The 90-Day Rule for Japan's Tax Refund
Free refund calculator — see your number in 10 seconds →To get the consumption tax back, you must have customs confirm your goods when you leave Japan within 90 days of the purchase date (JTA FAQ).
- The clock runs per purchase date. On a long stay, early purchases can expire first.
- Do it at the final airport or seaport you leave Japan from.
- Do it before baggage check-in; checked bags can't be pulled back.
Staying longer than 90 days? Plan big purchases for the last part of your trip.
Quick answers
How long do I have to get the Japan tax refund?
You must leave Japan and complete the customs confirmation within 90 days of the purchase date to receive the refund (Japan Tourism Agency FAQ).
Where do I do it if I fly domestic first?
At the final airport from which you leave Japan, before checking your bags (Japan Tourism Agency FAQ).
When at the airport?
Before you check in your baggage. A checked suitcase cannot be pulled back for inspection (Japan Tourism Agency FAQ).
Related: Airport steps · Refund methods & timing · Red result / missed kiosk · Departure checklist
Planning a Japan trip after Nov 1, 2026?
- Tax-Free Refund Field Guide ($7) — a step-by-step English guide to the new refund process, from shop to airport.
- Japan Trip Planner Pack ($9) — planning templates for a first Japan trip.
- Tax-Free Receipt Tracker 2026 (from $5) — spreadsheet that flags the ¥5,000 minimum, 90-day deadline and estimated refund per shop/day.
Paid products by GuroWorks, the publisher of this free site (advertisement for our own products). 14-day refund on Gumroad for the guide. The calculator stays free.
Official sources
Rules checked November 3, 2026 (JST). Rules can change; always confirm with the official pages and your shop.
- Japan Tourism Agency — Traveler FAQ (Refund Method, Japanese): www.mlit.go.jp
- Japan Customs — Tax Exemption (Refund) Program: www.customs.go.jp