A Practical Guide to Tax-Free Shopping in Japan

【2025 Latest Edition】Japan Shopping Tax-Free Guide: A Must-Read for Tourists!

When traveling to Japan, shopping is definitely a must! Whether it’s cosmetics, electronics, snacks, or souvenirs, as long as certain conditions are met, you can shop tax-free (current consumption tax is 10%), significantly reducing your expenses. Below is a detailed guide to help you easily enjoy Japan's tax exemption policies.

Who is Eligible for Tax-Free Shopping?

You can enjoy tax-free benefits if you meet the following conditions:

• Non-resident of Japan (holding a foreign passport)
• Entered Japan on a short-term visa (e.g., sightseeing, business)
• Staying in Japan for no more than 6 months from the date of entry
• Must present the original passport when shopping

Note: The passport must be the original and include either the entry stamp or the Visit Japan Web QR code. Photocopies, photos, or screenshots are not accepted.

What Items Are Tax-Free?

Japan’s tax-free items are divided into two categories, each with its own requirements:

Category	Included Items	Tax-Free Amoung Requirement	Usage Regulations
General Goods	Electronics, watches, clothing, toys, etc.	Spend at least ¥5,000 (excluding tax) in the same store on the same day	Can be used within Japan
Consumables	Food, drinks, medicines, cosmetics, etc.	Spend ¥5,000–¥500,000 (excluding tax) in the same store on the same day	Must be sealed and not used in Japan. Must be carried out of Japan sealed.

Important: If you purchase both general goods and consumables in the same store on the same day and wish to process them together as tax-free, they will all be treated as consumables and sealed together. You cannot use them within Japan.

 

How to Find Tax-Free Stores?

• Look for the “Tax-Free Shop” sign at the entrance.
• Department stores, electronics shops, drugstores, fashion brand shops, etc., usually have tax-free counters.
• If unsure, ask the staff: “Tax-free OK?”

 

How to Shop Tax-Free (Step-by-Step)

1.   Choose items and ensure you meet the minimum tax-free amount.

2.   Present your original passport at checkout.

3.   The staff will input your information and generate a tax exemption form.

4.   Sign the agreement form, confirming that you will take the items out of Japan.

5.   Consumables will be sealed in a special bag (cannot be opened in Japan).

Tip: Some stores use an electronic system to upload your tax-free info directly to Japan Customs. In that case, no sticker will be attached to your passport.

 

Special Process in Department Stores

When shopping at large department stores:

• You typically pay with tax included at each brand counter.
• Then, bring all the day’s receipts and items to the Tax Refund Counter within the department store to get your tax refund.

 

Notes for Departure

·         All tax-free items must be carried with you in case they are checked at the airport.

·         Airports have self-service terminals or counters to confirm whether the goods are being taken out of Japan.

·         If selected for inspection, you must present both the items and tax exemption records.

·         If the seal of consumables is broken, you may have to pay back the tax.

·         For large electronics, ensure you have enough luggage space and that they meet airline requirements (as checked or carry-on baggage).

 

Who Cannot Shop Tax-Free?

·         Residents of Japan (including students or people with long-term visas)

·         Shopping on behalf of someone else using another person’s passport

·         If you don’t bring your passport at the time of purchase

·         Planning to use or consume the products within Japan

 

System Update Notice (IMPORTANT!)

Starting November 1, 2026, Japan will fully implement a “refund” system:

• You will pay tax-inclusive prices when shopping
• Upon departure, you must confirm via the system that the goods are being taken out of Japan to receive the tax refund
• On-the-spot tax-free shopping will end, and refunds must be processed before leaving Japan

⚠️ Please be aware of this major change and plan your shopping and departure times accordingly.

 

Extra Tips

·         Airport tax-free shops do not require a minimum amount. They are convenient and instantly tax-free.

·         Using Visit Japan Web helps speed up identity verification and customs clearance.

·         Many stores accept credit cards, UnionPay, Alipay, WeChat Pay, and other payment methods.

·         Convenience stores and some smaller shops may not support tax-free, so confirm in advance.

·         For consumables like food and cosmetics, check their expiration date to avoid waste after returning home.

By mastering these points, not only can you enjoy tax-free shopping legally but also avoid the risk of paying taxes back later. Bookmark this guide and share it with your fellow travelers for a more affordable and worry-free shopping experience in Japan!