Hi kawan-kawan! 👋
I just got back from Japan – still recovering from the shopping high! 😆 Whether it's skincare, snacks, or gadgets, Japan is truly a shopper's paradise. But did you know that as Malaysians, we can get 10% tax back on many of our purchases? 🎉 Yup, it's called Tax-Free Shopping, and trust me, the savings really add up.
Let me walk you through everything you need to know – from how the tax system works to how to claim your refund like a pro. Grab your notepad (or your phone, haha), because this guide is going to save you some serious yen! 💴💡
🧾 Tax Refund and Exemption
In Japan, you’ll notice that the price tag often includes two numbers – the base price and the price with tax included. That extra 10% is called Consumption Tax. It’s like Malaysia’s SST, applied to most goods and services.
But here's the good news: Tourists are exempted from this tax on eligible items bought at approved stores. 🙌
This means:
- More budget for your next bowl of ramen 🍜
- More skincare from Shiseido and Hada Labo 💆♀️
- And more kawaii souvenirs for family and friends 🎁
💡 Consumption Tax in Japan
Japan's Consumption Tax is currently 10%, and it applies to:
- Fashion & apparel 👕👗
- Electronics & gadgets 💻📱
- Beauty products & skincare 💄🧴
- Snacks & packaged food 🍘🍫
- Drinks (non-alcoholic) 🧃
You might not notice it right away, but this tax sneaks up fast, especially when you’re doing some serious shopping in places like Don Quijote or Bic Camera
🧠 Tip: Always check the “tax-included” vs “tax-excluded” prices. Some stores show both clearly.
📜 The Current Tax Exemption System – What’s Eligible?
There are two main categories for tax exemption in Japan:
1. General Goods:
Things like clothes, electronics, bags, toys, etc. These are non-consumable items.
Conditions:
- Must spend at least ¥5,000 (excluding tax) in one day, in the same store.
- No maximum limit – go wild (if your luggage can handle it 😂).
2. Consumable Goods:
Food, drinks, cosmetics, medicine, toothpaste, supplements, etc.
Conditions:
- Minimum spend: ¥5,000
- Maximum limit: ¥500,000 (about RM16,000)
- Items must be sealed and used outside Japan only.
- Usually packed in a special sealed bag by the store – don’t open it before you fly!
⚠️ Some shops allow combining both types, others handle them separately. Always ask!
✅ Tax Refund Conditions – Are You Eligible?
Here’s what you’ll need to qualify for the tax exemption:
✅ You must be:
- A non-resident of Japan (tourist visa holder)
- Staying in Japan for less than 6 months
✅ You must:
- Bring your physical passport with you when shopping (photocopies not accepted)
- Spend at least ¥5,000 before tax in a single store in one day
- Buy items for personal use only – not for business or resale
- Leave Japan within 30 days of the purchase date
- Not open or use consumables in Japan
✈️ Customs may inspect your tax-free items at the airport, so keep everything sealed and accessible in your carry-on bag!
Cheap Hotels in Tokyo
5 star
Great716 Ulasan
Central Tokyo Tokyo|2.87km dari pusat bandar
service very good, didn’t like menu in cafe. Buffet breakfast too expensive. Starbucks across the street also many restaurants but didn’t try. Location great . Cabs available . concierge helpfull.amenities great. room spacious and comfortable .wonderful garden for view and walking. very enjoyable stay.Dari$157
Great1246 Ulasan
Ginza/Tsukiji Tokyo|0.49km dari pusat bandar
The environment is very clean, and the bedding is super comfortable. It's really convenient to pick up toiletries downstairs. Although the room is small, it has everything you need. We chose this hotel because my partner smokes, and it's one of the few smoking rooms available in Tokyo. The location is, of course, incredibly convenient. We booked a car for 10 days, but didn't use it at all for two days because we were shopping in Ginza. We paid a higher price than usual, but the location and comfort are excellent, and the room is clean. I'll definitely stay here again.Dari$168
Amazing1789 Ulasan
Ginza/Tsukiji Tokyo|0.66km dari pusat bandar
I stayed at the Imperial Hotel a few years ago during my first trip to Japan and loved it. However, after travel resumed, the prices at the Imperial Hotel became quite high, so I didn't choose it. This time, when booking, I found the prices to be good and promptly booked here. And indeed, the Imperial Hotel is still superb!
