{"id":11749,"date":"2024-11-11T11:07:00","date_gmt":"2024-11-11T02:07:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/?p=11749"},"modified":"2026-06-23T10:00:00","modified_gmt":"2026-06-23T01:00:00","slug":"how-to-shop-tax-free-in-japan","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/how-to-shop-tax-free-in-japan\/","title":{"rendered":"Japan Travel Tips: How to Shop Tax-Free in Japan"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whether you\u2019ve traveled to Japan before or this is your first time, there is an important change to know before you go shopping. Japan\u2019s tax-free shopping system changed on November 1, 2026, with a new refund-based system now in effect.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Eligible international visitors can still receive an exemption from Japan\u2019s consumption tax when shopping at participating tax-free stores. However, instead of receiving the tax exemption immediately at the time of purchase, you will now pay the tax-inclusive price first. The amount equivalent to the consumption tax is refunded after Japan Customs confirms that your eligible purchases are being taken out of Japan when you depart.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From who is eligible and how much you need to spend to what you need to do before leaving Japan, here is our updated guide to tax-free shopping in Japan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"how-does-tax-free-shopping-in-japan-work\">How Does Tax-Free Shopping in Japan Work?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Japan is home to a huge variety of places to shop, from small independent businesses to major department stores. Whether you\u2019re shopping for Japanese souvenirs, local snacks, cosmetics, clothing, or other items during your trip, understanding how the current tax-free system works can help you plan your purchases and departure procedures. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Shopping tax-free in Japan is simple: eligible customers can claim back the 10% consumption tax (or VAT) to make a saving on qualifying purchases. You\u2019ll find many stores across the country that sell products at tax-free rates too.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"is-style-highlight-box wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>As of November 1, 2026, Japan uses a <strong>refund-based tax-free shopping system<\/strong> for eligible international visitors.<\/strong> Under the previous system, eligible travelers could purchase items without paying consumption tax at participating tax-free stores. Under the current system, you will <strong>pay the tax-inclusive price when you shop and receive the amount equivalent to the consumption tax as a refund after completing the required departure procedures<\/strong>. <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/how-to-shop-tax-free-in-japan\/#sec7\">Jump to the full details below.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list is-style-toc\">\n<li><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/how-to-shop-tax-free-in-japan\/#sec1\">What is the Difference Between Tax-Free and Duty-Free?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/how-to-shop-tax-free-in-japan\/#sec2\">Who is Eligible for Tax-Free Shopping in Japan?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/how-to-shop-tax-free-in-japan\/#sec3\">What Can You Purchase Tax-Free in Japan?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/how-to-shop-tax-free-in-japan\/#sec4\">Where Can You Shop Tax-Free in Japan?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/how-to-shop-tax-free-in-japan\/#sec6\">Tips and Things to Know When Shopping Tax-Free in Japan<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/how-to-shop-tax-free-in-japan\/#sec7\">Japan\u2019s Tax-free Shopping System as of November 1st, 2026<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/AdobeStock_148605713-ake1150-scaled.jpeg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.4988290398126465;width:2560px;height:auto\" title=\"Tokyo, Japan view of Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest crossw\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">\u00a9\ufe0e ake1150 \/ Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"sec1\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is the Difference Between Tax-Free and Duty-Free?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The concept of tax-free and duty-free may seem similar, but there are some key differences:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Duty-Free:<\/strong> Duty-free goods are typically sold to Japanese and foreign travelers departing the country. They\u2019re exempt from multiple taxes (not just consumption tax), such as tobacco and liquor tax. Duty-free products are usually sold in airports or other points of entry into a country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Tax-Free:<\/strong> Tax-free stores sell goods to non-residents and foreign travelers, but they\u2019re exempt from consumption tax only. These are more general items than available in duty-free stores, though there is some crossover.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/machiyalocals.com\/?utm_source=blog&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=2024\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><picture><source media=\"(max-width: 600px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/wp\/wp-content\/themes\/mih_new\/asset\/images\/common\/random_sp.gif\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/wp\/wp-content\/themes\/mih_new\/asset\/images\/common\/random_pc.gif\" alt=\"\"\/><\/picture><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"sec2\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Who is Eligible for Tax-Free Shopping in Japan?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph iC-txt\">The following people are eligible to shop in Japan tax-free:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u30fbNon-residents and foreign visitors to Japan who have been in the country for less than six months<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u30fbJapanese nationals who have returned to the country on a temporary basis<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u30fbCruise ship passengers arriving in Japan on a cruise landing permit&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you fall into one of these categories, you are eligible for tax-free shopping in Japan. You <strong>must<\/strong>, however, present your passport when buying tax-free goods.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"sec3\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Can You Purchase Tax-Free in Japan?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em><strong>Note:<\/strong> The consumables\/general goods distinction described below applies to purchases made<\/em> <strong><em>on or before October 31, 2026<\/em><\/strong><em>. From November 1, 2026, the two categories will be merged into a single unified category.