Japan tax-free shopping becomes a refund from November 1: pay first, get it back at the airport

The familiar system of showing your passport in a Japanese store and having consumption tax removed on the spot is changing. According to reports, for purchases from November 1, 2026 you pay the tax-inclusive price first, and get the tax back after a customs check at the airport or port when you leave Japan.

This guide is based on Korean news reports (Digital Daily, Newsis, Munhwa Ilbo and Maeil Shinmun) citing Nikkei and the Japan Tourism Agency. We could not access the agency’s original documents, so we include only what the reports confirm.

What changes

For purchases from November 1, you pay the price including consumption tax. When you leave, customs at the airport or port confirms you are taking the goods out of Japan, and you get the tax back, for example in cash or by having a pre-selected card payment cancelled. The refund method and timing differ by store or refund operator.

According to reports, this replaces the in-store tax exemption that has been in place since 1952, the first major overhaul in about 70 years.

How the airport check works

You scan your passport at a customs terminal to confirm the export. Reports citing Nikkei say about 200 terminals will be installed at 36 airports and ports, and some airports will also use a smartphone-based process.

The order matters. If you check in your purchases as hold luggage first, you may not be able to get the customs confirmation. Visit the customs terminal before you check your bags.

Time limit and use restrictions

You must leave Japan and get the confirmation within 90 days of purchase. If you open and use consumable goods before departure, you cannot get a refund. Pay separately for things like cosmetics or snacks you want to use during the trip.

What goes and what stays

The daily purchase cap on consumables and the special sealed transparent bags for consumables are being abolished. The rule that purchases at one store in one day must reach a minimum pre-tax amount remains. Check the exact threshold with the store before you pay.

Four things before you leave

• Bring your passport (it is scanned at the airport terminal)
• Make sure you leave within 90 days of purchase
• Don’t open or use your purchases before departure
• Go to the customs terminal before checking your bags