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2026-11-01Tax
🛍️ Tax-Free Shopping Overhaul! Store→Airport Refund
Effective November 1, 2026 — Major change for tourist shopping
🔄 What's changing?
❌ Before (Tax-free at register)
1Show passport
2Buy at price minus 10% consumption tax
3Receive goods in special packaging
4Take items home directly
✅ After (Refund system)
1Buy at regular price including 10% tax
2Keep receipts and passport
3Visit refund counter at airport when departing
4Get tax refund after customs verification
⚠️ Why the change?
- ●Illegal resale of tax-free goods became a serious problem (hundreds of billions of yen annually)
- ●People buying tax-free then reselling domestically, illegally avoiding consumption tax
- ●Mandatory departure verification to prevent fraud
📋 Other changes
No more special packaging
Consumables (cosmetics, food, etc.) no longer require sealed packaging
¥500,000 limit removed
The ¥500,000 tax-free limit on consumables is abolished
Clearer eligibility
Purchases made within 90 days of departure qualify
💡 What travelers need to know
💰 You WILL pay 10% tax at the register (it will feel more expensive)
🧾 NEVER throw away receipts! Required for refund
✈️ Allow extra time at the airport (refund process may take time)
📱 Use stores with e-receipt support for smoother process
🎒 Items must be unused when departing (used items cannot be refunded)
❓ FAQ
Q: What's the minimum purchase amount?
A: ¥5,000 (before tax) at the same store.
Q: When do I get the refund?
A: At the airport after customs verification (cash or card refund).
Q: Do all stores qualify?
A: Only stores displaying "TAX FREE" signage.