<\/em> <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/how-to-shop-tax-free-in-japan\/#sec7\"><em>See the Changes section<\/em><\/a> <em>for full details.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Unfortunately, you can\u2019t buy <strong><em>everything<\/em><\/strong> in Japan tax-free. Items you want to purchase must fit into one of two categories:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">1.) Consumables<br>2.) General Goods<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Let\u2019s find out just exactly what that means.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"consumables\">Consumables<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Consumable goods include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u30fbFood<br>\u30fbDrinks<br>\u30fbMedicine<br>\u30fbHealth food products<br>\u30fbCosmetics<br>\u30fbCigarettes<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But if you buy any consumable items in Japan tax-free, you <strong><em>cannot<\/em><\/strong> consume them while still in Japan. All consumable goods will be sealed and labeled at the point of purchase. You won\u2019t be able to open them until you leave the country.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Another stipulation is that you <strong>must spend 5,000 \u2013 500,000 Yen<\/strong>, buy the goods on the same day in the same store, and take them out of Japan within 30 days.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"general-goods\">General Goods<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">General goods include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u30fbClothing<br>\u30fbElectronics<br>\u30fbJewelry<br>\u30fbHouseware<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These items <strong>do not require special packaging or labels<\/strong>. You can use your purchases while still in Japan, but you <strong>must<\/strong> take them out of the country within six months of entering. The minimum spend to qualify for a tax refund is 5,000 Yen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"sec4\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where Can You Shop Tax-Free in Japan?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/AdobeStock_812229340_Editorial_Use_Only-ake1150-scaled.jpeg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.3333333333333333;width:2560px;height:auto\" title=\"\u5bb6\u96fb\u91cf\u8ca9\u5e97\u306e\u514d\u7a0e\u306e\u770b\u677f\u30022024\u5e745\u6708\u3001\u6771\u4eac\u90fd\u5343\u4ee3\u7530\u533a\u306b\u3066\u64ae\u5f71\u3002\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">\u00a9\ufe0e ake1150 \/ Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You <strong>cannot<\/strong> shop tax-free everywhere in Japan. Only certain types of stores participate. These usually include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u30fbAirport stores<br>\u30fbDepartment stores<br>\u30fbOutlet malls<br>\u30fbStores in shopping districts and tourist-heavy areas<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Businesses that offer tax-free shopping in Japan display a prominent <strong>\u201cJapan Tax-Free Shop\u201d<\/strong> sign or sticker. These are typically red and white to make sure they stand out.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019re not sure whether a store offers tax-free shopping, don\u2019t hesitate to ask. Otherwise, you may spend more than you intend to if you can\u2019t apply for a tax refund.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"sec6\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tips and Things to Know When Shopping Tax-Free in Japan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are a few key points to remember when shopping tax-free in Japan:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u30fbThe name on your passport <strong>must<\/strong> <strong>match<\/strong> the name on the credit card you use to buy tax-free goods.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u30fbTake care when purchasing both general <strong>and<\/strong> consumable goods in one transaction: you need to spend at least 5,000 Yen in each category to qualify for tax-free shopping in Japan. <em>(Note: this two-category rule applies until October 31, 2026. From November 1, 2026, all goods can be combined toward the 5,000 Yen minimum.)<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u30fbYou <strong>can\u2019t open consumables<\/strong> until you leave Japan. If you can\u2019t wait until then, you will need to give up your tax exemption. <em>(Note: the sealed consumables rule and special packaging requirement are abolished from November 1, 2026.)<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u30fbWhen preparing to leave Japan, confirm with customs which items are accepted as carry-on luggage and which are prohibited. Do this before you complete your check-in procedures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u30fbTo shop tax-free in Japan, your passport <strong>must carry an entry stamp<\/strong> showing your date of arrival. If you use an automated gate at airports such as Narita, Haneda, Chubu, or Kansai, your passport may not be stamped automatically \u2014 but you can request one. Simply inform the immigration officer at the gate that you need an entry stamp for tax-free shopping purposes, and they will add it for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u30fbMake sure that you can legally bring <strong>all<\/strong> the products you buy into your home country after your trip to Japan.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u30fb<strong>Tax-free goods must leave Japan in your baggage.<\/strong> Since April 1, 2025, items purchased tax-free can no longer be shipped home internationally and still qualify for the tax exemption. You must physically carry all tax-free purchases out of the country when you depart. (You can still ship items home, but they will not be tax-free.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u30fb<strong>Visit Japan Web offers a tax-free QR code<\/strong> that links your passport information to your purchases, allowing you to complete in-store tax-free procedures without handing over your physical passport each time. It is important to note, however, that some retailers may not accept the QR code ahead of the&nbsp; November 2026 changes. Keep your physical passport and all receipts with you, regardless if you plan to use the QR code or not.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"sec7\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Japan\u2019s Tax-free Shopping System as of November 1st, 2026<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/AdobeStock_287803177-leungchopan-scaled.jpeg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.8962962962962964;width:2560px;height:auto\" title=\"Tokyo, Japan, 27 June 2019: Akihabara district in Tokyo city at night\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">\u00a9\ufe0e leungchopan \/ Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Starting November 1, 2026, tax-free shopping in Japan will shift to a new refund-based system. Here\u2019s what you need to know about the new system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"the-new-system-from-november-1-2026\"><strong>The New System (From November 1, 2026)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From November 1, 2026, the in-store tax exemption ends entirely. There is no overlap period \u2014 if your purchase is made on or after that date, the new rules apply in full.