
With the Japanese government’s latest policy updates, significant adjustments to travel-related taxes are expected in 2026. One of the most talked-about changes is the increase in the Japan Travel Tax (officially called the International Tourism Tax). Trip.com is closely monitoring updates from Japan's Tourism Agency and Ministry of Finance, providing you with the latest information. With the rising travel costs, we suggest that travelers book their flights and hotels through Trip.com before the policy is officially enforced to lock in the current low tax rates.
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Japan Travel Tax | Departure Tax to Increase to 3,000 Yen from July 2026
In response to the growing concerns of "overtourism" and to strengthen local tourism infrastructure, the Japanese government has decided to significantly raise the International Tourism Tax.

1. Significant Increase in Departure Tax
Starting from July 2026, all travelers departing from Japan (including both foreign tourists and Japanese nationals) will face an increase in the departure tax from the current 1,000 yen to 3,000 yen – a threefold increase.
2. Collection Method and Exemptions
- Collection Method: The tax will be included in the cost of airline or ferry tickets and collected by the airline, meaning travelers won’t need to pay at the airport.
- Exemptions: Children under the age of 2 and passengers in transit who stay in Japan for no more than 24 hours will be exempt from the tax.
- Purpose: The revenue from this tax will be used to alleviate overcrowding at tourist sites, enhance multilingual guide systems, and protect local cultural heritage.
Japan Travel Tax | Tax-Free Shopping Changes from November 2026
In addition to the departure tax, Japan’s tax-free shopping system is undergoing its most significant reform in history, which will impact Malaysian travelers who enjoy shopping in Japan.
Key Changes to Tax-Free Shopping
Japan will implement a new "pay-first, refund-later" process starting November 1, 2026, to combat illegal reselling within the country. Here’s what to expect:
- New Process: When shopping in drugstores or department stores, travelers will no longer be able to deduct the 10% consumption tax immediately. Instead, they will have to pay the full price (including tax) and can apply for a refund at the airport by showing their purchased goods at customs before departing.
- Refund Methods: Refunds will be available via credit card, electronic payment, or cash.
- Good News: The new system will eliminate the restrictions between "general goods" and "consumables," and consumables will no longer need to be sealed in transparent plastic bags, offering more flexibility when packing.
Trip.com Tip: Since the new process may involve waiting in line for refunds at the airport, we recommend arriving at the airport at least 4 hours in advance after the new system is implemented.
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Japan Travel Tax | New "Accommodation Tax" in 2026: Additional Costs
Along with the national tax increase, several local governments in Japan are introducing an "Accommodation Tax," adding further to the travel expenses for visitors.
| Region | Implementation Date | Tax Details |
|---|---|---|
Kyoto City | March 2026 | A tiered system based on room rates, with the highest at 10,000 yen per person per night (for high-end accommodations) |
Okinawa Prefecture | 2026 (planned) | A 2% tax on accommodation fees |
Hiroshima Prefecture | April 2026 | A fixed rate of 200 yen per person per night |
Otaru City | April 2026 | A fixed rate of 200 yen per person per night |
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Japan Travel Tax | Book Before the Price Hike! 3 Key Advantages of Booking with Trip.com
With various taxes set to rise in 2026, now is the best "window period" to travel to Japan. Here’s how you can benefit by booking through Trip.com:
Save on Departure and Accommodation Taxes
By traveling before July 2026, you can save 2,000 yen on the departure tax. If you stay in Kyoto before March 2026, you can avoid the higher accommodation tax tiers.
Enjoy the Current Tax-Free Shopping Convenience
Currently, when shopping in Japan, you can enjoy an immediate 10% consumption tax discount if your purchases total 5,000 yen (pre-tax). Take advantage of the current system before the "pay-first, refund-later" system kicks in by booking your flights on Trip.com and saving time at the airport.
Use the Low-Price Calendar to Lock in Cheap Flights
Trip.com’s powerful flight search feature allows you to view the "Low-Price Calendar" to find the most affordable travel dates within the next six months. Coupled with exclusive promo codes for Japan routes, you can save even more before the tax increases take effect.
Japan Travel Tax | What You Need to Know: Customs Allowance When Entering Japan
Apart from the taxes on departure and shopping, travelers should also be aware of the customs allowances when entering Japan. There are strict limits on personal items that can be brought into the country without incurring tax:
- Alcohol: 3 bottles (750ml each).
- Cigarettes: 200 cigarettes (total limit for multiple tobacco products).
- Perfume: 2 ounces (approximately 56ml).
- Total Overseas Market Value: The total value of all personal items should not exceed 200,000 yen. Any excess will be taxed by Japanese customs.





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