Tax-Free Shopping in Japan: How It Works for Tourists

Last reviewed: October 22, 2026 · Prices are approximate and for orientation only.

Rules are changing. Japan announced that its tax-free system for visitors will move from tax exemption at the till to a refund-style system (pay tax at purchase, get it refunded after customs confirms export on departure), scheduled from November 2026. Details below are general — confirm the current procedure on the Japan Tourism Agency and JNTO pages before you shop.

Who can shop tax-free?

Generally, foreign visitors staying in Japan for less than six months under a temporary visitor status. You need your physical passport with your landing stamp or sticker (photos or copies are not accepted). If you entered through an automated gate, make sure you have a record of your entry — ask the immigration officer if unsure.

What is the tax and how much do you save?

Japan's consumption tax is 10% on most goods (8% on food and drinks for consumption off-premises). Shopping tax-free saves that amount, though some stores or counters deduct a small handling fee.

Minimum spend and categories

Historically, purchases had to total at least ¥5,000 (excluding tax) at a single store on a single day. Goods were split into general goods (clothes, electronics, bags) and consumables (cosmetics, food, drinks, medicine), with consumables sealed in special bags you couldn't open in Japan. The refund system is expected to simplify these rules — check what applies on your travel dates.

How the process works

1. Look for the "Japan. Tax-free Shop" sign or ask staff.
2. Present your passport at the till or the store's tax-free counter (department stores often have a central counter on one floor).
3. Your purchase is recorded electronically against your passport.
4. Under the refund system, you pay the full price including tax, then have your goods checked at customs when you leave Japan and receive the refund through the method the store or refund operator offers.
5. Keep tax-free items with you and be prepared to show them at customs on departure — don't pack them deep in checked luggage until you've confirmed the procedure.

Where tax-free shopping is most useful

• Department stores (Isetan, Takashimaya, Daimaru, Mitsukoshi and others), often with central tax-free counters.
• Electronics stores such as Bic Camera and Yodobashi Camera — check that electronics work with your country's voltage and plugs.
• Drugstores (Matsumoto Kiyoshi, Welcia, Daikoku, Sundrug) for cosmetics and skincare.
• Don Quijote discount stores, open late.
• Uniqlo, GU, Muji and other chains.

Things to watch

• Items must be for personal use and taken out of Japan; buying to resell isn't permitted.
• Your home country may charge import duty on goods above its own allowance.
• Some medicines bought in Japan may be restricted in your home country.
• Queues at tax-free counters can be long at weekends — shop on weekday mornings.