I've recently returned from vacation in East Asia, where I visited Japan for the first time. Prior to departure I had learned right here at FlyerTalk of the existence in Japan of the takkyubin service. Many knowledgeable FT'ers had posted useful and friendly info about the service. I used the service on three occasions and it was great! It was also reasonably priced and, more importantly, reliable. My luggage was always delivered the very next day. No problem.

Upon first arrival in Tokyo Narita, I was making a connection to a flight to Osaka. I brought all my luggage to the lower level for the flight connection, and the luggage delivery service was right at the counter opposite the small check-in area. I do not read Japanese, but the English translation sign clearly said: Luggage Delivery. I had the service deliver my luggage to my hotel in Kyoto. The luggage arrived the next day. No problem.

Upon check-out from the Kyoto hotel I had the front desk send my luggage to the Tokyo hotel. The luggage arrived the next day. No problem.

At the conclusion of my visit, I had my Tokyo hotel the day before departure send my luggage to Narita Airport. All they needed to know was the name of my ongoing airline. The luggage was waiting for me the next day at the Luggage Service counter. No problem.

On each occasion, I was sending forward 2 large suitcases. Each suitcase was weighed, and the cost for each ranged from 800 to 2,000 Japanese Yen. Cash (Yen) and credit cards were accepted.

Life should be this problem-free right here in New York.