Japan Tax Refund 2026: Tourist Guide

Japan is switching from the Tax Free system (immediate tax deduction at stores) to Tax Refund (pay first, claim tax back later) starting November 1, 2026.

Photo: Pixabay / auntmasako

Tax Refund Steps

1. When Purchasing Goods at Participating Stores

When purchasing goods at tax-free eligible stores:

Present your passport or the Tax-refund QR Code registered in Visit Japan Web.
Choose your refund method, such as a credit card or other payment methods supported by the store.

Photo: Pixabay / cegoh

Frequently asked questions about claiming tax refunds when shopping in Japan

Illustration: Japan Tourism Agency

2. Before Departing Japan (Within 90 Days from Purchase Date)

Proceed to the tax refund area inside the airport before checking in and checking baggage with your airline, as customs officers may inspect your tax-refunded goods.

Scan your passport at the designated kiosk:

Green screen: Cleared (no further item inspection needed); the process is complete.
Red screen: You must present your goods for inspection by customs officers.

*Select major airports, including Narita, Haneda, Kansai, Chubu Centrair, Fukuoka, New Chitose, and Naha, allow you to process tax refunds via Visit Japan Web on your mobile phone by connecting to designated airport Wi-Fi.

Photo: Pixabay / viarami

3. Receive Your Tax Refund

Once cleared, receive your tax refund via your chosen registered method, such as credit card or other supported payout methods.

Important Notes

You must be able to present tax-refunded items to officers upon request. If you cannot present the items, you may lose eligibility for refunds on all other items on the same receipt.
Items valued at 1 million yen or more may require additional documentation, such as certificates of authenticity or warranty cards.

Customs inspection process for tax-free goods at Japanese airports prior to departure

Illustration: Japan Tourism Agency

Rin's Tips

Arrive at the airport earlier: The tax refund process may have long queues, so registering your tax refund details on Visit Japan Web in advance is recommended for convenience.
Keep separate receipts: Separate receipts for items you plan to consume in Japan from items you intend to claim a tax refund for, since failing to present an item may void the refund for all items on that receipt.
Pack tax-refunded items separately in advance: This ensures you will not need to unpack and rummage through your luggage if selected for inspection.
Keep all receipts: Retain all original receipts as supporting documentation when processing your tax refund.