🇯🇵 Shopping & tax free
Japan’s 10% consumption tax refund and how discount-store coupons stack
Spend ¥5,000 or more (before tax) in a single store and the 10% consumption tax is deducted on the spot.
This one is about Shopping & tax free — something worth settling before departure so you are not spending local time on it. Work through the 3 checkpoints below in order.
Key checkpoints
- You must present the physical passport — a copy or a photo is not accepted
- Consumables (cosmetics, medicine, snacks) are sealed in a clear bag; opening it before you leave Japan makes it taxable
- Discount chains such as Don Quijote give a further 5% off above ¥10,000 — screenshot the mobile coupon in advance
What to do before departure, in order
Two rules decide the order. First, anything with a deadline — pre-registration, bookings, documents to be issued: miss the cut-off and there is no substitute. Then whatever also works locally, which costs little to postpone.
Most of the items above can only be done before you leave. After arrival, patchy connectivity and opening hours make them harder, so finish what you can while you are still at home.
What to pay attention to in Japan
Japan has digitised its entry procedure, so registering in advance cuts airport queueing time considerably. Cash is still dominant in parts of the country, though, so arriving with cards only can leave you stuck.
Mains voltage is 110V, so some appliances from home will not work directly — check your adapter.
Also worth checking for this destination
For this destination it is worth reading these as well.
💡 Tax-free liquids (gels, creams, alcohol) over 100ml still cannot go in the cabin — put them in your checked suitcase.