Traveling to Japan isn’t just about exploring breathtaking landscapes and rich culture, it’s also a great opportunity to shop at unbeatable prices! Thanks to a frequently favorable exchange rate between the euro and yen, your purchasing power increases, making electronics, fashion, and souvenirs much more affordable.
But that’s not all! Japan also offers a Tax-Free program exclusively for foreign visitors, allowing you to save on the consumption tax (税金, zeikin) under certain conditions.
Want to know how to take advantage of this? Here’s a comprehensive and practical guide to help you navigate Japan’s Tax-Free system and score amazing deals during your trip!
What is the Japan's consumption tax, and how much can you save?
Japan’s consumption tax (equivalent to VAT) is currently 10% on most goods. However, some items, such as takeout food and beverages, are taxed at a reduced rate of 8%.
By combining Japan’s tax exemption with a favorable exchange rate, you can save up to 20–30% compared to prices in Europe / America, especially on high-value items like electronics and luxury clothing.
How does Japan's "Tax-Free" program work ?
Japan’s Tax-Free program is available exclusively for foreign tourists and allows them to purchase certain products without paying the 10% tax.
Who can benefit from the Tax-Free program ?
- Tourist Status: You must be a temporary visitor staying in Japan for less than six months.
- Shop at a Participating Store: Only stores displaying the "Tax-Free" logo offer this benefit. These stores are mostly in major cities and tourist areas.
- Minimum Purchase Requirement:
- Non-consumable goods (electronics, clothing, accessories): 5,000 to 500,000 yen excluding tax (~33 € to 3,300 €)
- Consumable goods (food, cosmetics, medications): 5,000 to 500,000 yen excluding tax (~33 € to 3,300 €)
You cannot combine consumables and non-consumables to meet the 5,000 yen minimum. For example, if you buy 2,500 yen of food and 2,500 yen of clothing, you won’t qualify for tax exemption.
Rules for Tax-Free Shopping in Japan
Japan’s Tax-Free system has strict regulations to prevent tax-free items from being resold within the country.
Consumable Goods (food, drinks, cosmetics, medicine)
- Sealed packaging required: Must be packed in a sealed bag by the store and cannot be opened while in Japan.
- No on-site consumption: If you open the package before leaving Japan, you’ll be required to pay the 10% tax at customs.
Non-Consumable Goods (electronics, clothing, watches, accessories)
- Immediate use allowed: You can use these items as soon as you buy them.
- Must be taken out of Japan: You must leave Japan with these items within six months of your arrival.
Consumable and non-consumable amounts cannot be combined to reach the 5,000 yen threshold.
Planning to buy an iPhone, a designer bag, or a luxury watch? It’s worth waiting until you’re in Japan to get better deals!
Where to shop Tax-Free in Japan?
Many stores participate in the Tax-Free program, including:
- Electronics Stores: BicCamera, Yodobashi Camera
- Department Stores & Malls: Isetan, Takashimaya, Daimaru
- Souvenir & Discount Stores: Don Quijote, Loft, Tokyu Hands
How to Identify Tax-Free Stores? Look for the "Tax-Free" logo at the entrance or near the checkout counter.
How to get a Tax-Free discount at Stores ?
The process is simple, but it may vary slightly depending on the store:
- Shop at a participating store and meet the minimum purchase amount.
- Show your original passport (with your Japan entry stamp) at the "Tax-Free" counter. Some stores also accept a QR code generated on the Japan Visit Web site.
- Pay for your items:
- At some stores (e.g., BicCamera, Don Quijote), the tax is deducted directly at checkout.
- At others, you pay the full amount first and then get a refund at a designated Tax-Free counter inside the mall.
Keep your receipts and Tax-Free documents until you leave Japan.
What happens at the airport when you leave Japan?
Customs Inspection (Rare but Possible)
A customs officer may ask to see your passport and tax-free purchases. In several travels, this has never happened to us.
Carry-On or Checked Baggage ?
It’s recommended to keep tax-free items in your carry-on for quick inspection.
Liquid products are subject to airline regulations for carry-on luggage. If you must check them, inform the airline staff in advance, as customs may need to inspect your bag before it’s loaded.
Bonus tip: Get even more discounts!
Some stores offer additional discounts on top of the Tax-Free program:
- BicCamera: Extra 5–7% discount on selected items.
- Don Quijote: Extra 5% discount for purchases over 10,000 yen.
These offers vary depending on current promotions. You can check available deals on the "Tax-Free Shops" website or the individual store's site.
FAQ: Common Tax-Free questions
Can I claim a tax refund without my passport ?
No. A valid passport is mandatory for tax-free shopping.
Can I get a refund after my purchase?
Only if you initially paid the tax and the store has a Tax-Free counter where you can present your receipt (on the same day).
Can I give a Tax-Free item to someone before leaving Japan?
No. Tax-free items must remain with you until you leave the country.
What if I used the automated immigration gates at the airport?
If you didn’t get an entry stamp, you’ll need to use a QR code via Japan Visit Web. However, if a store doesn’t accept QR codes, you’ll have to pay the tax with no refund.
Where should I pack my tax-free purchases?
Carry-on is best for easier customs inspection. Liquid items must follow airline carry-on limits. If checked, inform the airline in case customs needs to inspect your bag.