to reserve only a space or use the oversized luggage area, even if you want to reserve a seat or use an unreserved seat.
According to JR Tokai, “Among large luggage items, musical instruments, sports equipment, baby strollers, etc. can still be brought in without prior reservation, but since the space at the end of the train car is used by those who have reserved seats with oversized luggage space, prior reservation of seats is recommended if you wish to use the space. If you wish to use the space, it is recommended that you reserve a seat in advance.
During peak periods, such as the year-end and New Year holidays, competition is expected to be fierce, so it is best to make reservations as early as possible if you plan to bring oversized luggage. The company also suggests that those who do not have oversized luggage reserve other seats for those who need luggage storage space.
Note that there are no seats for oversized luggage on the Hokkaido, Tohoku, Akita, Yamagata, Joetsu, and Hokuriku Shinkansen trains, and luggage storage areas in the cars are available without reservation.
© Source travel watch
Auto Amazon Links: No products found.
Auto Amazon Links: No products found.