Lost Something at the Airport in Japan? Here’s How to Get It Back Fast
Lost something at an airport in Japan — or on the plane?
Don’t panic. Japan’s airports have one of the world’s most reliable Lost & Found systems, and most items can be recovered if you act fast.
This guide explains exactly who to contact, what to prepare, and how to retrieve your item — even after you’ve already left Japan.
Step 1: Identify Where You Lost It — On the Plane, at Security, or in the Terminal
Before taking action, try to recall where you last had your item — this determines who you should contact.
🛫 On the Plane
Items left on the aircraft are managed by the airline, but are usually handed over to the arrival airport’s lost & found office.
What to do:
- If you notice it right after landing, talk to the arrival gate staff immediately.
- If some time has passed, contact the airport’s lost & found office directly.
Tip: Include your flight number and seat number — it helps staff locate your item faster.
🔒 At Security Checkpoints
Items left during screening are handled by the airport police.
What to do:
- If you notice it right away, speak to a nearby security officer.
- If you’ve already left the area, contact the airport police’s lost & found.
Tip: Mention the approximate time, checkpoint location (e.g., “Security East”), and describe your item clearly (e.g., “black laptop left in tray”).
🏢 Inside the Terminal (Lobby, Lounge, or Restroom)
Lost something inside the building?
Items found in lobbies, restrooms, restaurants, or lounges are usually managed by the airport’s lost & found center.
What to do:
- Visit the nearest information desk, or contact the airport’s lost & found directly.
Tip: Give specific details — for example, “near the big clock in Terminal 1 Departure Lobby.”
Step 2: Contact Major Airports in Japan
Each airport has its own lost and found office. Below are official links for Japan’s major airports:
| Airport | Official Lost & Found Page |
|---|---|
| Narita (NRT) | Narita Airport Lost & Found |
| Haneda (HND) | Haneda Airport Lost Property Information |
| Kansai (KIX) | Kansai Airport Lost Property |
| Chubu Centrair (NGO) | Centrair Lost & Found |
| Fukuoka (FUK) | Fukuoka Airport Lost Property |
| New Chitose (CTS) | New Chitose Lost Property Information |
Tip: If your airport isn’t listed, check its official website — most have an English “Lost & Found” section.
Step 3: Understand How Japan’s Airport Lost & Found System Works
Japan’s airport lost and found process is efficient, structured, and transparent.
📦 Storage & Transfer Process
- Lost items are first stored at the airport’s lost and found (typically a few days).
- If unclaimed, they are transferred to the local police station.
- Police keep items for up to 3 months, after which they may be discarded or transferred to the finder.
🪪 What You Need to Retrieve an Item
To claim your item, you must present:
- A valid photo ID (e.g., passport or residence card)
- Some facilities may also request proof of ownership, such as a photo or purchase record.
Step 4: If You’ve Already Left Japan
Even if you’ve returned home, recovery is still possible — but managing it yourself can be difficult due to language barriers, paperwork, and shipping restrictions.
That’s where Japan Lost and Found Service can help.
We act locally on your behalf:
- Contacting airports, airlines, and police in Japanese
- Retrieving and verifying your item in person
- Secure packaging and international delivery
- Providing clear progress updates in English
Summary
- Act quickly — the sooner you contact, the higher your chances
- Be specific — include flight, terminal, or facility details
- Submit a police report if you’re unsure
- Don’t give up — Japan’s system is reliable and recovery is possible
Even if you’ve already left Japan, your lost item can still find its way home.
Let Japan Lost and Found Service help you bring it back — safely, quickly, and stress-free.
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About the Author
Yusuke Baba — Founder, Japan Lost and Found Service
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.