As a tourist you can shop in Japan without the 10% consumption tax, but the system changes on 1 November 2026: the discount is no longer applied in the shop and is refunded at the airport instead. Here are the requirements and how each system works.
Tax-free shopping: how to save the 10% tax
As a foreign tourist you can shop free of consumption tax (10%) at authorised shops (you will see the "Tax-Free" or "Japan Tax-Free Shop" sign). It is a real saving worth taking advantage of on electronics, clothing, cosmetics or souvenirs. You need a physical passport and a minimum purchase of 5,000 ¥ (before tax) in the same shop on the same day.
Note: the system changes on 1 November 2026
Here is the detail that makes the difference depending on when you travel:
- Until 31 October 2026 (current system): the discount is applied directly in the shop. You pay the price already without the 10%, presenting your passport at the till or at a tax-free counter.
- From 1 November 2026 (new system): Japan moves to a "pay first, refund later" model. You will pay the full price with tax in the shop and request the refund at the airport before leaving the country, at counters or kiosks. You will have to keep all your receipts and leave extra time before your flight.
If you travel from November 2026, do not throw away any tax-free purchase receipt and allow extra margin at the airport to process the refund. In both systems the minimum threshold of 5,000 ¥ per shop and day remains, and the items must leave Japan with you.
See alsoHow to save money in Japan