Purchases from Nov 1, 2026
Japan tax-free is changing
Pay the tax now, get it back when you fly out
From November 1, tax-free stores in Japan charge the tax-inclusive price. When you leave Japan within 90 days, scan your passport at the customs kiosk before checking your bags, and the store or its refund agent pays back the 10% consumption tax.
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Three steps
- 1Pay with tax at the store
- 2Kiosk at departure
- 3Get the tax back
How much you get back
- ¥10,000+¥909
- ¥50,000+¥4,545
- ¥69,980+¥6,362
- ¥159,800+¥14,527
- ¥219,800+¥19,982
iPhone 18 Pro bought in Japan
- Japan price¥219,800
- After tax refund¥199,818
- US price$1,199 + tax
What changes
Until Oct 31
- Tax removed at the till
- ¥500,000 cap and sealed bags for consumables
- General goods vs consumables
From Nov 1
- Pay tax, refund at departure
- No consumables cap or sealed bags
- Only what you take out within 90 days
Don’t miss this
- Do the kiosk check before checking your bags — once they are checked, you can’t.
- Checks are per receipt: if one item on a receipt is missing, that whole receipt is refused.
- Consumables you ate or used in Japan don’t qualify.
Hotels in Japan
FAQ
What if I buy in October?
Until October 31 the old system applies: tax is removed at the store. Purchases from November 1 use the refund system.
How and when is the refund paid?
After the customs check, the store or its refund agent pays you. Method (card, bank, app, airport cash) and fees are not set by law, so they vary by store — ask when you buy.
Can I do it online?
At Narita, Haneda, Kansai, Chubu, Fukuoka, New Chitose and Naha you can use Visit Japan Web in the dedicated Wi-Fi area of the departure lobby (before security).
Will I pay tax at home?
Your home country’s customs allowance applies when you bring goods back. Check it before buying expensive items.