Make sure to follow these rules to enjoy duty-free shopping in Japan. The entire process is now fully digitized—no paper forms are required.
1. Eligibility
・General Goods (clothes, shoes, electronics, accessories, etc.): Total daily purchases of ¥5,000 or more (excluding tax) at the same store.
・Consumables (food, beverages, cosmetics, medicines, etc.): Total daily purchases between ¥5,000 and ¥500,000 (excluding tax) at the same store.
・Requirement: Available only for non-residents staying temporarily in Japan (less than 6 months). Your physical passport is strictly required at the time of purchase.
2. In-Store Procedure (Fully Digital)
① Look for the “Tax-Free” sign or logo in the store.
② Shop as usual and head to the designated Tax-Free checkout counter.
③ Present your physical passport to the staff. (Copies or smartphone photos are NOT accepted).
④ The store will scan your passport to register your purchase data electronically with Japan Customs. No paper documents will be attached to your passport.
⑤ Pay the tax-free amount or receive a tax refund on the spot.
3. Recommended & Popular Stores
・Electronics: Yodobashi Camera, Bic Camera, Yamada Denki
・Discount & Cosmetics: Don Quijote, Matsumoto Kiyoshi, Welcia
・Department & Luxury Stores: Mitsukoshi, Isetan, Takashimaya, luxury brand boutiques
・Convenience Stores: Major convenience stores in tourist areas also offer tax-free shopping.
💡 Important In-Store Tips
・Always carry your physical passport: Stores cannot process tax-free shopping without it.
・Card Name Match: The name on your credit card must exactly match the name on your physical passport to qualify for tax-free shopping.
・Do not open consumables: Consumables will be packed in a special sealed plastic bag. Do NOT open this bag while in Japan. If you open it, you will be charged consumption tax at the airport.
・No crossing store lines: Purchases can only be combined for tax-free eligibility within the same store or the same shopping mall on the same day.
Airport Tax-Free Procedures
Since all tax-free purchase data is sent directly to Japan Customs electronically, the airport procedure is incredibly quick and simple.
1. At the Airport (Before Departure)
・You must carry your tax-free items with you or check them in properly.
・Before passing through security/immigration, locate the Customs Counter (税関).
・Simply present your physical passport to the customs officer or scan it at the automated customs kiosk.
・The officer will verify your electronic records. Generally, you do not need to show the items unless requested, but sealed consumables must be intact.
2. If You Plan to Check In Tax-Free Items (In Your Suitcase)
・If your tax-free goods contain liquids (such as cosmetics) that exceed airport carry-on limits, you must pack them in your checked baggage.
・Crucial Step: Inform the airline staff at the check-in counter that you have tax-free items in your suitcase. They will guide you to a customs officer to inspect the goods before you drop your bag.
💡 Arrive with time to spare: While the digital system is fast, customs lines can get long during peak hours. Arrive early to ensure a stress-free departure.