The lobby was bustling with many guests checking in, but as soon as I entered, the staff immediately came forward enthusiastically to offer help. The check-in process was super fast. Even though it wasn't yet 3 PM, I was smoothly allowed to check in and even received a welcome gift – a box of delicious mini cakes.
The room was very spacious, and the view was unbeatable. There was even a table by the window, perfect for enjoying tea, snacks, and the scenery.
The bathroom was also very roomy and felt like it had been recently renovated, with all the facilities looking new. I especially loved the shower with its strong water pressure; a quick rinse instantly relieved my body's fatigue.
The bed was also very comfortable. Honestly, everything was satisfying. I had a wonderful stay this time. I hope to stay here again next time~Dari$210
Great3222 Ulasan
Suidobashi/Tokyo Dome Tokyo|3.75km dari pusat bandar
Location -
Not exactly near the other tourist spots, e.g. +/- 25 mins by train (including walking) to Shinjuku Station. But the hotel/Tokyo Dome City is near many train lines.
Tokyo Dome is self sufficient on its own and you can spend 2 full days there, there is so much to eat, shop and do at the amusement park (no entrance fee needed, pay per ride, only accepts cash or IC card for the individual ticket booths, no credit card), and Animal Touch Kingdom which the adults enjoyed too. There is a Lawson on the 2nd floor of the hotel, extremely convenient. If you prefer 7 eleven, there is one opposite the hotel.
View -
Breathtaking. We could see the Tokyo Tower from our room as well.
Room & amenities -
Big, clean, spacious and comfortable.
All the amenities you could possibly need are provided.
They even have little kits with moisturiser, facial wash, etc.
Service -
All the staff are extremely friendly, polite and helpful.
Especially Nagahara - san who was mending the luggage deposit counter on the day we checked out. He is super amazing! Our 4 year old adored him. He was very, very patient with our 4 year old who wanted to help ”carry” the luggage onto the trolleys to be kept.
We had a package delivered to the hotel a week prior to our arrival and the hotel graciously kept it for us. Upon check in, the staff were automatically notified via the system that we arrived and arranged for the package to be sent to our room.
Cons -
The self check in counters are meant to help ease the check in waiting time but the machines are not intelligent at all. We had to redo the check in process and key in everything repeatedly because the passport scanner sort of malfunctioned and could not scan the passport clearly.
Then for some reason, it did not register that we had a booking for 2 adults 1 child and it did not ask to scan our kid's passport and we still had to have a staff manually scan and register our kid.
We wasted so much time that the manual check in counter would have probably been faster. Staff were very helpful and apologetic about it.
Overall -
Lifts are not too slow, even though there are 43 floors.
We never had to wait too long for the lift. It does not feel dated for a hotel that is 25 years old. Pleasant stay, will definitely be back.Dari$79
Great1732 Ulasan
Tokyo Tower Area Tokyo|2.41km dari pusat bandar
I was really pleased with my stay at the Prince Hotel Tower in Tokyo! The location is incredibly convenient, with easy access to transportation, making it simple to explore the city. Upon entering the lobby, I was struck by its grandeur, yet the staff were friendly and welcoming, creating a warm atmosphere.
The room was spacious and clean, with a stunning view. I was on a floor that offered a glimpse of Tokyo Tower, which looked beautiful when lit up at night. Just sitting by the window felt worth the price. The bed and pillows were very comfortable, ensuring a great night's sleep.
I also recommend the breakfast, which had a wide variety of options, both Japanese and Western, all served elegantly. Plus, there’s a lovely garden nearby for a morning stroll, which was quite enjoyable.