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Under the new system, here\u2019s how the process works:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>At the store:<\/strong> Present your passport at the register. You pay the full tax-inclusive price. The store registers your purchase digitally, and a record is automatically transmitted to Japan\u2019s customs system. You take your items with you, no sealed packaging required.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Keep your receipts:<\/strong> Hold onto all purchase receipts. You will need these when claiming your refund at the airport. If receipts are missing, your refund may be denied.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>At the airport:<\/strong> Before boarding your international flight, go through the tax refund procedure. Depending on the airport, this may be at a staffed customs counter or a self-service kiosk, where scanning your passport will pull up your registered purchase records automatically. You may be asked to show your purchased items, so make sure everything is accessible. Allow extra time before your flight, especially during peak travel seasons. Once the review of your records is completed, the system will proceed with your refund.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"what-else-is-changing\"><strong>What Else is Changing?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The November 2026 update also brings some simplifications worth knowing about:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u30fb<strong>No more sealed packaging.<\/strong> You are no longer required to seal consumables in special bags at the point of purchase.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u30fb<strong>No more consumables vs. general goods split.<\/strong> The two product categories are merged into one. All eligible goods can be combined to meet the 5,000 Yen minimum spend.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u30fb<strong>No more 500,000 Yen spending cap.<\/strong> The previous daily limit on consumables is removed under the new system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u30fb<strong>The 5,000 Yen minimum spend remains.<\/strong> You still need to spend at least 5,000 Yen (pre-tax) in a single store on the same day to qualify.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u30fb<strong>Depart within 90 days of purchase.<\/strong> Under the new system, you must leave Japan within 90 days of purchase for your refund to be valid (compared to 30 days for consumables under the old system).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u30fb<strong>Goods must leave Japan with you.<\/strong> Purchases mailed or shipped home do not qualify for the tax refund. All items must be in your personal baggage when you depart.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"is-tax-free-shopping-still-worth-it-after-november-2026\"><strong>Is Tax-Free Shopping Still Worth It After November 2026?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes \u2014 the saving is the same 10%, you simply receive it on the way out rather than at the register at the time of purchase. The main things to plan for are keeping all your receipts, budgeting for the full tax-inclusive price when you shop, and allowing extra time at the airport for the refund process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"ready-to-plan-your-japan-tax-free-shopping-trip\">Ready to Plan Your Japan Tax-Free Shopping Trip?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Shopping tax-free in Japan is a fantastic way to pick up amazing consumables and general goods in a more affordable way. And if you need a comfortable place to relax after a day\u2019s tax-free shopping in Japan, we\u2019re happy to help!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Other article you may be interested in:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u30fb<a href=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/money-in-japan-currency-exchange\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Tips for Money in Japan and Currency Exchange Options<\/a><br>\u30fb<a href=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/japan-travel-tips-internet-access\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Japan Travel Tips: Internet Access While Traveling in Japan<\/a><br>\u30fb<a href=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/tips-for-a-stress-free-japan-trip-advice-from-locals\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Best Travel Tips: What to Pack for Japan &amp; Practical Info<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"where-to-stay-when-in-japan\">Where to stay when in Japan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped is-style-slider wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"696\" height=\"464\" data-id=\"12035\" src=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Izuki-machiya-exterior-696x464.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12035\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Izuki-machiya-exterior-696x464.webp 696w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Izuki-machiya-exterior-431x287.webp 431w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Izuki-machiya-exterior-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Izuki-machiya-exterior-1536x1024.webp 1536w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Izuki-machiya-exterior.webp 2000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"695\" height=\"464\" data-id=\"9227\" src=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/2023_0413_0483-695x464.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-9227\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/2023_0413_0483-695x464.jpg 695w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/2023_0413_0483-430x287.jpg 430w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/2023_0413_0483-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/2023_0413_0483-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/2023_0413_0483.jpg 2000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 695px) 100vw, 695px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"696\" height=\"464\" data-id=\"12214\" src=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/2024_1111_0081-696x464.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12214\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/2024_1111_0081-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/2024_1111_0081-431x287.jpg 431w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/2024_1111_0081-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/2024_1111_0081-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/2024_1111_0081-2048x1365.