Traveling around Fukuoka with children means balancing sightseeing with practical needs. One of the most helpful tools for families is the coin locker. These self-service luggage storage boxes are found throughout Fukuoka’s major stations and transit hubs, offering a convenient way to explore the city hands-free.
Coin lockers are suitable for families with children of all ages. Whether you have a toddler in a stroller or school-aged kids with their own backpacks, storing your bags can make your day significantly easier. The ability to drop off luggage and move freely is especially useful when navigating crowded areas or hopping between attractions.
For international families unfamiliar with the system, using coin lockers is straightforward and reliable. They operate without the need for reservations, and most locations offer various sizes to accommodate everything from small daypacks to large suitcases. This flexibility makes them a practical choice for day trips, airport transit, or simply enjoying a lighter afternoon.
Where to Find Coin Lockers in Fukuoka
Coin lockers are widely available at Fukuoka’s major transportation hubs. Hakata Station, the city’s main train terminal, has numerous locker areas spread across multiple floors and entrances. Tenjin Station, located in the heart of the shopping district, also offers convenient storage options for families heading out to explore nearby attractions.
For families arriving at Fukuoka Airport, coin lockers are available at both the domestic and international terminals. This is particularly helpful if you have a few hours before your flight and want to explore the city without dragging your suitcases along. Nakasu-Kawabata Station and Tenjin-Minami Station also have lockers, making it easy to store bags when visiting riverside areas or transferring between subway lines.
Finding lockers is usually straightforward. Look for signs indicating “Coin Lockers” near ticket gates or main concourses. During busy periods such as weekends or holidays, larger lockers may fill up quickly, so arriving earlier in the day improves your chances of securing the size you need.
Understanding Locker Sizes and Prices
Coin lockers in Fukuoka come in several sizes to fit different types of luggage. Small lockers are ideal for backpacks, handbags, or children’s belongings. These typically cost around 300 to 400 yen per day. Medium lockers can fit carry-on sized suitcases and cost approximately 400 to 600 yen per day.
Large lockers are designed for full-sized suitcases and are priced between 500 and 800 yen per day. Some locations also offer extra-large lockers that can hold two carry-on bags or a large suitcase plus additional items. These are especially useful for families traveling with multiple bags or bulky gear like stroller bags.
It is important to note that most lockers reset their daily fee at midnight rather than after a 24-hour period. If you store luggage late in the evening and retrieve it the next morning, you may be charged for two days. Planning your storage around this schedule can help avoid unexpected costs.
How to Use Coin Lockers with Your Family
Using a coin locker is simple and does not require any Japanese language skills. Most modern lockers accept IC cards such as Suica or ICOCA, as well as credit cards, making payment easy for visitors. Some older lockers require 100-yen coins, so it is helpful to keep a few coins on hand just in case.
To store your luggage, find an available locker in the size you need. Place your bags inside, close the door, and follow the on-screen instructions to complete payment. You will receive a receipt or printed key code. Keep this safe, as you will need it to retrieve your items later. For IC card lockers, simply tap your card again when you return.
When traveling with children, involve them in the process to make it part of the adventure. Let older kids press the buttons or hold the receipt. This can help keep them engaged and gives them a sense of responsibility. Be sure to note the locker number and location, especially at larger stations where locker areas are spread out.
Practical Tips for Families
- Arrive early in the day to secure larger lockers, especially during weekends and holidays
- Keep 100-yen coins handy for older locker machines that do not accept IC cards
- Note the locker number and exact location before walking away, as some stations have multiple locker areas
- Remember that locker fees reset at midnight, not after 24 hours
- Consider using IC cards for faster and easier payment
- For bulky items like strollers, look for extra-large lockers or manned luggage storage counters
- At Hakata Station, Crosta Hakata offers attended luggage storage for families who prefer personal service
- Take a photo of the locker area or receipt on your phone as a backup