This hotel is definitely one I’d want to return to. Both the facilities and the quality of service instilled a sense of security, making my experience truly delightful.Dari$162
Great474 Ulasan
Shinagawa Tokyo|4.74km dari pusat bandar
The room was bright and of a good size. It came with Mikimoto toiletries, and I even took the unused ones home. The pillows deserve a special mention, as they were the most comfortable I've ever slept on in a hotel. The hotel also features its own beautiful garden courtyard, which is perfect for a relaxing half-hour stroll.
Transportation is very convenient. A shuttle bus provides direct service to Meguro Station, and from there, the Yamanote Line offers excellent access to Shibuya, Harajuku, and Shinjuku. Getting to Yokohama is also straightforward. Taxis are readily available 24/7 right outside the hotel entrance.
A taxi ride to Haneda Airport cost around ¥3,000-¥4,000, which I considered a reasonable price.
The only minor issue was that the in-room coffee machine wasn't very clean, so I'd recommend checking it thoroughly before use.Dari$227
Amazing264 Ulasan
Tokyo Station/Nihonbashi Tokyo|1.35km dari pusat bandar
Outstanding Stay — Exceptional Service and Perfect Location
Our stay at Marunouchi Hotel was absolutely wonderful from start to finish. The level of service was consistently high, with staff who were attentive, professional, and genuinely welcoming at every interaction.
The room was impeccably maintained. Housekeeping was flawless — everything was spotless, well organized, and clearly cared for. Amenities were generously provided and thoughtfully topped up daily, which made our stay extremely comfortable and stress-free.
The location is unbeatable. Being just steps from Tokyo Station made travel incredibly convenient, and the nearby Marunouchi tree-lined streets, beautifully lit in the evenings, created a magical atmosphere that we looked forward to every night.
Marunouchi Hotel truly delivers on quality, cleanliness, and service excellence. We felt well cared for throughout our stay and would absolutely return without hesitation. Highly recommended.Dari$263
Great4110 Ulasan
Shinjuku Area Tokyo|6.73km dari pusat bandar
Room is clean and spacious. We stayed at the main block, newly renovated. It's rare to find such spacious room in Tokyo. Breakfast buffet was good, you can choose between Western / Japanese set meal and international buffet. The international buffet includes a wide spread of dishes, especially Japanese dishes. The hotel is about 15min walk away from the Kabukicho where all the happening bars and restaurants are. It was quite a walk from the JR Nex station to the hotel though, need to find the West Concourse and walk thru an underpass (see photo). The only ”complaint” I have is that the hotel needs to consider having more elevators, it's crowded in the morning and some guests couldn't get into the elevator. Usually a long queue for the elevators at the lobby floor.Dari$171
Business travel
Very Good1274 Ulasan
Ginza/Tsukiji Tokyo|0.29km dari pusat bandar
The location was very convenient and really close to major metro lines . The view from the high floor was nice especially for watching the sunset. As others have posted the room was really small. If you stay more then two days you will need to close your suitcase and organize your things when housekeeping comes. Otherwise they wouldn’t be able to get very far into the room. The water filer and ice machine on the room floor was really helpful especially when going out for the day with the July heat. The room was not so clean. When I went to use the humidifier it was covered in dust which set off my allergies. Also one of the walls had water damage.There was also a badly done patch on the corner of the wall. The lack of more than one outlet next the bed was annoying, especially when the provided charger didn’t work. One of the reasons I booked was the “lounge”. It was quite disappointing. It was loud in the room and it was right next to a smoking room. The available beverages were not that great. I don’t drink coffee and the juice was so sugary.
