Want to explore Japan without the hassle of carrying your suitcase everywhere? You can now send your luggage using a Shinkansen-based delivery service operated by JR East!
Here's everything you need to know about how to send luggage in Japan, from the booking process and available routes to delivery fees.
What Is the JRE Tebura Tabi Service?
JRE Tebura Tabi is a luggage delivery service introduced by JR East to make traveling by Shinkansen more convenient.
Launched on August 1, 2026, the service allows travelers to drop off their luggage at a departure station and have it delivered to their destination, so they don't have to carry their suitcases during the journey.
The concept is simple: your luggage travels through JR East's Shinkansen network while you enjoy a more comfortable, hands-free journey.
How to Send Luggage via JR East Shinkansen
To use the JRE Tebura Tabi service, follow these steps:
1. Reserve a Locker Through Multi-Ecube
Before your journey, reserve a locker online through Multi-Ecube, JR East's smart locker service.
Reservations must be made on the day of delivery, before 9:30 AM.
2. Select Your Departure Station and Delivery Destination
The service currently supports luggage delivery from Tokyo Station to Sendai Station and the Akiu Onsen area.
Delivery is also available in the opposite direction, from Sendai Station to participating hotels in the Tokyo area.
3. Go to Your Reserved Locker
Once your reservation is confirmed, bring your suitcase to the designated Multi-Ecube locker at your departure station.
4. Drop Off Your Luggage Before the Deadline
Place your luggage inside the reserved locker by 10:30 AM on the day of delivery.
Each locker can accommodate one suitcase or bag.
5. Your Luggage Is Transported via Shinkansen
After drop-off, your luggage will be transported through JR East's Shinkansen network using its Hakobyun delivery service.
Meanwhile, you can continue your journey without carrying your suitcase.
6. Your Luggage Is Delivered on the Same Day
Your suitcase will be transported to a participating hotel within the designated delivery area, with delivery scheduled for the same day.
7. Collect Your Luggage at Your Destination Hotel
Once your luggage arrives, you can collect it at your designated hotel.
The service also allows luggage drop-off outside regular station counter operating hours.
Travel Tip: Before booking, check whether your departure station and delivery destination are covered by JRE Tebura Tabi. Make sure your suitcase fits the locker dimensions and that you can meet the required drop-off deadline.
Which Shinkansen Routes Support JR East Luggage Delivery?
JRE Tebura Tabi is not yet available across JR East's entire Shinkansen network.
During its initial phase, the service covers luggage delivery between Tokyo Station and Sendai Station, including deliveries to participating hotels in the Akiu Onsen area.
In the opposite direction, luggage can also be sent from Sendai to selected hotels in the Tokyo area.
JR East also plans to expand the service to additional destinations, including airports.
Starting in autumn 2026, travelers are expected to be able to drop off their luggage at lockers in Tokyo and have it delivered directly to designated counters at Narita Airport or Haneda Airport.
How Much Does JR East Shinkansen Luggage Delivery Cost?
JRE Tebura Tabi delivery fees depend on the size of the locker used.
The pricing details are as follows:
| Locker Size | Dimensions (H × W × D) | Delivery Fee |
|---|---|---|
| S (Small) | 32.5 × 34 × 65 cm | ¥3,500 |
| M (Medium) | 50 × 34 × 65 cm | ¥3,600 |
| L (Large) | 86 × 34 × 65 cm | ¥3,700 |
Luggage size illustration:
Note: For reservation-only locker models, the depth is 55 cm.
The fees listed above apply to one suitcase or bag per locker.
With a price difference of just ¥100–¥200 between locker sizes, it's best to choose a locker based on your suitcase's actual dimensions rather than trying to squeeze it into a smaller compartment.
By using JRE Tebura Tabi, you can spend less time worrying about your luggage and more time enjoying your journey around Japan.
