Japan Airlines has launched a new luggage delivery service that will save you from having to lug your belongings on public transport upon arrival in Tokyo. The same-day service is available to anyone arriving at Haneda Airport Terminal 3, regardless of whether you flew in with the airline. The initiative was set up to help with congestion on public transport in the city, and I can’t help but wonder why other airlines at capital cities are not offering a similar solution.
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Japan Airlines Will Deliver Your Luggage Straight to Your Tokyo Hotel
I challenge anyone who claims to enjoy traveling on public transport while burdened with heavy luggage. Between working out the route, contending with commuters and locals who could do without your hardshell wheeled luggage taking up vital space, and navigating stairs and escalators — never mind adding in jetlag and kids — public transport after a long flight is simply hellish.
Japan’s leading airline launched its genius solution on December 5, 2024. The service, priced at a reasonable $29 per suitcase, is available to international and national travelers arriving at Haneda Airport’s Terminal 3.
The airline’s primary goal with this initiative is to address the congestion challenges in Tokyo’s public transportation system. By providing a seamless and efficient luggage delivery service, Japan Airlines seeks to enhance the overall travel experience for foreign visitors, ensuring you can make the most of your time in the city.
The same-day delivery service covers a wide range of popular districts in Tokyo, including Shinjuku, Shinagawa, Chiyoda, Chuo, Minato, Koto, Ota, Shibuya, Taito, Toshima, Bunkyo, Sumida, Meguro, and Edogawa. So, most major hotels throughout the city are included.
In true Japanese fashion, the service is easy to use. First, you must pick up your belongings from the luggage belt. Unfortunately, they have not managed to eliminate that step, but this could be due to security reasons. After you’ve got your belongings, you’ll then reserve and pay for the delivery at the JAL ABC counter in the arrival lobby. Once the reservation is complete, a baggage sticker is issued and attached to the suitcase, which is checked at the same counter, and you’re free to explore Tokyo sans baggage.
There is a time limit to this service, however. The desk is open from 4:00 AM to 6:00 PM, so those arriving on an evening flight will be out of luck — that said, if you were arriving at a later hour, you’ll likely opt for a taxi rather than the subway. For those who check in luggage before 4:00 PM, delivery is guaranteed by 8:00 PM, and bags registered between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM will be at the hotel by 10:00 PM.
The introduction of same-day luggage delivery is just one of the recent initiatives undertaken by Japan Airlines to help over-tourism in Japan. In September, the airline announced a complimentary domestic flight offer for international passengers, further incentivizing exploration of the country’s diverse regions. 