One more thing that was a little annoying, but not necessarily a negative was housekeeping giving me new towels everyday even though I never put used towels outside with my trashcan in the morning. I stayed less than a week so I was fine using the two provided towels, so I had two bags of new towels sitting on my floor until housekeeping cleaned my room.Dari$75
Very Good979 Ulasan
Ginza/Tsukiji Tokyo|0.44km dari pusat bandar
Having stayed at multiple LOHAS hotels across Japan, this one in the heart of Ginza truly stands out. Its proximity to Tokyo Station is a huge plus, and with a subway station right outside, getting around is incredibly convenient. The surrounding area is bustling with a wide variety of shops and businesses. The hotel rooms are spacious and well-equipped; I particularly appreciate LOHAS's consistent bathroom design. The service is excellent, the rooms are spotless, and the laundry facilities are also quite good.Dari$132
Great756 Ulasan
Odaiba Tokyo|4.77km dari pusat bandar
The hotel is quite clean, and right downstairs are a subway station, a Lawson, and a 7-Eleven. The front desk staff were very friendly, and they even gave me complimentary cookies at check-in. Just a heads-up, though, the Starbucks at the front desk isn't free 😂.Dari$115
Great1639 Ulasan
Tokyo Tower Area Tokyo|2.05km dari pusat bandar
After staying at the Prince Hotel in Kamakura, which I thought was already amazing, I was pleasantly surprised by the Prince Hotel in Tokyo. You can actually see the Tokyo Tower right from the hotel, practically staying beneath it! It's absolutely beautiful. The location is superb; just a right turn from the hotel (you don't even have to go out to the main street) leads you straight to Zojoji Temple. The blend of the ancient temple and the Tokyo Tower makes for stunning photos. Zojoji Temple is definitely worth a visit – it's free, and the staff at the朱印所 (goshuin office) are very humorous. From Zojoji Temple, cross the road and walk straight for about 300 meters (the entrance to Daimon subway station is another 20 meters ahead), then turn left to find Shiba Daijingu Shrine. This area has plenty of dining options, including izakayas, ramen shops, BBQ places, Yoshinoya, and more.
There's Shiba Park nearby, but I didn't get a chance to visit. To the left is Onarimon subway station, from which Harajuku is just a 25-minute ride away.
The hotel breakfast is very generous, with both Western and Japanese options. Parking is 1000 yen per night. If you register as a Prince member, you can check in early.Dari$112
Very Good496 Ulasan
Ginza/Tsukiji Tokyo|0.34km dari pusat bandar
My repeated stay... I love the coziness of this room, nicely tugged away from the bustling main of Ginza. Nice hospitality... Good service led by Hosoya san, who has been really helpful in queries and assistance when needed. Self-serve laundry and dryer service, 2 units each, which gets really busy with guests. There's a common guest area we can help ourselves to coffee, and guests are okay to consume their takeout or packed food from outside. All else can't find any fault...and plus point room window can be opened for slight ventilation.Dari$125
Great612 Ulasan
Tokyo Station/Nihonbashi Tokyo|0.99km dari pusat bandar
The location is the best part of this hotel. It’s very close to Tokyo Station and First Avenue Tokyo Station, with convenient exits nearby, which makes getting around extremely easy.
However, the room is extremely small. We booked a double bed, and there was only space to get off the bed from one side. I had to climb over my husband every time I needed to get up. Because of the lack of space, you really don’t want to spend time in the room.
The bar/lounge area offers wine and other alcohol, but surprisingly no beer. Soft drinks are only available from a machine. There are some nuts and raisins provided, and you’ll notice some guests eating takeout there—likely because the rooms are too small to be comfortable for dining.
The hotel does have a natural hot spring on the 2nd and 3rd floors for men and women. While it’s a nice feature, the onsen is very small, and basic amenities like body lotion or facial cream are not provided, which was disappointing.
