Looking to save some money on your Japanese shopping spree?
Luckily, foreign visitors can take advantage of Japan’s tax-free system!
This guide covers the latest tax-free Japan rules, how to shop tax-free, and essential tips for a smooth experience.
Essential Tax-Free Shopping Rules in Japan
1. Non-Residents Only
Tax-free shopping is strictly for non-residents of Japan. This includes foreign nationals, but be aware you’re ineligible if:
- You have a work visa in Japan.
- You’ve been in Japan for over six months.
IMPORTANT: Using the automatic airport gates without an entry stamp on your passport disqualifies you.
2. Look for the Tax-Free Symbol
Not all shops participate in tax-free shopping. Look for the official tax-free symbol to identify participating stores.
These are often found in tourist areas and large department stores.
For a broader search, use online directories like “[Google search Japan tax-free shop list].” Some stores even offer additional discounts alongside tax-free benefits!
3. Minimum purchase amount
There’s a minimum spend to qualify for tax-free shopping:
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A total of 5,000 yen (excluding tax) must be spent in a single shop on the same day.
IMPORTANT:Consumables (food, drinks, cosmetics, etc.) have a separate upper limit of 500,000 yen (excluding tax). There’s no upper limit for general goods like electronics, bags, and jewelry.
4. Sealed Consumables
Tax-free consumables are sealed in a special tamper-evident bag. Do not open this bag until you return home.
If customs find it open, you’ll be charged consumption tax.
How to Shop at Tax-Free Stores in Japan
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1. Finding Tax-Free shops
As mentioned, look for the tax-free symbol. Alternatively, use online directories, ask your hotel for recommendations, or check our website!
2. Tax-Free at Checkout or Tax Refund Counter
There are two types of tax-free shopping procedures.
Follow the shop’s instructions:
Procedure A: Direct Tax-Free Processing
- Inform the cashier you want tax-free.
- Show your passport (or Visit Japan app’s 2D barcode, if supported).
- Pay the tax-free price directly.
[REFERENCE] Visit Japan
PROCEDURE B: Tax Refund at Counter
- Some department stores require you to pay the full price first.
- Visit the tax-free counter the same day with your receipt, passport, and purchased items.
- Receive a refund in cash or on your credit card (minus any processing fees).
IMPORTANT:Some department stores may charge a tax-free processing fee.
3. Customs at the Airport
When departing Japan, present your passport and tax-free purchases to customs. They may ask for your receipt, so keep it handy.
IMPORTANT:If checking in tax-free items as checked baggage, inform the airline staff beforehand. Customs will then verify them at the check-in counter.
[REFERENCE] Notice to Foreign Travelers Who Purchase Tax-Free Goods (Japan Customs)
Can You Buy Japanese Tax-Free Items Online?
Image by Preis_King from Pixabay
Since 2020, Japan allows online purchases of duty-free items. You must pick them up in Japan, such as at airport duty-free shops or e-commerce sites offering tax-free goods.
Please read this article for more information.
Changes to Japan’s Tax-Free Shopping Procedures Starting November 2026
Currently, Japan uses an Export Tax-Exemption System, where tourists buy tax-free at stores.
Starting November 2026, Japan will switch to a Refund System, requiring tourists to pay consumption tax upfront and receive a refund after customs inspection at departure.
This change may also affect tax exemptions on consumables.
Tourist Coupons That Work with Japan’s Tax-Free Shopping
Here are exclusive discount coupons that can be combined with tax-free shopping for even more savings!
KOMEHYO Tourist Coupon: Tax-Free + Extra 3,000 Yen Off!
KOMEHYO is one of Japan’s leading luxury brand resale shops, offering high-quality second-hand items from famous brands like Louis Vuitton and Hermes at great prices.
Whether you’re in Tokyo’s Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Ginza, or visiting Osaka’s Umeda, Shinsaibashi, or Nagoya in Aichi, you can enjoy a wide selection of luxury goods.
With the KOMEHYO Tourist Coupon, you can enjoy tax-free shopping along with an additional 3,000 Yen discount, making your shopping experience even more special!
For details about the store, please check the following page:
Alpen Group Tourist Coupon: Tax-Free + 5% Off!
Alpen Group is Japan’s largest sports goods retailer, offering a wide range of sports items from sneakers to golf equipment.
Famous stores include Alpen’s flagship locations in Shinjuku, Nagoya, and Fukuoka, but this coupon can also be used at Alpen Group stores across Japan, including Sports Depo and GOLF5.
