Before You Give Up on Your Lost Item in Japan
Losing something important can leave you in shock, especially in an unfamiliar country. It’s natural to think, “There’s no way I’ll get it back…” and want to give up.
But don’t lose hope just yet.
Japan has one of the world’s most efficient and honest lost-and-found systems, and there’s a surprisingly high chance your item will be recovered.
In this article, we’ll show you what to do before giving up, and why you actually have good reason to stay hopeful.
Step 1: Stay Calm and Retrace Your Steps
The very first thing you do can make a huge difference. Try to stay calm and work through the following questions:
👀 When and where did you last see it?
On the train? In your hotel room? At a restaurant?
The more specific you are, the easier it’ll be to narrow down where to check first.
🧐 What were you doing right before?
“I paid with my wallet at a café.”
“I was using my phone on a bench at the station.”
These kinds of details might give you clues about where the item was lost.
📱 If You Lost a Mobile Device
If you lost your smartphone or tablet, try using GPS tracking immediately:
- iPhone/iPad: Use Find Devices on iCloud.com
These tools can sometimes show the current or last known location.
Step 2: Why Your Lost Item Might Actually Be Found in Japan
Still feeling skeptical? You’re not alone—but let us reassure you.
There are good reasons why your lost item has a strong chance of being recovered in Japan:
- ✅ Incredible recovery rates
According to the Tokyo Metropolitan Police, about 68% of wallets and 83% of phones are returned to their owners. That’s exceptionally high by global standards.
- 🇯🇵 Cultural honesty
Many Japanese people will turn in even small items like loose coins or handkerchiefs. This deep-rooted culture of honesty is one reason lost items are often returned.
- 🦺 Reliable storage systems
Items are usually held at the facility or local police station for up to 3 months, giving you a fair window to locate and claim them.
Step 3: Take Action Without Delay
Now that you know there’s hope—it’s time to act. Here’s where to start:
📞 Contact the facility directly
If you know where you might have lost it, this is the most effective first step:
- ✈️ Airport: Contact your airline or terminal’s lost & found.
- 🚅 Train/Shinkansen: Reach out to the relevant rail company (e.g., JR, Tokyo Metro).
- 🏨 Hotel: Call the front desk or housekeeping.
👮 File a lost item report with the police
If the facility doesn’t have it, or you’re unsure where you lost it, submit a lost property report (ishitsubutsu todoke) at the nearest police station or koban.
Unable to visit a police station in person?
If you're no longer in Japan, you might be able to submit a report online. However, please note that not all prefectures offer an online submission system.
You can find links to the lost and found systems for each prefectural police department on the National Police Agency's website. Some of these pages may even offer guidance in English.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Give Up Too Soon
The most important thing? Don’t give up.
There’s a real chance your item will be recovered—but only if you act quickly and correctly.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the language barrier or don’t know where to start, we’re here to help.
Let us take care of the complicated parts so you can focus on what matters.
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About the Author
Yusuke Baba | Japan Lost and Found Service Founder
I myself have had the experience of losing my MacBook while on my honeymoon, so I deeply understand the anxiety that comes with it. This experience gave me a strong desire to help those who are truly in trouble and facing language and cultural barriers, which is why I started this service.
I hope this guide can help ease your worries and provide a clear path to getting your lost item back. If you are struggling with a lost item, please feel free to contact us.