Lost something in Japan? What to do at a koban (police box)
Go to the nearest koban or police station and file a Lost Property Report in person. An English form is available, and an interpreter can help over the phone.
Step 1: Go to a koban or police station
A koban is a small neighborhood police box. You will find one near most big stations. If you lost something, go to the nearest koban or police station and file a Lost Property Report.
The report must be made in person. Reports by email are not accepted, and reports for items lost outside Japan cannot be taken.
Step 2: Fill in the form
- An English form is available at police offices.
- If you do not speak Japanese, an interpreter can help over the phone.
- If you do not know where or when you lost it, you should still file the report.
Step 3: Also contact the place where you lost it
If you lost the item in a shop, a station or on a train, contact that place as well. Shops usually keep lost property for a short time, often about a week.
Step 4: Getting the item back
Police will contact you if your item is found, so be ready to give contact details. To collect it you will need valid ID, such as your passport, and the reference number from your report.
In Tokyo, items brought to a koban are kept there for about two weeks. If you do not finish the process within three months of the item being handed to the police, you lose the right to it.
If you cannot collect it yourself, ask the police office about shipping.
Useful numbers
- Tokyo Metropolitan Police Lost and Found Center: 0570-550-142.
- #9110: non-emergency police consultation, with English available.
- 110: emergency police line. See our emergency numbers page.
FAQ
Can I search for my lost item online?
The Tokyo police online database is only in Japanese. It is better to file a report at a koban and ask the staff.
Do I need to speak Japanese?
No. Use the English form and ask for an interpreter. Having your hotel address and phone details ready helps.
Is this page only for Tokyo?
The details here come from the Tokyo Metropolitan Police. Other areas follow a similar system, but check with the local police for exact rules.
Sources
Related tips
- Emergency numbers in Japan: 110, 119 and the visitor hotlineWho to call in Japan: 110 for the police, 119 for an ambulance or fire, and a 24-hour English hotline for visitors.
- How to ride a taxi in Japan: automatic doors, signs and paymentDo not touch the door, because the driver opens and closes it for you. A red sign means the taxi is free. Show your destination in Japanese and do not tip.
- Suica and IC cards: how visitors can pay for trains and shopsA Suica is a rechargeable IC card for trains, buses, vending machines and many shops. Visitors can get a Welcome Suica card or use Welcome Suica Mobile on a phone.
Last checked: 2026-10-27. Rules and prices can change, so please confirm with the official sources above.