If you're planning a trip to Hakuba, there's one service that's seriously underrated by international visitors: Yamato Transport, affectionately known as "Black Cat" (Kuroneko) thanks to its iconic logo. This luggage delivery service is an absolute game-changer, and we can't recommend it enough for guests heading to Starfall, especially if you're bringing your own ski gear.
Many travelers spend a few days in Tokyo or Osaka before heading to Hakuba, but navigating busy cities with large suitcases and snowboard bags is cumbersome. Crowded subway stations, narrow staircases, and compact hotel rooms aren't designed for bulky winter gear. Black Cat solves this problem by letting you send your luggage ahead. Simply pack a small travel bag with what you need for your city stay, and ship the rest - including board bags and ski equipment - directly to Starfall. Your gear will be waiting when you arrive, and you can actually enjoy exploring the city without the burden of heavy luggage.
Black Cat has counters in all major airport terminals - Narita, Haneda, and Kansai (Osaka), usually immediately after you clear customs. Look out for the logo (as pictured), and signs for luggage delivery. For the easiest experience, we recommend sending your bags directly from the airport when you land. The process is straightforward, staff can usually help in English, and it typically costs around ¥3,000-4,000 per bag depending on size.
Important Note: Delivery takes up to 48 hours, so if you're coming straight from the airport to Hakuba, Black Cat might not be your best option, your gear might not be here by the time you're ready to ride! This service works best when you're spending at least two days in a city before heading to the mountains.
Filling out the waybill (luggage form) is simple. Here's what a completed form looks like when sending to us:
After your stay with us, you can send your luggage back to the airport and Black Cat will hold it for you while you continue traveling. Planning a few days in Kyoto after Hakuba? Send your ski gear to Narita or Haneda, explore temple gardens without a snowboard strapped to your back, then pick everything up at the airport counter right before you check in for your flight home. Just let one of our crew know before you check-out that you'd like to send your bags and they can help you organise it!