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"695\" height=\"464\" data-id=\"9693\" src=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/hanagoromo_machiya-695x464.jpg\" alt=\"Two private, neighboring traditional Japanese homes in Kyoto, Japan.\" class=\"wp-image-9693\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/hanagoromo_machiya-695x464.jpg 695w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/hanagoromo_machiya-430x287.jpg 430w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/hanagoromo_machiya-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/hanagoromo_machiya-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/hanagoromo_machiya.jpg 2000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 695px) 100vw, 695px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"696\" height=\"464\" data-id=\"12043\" src=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/suigetsu-machiya-garden-696x464.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12043\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/suigetsu-machiya-garden-696x464.webp 696w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/suigetsu-machiya-garden-430x287.webp 430w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/suigetsu-machiya-garden-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/suigetsu-machiya-garden-1536x1025.webp 1536w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/suigetsu-machiya-garden.webp 2000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"696\" height=\"464\" data-id=\"11791\" src=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/traditional-Japanese-house4-696x464.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-11791\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/traditional-Japanese-house4-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/traditional-Japanese-house4-430x287.jpg 430w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/traditional-Japanese-house4-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/traditional-Japanese-house4-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/traditional-Japanese-house4.jpg 2000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"695\" height=\"464\" data-id=\"10774\" src=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/2022_0824_0952-695x464.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-10774\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/2022_0824_0952-695x464.jpg 695w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/2022_0824_0952-430x287.jpg 430w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/2022_0824_0952-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/2022_0824_0952-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/2022_0824_0952-2048x1367.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 695px) 100vw, 695px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"696\" height=\"464\" data-id=\"11997\" src=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/ichika_6-696x464.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-11997\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/ichika_6-696x464.webp 696w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/ichika_6-431x287.webp 431w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/ichika_6-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/ichika_6-1536x1024.webp 1536w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/ichika_6.webp 2000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"stay-in-a-traditional-japanese-machiya\">Stay in a Traditional Japanese Machiya<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/\">MACHIYA INNS &amp; HOTELS<\/a><\/strong> offers over 100 traditional Japanese accommodations welcoming guests in Kyoto, Kanazawa, and Takayama. At the heart of our approach is the restoration and revival of <em>machiya<\/em>, traditional Japanese townhouses shaped by the history, architecture, and culture of their local communities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our accommodations include restored traditional machiya as well as properties that revive the character of machiya architecture through traditional design, local craftsmanship, and techniques connected to each region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Stay in a private machiya holiday house, where you can have an entire traditional Japanese home to yourself, or choose a room in one of our boutique machiya hotels. From architectural details and Japanese gardens to tatami rooms and local craftsmanship, each stay offers a closer connection to Japanese design and the destination around it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Find your machiya accommodation and book through the <strong><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/\">MACHIYA INNS &amp; HOTELS official website<\/a><\/strong> for exclusive offers and our best available rate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-fe48e5de wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div style=\"--wp--block-button--width: 50;\" class=\"wp-block-button has-custom-width wp-block-button__width wp-block-button__width-50\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/\" style=\"border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;background-color:#b7a686\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Book Now<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:200px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Whether you\u2019ve traveled to Japan before or this is your first time, there is an important change to know before you go shopping. Japan\u2019s tax-free shopping system changed on November 1, 2026, with a new refund-based system now in effect. Eligible international visitors can still receive an exemption from Japan\u2019s consumption tax when shopping at [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":11755,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_lmt_disableupdate":"yes","_lmt_disable":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[612,12],"tags":[631,574,167,578,632,579,469,634,630,108,512],"class_list":["post-11749","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-japan-travel-tips","category-kyoto","tag-duty-free","tag-ic-card","tag-japan","tag-japan-money","tag-japan-tax-free","tag-money-in-japan","tag-post","tag-shpping-in-japan","tag-tax-free","tag-travel","tag-travel-tips"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.8 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Japan Travel Tips: How to Shop Tax-Free in Japan - MACHIYA Magazine<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Learn how to shop tax-free in Japan, including eligibility, qualifying purchases, and what travelers need to know about the new tax refund system from November 2026.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/how-to-shop-tax-free-in-japan\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Japan Travel Tips: How to Shop Tax-Free in Japan - 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