Luggage on Kagayaki, Hakutaka and Asama
Overhead racks fit carry on sized bags. Large suitcases are best placed behind the last row of seats in a car, so try to reserve a last row seat when you book.
Rules on JR East and JR West lines are not always identical to the Tokaido line. Check the luggage information shown when you reserve, and stick to bags under 250 cm in total.
With a Japan Rail Pass, seats with an oversized baggage area are included at no extra cost. Book them by scanning the QR code on your pass at a Shinkansen ticket machine or at any staffed JR desk. Get your Japan Rail Pass
Kagayaki is all reserved
The fastest service, Kagayaki, has no non-reserved cars. You need a seat reservation either way, so ask for a last row seat at the same time.
Ski season
From December to March, trains to Nagano and Iiyama fill with ski bags. Book early and see our ski and snowboard guide for packing tips.