I’ve been lucky to visit Japan multiple times. It is an incredible country and every trip I make, I am struck by how polite, clean and orderly everything is. Yet according to local news reports, a surprising new trend has emerged: abandoned suitcases. From the bustling neon streets of Kabuki-cho in Tokyo to Narita Airport, the main gateway for millions of travelers, forgotten or intentionally left luggage is becoming a noticeable issue and creating both social and logistical challenges.
Increasing numbers at airports
At Narita International Airport alone, police collected roughly 700 abandoned suitcases in 2024, nearly twice as many as the previous year. These include everything from partially full carry-ons to oversized rolling bags that travelers realized too late they could not take onto flights. Having walked through Narita many times, it is hard to imagine hundreds of suitcases quietly waiting in storage in a country known for its order.
This summer, one man was formally charged after leaving an empty suitcase at Chubu Centrair Airport in Aichi Prefecture. His reason was simple: the bag was too large to check in, so he emptied it and left it behind.
Why travelers leave luggage behind
For many, leaving a suitcase is not simply forgetfulness but the result of airline baggage rules. Numerous travelers have shared their frustrations online. I can understand the panic at the check-in counter when policies change at the last minute. Nothing disrupts the calm of a Japan trip faster than an unexpected baggage fee.
Hotels are also affected
The issue extends beyond airports. Hotels in Osaka and Tokyo report that departing guests leave behind 20 to 30 suitcases each month. I can see why this would put pressure on hotels. Japan’s rooms are often compact and back-of-house storage areas are not designed to hold large quantities of luggage. Still, it is encouraging that some of these unclaimed bags could be repurposed to help students studying abroad.
Responses from Japan
Some businesses have started offering practical solutions. At Narita Airport, a luggage shop now provides free collection of old suitcases when travelers buy a replacement bag.
Tips for travelers
If you are traveling to Japan or passing through, it is a good idea to double-check airline baggage rules for both inbound and outbound flights. Regulations can vary depending on route, airline partnerships and ticket type. To avoid stress and additional costs:
✅ Review baggage allowances before departure, especially for your return flight
✅ Consider using shipping services such as Japan’s takkyubin system to send luggage home or to your next hotel
✅ Ask about disposal options at airports or luggage shops if your suitcase is no longer usable
Looking forward
Japan is not the first country to deal with abandoned luggage. For example, Sydney Airport auctions off unclaimed items for charity. However, the increase of left-behind suitcases in Tokyo and Osaka highlights a growing challenge in modern air travel.
As baggage fees rise and travelers carry more, this hidden cost of tourism is becoming harder to ignore. From my perspective, it is a rare disruption in Japan’s otherwise smooth travel experience. While Japan is testing solutions, this trend reminds travelers of one thing: sometimes the trickiest souvenir from a trip abroad is the suitcase you leave behind.
AloJapan.com