Tax-Free Shopping in Japan

One of the best perks of shopping in Japan is the opportunity to buy many items tax-free. If you’re an international visitor, you may be able to save 10% on eligible purchases at participating stores.

Here’s what you need to know before you shop.

Who Can Shop Tax-Free?

You may qualify for tax-free shopping if you:

Are visiting Japan as a temporary visitor
Have a valid passport
Make your purchase at a participating tax-free store
Meet the store’s minimum purchase requirement

Be sure to bring your physical passport with you when shopping. In most cases, a photocopy or digital version is not accepted.

Look for the Tax-Free Sign

Many department stores, electronics stores, pharmacies, and souvenir shops display a Tax-Free sign near the entrance or checkout.

Popular tax-free stores include:

Don Quijote
Bic Camera
Yodobashi Camera
Matsumoto Kiyoshi
Daiso (selected locations)
Major department stores

How Does It Work?

Shopping tax-free is easy.

Choose your items.
Take them to the tax-free counter or checkout.
Show your passport.
The consumption tax will be deducted or refunded, depending on the store.

The process usually takes only a few minutes.

What Can You Buy?

Tax-free shopping is available for many products, including:

Cosmetics
Medicines
Snacks and sweets
Electronics
Clothing
Shoes
Bags
Watches
Souvenirs
Kitchenware
Stationery

Things to Know

You must carry your passport when shopping.
Some stores have a minimum purchase amount.
Not every store offers tax-free shopping.
Staff are usually familiar with helping international visitors.

Should You Open Your Purchases?

Most everyday goods such as clothing or electronics can be used immediately.

However, some tax-free consumable items (such as cosmetics, medicines, alcohol, and certain foods) may be sealed in a special bag. Depending on the current tax-free rules and the store’s procedures, these items may be intended to remain unopened until you leave Japan.

If you’re unsure, simply ask the staff before opening the package.

LOCAL TIP

Department stores often have dedicated tax-free counters where you can process purchases from multiple shops in the same building at once. If you’re planning a big shopping day, it can save time to do all your shopping first and visit the tax-free counter before you leave.

Also, don’t forget to keep your passport with you whenever you shop—you won’t be able to claim tax-free benefits without it.