Kyoto
๐ฆ
Post and Delivery Services
Information about postal services, package deliveries, and using Japan Post in Kyoto.
Sections
1. Overview of Postal and Delivery Services in Kyoto
Kyoto, like the rest of Japan, is served by a well-organized postal system operated by Japan Post and several private courier companies such as Yamato Transport (Kuroneko Yamato), Sagawa Express, and DHL. These services are known for their punctuality, reliability, and customer-centric approach.
2. Postal Services by Japan Post
Japan Post is the primary postal service provider in Kyoto, offering a wide range of services for letters, parcels, and international shipping.
Key Services Offered:
- Domestic Mail:
- Standard letters, postcards, and small parcels.
- Yu-Pack (parcel delivery service for larger items).
- Yu-Mail (economical option for books and printed materials).
- International Mail:
- EMS (Express Mail Service): Fastest international shipping option.
- Airmail: Standard international delivery.
- SAL (Surface Air Lifted): Economical option for non-urgent packages.
- Surface Mail: Cheapest but slowest option (via sea).
- Special Services:
- Registered Mail (tracking and insurance for valuable items).
- Cash-on-Delivery (COD) for parcels.
Costs:
- Domestic letters start at ยฅ84 for standard-sized envelopes.
- Domestic parcels (Yu-Pack) start at around ยฅ810, depending on size and distance.
- International EMS starts at ยฅ1,400 for small parcels (up to 300g), with costs increasing based on weight and destination.
Operating Hours:
- Most post offices in Kyoto operate from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekdays.
- Larger branches (e.g., Kyoto Central Post Office) often have extended hours, including weekends and holidays, and may operate until 7:00 PM or later.
- Postboxes are available 24/7 for mailing letters and postcards.
Locations:
- Kyoto Central Post Office: Located near Kyoto Station (Address: 843-12 Higashishiokoji-cho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto).
- Smaller post offices are scattered throughout the city, often within walking distance in residential and commercial areas.
3. Private Courier Services
Private courier companies in Kyoto provide additional options for domestic and international shipping. These services are often faster and more flexible than Japan Post.
Yamato Transport (Kuroneko Yamato):
- Known for its Takkyubin service, which offers door-to-door delivery for parcels.
- Offers same-day or next-day delivery for domestic shipments.
- International shipping options include TA-Q-BIN International and Cool TA-Q-BIN (for temperature-sensitive items like food).
Sagawa Express:
- Specializes in domestic parcel delivery with competitive pricing.
- Offers international shipping through partnerships with global courier networks.
DHL, FedEx, and UPS:
- Ideal for international shipping, especially for businesses or urgent deliveries.
- DHL has service points in Kyoto for drop-offs and pickups.
Costs:
- Yamato Takkyubin domestic parcels start at ยฅ900, depending on size and distance.
- International shipping with DHL or FedEx starts at around ยฅ2,000 for small parcels.
Operating Hours:
- Yamato and Sagawa service centers typically operate from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- Convenience stores like 7-Eleven and FamilyMart act as drop-off points for Yamato and Sagawa, offering 24/7 access.
4. Step-by-Step Guide for Sending Packages
Domestic Shipping:
- Prepare Your Package:
- Use appropriate packaging materials (available at post offices or courier service centers).
- Write the recipientโs address in Japanese (if possible) for smoother delivery.
- Visit a Post Office or Courier Center:
- For Japan Post, fill out the required forms (e.g., Yu-Pack label).
- For private couriers, provide the package details at the counter.
- Pay the Shipping Fee:
- Fees are calculated based on size, weight, and destination.
- Receive a Tracking Number:
- Keep the receipt with the tracking number for monitoring the delivery status.
International Shipping:
- Prepare Your Package:
- Use sturdy packaging and include a detailed customs declaration form (available at post offices or courier centers).
- Ensure prohibited items (e.g., flammable goods) are not included.
- Choose a Service:
- EMS for speed, Airmail for balance, or Surface Mail for cost savings.
- For private couriers, select the appropriate international service.
- Fill Out Customs Forms:
- Provide details about the contents, value, and purpose (e.g., gift, merchandise).
- Pay the Shipping Fee:
- Fees depend on weight, size, and destination.
- Track Your Package:
- Use the tracking number provided to monitor the shipment.
5. Local Considerations and Tips
- Convenience Store Drop-Offs:
- Many convenience stores in Kyoto (e.g., Lawson, 7-Eleven) accept parcels for Yamato and Sagawa, making it easy to send packages outside regular office hours.
- Language Barrier:
- Staff at post offices and courier centers may have limited English proficiency. Carry a written note with the recipientโs address in Japanese or use a translation app.
- Eco-Friendly Options:
- Japan Post offers eco-friendly packaging materials. Consider using these to reduce waste.
- Seasonal Shipping:
- During peak seasons (e.g., New Yearโs, Golden Week), expect delays and plan accordingly.
- Tourist-Friendly Services:
- Some post offices in tourist-heavy areas (e.g., near Kyoto Station or Gion) have English-speaking staff and signage.
- Luggage Delivery Services:
- Use Takkyubin to send luggage directly to your hotel or airport, saving you the hassle of carrying heavy bags.
6. Useful Phrases in Japanese
- I want to send this domestically/internationally.
- ๅฝๅ /ๅฝ้ใซ้ใใใใงใใ(Kokunai/Kokusai ni okuritai desu.)
- How much does it cost?
- ใใใใงใใ๏ผ(Ikura desu ka?)
- Can I track this package?
- ใใฎ่ท็ฉใ่ฟฝ่ทกใงใใพใใ๏ผ(Kono nimotsu o tsuiseki dekimasu ka?)
- Where is the nearest post office?
- ไธ็ช่ฟใ้ตไพฟๅฑใฏใฉใใงใใ๏ผ(Ichiban chikai yuubinkyoku wa doko desu ka?)
7. Contact Information
- Japan Post Customer Service (English): 0570-046-111
- Yamato Transport (English Support): 0120-17-9625
- DHL Kyoto Service Point: Check the DHL website for the nearest location.
By following this guide, youโll find it easy to navigate Kyotoโs postal and delivery services, whether youโre sending a postcard to a friend or shipping a package internationally.