From November 2026, the instant tax-free system ends. You'll pay 10% tax upfront everywhere and reclaim it at the airport. Calculate your refund here.
Until October 31, 2026: tourists can shop tax-free instantly at participating stores by showing their passport. The 10% consumption tax (消費税) is removed at the point of sale. The minimum qualifying purchase is ¥5,000 (before tax) at a single store in one day.
From November 1, 2026: the instant tax-free system ends. You pay full price everywhere, then reclaim the tax at the airport departure hall before boarding. Keep every receipt — you must present them at the refund counter. Allow 30–60 extra minutes before your flight for the refund process.
Refund amount = purchase price × 10/110 (approximately 9.09%). For example, ¥50,000 spent returns roughly ¥4,545 in tax. Electronics, clothing, food, and cosmetics all qualify; services (hotels, restaurants, transport) do not.