Will your suitcases fit? Alphard or HiAce

One of the biggest surprises for first-time visitors to Japan is how strict baggage rules have become on public transportation—especially with the JR Shinkansen oversized baggage reservation system requiring advance bookings for any luggage whose dimensions exceed 160 cm (63 inches).

The Alphard

The Toyota Alphard is Japan's most celebrated executive vehicle. It has seats that recline, with a footrest, in the second row and a foldable third row.

• With 4 Passengers: The third-row seats are folded up against the walls, creating a deep cargo area accommodating 4 large 28-inch check-in suitcases plus 2-3 carry-on bags and a foldable stroller.
• With 5-6 Passengers: If third-row seating is in use, luggage space is limited to 2 large suitcases + 2 carry-ons.

The HiAce Grand Cabin

If you have 5 to 9 passengers or are traveling with ski gear, golf bags, and multi-city shopping hauls, the Toyota HiAce Grand Cabin is the definitive choice.

• Capacity: Comfortably carries 9 passengers + 9-10 full-size 28-30" check-in suitcases in a dedicated rear bay behind the fourth row of seats.
• Headroom: High-roof ceiling allowing passengers to board and disembark without crouching.

Luggage

Will it all fit?

Tell us how many people and how many 28-inch cases, and we will tell you which car you need.

Total passengers4 People

-+

Includes adults, children, and infants.

Large suitcases (28–30 inch check-in)4 Bags

-+

Standard international hard-shell luggage size.

Carry-on bags and strollers

-2+

Child seats needed

-0+

One is included on request in the published terms. Ask us to confirm additional seats.

Recommended for your group

Seats that recline, with a footrestUp to 5 people and 4 large cases

Minivan (Toyota Alphard or Vellfire)

The car most people end up in. Seats that recline, with a footrest, and room for the cases and the stroller.

Passenger capacity4 of 5 seats

Luggage bay fit4 / 4 Large Suitcases

Climate control

Private vehicle

Wi-Fi when available

Equipment confirmed

Check the luggage

Child seats

The published tour terms allow one child seat per group or vehicle when requested in advance. Tell the team the child's age and size, and ask before booking if you need more than one.

Note on seating footprint: Each baby or toddler car seat occupies 1 standard adult seat footprint in the vehicle cabin.

4. What we would do

• Up to 5 people, up to 4 cases: Toyota Alphard or Vellfire
• 5 to 9 people, 5 to 10 cases: Toyota HiAce Grand Cabin
• 10 people or more: two cars, each with its own driver