Overall, the location is excellent, but the room size and limited amenities make this hotel hard to recommend unless you only need a place to sleep and plan to be out all day.Dari$102
Great709 Ulasan
Central Tokyo Tokyo|2.63km dari pusat bandar
I stayed here for three nights and it was pretty good. The bed was comfortable and the room was spacious. The hotel isn't too far from the metro station, about a 10-minute walk. There's a laundry room, and a convenience store right across the street, which is quite handy. Plus, there are plenty of coffee shops nearby for breakfast, which is a big plus!Dari$60
Great1185 Ulasan
Central Tokyo Tokyo|2.68km dari pusat bandar
The hotel's location right next to the Imperial Palace was wonderful. Even though I couldn't get a tour reservation, I really enjoyed the tranquility; it was so peaceful every day. It's super close to the subway exit, just across the street – I think it was exit 5, which has both an elevator and stairs, so no problems with luggage. The hotel had a lovely scent! The front desk staff were excellent; they accurately understood my needs even when my communication wasn't perfectly smooth, and even upgraded my room. The room type I booked originally wasn't quite right, and they adjusted it for me without even needing to switch rooms, which was a pleasant surprise. Overall, I thought it was pretty good. Perhaps because I've stayed in even smaller rooms in Korea, the size felt perfectly fine. They provided many drinks daily, and downstairs there was free orange juice or hot green tea, as well as skincare products and face masks, usually available if you returned before 10 PM. The only minor inconvenience was needing to transfer to get anywhere, though getting to Omotesando was quite convenient. Highly recommended! Finally, a shout-out to Trip.com customer service. I booked hotels on four different platforms, and Trip.com's customer service was the most responsive and effective in solving actual problems, blowing the others out of the water.Dari$54
Breakfast
Very Good719 Ulasan
Ginza/Tsukiji Tokyo|0.31km dari pusat bandar
I almost overlooked this hotel after reading so many reviews. The room is indeed quite small, especially for the price of over 1000 yen, but that's pretty normal for Ginza, Tokyo. However, it boasts a natural hot spring. While not huge, it's still comfortable for a soak. The highlight, though, is definitely the small bar in the evening. I saw a sign that says non-guests can use the hot spring and bar for 5000 yen, so it's a really good deal for those staying there. It's completely self-service, but the breakfast, a single pastry and a bowl of soup, is a bit disappointing for the price. On the first floor, you can choose your pillow and there are many toiletries available. The transportation is also very convenient; a single bus from the airport takes you to Ginza, and then it's just an 800-meter walk to the hotel. The front desk also offers facial masks, and the staff were lovely. Dari$74
Great68 Ulasan
Tokyo Station/Nihonbashi Tokyo|1.84km dari pusat bandar
Hoshinoya Tokyo is situated in a tower in Otemachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, uniquely blending a traditional Japanese garden with a high-rise hotel concept. While its immediate surroundings are dominated by corporate offices like Morgan Stanley and Goldman Sachs, its location isn't as prime as other similarly priced luxury hotels such as The Peninsula Tokyo or Bulgari, with a noticeable lack of nearby dining options or convenience stores.
The service, on the other hand, truly made guests feel at home. Each floor boasts a dedicated Japanese-style common area, but the atmosphere felt a bit too rigid or rule-bound. For example, when I asked for a second welcome dessert, it wasn't possible.
However, I would strongly advise against staying here for a business trip. Firstly, the hotel's policy of not allowing unregistered guests to enter is quite inconvenient and arguably unsuitable for a business-oriented establishment. Secondly, the hotel itself offers a rich array of experiences – from its two-Michelin-starred Japanese restaurant to kimono fittings, tea ceremonies, kendo classes, hot springs, and sightseeing bicycles. These features highlight its strong appeal for leisure travel, making it less ideal for business.Dari$866
Great1251 Ulasan
Tokyo Station/Nihonbashi Tokyo|2.06km dari pusat bandar
My stay at VIA INN PRIME Nihonbashi Ningyocho was quite good overall. The location is very convenient, close to Ningyocho Station, making it easy to get to Tokyo Station, Ginza, and Ueno. There are also many convenience stores and small restaurants nearby, and it's quiet at night when you return. The room, while not large, was very clean and well-arranged. A pleasant surprise was being able to see the Tokyo Skytree from my window; seeing it lit up at night always brightened my mood, which was a nice little bonus.
