How Japan's Bullet Train Lost & Found Works
This article is written by Tetsu, our Shinkansen Expert — the go-to expert for train routes, seating tips, and travel hacks.
Japan is Safe—Lost Items Usually Come Back to You!
Japan is one of the safest countries in the world, and lost items—especially on the Shinkansen—are almost always recovered, thanks to JR’s efficient lost & found system.
Stay calm and follow these steps to retrieve your belongings.
1. First Step: Contact the JR Lost & Found Center
Lost items on the Shinkansen are managed by the JR company operating your train line. Provide as many details as possible, such as:
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Travel date & train name (e.g., Nozomi No. 123)
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Seat number (if known)
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Boarding & alighting stations
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Description of the lost item (color, size, etc.)
Don’t remember your seat number? No problem!
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Even vague details like "Window seat, Car No. 5" can help track it down.
2. How Lost Items Are Handled
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Cleaning staff collect items at the final stop (most common).
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If another passenger finds it, the conductor takes custody.
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Held at JR’s lost & found center for ~1 week.
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Transferred to police if unclaimed (stored for 6 more months).
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Disposed of if still unclaimed.
※Act fast! Contact JR within a week for the best chance of recovery.
3. Can’t Pick It Up? Arrange for Delivery!
If you can’t return to the station, JR can ship your lost item within Japan (cash on delivery).
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Mention "I’d like it shipped" when contacting the lost & found center.
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If staying at a hotel, staff may assist with arrangements.
4. Which JR Company to Contact?
▼ Check based on your route:
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JR Hokkaido (Shin-Hakodate Hokuto ↔ Sapporo)
🔗 Lost & Found Info -
JR East (Tokyo ↔ Shin-Aomori / Tokyo ↔ Kanazawa)
🔗 Contact -
JR Central (Tokyo ↔ Shin-Osaka)
🔗 Lost & Found Portal -
JR West (Shin-Osaka ↔ Hakata)
🔗 FAQ
※For trains crossing multiple regions (e.g., Tokyo→Hakata Nozomi), contact both JR Central & JR West.
Why Lost Items Are Easily Recovered in Japan
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Honest culture → Most people turn in found items.
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Railway companies’ systematic tracking.
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Police cooperation (longer storage periods).
We know how stressful losing something important can be—but in Japan, there’s a very high chance you’ll get it back! Follow this guide and contact JR as soon as possible.
What is shinkansen-ticket.com?
Shinkansen-Ticket.com is a Japan-based travel agency specializing in booking Shinkansen and limited express train tickets—including high-demand routes that are often difficult to secure. With nearly a decade of experience, we’ve built a reputation for reliable, flexible, and traveler-friendly service.
We provide both QR code-based tickets for easy station access, ideal for last-minute bookings, and physical paper tickets, which can be delivered to your home abroad, hotel, major post offices, or even a friend’s residence across Japan—perfect for carefully planned itineraries.
Our expertise in Japan’s rail system allows us to offer customized support with a deep understanding of routes, connections, and seating options—including oversized luggage seats, scenic views, and group arrangements.
Trusted by thousands of repeat customers and partnered with numerous hotels and travel agencies, we regularly assist in arranging train tickets for hotel guests and tour clients across Japan.
© 2025 Shinkansen-Ticket.com.
Seat guide
Reserved Seat (Ordinary Reserved Seat)
Your seat is reserved and secured when you book your tickets, allowing you to head to the station with peace of mind.
Think of it as "economy class" seating.
Green Reserved Seat
Enjoy better seats and free blankets. Popular among Japanese business people, executives, and those who prefer a comfortable travel experience.
Consider it "business class" seating.
GranClass
Known as the "First Class" of Shinkansen seats.
Available only on the Hokuriku and Tohoku Shinkansen lines, these seats offer airline-like amenities and meals (only on select trains).
They are the most expensive option.
Unreserved Seat
You can take any open seat in the unreserved cars on the departure date (no departure time will be indicated on your ticket).
This is the best option if cost is your priority and you are traveling during less crowded seasons or times.
Tetsu
The Shinkansen Expert
With a passion for all things rail, I specialize in helping travelers navigate Japan’s extensive train network—especially the Shinkansen. From how to book reserved seats to choosing the right side for Mt. Fuji views, I provide expert guidance on riding Japan’s iconic bullet trains with ease.
Having supported countless international travelers, I understand the unique questions and challenges that come with using Japan’s rail system for the first time. My goal is to make your journey faster, smarter, and stress-free—no matter where you're from or where you're headed.