Overview
Most Japanese railway companies allow small pets in carriers on their trains. However, the rules vary by operator and there are strict requirements about carrier size and type. This guide covers the major railway systems.
General Rules (Apply to Most Railways)
- Pets must be in a **fully enclosed carrier** at all times
- Carrier dimensions: typically **max 70cm length, 90cm total (L+W+H)**
- Total weight (pet + carrier): **max 10kg**
- The carrier must not allow the pet's head or body to protrude
- Soft-sided carriers and pet strollers are **not allowed** on most lines
- You must purchase a **pet ticket** (手回り品きっぷ)
- Large dogs are generally **not permitted**
JR Lines (Shinkansen & Local)
| Rule | Details |
|---|---|
| Pet ticket | ¥290 per journey |
| Max carrier size | 70cm × 90cm total |
| Max weight | 10kg (pet + carrier) |
| Carrier type | Hard-sided, fully enclosed |
| Where to ride | Any car (no reserved pet area) |
Tips for Shinkansen: - Place the carrier on your lap or at your feet - Avoid peak hours (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM) - The last row of each car has slightly more legroom - Green Car (first class) is the same rules
Tokyo Metro & Toei Subway
- Free of charge (no pet ticket needed)
- Same carrier size restrictions as JR
- Can be very crowded during rush hour — avoid if possible
Private Railways
Most private railways (Tokyu, Odakyu, Keio, Hankyu, etc.) follow similar rules to JR with ¥280-290 pet tickets. Some notable differences:
- Odakyu Romance Car: Pets allowed in standard seats
- Some rural lines: May be more relaxed about carrier types
What's NOT Allowed
- Dogs too large for a carrier (no exceptions for service dogs varies by operator)
- Pet strollers (even if enclosed)
- Pets outside carriers at any time
- Animals that may disturb other passengers
- Snakes, large birds, and other exotic pets
Practical Tips
- 1**Practice at home** — Get your pet used to the carrier before travel
- 2**Feed lightly** — Avoid full meals right before train rides to prevent motion sickness
- 3**Bring a towel** — For accidents or to cover the carrier to reduce stress
- 4**Avoid rush hour** — Trains are extremely crowded 7-9 AM and 5-7 PM
- 5**Use the elevator** — Many stations have elevators; escalators can be tricky with carriers
- 6**Plan bathroom breaks** — Locate pet relief areas near major stations
- 7**Carry water** — Especially in summer when trains can be warm before AC kicks in
Alternatives to Trains
If your pet is too large for a train carrier:
- Rental car: Most rental companies allow pets (specify when booking)
- Pet taxi: Available in Tokyo and Osaka for short distances
- Highway buses: Generally do NOT allow pets
- Domestic flights: ANA and JAL accept pets in cargo (additional fee)