The bed was comfortable, and the soundproofing was better than expected, so I slept soundly. The only minor drawback was the 10 AM check-out time, which felt a bit early and made the morning feel rushed. However, the front desk check-out process was very quick and efficient. Overall, it's a practical and hassle-free hotel to stay in, with a great location and good value for money. If I'm ever in central Tokyo again, this would definitely be a place I'd consider rebooking.Dari$67
Very Good225 Ulasan
Ginza/Tsukiji Tokyo|0.36km dari pusat bandar
The hotel was better than expected. Although the room was only 16 square meters, it didn't feel cramped at all for two people. I left a note asking for an upgrade to a higher floor, and they put us on the 11th floor, which was great.
The hotel's location is excellent, just about a 5-minute walk from the Higashi-Ginza exit. It's also super convenient for getting to Ginza itself. However, the subway exit has stairs, so it's best to use the escalator on the opposite side, near the Kabuki-za.
What impressed me most was the breakfast, which offered three different bento boxes daily: Yamakai smoke (Mountain, Sea, Smoke). The ”Mountain” was a chicken cutlet bento, the ”Sea” was a salmon bento, and the ”Smoke” was a tempura bento. My personal favorite was the salmon bento. It seemed like the ingredients came fresh from the Tsukiji Market. Of course, if you're not keen on bento, it's very easy to walk to Tsukiji Market from here.Dari$114
Great783 Ulasan
Roppongi Tokyo|3.16km dari pusat bandar
Location is very convenient, get to harajuku / shibuya / Ginza station easy without any transfer, about 20mins, close to odeo line, walking distance to donki and you can walk and see Tokyo tower in 15 mins walk. Get to the bottom maybe 30-35mins walk?
Room is so small and layout is not that good compared with other small budget hotel in Japan. If you are solo traveler with suitcase not over 22” is fine.
The smell of the room is hard to describe, stayed in 10F, my friend stayed another room and we both can tell the unpleasant smells are really bad, although air puffier on in the room but still 0 help. We didn’t ask to switch the room cause we check in late and tired, so far the 3rd day we get use to the smell, was a little crazy, other than that is not bad.Dari$91
Great183 Ulasan
Ginza/Tsukiji Tokyo|0.41km dari pusat bandar
We were really satisfied with this hotel! It was our last two nights in Japan as three girls traveling together, and the location was absolutely perfect. Step out, and there’s a FamilyMart on the right, followed by Donki. Walk straight from the main entrance, and you’ll reach Ginza Six. Many popular Instagram-worthy spots are within walking distance. We highly recommend the Yellow Soup Curry—this hotel is a bit pricey, but that’s expected in Ginza.Dari$157
Great835 Ulasan
Tokyo Station/Nihonbashi Tokyo|1.13km dari pusat bandar
Basic with the necessary for a night stay and yet very comfortable. Room is big enough for my luggage to be open up fully and space to walk around and sit down at the coffee table for a meal. Best is the location , Foo’s everywhere , walking distance to imperial palace and the JR train station! Shopping area is also here. The Marunouchi street is also just on the other side of the JR Tokyo station - easy to walk there. The stay is Value for money. Love the free drinks available at lobby with waiting area to rest. Self service Laundry corner also at the same level - super easy. I’d recommend this for next stay in Tokyo.Dari$92
Very Good730 Ulasan
Haneda Airport/Kamata Tokyo|13.45km dari pusat bandar
There’s a attitude problem while we check in, the male front desk which stand right side having a bad attitude to me and my sisters, we arrived by 1st October around 12am. There a problem for me to open the link to register which means cannot self check in in the hotel, so i am asking help from him but he just show up an impatient attitude to us and didn’t get any response, luckily the female front desk who can speak Chinese stand up and helping us, please aware this kind of attitude problem.Dari$64
🔁 Tax Refund Procedures – How to Claim It?
source from https://globaloptimizer.com/
Let me break down the steps I followed:
🛍️ At the Store:
- Shop normally at a tax-free store. (Look for the red and blue “Japan Tax-Free Shop” logo!)
