Pricing How It WorksOur StoryTips & GuidesContact Us
Pricing How It WorksOur StoryTips & GuidesContact Us

A Complete Guide to Finding Lost Items at the Airport

Did you leave something behind after getting off the plane? Or maybe during the rush before your flight? Losing an item at the airport can be incredibly stressful—but don’t worry. Japan’s airports have a highly efficient lost-and-found system, and there’s a good chance your item has been recovered.
This guide will walk you through the essential steps to help you locate your item quickly and smoothly.

Step 1: Stay Calm and Identify Where You Lost Your Item

Pinpointing where you likely lost your item will determine whom you should contact.

On the Plane

Items left on the aircraft are usually handled by the airline but are often handed over to the lost and found office at the arrival airport.
  • What to do:
      • ✅ If you realize the item is missing immediately after deplaning, speak to the staff at the arrival gate.
      ✅ If some time has passed, it’s best to contact the arrival airport’s lost and found directly.
  • Tip:
      • 💡
      Provide your flight number and seat number—this will help them locate the item more efficiently.

At the Security Checkpoint

Items left at security are managed by the airport police.
  • What to do:
      • ✅ If you notice it right after going through security, speak with a staff member nearby.
      ✅ If you’ve already left, contact the airport police’s lost and found office.
  • Tip:
      • 💡
      Mention the time of your screening, the location (e.g., “Security Checkpoint East”), and a clear description of the item (e.g., “left in the tray”).

Inside the Terminal (Lobby, Restrooms, Lounge, etc.)

Items lost in the terminal—whether in lobbies, shops, restrooms, or lounges—are handled by the airport’s lost and found center.
  • What to do:
      • ✅ Speak with the nearest information desk, or contact the lost and found center directly.
  • Tip:
      • 💡
      Be as specific as possible (e.g., “near the large clock in the Terminal 1 departure lobby”).

Step 2: Contact Major Airports in Japan

Here are the contact points for Japan’s major airports:

Step 3: Understand the Lost Item Process in Japan

Understanding how Japan’s system works will help you navigate the process more efficiently.

Storage & Transfer Process

  • Airport Storage: Lost items are typically kept at the airport’s lost and found for a few days (duration varies by airport).
  • Police Custody: After that period, items are transferred to the nearest police station, where they are kept for up to three months.

What You’ll Need to Retrieve the Item

To claim your item, you’ll need:
  • An original photo ID, such as your passport or residence card (copies are not accepted).

Step 4: If You’ve Already Left Japan

Even if you're back home, you may still be able to recover your item.

Contacting from Overseas

Most airports and airlines offer English-language contact forms or email addresses. Be sure to provide:
  • Details of the item (brand, color, size, distinguishing features, etc.)
  • Where and when you lost it
  • Flight and airport information
  • Your contact info (email, phone number)

Authorizing Someone to Retrieve the Item for You

If you can’t return to Japan, you can ask someone else to pick up the item for you.
  • They will need:
      • ✅ A signed letter of authorization (委任状)
      ✅ Their own valid photo ID
💡
Feeling overwhelmed?
You can use a retrieval and shipping service that handles all communication, pickup, and international delivery on your behalf. 👉 Consult with Us Today

Summary

The key to successfully recovering a lost item at the airport is to identify where you lost it and contact the appropriate office as soon as possible. The more accurate and detailed your report, the better the chance of recovery.
And if you're overseas and feeling unsure, using a professional service can make the entire process much easier.

Related Articles

 

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.