Traveling in Japan is usually safe and stress-free, but accidents can happen, like misplacing your wallet, phone, or luggage. The good news is that Japan has one of the most efficient and honest lost-and-found systems in the world. If you lose something, there is a very good chance you will get it back. Here is a step-by-step guide on what to do if you lose your valuables while traveling in Japan.
Stay Calm and Retrace Your Steps
Before panicking, take a moment to retrace your movements. Many items in Japan are quickly turned in at the nearest kōban (police box), station office, or shop counter.
Report to a Nearby Police Box (Kōban)
Japanese police box (kōban) – Photo Credit: Possessed Photography
Kōban are small neighborhood police stations located on almost every city block. If you lose something:
- Go to the nearest kōban and explain what you lost.
- The officers may ask for details like the item’s color, brand, and where you last saw it.
- Fill out a simple report. Do not worry, they will help you even if your Japanese is limited.
If your item is found, the police will contact you.
Lost & Found at Train Stations and JR Offices
Packed train station in Japan – Photo Credit: BREAKIFY
If you lost something on a train, shinkansen (bullet train), or station platform, go to the Lost and Found Office of that railway company. Each major railway has its own system.
Step 1: Head to the Lost & Found counter
Each major JR company manages its own lost property system. If you are already at a station, simply ask the staff (many speak English) or find the station information desk.
Step 2: Call or apply online (depending on the operator)
- Have these details ready before reaching out:
- Date and time you lost the item
- Train number or name, departure, and arrival stations
- Car number, seat number, and where the item was (for example, overhead rack, under seat, restroom)
- A detailed description of the item (color, brand, unique markings, contents, etc.)
JR East
Phone:
- Within Japan: 050-2016-1603
- From overseas: +81 50 2016 1603
Hours: 10:00–18:00 daily (closed during year-end and New Year holidays)
Languages supported: English, Chinese, Korean
In-person:
- Visit the Lost & Found Office and make inquiries about lost items, or visit any JR East Travel Service Center, located in major stations such as Tokyo, Ueno, and Shinjuku.
- Bring ID (such as a passport).
Disclaimer: Information may change at their discretion. Visit their website for more information.
JR Central
Online Inquiry:
- Submit a Lost-Item Inquiry Form via computer or smartphone.
In-person:
- Visit the Lost & Found Office and make inquiries about lost items.
- Bring ID (such as a passport).
Disclaimer: Information may change at their discretion. Visit their website for more information.
JR West
Online Inquiry:
- Lost and Found Chat Service, available daily 9:00–20:00 JST.
Phone:
- Within Japan: 0570-00-4146
- From overseas: +81-6-6133-4146
Hours: 9:00–20:00 daily
Languages supported: English, Chinese, Korean, Spanish, Portuguese, Thai, Vietnamese
In-person:
- Visit the Lost & Found Office and make inquiries about lost items.
- Bring ID (such as a passport).
Disclaimer: Information may change at their discretion. Visit their website for more information.
Airports, Hotels, and Taxis
Stylish Japanese hotel room – Photo Credit: Filiz Elaerts
Airports: Each airport has its own Lost & Found counter. Both Narita and Haneda airports have English support available.
Hotels: If you left something in your room, contact the front desk immediately. Most hotels will hold the item for you.
Taxis: Call the taxi company. Receipts in Japan usually include the taxi company and car number. If you do not know the company, ask your hotel staff for help.
Useful Tech Tips
Apple AirTag and keychains – Photo Credit: Jonas Elia
To avoid stress in the first place, consider using tracking devices like Apple AirTag or Tile.
- Slip an AirTag into your wallet, luggage, or backpack.
- Track your item in real time via your smartphone.
- In crowded places like Tokyo or Osaka, this can save valuable time.
Helpful Phrases in Japanese
If you need to ask for help, these phrases can come in handy:
- Wasuremono o shimashita. (忘れ物をしました。) – “I forgot something.”
- ◯◯ o nakushimashita. (◯◯をなくしました。) – “I lost my ◯◯.”
- Kōban wa doko desu ka? (交番はどこですか？) – “Where is the police box?”
Final Tips
Assortment of passports – Photo Credit: Jon Tyson
- Always keep a photocopy of your passport separate from the original.
- Store your hotel address in both English and Japanese.
- Use luggage tags with contact details in case your bag is misplaced.
Losing valuables while traveling can feel overwhelming, but in Japan, the system is on your side. From friendly police officers at kōban to organized railway Lost & Found offices, you have a high chance of being reunited with your belongings. Combine Japan’s reliable system with modern tools like AirTags, and you will have peace of mind as you explore.
Featured Photo Credit: Global Residence Index
Now that you’re ready to explore Japan with confidence, work with one of our travel specialists to create a personalized Japan journey!
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