- When paying, tell the cashier you want a tax exemption.
- Show your passport – they’ll record the details and print a purchase record.
- The tax (10%) will either be deducted on the spot or refunded in cash/card at a separate counter.
- They may staple a receipt to your passport – do not remove it yourself!
💼 I kept all my tax-free purchases and receipts in a special pouch just to stay organized.
🛫 At the Airport:
- Arrive early – at least 3 hours before your flight
- Go to the Customs Declaration area (before security)
- Show your passport and receipts
- Sometimes they may ask to inspect your purchases
- That’s it! No need for further refund steps if you got it at the store
🧠 Tip: Not all airports require customs staff to check your items, but it’s best to be prepared!
🏪 Duty-Free Shops in Japan – Where to Go?
Here are some tourist-favourite spots for tax-free shopping:
- 🐧 Don Quijote (Donki) – Has EVERYTHING, open till late
- 📷 Bic Camera / Yodobashi – Electronics, cameras, kitchen gadgets
- 🧴 Matsumoto Kiyoshi / Welcia – Pharmacy chains, beauty & supplements
- 👗 UNIQLO / GU – Affordable fashion, especially winter wear
- 🎨 Tokyu Hands / LOFT – Lifestyle products and quirky gifts
Always ask: “Tax-free available?” or look for signs like “免税” or “Japan Tax-Free” at the entrance!
🔥 Japan Tax Refund Tips
Here’s what I wish I knew before my trip – learn from my experience! 👇
🔖 Keep Your Passport Handy
Don’t just store it deep in your backpack – you’ll need it every time you check out.
🗃️ Stay Organized
Receipts, tax exemption forms, sealed bags – I bought a cheap folder from Daiso just for this.
🛍️ Plan Your Purchases
Instead of small buys in different stores, combine everything in one shop to hit the ¥5,000 minimum.
⛔ Don’t Break the Seal
For consumables, the packaging is serious business. If opened, you might get questioned at the airport.
📍 Airport Stores Are Your Backup
If you miss out in town, airport shops like Narita, Haneda, and Kansai have tax-free counters too (but less variety lah).
📱 Use Apps Like LINE or Google Translate
Some shopkeepers aren’t fluent in English – using your phone can save time.
💳 Use a Credit Card With No FX Fees
I used my BigPay card – easier to track and better rates than cash exchanges.
Flights from Kuala Lumpur to Tokyo
- Sehala
- Pergi Balik
- direct cheapest
KUL14:506j 50mTanpa hentiHND22:40Kuala Lumpur - Tokyo|Rab, 4 Feb|AirAsia X Berhad (Malaysia)US$ 145US$ 20428% off28% offUS$ 204US$ 145 - KUL14:506j 50mTanpa hentiHND22:40Kuala Lumpur - Tokyo|Jum, 6 Feb|AirAsia X Berhad (Malaysia)US$ 145US$ 20428% off28% offUS$ 204US$ 145
KUL13:3510j 25m1 hentianHND01:00Kuala Lumpur - Tokyo|Kha, 16 Apr|VietJet AirUS$ 132US$ 20435% off35% offUS$ 204US$ 132- KUL12:3018j 30m1 hentianNRT08:00Kuala Lumpur - Tokyo|Ahd, 25 Jan|VietJet AirUS$ 133US$ 133
- KUL13:3510j 25m1 hentianHND01:00Kuala Lumpur - Tokyo|Rab, 4 Feb|VietJet AirUS$ 133US$ 133
- KUL13:3517j1 hentianNRT07:35Kuala Lumpur - Tokyo|Rab, 4 Feb|VietJet AirUS$ 133US$ 133
- KUL13:3510j 25m1 hentianHND01:00Kuala Lumpur - Tokyo|Sel, 27 Jan|VietJet AirUS$ 133US$ 133
- KUL12:3025j 55m1 hentianNRT15:25Kuala Lumpur - Tokyo|Sel, 27 Jan|VietJet AirUS$ 133US$ 133
KUL1:00 PM3j 5mTanpa hentiTYO2:00 PMKuala Lumpur - Tokyo|Sun, Jan 25|AirAsia X Berhad (Malaysia)Cari Penerbangan LainCari Penerbangan Lain
Tambang penerbangan yang dipaparkan dari ${{departCityName}} ke ${{arrivalCityName}} adalah berdasarkan harga purata daripada pelbagai syarikat penerbangan untuk 3 bulan seterusnya, mengikut pangkalan data Trip.com terkini.
