Japan's coin locker (coin rokka) network is one of the most extensive in the world — every major train station has dozens to hundreds of lockers, making it easy to drop bags during day trips or sightseeing. Here's how to use them efficiently.
Finding Coin Lockers
Look for the coin locker symbol (a rectangle with a lock) on station maps, or ask station staff. At large stations: multiple locker banks are scattered near different exits — the main ones are typically near the central concourse or near convenience stores inside the station. Useful websites: coinlocker.info shows locker locations at major stations. Google Maps: search "coin locker [station name]" for community-pinned locations.
Sizes & Prices
Lockers come in three standard sizes: Small (S): 35cm × 57cm × 34cm — fits a day pack or small bag. ¥300–¥400. Medium (M): 57cm × 57cm × 34cm — fits a standard carry-on or medium suitcase. ¥400–¥600. Large (L): 57cm × 84cm × 57cm — fits a full-size suitcase (68L rolling bag). ¥600–¥900. Prices vary by station and city — Tokyo is typically the highest. Some premium lockers at airports charge ¥800–¥1,200 for large.
How to Use Them
Coin-operated: Place bag inside, insert coins (the locker shows how much), turn or press to lock. Keep your key. To retrieve: insert the key. IC card/credit card type (increasingly common): Select a locker, tap Suica or credit card, your payment method is recorded. To retrieve: tap the same card. Password type: Set a 4-digit password, retrieve using the same code. The most convenient for groups — anyone with the code can retrieve.
How Long Can You Store?
Most coin lockers allow storage for up to 3 days (72 hours). After that, the locker is opened by station staff and items are held in lost property. For longer storage: use a paid baggage storage service (te-azukari) at major stations — staff-attended, ¥600–¥900/day, available at Shinjuku, Tokyo, Kyoto, Namba, etc.
Smart Locker Strategy
For a multi-city trip: Store your main suitcase at Tokyo Station in a large locker (¥700/day) while doing a 2-day Nikko/Kamakura side trip with just a day pack. Use Kyoto Station lockers to store bags while doing morning temple visits before hotel check-in (lockers typically available from 5:00 AM). During peak season (Golden Week, summer holidays): large lockers fill up by 9:00 AM at popular stations — arrive early or book staff-attended storage in advance.