Storing luggage while traveling abroad can be a practical solution to lighten your load, especially during layovers, city explorations, or before check-in and after check-out times at accommodations.
Before I mention a few options available in Kyoto, I’d like you to know that you can drop off your luggage at our office next to the Kyoto Train Station (Central Exit). This can be convenient if your train arrives too early for check-in, or you need to catch a later flight. Note that whenever possible, we do offer early check-in and late checkout to our guests. Unfortunately, this is not always possible.
Note that a good solution to avoid having to store the luggage or being burdened by it at the wrong time is to ship it the day before (depending on your location) by a Luggage Delivery Services (Takkyubin) either directly to the house you rented or to our office. Contact us for more information.
Here are some common methods around Kyoto for storing luggage:
Kyoto Station
Kyoto Station is a major transportation hub and a popular place for storing luggage.
Coin Lockers
These are ideal for short-term storage if you’re exploring the city before your departure or waiting for the time of your check-in.
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- You’ll find these throughout the station, including near both the central and the south exits (Shinkansen), the underground passageways, and the bus terminal.
- Sizes range from small to large, accommodating everything from backpacks to suitcases.
- Payment is usually by cash or IC cards like Suica or ICOCA.
- Be careful as these lockers do fill up quickly.
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Luggage Storage Counters
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- Services like “Baggage Room” offer staffed storage where you can leave larger items.
- Ideal for long-term storage or when lockers are full.
Luggage Storage Apps
Bounce: A platform connecting travelers with local shops, cafés, and hotels that offer luggage storage. I have not yet used it, but you’ll start by installing their smartphone application, and with it, you can search and find a location where you can store your luggage. You can then book storage spots online. Their prices are very reasonable, starting at yen 400 (US$2.50) per item. Anyway, this is something to be aware of, just in case.
This service is growing quickly with more and more locations around Kyoto. Unfortunately, at the time of writing this, they are yet to add locations near our machiya houses in Gion. The only house with a Bounce location nearby is our Tofukuji Samurai Machiya, located near the Tofukuji train station.
If you are staying at Tofukuji Samurai machiya and need to store your luggage near the house, use the link below to find more information about this Bounce location and reserve your spot.
Tourist Information Centers
- Kyoto Tourist Information Center (at Kyoto Station and other locations) sometimes offers luggage storage services.
- Staff can also help direct you to nearby storage options if their facilities are full.
At Major Attractions
Some popular tourist spots and temples in Kyoto, such as Arashiyama, Kiyomizu-dera, or Fushimi Inari, have coin lockers nearby for visitors.
Shopping Malls and Convenience Stores
- Large shopping centers, like Kyoto Yodobashi near Kyoto Station, often provide lockers.
- Some convenience stores, especially larger ones, may also offer luggage storage services.
Tips for Storing Your Luggage in Kyoto:
- Arrive Early for Lockers: Popular locations, like Kyoto Station, often see lockers fill up quickly during peak times.
- Carry IC Cards: Many lockers now accept IC card payments, making them easier to use without exact change.
- Check Storage Hours: Ensure the facility’s hours align with your schedule, especially for staffed counters or private services.
- Plan Around Convenience: Choose storage locations near your travel route or major attractions to minimize detours.
With these options, you can enjoy Kyoto’s temples, shrines, and cultural sites unencumbered!
