Coin lockers are widely available throughout Japan, particularly in train stations, but also in airports, shopping centers, and at tourist attractions . They provide a convenient way to temporarily store luggage and other belongings while exploring or making transfers.
Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know about coin lockers in Japan:
- Key-operated: These are the classic type, typically found in smaller or older stations. You’ll need to insert the exact fee amount in 100-yen coins to lock it and retrieve the key.
- Keyless (touch panel): Increasingly common in major stations, these lockers feature a touch screen for operation and payment. You can choose to pay with cash (receiving a PIN code) or an IC card like Suica or PASMO (using the card to lock and unlock).
- Smartphone-enabled (SPACER): A newer, less common option that allows users to find, reserve, lock, and unlock lockers using a smartphone app. It also offers cashless payment and key sharing.
- Coin lockers come in various sizes, generally Small (approx. 300-400 yen), Medium (approx. 400-500 yen), and Large (approx. 500-800 yen).
- There’s also an extra-large size (approx. 900 yen) available at some locations, large enough to fit two carry-on bags or a suitcase and a bag.
- Small lockers are suitable for backpacks and shopping bags, medium for carry-on bags and small suitcases, and large for standard suitcases.
- The price depends on the size of the locker and the location.
- Fees are calculated per calendar day (midnight to midnight), not per hour. If you use a locker past midnight, you’ll be charged for an additional day.
- Find an empty locker: Look for a locker with a green light on keyless lockers or simply an open locker on key-operated ones.
- Insert your belongings: Make sure the locker is completely closed after placing your items inside.
- Pay the fee:
– Key-operated: Insert the exact amount in 100-yen coins.
– Keyless: Follow the instructions on the touchscreen, choose your locker, select your preferred payment method (cash or IC card), and make the payment.
- Lock the locker:
– Key-operated: Close the door and turn the key to the left, then remove it.
– Keyless: Follow the instructions to lock the door (often a light will flash to confirm).
- Keep your key/receipt: For key-operated lockers, the key is crucial. For keyless lockers, the receipt (either with a PIN or IC card information) is essential for retrieval.
- Time limit: The maximum storage time is usually 3-4 days. After that, the locker management company will open and remove your belongings. You’ll need to pay additional fees to retrieve them.
- Prohibited items: Do not store cash, valuables, animals, hazardous materials, illegal goods, stolen property, or items that are odorous, dirty, or easily damaged.
- Lost key/forgotten PIN: Contact the management company immediately. They’ll require identification and a key replacement fee.
- Locker availability: Larger lockers can be harder to find during peak season or busy times. Consider using online services or search machines to check availability at nearby stations.
If coin lockers are full or unsuitable, consider these options:
- Temporary baggage storage counters: Available at major stations and airports.
- Baggage delivery services: Companies like Yamato Transport or Sagawa Express can ship your luggage between airports, hotels, and other locations.
- ecbo cloak: A sharing service that connects users with shops and facilities that offer luggage storage.
By understanding the types, costs, and procedures for using coin lockers, you can make your trip to Japan more convenient and enjoyable.
Are coin lockers safe in Japan?
Coin Lockers are secure and safe to use as train stations in Japan are all under video surveillance.
How much does a coin locker cost in Japan?
There are several sizes of coin lockers, but it is good to bear in mind that on smaller stations there are usually only a few larger capacity lockers. Prices are generally between 200 yen-700 yen/day, depending on the size. The coin locker price is based on a midnight to midnight rate, not a 24-hour rate.
How long can you leave luggage in a locker in Japan?
JAL ABC will store any luggage that you won’t be needing during your stay in Japan at one of our counters until you return to head home. You can only store your luggage in a coin locker for a maximum of two to three days, but our Storage Service allows you to store luggage for weeks.
Where to turn coins into cash in Japan?
Great question! If you are holding too many coins, note that a lot of supermarkets or convenience stores (7-eleven, Family Mart, Lawson etc) have payment kiosks that let you use denominations down to 1 yen allowing you to quickly deposit them.