💬 Final Thoughts – It’s Totally Worth It!
Shopping in Japan is already an adventure, but getting a 10% discount on top? That's the real win 🏆. The process might sound mafan at first, but once you get the hang of it, it becomes second nature. If you're heading to Japan soon, I say: shop smart, shop tax-free! 🛍️✨ And remember, don’t forget your passport – and maybe bring an extra suitcase just in case. 😉
✈️ Book your flight to Japan now on Trip.com
🏨 Find the best Japan hotel deals in Tokyo, Osaka & Kyoto
📱 Grab a Japan eSIM for fast internet right when you land
Happy travels, fellow Malaysians – and enjoy your Japanese shopping spree!❤
🙋♀️ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Japan Tax Refunds
🧾 1. What is a Japan tax refund?
It's a system that allows foreign tourists to get back the 10% Consumption Tax on eligible purchases made at approved stores in Japan. You either get the tax deducted at checkout or refunded immediately in-store.🛂 2. Who is eligible for a tax refund in Japan?
You are eligible if: You're a foreign tourist staying in Japan less than 6 months. You're holding a temporary visitor visa. You have your original passport with you when shopping.💼 3. Do I need to show my passport?
Yes, your original passport must be shown at the time of purchase. Photocopies or digital versions will not be accepted.💳 4. Is there a minimum purchase requirement?
Yes! You must spend at least: ¥5,000 (before tax) on general goods (e.g., clothes, electronics). ¥5,000 to ¥500,000 (before tax) on consumables (e.g., cosmetics, snacks, supplements). All purchases must be made at the same store on the same day.🧴 5. What are consumables and why are they treated differently?
Consumables include food, drinks, cosmetics, medicines, etc. These items must: Be sealed at the store in a special bag. Not be opened before leaving Japan. Be taken out of the country within 30 days of purchase.🛍️ 6. What’s the difference between tax-free and duty-free?
Tax-Free: Applies to purchases made within Japan at certain stores (10% consumption tax waived). Duty-Free: Refers to goods bought at the airport that are exempt from customs duties, taxes, and consumption tax.🏪 7. Where can I shop tax-free in Japan?
Look for shops with the sign “Japan Tax-Free Shop”. Common ones include: Don Quijote UNIQLO Bic Camera / Yodobashi Camera Matsumoto Kiyoshi LOFT / Tokyu Hands🔁 8. How is the tax refund processed?
There are two methods: Instant Deduction: The tax is removed at the cashier. Separate Counter Refund: You pay full price, then go to a counter in-store to get your refund (in cash or to your card).🛫 9. Do I need to do anything at the airport before leaving Japan?
Yes. Go to the Customs Declaration counter (before security) and show: Your passport Receipts Tax-exempt goods (especially consumables) Sometimes officers may inspect your items. Don’t open sealed consumables until after your flight.⏱️ 10. Can I claim a refund after I leave Japan?
No, tax refunds must be processed while you're still in Japan, and on the day of purchase at the store. There’s no option to claim online or after you’ve flown home.📅 11. Is there a time limit to use tax-free items?
Yes. All tax-free goods must be taken out of Japan within 30 days of purchase. Customs may check your departure date against the receipts.