What Are Coin Lockers?
Coin lockers, or automatic luggage lockers, are a convenient way to store your belongings temporarily in public spaces such as train stations, airports, shopping malls, and tourist sites. They are highly popular among both travelers and locals for their practicality and accessibility.
Where to Find Coin Lockers
Coin lockers are nearly everywhere in Japan. Major railway stations like Shinjuku (with nearly 3,600 lockers), Tokyo, Ueno, Ikebukuro, and Shibuya have the largest concentrations, but even smaller provincial stations are equipped with lockers. You can also find them in airports, shopping malls, and at major tourist attractions.
Most lockers are available from 6 a.m. to midnight, and prices range from 300 to 700 yen per day, depending on size. During busy periods like Golden Week, lockers may be in high demand, but availability tends to refresh regularly.
When to Use Coin Lockers
Coin lockers are incredibly useful in various travel scenarios:
- For day trips or multi-day excursions, leave large luggage behind and travel light.
- On days with late departures or early arrivals, store your bags to freely explore.
- While moving between cities, store non-essential luggage and carry only what you need.
- When staying in a capsule hotel, use lockers to manage limited space.
- During shopping sprees, store your purchases and continue browsing comfortably.
Locker Sizes and Prices
Coin lockers come in several sizes, with a standard depth of 57 cm:
- Small (S): 34 x 34 x 57 cm – 300 to 400 yen/day
- Medium (M): 55 x 34 x 57 cm – 400 to 600 yen/day
- Large (L): 84 x 43 x 57 cm – 600 to 800 yen/day
- Extra Large (LL): Up to 177 x 57 x 57 cm – 700+ yen/day
Smaller lockers are suitable for backpacks or small purchases, while M or L lockers can fit carry-on suitcases. LL lockers are rarer and mostly found in larger stations.
Rates are calculated per 24-hour period (midnight to midnight). Keep in mind that lockers have a maximum usage time of 3 days, after which they are emptied by staff. Airports like Narita may allow up to 8 days, while stations with human-operated services, such as Kyoto, offer storage for up to 15 days.
How to Use a Coin Locker
Using a coin locker is straightforward:
- Classic Lockers: Place your belongings inside, insert the required amount in 100 yen coins, turn the key, and take it with you. To retrieve your items, insert the key and open the door.
- Modern Lockers: Use a central touch screen (available in English). Select a locker, place your items inside, and close the door. Payment can be made via cash or prepaid cards like Suica or Pasmo. A ticket with a PIN code is issued for cash payments. Use the code or scan your card to retrieve your belongings.