Take advantage of the 5% discount and tax-free shopping while exploring a variety of top-quality sports gear at great prices!
For details about the store, please check the following page:
Kintetsu Department Store Tourist Coupon: Tax-Free + 5% Off!
Kintetsu Department Store is one of the largest department store groups in the Kansai region, with its famous Abeno Harukas store in Osaka.
Abeno Harukas is not only a shopping destination but also a tourist attraction, featuring an observation deck with stunning views.
As one of Japan’s largest department stores, you can shop for everything from luxury brands to traditional Japanese souvenirs, all in one place.
With the Kintetsu Tourist Coupon, you can enjoy a 5% discount and tax-free shopping, making your experience even more special!
For details about the store, please check the following page:
Odakyu Department Store Tourist Coupon: Tax-Free + Extra 6% Off!
Odakyu Department Store in Shinjuku, Tokyo, is one of the city’s long-established department stores, conveniently located near Shinjuku Station.
It’s the perfect place to stop by for shopping while exploring the area. You can find a wide variety of items, including handbags, watches, jewelry, and golf equipment.
With a 6% discount, this is one of the higher discount rates available at department stores, making it a great deal for visitors!
For details about the store, please check the following page:
EDION Tourist Coupon: Tax-Free + Up to 7% Off!
EDION is a major electronics retailer originally from Osaka, with stores in key cities like Tokyo and Kyoto.
It’s especially popular among inbound tourists for its wide selection of beauty devices and Japan-exclusive electronics.
EDION also offers multilingual support and international payment options such as Alipay.
For large items, airport or hotel delivery is available.
At the Namba flagship store, you can even enjoy attractions like the Ninja House, making your shopping experience even more fun!
For details about the store, please check the following page:
Bic Camera Tourist Coupon: Tax-Free + Up to 7% Off!
Bic Camera is a well-known electronics retailer with multiple locations in Tokyo, all conveniently within walking distance from major train stations, making it easy to add to your travel itinerary.
In addition to a wide selection of Japanese electronics, you’ll find everything from watches, cosmetics, and smartphone accessories to snacks and sake, making it an ideal spot for souvenir shopping.
With the Bic Camera Tourist Coupon, you can enjoy up to 7% off and tax-free shopping on your purchases!
For details about the store, please check the following page:
SUNDRUG Tourist Coupon: Tax-Free + Up to 7% Off!
SUNDRUG is one of Japan’s largest drugstore chains, with nearly 1,000 locations nationwide.
It offers a wide range of products, including medicines, cosmetics, skincare items, and more.
With stores found in nearly every corner of Japan, it’s incredibly convenient for visitors.
Be sure to keep the coupon on your phone, so you can easily take advantage of the tax-free shopping and up to 7% off at any SUNDRUG location!
For details about the store, please check the following page:
Sapporo Drug Store (Satudora) Tourist Coupon: Tax-Free + 5% Off!
Sapporo Drug Store is a major drugstore chain based in Hokkaido, with a large selection of products.
The Tanukikoji store in Sapporo is especially popular among visitors, offering a wide range of goods such as medicines, cosmetics, supplements, snacks, food items, and alcohol.
With everything you need in one place, the Tanukikoji store is the perfect spot for souvenir shopping.
Don’t forget to use your Tourist Coupon for tax-free shopping and an additional 5% off!
For details about the store, please check the following page:
DONKI (Don Quijote) Tourist Coupon: Tax-Free + Up to 7% Off!
DONKI (Don Quijote) is Japan’s most famous discount store, known for its vast selection of goods at great prices.
The MEGA DONKI in Shibuya is especially popular among tourists, offering exclusive products that can only be found there, including DONKI’s own brand items and sweets developed in collaboration with Japanese confectionery makers.
With the DONKI Tourist Coupon, you can enjoy up to 7% off and tax-free shopping, making it the perfect place to shop for unique souvenirs!
For details about the store, please check the following page:
TAKEYA Tourist Coupon: Tax-Free + Up to 7% Off!
TAKEYA is a popular discount store located in Ueno, Tokyo, offering a wide range of products similar to DONKI. However, what sets TAKEYA apart is its impressive selection of branded bags and watches.
With English-speaking staff available, you can easily ask for assistance while shopping.
Whether you’re looking for luxury items or everyday goods, TAKEYA is a great place to enjoy tax-free shopping and up to 7% off with your Tourist Coupon!
For details about the store, please check the following page:
