#Japan #Kyoto #JR Tokai #Kyoto Station #hands-free tourism

A New Era of Convenience: Multifunction Lockers at Kyoto Station

In a groundbreaking initiative to promote hands-free tourism, JR Tokai (Central Japan Railway Company) and JR East Smart Logistics have launched multifunction lockers at Kyoto Station, the first of their kind in the area. This significant step aims to improve the comfort and convenience for tourists while also alleviating congestion on public transportation. Utilizing the "KYOTO CITY OPEN LABO" public-private partnership platform, this project seeks to streamline the travel experience for visitors to the historic city of Kyoto.

Features of the Multifunction Lockers

The newly installed multifunction lockers, named "Multi Cube," extend beyond traditional luggage storage solutions. They include the unique capability of shipping bags directly to partnering hotels within Kyoto city, making it easier than ever for travelers to explore the city without the burden of their luggage.

Services Offered

• - Luggage Storage:

The lockers serve as a temporary storage solution for visitors, allowing them to securely deposit their belongings.

• - Same-Day Hotel Delivery:

Guests can drop off their bags at the locker before 11 AM and have them delivered to their hotel on the same day. Reservations for this service can be made online up to one month in advance, with an option for day-of bookings possible until 9:30 AM.

For more information, you can visit the dedicated website here.

Locker Details

The total number of lockers available is 72, categorized by size:

• - Small (16 lockers)
• - Medium (16 lockers)
• - Large (40 lockers)

Usage Scenarios

1. Before Travel: Reserve a locker for seamless luggage drop-off when arriving at Kyoto Station.
2. While Traveling: Arrange for delivery directly to your hotel through a smartphone app while on the go.

Prices and Operating Hours

• - Storage Prices (including tax):

- Small: 400 yen/day
- Medium: 500 yen/day
- Large: 700 yen/day

If you exceed the storage time past 2 AM on the following day, additional charges will apply. A separate reservation fee of 500 yen is required for locker bookings.

• - Same-Day Delivery Fees: (all prices include tax)

- Small: 1,500 yen
- Medium: 1,600 yen
- Large: 1,700 yen

Item Size Restrictions:

• - Small: Width 34 cm x Height 33 cm x Depth 65 cm
• - Medium: Width 34 cm x Height 50 cm x Depth 65 cm
• - Large: Width 34 cm x Height 86 cm x Depth 65 cm

Payment Options

The lockers operate on a cashless transaction system, accepting IC cards, credit cards, and QR codes. Note that cash payments are not accepted.

Location of Lockers

The multifunction lockers are located at the Miyako Dream Terrace on the first floor of the Hachijo Exit at Kyoto Station.

Service Launch Date

This innovative service will officially start on June 12, 2025, at 10 AM.

Additional Information

The initiative stems from a project bid through Kyoto City's public-private platform. The aim is to relieve congestion on city buses by encouraging tourists to utilize the subway and bus systems more effectively. The system will also include information for day passes and sightseeing buses available through an EX service site, helping bolster public transport usage alongside this new locker service.

Through the collaboration of JR Tokai and local stakeholders, the city of Kyoto is pioneering a modern approach to tourism that emphasizes convenience while benefiting local transportation infrastructure. As visitors embrace the sights of Kyoto, the new multifunction lockers ensure their experience is both enjoyable and hassle-free.