Japan Tax-Free Shopping Changed in November 2026: How the New Refund System Works

Key points

For purchases made on or after November 1, 2026, tax-free shops in Japan charge the full price, including consumption tax. You get the tax back after customs confirms at departure that you are taking the goods out of Japan.
The minimum is still ¥5,000 (before tax) per day at the same store.
Do the customs check at the airport kiosk before you check in your bags, with your passport and every item from each receipt.
You have 90 days from the purchase date. Food, drinks and cosmetics you use up in Japan no longer qualify.

What changed on November 1, 2026?

Until October 31, 2026, eligible travelers paid the price without consumption tax at the counter. From November 1, 2026, Japan uses a "refund method": you pay the tax-inclusive price at the shop, the shop records the purchase, and you receive an amount equal to the consumption tax after customs confirms the export when you leave (Japan Tourism Agency).

The special sealed packaging for consumables has been abolished. In exchange, the rule is simple: if you eat, drink or use the item in Japan, you cannot get the refund for it.

How does tax-free shopping work now, step by step?

At the shop: buy at least ¥5,000 (before tax) in one day at the same store and pay the price including tax. Gold and platinum bullion are excluded. Keep your receipt.
At the airport, before check-in: go to a tax-free procedure kiosk in the international departure lobby. Show your passport and have all the goods with you. At seven major airports (Narita, Haneda, Kansai, Chubu, Fukuoka, New Chitose and Naha), Visit Japan Web can be used instead of a kiosk, if you are in Japan as a temporary visitor.
Green or red: a green result means you are done. A red result sends you to a customs officer for an inspection.
Refund: after confirmation, the shop refunds the tax amount. How and when you receive it depends on the shop, so ask at the counter when you buy.

Five mistakes that cost travelers their refund

Checking in your bags first. Once your suitcase is with the airline, you cannot take it back for the procedure.
Missing one item from a receipt. Confirmation is per receipt. If even one item from a receipt is missing, you lose the refund for everything on that receipt.
Using the products. Food, drinks or cosmetics consumed in Japan are not eligible. If you used some, tell the customs officer at the counter instead of using the kiosk.
Running out of time. The check must be done within 90 days of purchase and before boarding. Leave extra time at the airport. Neither the airline nor customs will compensate a missed flight.
Doing it at the wrong airport. If you take a domestic flight to connect to your international flight, do the procedure at the last airport before you leave Japan.

Is it still worth buying tax-free in Japan?

Yes, for larger purchases such as watches, cameras, designer goods, knives or collectibles. You simply pay more up front and wait for the refund. Plan your shopping so that the items you want refunded stay unopened and in your carry-on or easy-to-reach luggage until the kiosk.

When a local helps

Many shops explain the new rules only in Japanese, and rules for refunds differ from shop to shop. A local who speaks your language can come shopping with you, ask the staff how the refund is paid, and help you check your receipts before you fly. Tax-free status belongs to you as the traveler, so you still buy and carry the goods yourself.

On jpwork hub, you can message vetted partners in Japan before booking, and ask a simple question first. See shopping and collectibles support or find a partner.

Sources: Japan Tourism Agency, "What is the Refund Method?". Rules can change, so check the official page before you travel. Information as of November 2, 2026.