When Contacting the Lost & Found Didn’t Solve Your Problem: What to Do Next
Why didn’t your voice get through?
The one regret that can ruin your memories of Japan.
“I lost something, but even after contacting the Lost & Found, nothing was solved…”
You send an email, but never receive a reply.
You call, but the line doesn’t connect.
Even when you finally reach someone, the required documents or procedures are unclear.
This is not your fault. When contacting Japanese facilities from abroad, travelers inevitably face very real obstacles.
The 4 Major Barriers Travelers Often Face
1. Strict Procedures and Documentation
Japan’s lost property process follows strict manuals. Even family members cannot collect your item without the proper paperwork such as a power of attorney and valid ID.
If even one required document is missing, the item cannot be released.
⚡️ Example
- The power of attorney was missing a signature, and resubmission was required.
- One necessary ID document was not included, and the item could not be collected.
Tip
Always double-check the required documents and allow enough time before submission.
2. Being Passed Between Departments
Japan’s public transport and large facilities are highly complex. Train stations, bus operators, airports, and other facilities all have separate Lost & Found offices. Travelers are often passed from one department to another, wasting valuable time.
⚡️ Example
- An item lost at an airport was repeatedly transferred between the airline, airport security, and the terminal’s Lost & Found, with no progress for several days.
Tip
Identifying the correct department from the very beginning is crucial to avoid delays.
3. Lack of Precise Information
Whether your item is found or not often depends on how precise your information is. Simply saying “I lost it in Shibuya” is not enough—there are multiple stations and train operators, each with a separate Lost & Found office.
⚡️ Example
- Reporting “I lost my wallet at Shibuya Station” required separate searches at JR, Tokyu, and Tokyo Metro offices, all of which operate independently.
Tip
Provide as much detail as possible: the exact station, location, time, and a clear description of the item.
4. Overseas Communication Barriers
Japan’s toll-free numbers (0120) cannot be dialed from abroad. Only numbers starting with 050 or local area codes (e.g., 03 for Tokyo) can be reached internationally.
If only a 0120 number is listed, you’ll need to check if contact by email or online form is possible.
Tip
Time zone differences make it even harder to call during Japanese business hours (usually 9 AM - 6 PM).
Before You Give Up: What We Can Do for You
By relying on us, you can overcome all of these barriers.
- Handling Complex Procedures
We prepare and check all required documents (e.g., power of attorney, ID) to ensure nothing is missing.
- Identifying and Contacting the Right Office
We know which department to contact and reach out directly on your behalf.
- Managing Communication with Facilities
We handle time-consuming calls and emails in Japanese, so you don’t have to.
- Organizing and Reporting Back Clearly
We streamline the complicated responses from facilities and provide you with only the essential, accurate information.
How It Works
- Submit the Form
Provide details about where you lost the item and what it looks like.
(Example: JR Shibuya Station, black Louis Vuitton long wallet, containing 2 credit cards)
- We Investigate and Act
We identify the correct office and handle all required procedures and communication.
- Receive Updates
We report the results to you and guide you through the next steps if the item is found.
- Item Delivered to You
If needed, we assist with international shipping so the item can be safely delivered to your home.
Conclusion
When contacting Lost & Found in Japan doesn’t solve the problem, you are not alone.
The difficulties come from strict procedures, complex offices, lack of precise information, and overseas communication barriers—not from any mistake on your part.
If you ever feel stuck, we are here to remove those barriers for you.
All you need to do is share the basic details—we’ll take care of the rest.
Don’t let your journey end with regret. With the right support, you can reclaim your lost items and preserve the best memories of your trip to Japan.
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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.