Why Takkyubin Is a Game-Changer for Foreign Train Travelers in Japan (Especially With Kids)

What Is Takkyubin?

Takkyubin (宅急便) is a door-to-door luggage delivery service that allows you to send suitcases between hotels, airports, and destinations across Japan.

Instead of dragging heavy bags through train stations, you simply:

• Hand your suitcase to your hotel front desk

• Fill out a short form

• Receive your luggage at your next hotel 1–2 days later

Your bags travel separately—you travel hands-free.

Why Takkyubin Is Perfect for Families Traveling by Train

If you’re traveling with children, you already know how challenging train travel can be with:

• Strollers

• Diaper bags

• Snacks and toys

• One or more large suitcases

Takkyubin removes the biggest pain point: luggage management.

Key Benefits for Families

If you’re traveling with children, train travel logistics become much more important. Families often struggle with:

• Multiple suitcases

• Limited luggage space on trains

• Tight transfers

Japan has introduced oversized baggage rules on Shinkansen, which can complicate things further. Many families avoid these issues entirely by sending luggage ahead and focusing only on seat comfort—something we explain in detail in Japan train seat reservations for families

Japan Has the Best Takkyubin System in the World

Japan’s Takkyubin system is known globally for being:

• Extremely reliable

• Fast and punctual

• Careful with luggage

The most widely used provider is Yamato Transport (Kuroneko / Black Cat), and most Japanese hotels handle luggage forwarding daily. Many foreign travelers are surprised to learn that Takkyubin is often more dependable than airline baggage handling.

For families with younger children, combining Takkyubin with proper planning makes Japan one of the easiest countries to visit. If you’re traveling with toddlers or preschoolers, we strongly recommend reading Read this before traveling to Japan with a child under 6

Example Cost: Tokyo Hotel → Kyoto Hotel

One of the most common routes for family travelers is Tokyo to Kyoto, and Takkyubin is very affordable.

Approximate Cost (1 Large Suitcase)

• 2,000–3,000 yen

• About USD $14–$20

💡 Price depends on:

• Suitcase size

• Weight

• Distance

For most standard checked-size suitcases, expect the cost to fall comfortably within this range.

Considering the convenience—especially with kids—many families say it’s the best money they spend in Japan.

How Long Does Delivery Take?

• Tokyo → Kyoto: Usually next day

• Some longer routes may take 2 days

Because of this, families often send their luggage ahead and travel with only a small overnight bag. This approach works especially well when combined with pre-planned train seat reservations, which you can learn more about in How JR Pass holders can reserve Shinkansen seats online

How to Send Luggage Hotel to Hotel

For foreign travelers, this is surprisingly easy.

Step-by-Step (Most Common Method)

1. Go to your hotel front desk

2. Ask for “Takkyubin” or “luggage forwarding”

3. Fill out the delivery form (staff usually helps)

4. Pay the fee

5. Confirm your next hotel can receive luggage

Most hotels in Japan—especially business hotels and family-friendly hotels—handle Takkyubin daily.

Important Tips for Families

✅ Confirm your next hotel can accept luggage
Most hotels can, but always double-check—especially smaller inns.

✅ Send luggage at least 1 day before you need it
For peace of mind, families often send bags two days ahead.

✅ Keep essentials with you
Diapers, pajamas, medicine, and kids’ favorite items should stay in your carry-on.

Final Thoughts: Travel Japan Like a Local (and a Smart Parent)

Japanese families use Takkyubin all the time—and foreign travelers can too.

By sending your luggage ahead:

• Train travel becomes smoother

• Kids are happier

• Parents are less stressed

• You experience Japan the way it’s meant to be enjoyed

If you’re planning a multi-city trip by train, especially with kids, Takkyubin is one of the best decisions you can make.

Travel light. Let Japan’s world-class system do the heavy lifting.

Related Guides for Train Travel in Japan With Kids

If you’re planning to explore Japan by train as a family, these guides will help you travel more comfortably and confidently—especially when combined with Takkyubin.

🚄 Traveling Japan by Train With Large Luggage and Kids

Before you decide whether to carry bags or send them ahead, read this practical guide on navigating Japanese trains with children and suitcases:
👉 Traveling Japan by Train With Large Luggage and Kids
https://traintraveljapan.com/traveling-japan-by-train-with-large-luggage-and-kids

This article explains station layouts, elevator realities, and why luggage delivery often makes family travel much easier.

🎫 Japan Train Seat Reservations for Families

When traveling light thanks to Takkyubin, reserving seats becomes far less stressful. This guide explains how families can secure seats together:
👉 Japan Train Seat Reservations for Families
https://traintraveljapan.com/japan-train-seat-reservations-for-families

Perfect for parents planning Shinkansen rides with kids.

🧒 Read This Before Traveling to Japan With a Child Under 6

If you’re traveling with younger children, this essential guide covers JR Pass tips, age rules, and family-specific advice:
👉 Read This Before Traveling to Japan With a Child Under 6
https://traintraveljapan.com/read-this-before-traveling-to-japan-with-a-child-under-6-essential-jr-pass-tips-and-family-travel-advice

Takkyubin pairs perfectly with the strategies outlined in this article.

🚅 How JR Pass Holders Can Reserve Shinkansen Seats Online

Sending luggage ahead means you don’t need oversized baggage reservations—but seat reservations still matter for families:
👉 How JR Pass Holders Can Reserve Shinkansen Seats Online
https://traintraveljapan.com/how-jr-pass-holders-can-reserve-shinkansen-seats-online

This is especially useful for first-time visitors.