What is the difference between Tax-Free and Tax Refund in Japan?
Under the former Tax-Free system, eligible shoppers paid a tax-excluded price at the store. Under the Tax Refund system, you pay the tax-inclusive price first and receive the eligible tax refund after customs confirmation when departing Japan.
This page is general reference information based on Japan's refund-based Tax-Free system starting November 1, 2026. Procedures and rules may differ by store, refund provider, airport or port, and may change. Please check the latest information with the Japanese government or the store where you shop.