Tourism Osaka Metro launches reservable lockers for tourists

Osaka Metro has started installing luggage lockers that can be reserved by smartphone at five major stations, aiming to make it easier for tourists to store bags instead of carrying them around the city.

The idea is to let travellers secure a locker in advance, so one is available upon arrival. The operator hopes the added convenience will also help boost ridership. The lockers, known as Multi-ecube units and developed by JR East Smart Logistics, were installed in March at Umeda, Shinsaibashi, Tennoji, Higashi-Mikuni and Esaka stations. Each unit has more than 15 lockers in different sizes.

Reservations can be made via smartphone up to a month in advance for up to three days. The minimum fee is ¥800 ($5). The same system is already in place at Kansai International Airport, Osaka International Airport, and major JR East stations in Tokyo.

Multi-ecube units are also in place at Kansai International Airport and Osaka International Airport, also known as Itami Airport, as well as at major JR East stations in Tokyo. Luggage-free travel is considered helpful in easing congestion at tourist spots. Also, by storing their suitcases at subway stations, travelers can devote more time to their vacation itineraries and skip making an early-morning run to a hotel that is not yet ready for them.

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