Is tax-free shopping available to me?

It is designed for eligible short-term visitors, and conditions apply, so whether it is available to you depends on your status and the store. Not every shop takes part; participating stores usually show a sign or logo. According to the Japan National Tourism Organization, Japan is changing the system on 1 November 2026 from exemption at the point of sale to a refund when you leave the country. Verify the current rules on the official JNTO and National Tax Agency pages, or ask the store, before you travel.¹