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Sep 3, 2026
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Notice to Travelers Using Japan's Tax-Free Shopping System
Starting November 1, 2026, Japan's tax-free shopping system will change to a refund-based system.
Japan’s consumption tax exemption system will transition to a refund-based system starting November 1, 2026.
Under the current system, eligible visitors, including foreign tourists, can purchase goods at tax-free shops without paying consumption tax.
However, for purchases made on or after November 1, 2026, customers will pay the full tax-inclusive price at the time of purchase. After customs confirms at the airport or other point of departure that the goods are being taken out of Japan, the consumption tax portion will be refunded.
What is the refund-based system?
When purchasing tax-free eligible goods, you will pay the tax-included price at the tax-free shop.
After customs confirms upon departure that the goods are being taken out of Japan, the consumption tax amount will be refunded.
For more information, please visit:
Japan Tourism Agency: New Tax-Free Shopping System for Travelers (Refund-Based System)
Under the current system, eligible visitors, including foreign tourists, can purchase goods at tax-free shops without paying consumption tax.
However, for purchases made on or after November 1, 2026, customers will pay the full tax-inclusive price at the time of purchase. After customs confirms at the airport or other point of departure that the goods are being taken out of Japan, the consumption tax portion will be refunded.
What is the refund-based system?
When purchasing tax-free eligible goods, you will pay the tax-included price at the tax-free shop.
After customs confirms upon departure that the goods are being taken out of Japan, the consumption tax amount will be refunded.
For more information, please visit:
Japan Tourism Agency: New Tax-Free Shopping System for Travelers (Refund-Based System)
