The short answer

Who can shop tax-free

• Foreign visitors staying short term (such as tourists).
• You must show your original passport at the store — copies or phone photos aren't accepted.
• Purchases qualify when your total at one store on one day reaches a set minimum amount.

How the new system works (from November 1, 2026)

1. Buy at the store: show your passport at a shop with the "TAX-FREE" sign and pay the tax-inclusive price. You also register how you'll receive the refund.
2. Customs check when you leave: scan your passport at the tax-free kiosk in the departure lobby of the airport or port. "GREEN" means no inspection — continue to departure. "RED" means you show your items at the customs counter. Do this before checking in your bags.
3. Get your refund: after the customs check, the store or a refund agent refunds the tax. Refund methods (credit card, cashless payment, cash and so on) vary by store.

The "TAX FREE" signStores where you can shop tax-free display signs like this.

Things to watch out for

• You must have every item on the same receipt with you. If even one is missing, you may lose the refund for that whole receipt.
• Don't open or use consumables like cosmetics and food before you leave Japan.
• Items confirmed by customs must be taken out of Japan.
• Purchases made by October 31, 2026 follow the old rules (tax-free at the time of purchase).

Where tax-free shopping is easy

Don QuijoteSnacks, cosmetics, everyday goods and souvenirs. Many stores stay open late. → Store guide

Bic CameraCameras, electronics and games, with big stores near major stations. → Store guide

Matsumoto KiyoshiA drugstore popular for Japanese cosmetics and medicine. → Store guide

UNIQLOJapan's everyday clothing basics; flagship stores often have multilingual staff. → Store guide

Department stores (Isetan and others)Luxury brands and food-hall souvenirs, with tax-free counters. → Store guide

• Not sure what to buy? See what to buy at convenience stores and drugstores.
• You can also find tax-free stores with the JNTO tax-free shop search.

Frequently asked questions

How did tax-free shopping change in November 2026?

You now pay the tax-inclusive price at the store, and the tax is refunded after customs confirms your purchases at the airport or port when you leave Japan (the "refund system").

What do I need to shop tax-free?

Your original passport — at the store and at customs when you leave.

When and how do I get the refund?

After the customs check at departure, the store or a refund agent refunds you. Methods such as credit card, cashless payment or cash vary by store.

Can I use the cosmetics or snacks while in Japan?

No. Tax-free consumables must stay unopened until you leave Japan; items you've used aren't eligible for a refund.

When should I do the airport procedure?

Before checking in your bags, at the tax-free kiosk or customs in the departure lobby. Arrive at the airport with time to spare.

Official websites

• Japan Tourism Agency: tax-free guide for travelers
• Japan Tourism Agency: tax-free shop site
• JNTO tax-free shop search