Changes to Japan’s Tax-Free Shopping System Effective November 1, 2026
Naha Airport Procedures
Important Notice
Starting November 1, 2026, Japan’s tax-free shopping system will change to the “Refund System.” Under this new system, departing travelers must complete tax-free procedures at the airport and receive a refund of the consumption tax after customs confirmation.
If you are required to complete tax-free procedures, please do so before checking in your baggage with your airline. Once baggage has been checked in, tax-free items may not be available for inspection, and you may not be eligible to receive a refund.
Procedure Flow
① Arrive at Naha Airport
Please prepare your passport and all purchased tax-free items.
② Complete Customs Procedures
Complete the required procedures using a Customs KIOSK terminal or the Visit Japan Web website.
③ Customs Inspection (If Required)
If requested by Customs officers, please present the purchased items for inspection.
④ Check In with Your Airline
After completing the tax-free procedures, please check in your baggage.
⑤ Immigration and Departure Procedures
Proceed through security screening and immigration control.
⑥ Receive Your Tax Refund
Follow the instructions provided by the retailer from which you purchased the goods to receive your refund.
Items Required for the Procedure
・Passport
・Purchased tax-free items
・Purchase information (as instructed by the retailer)
Important Notes
・Departure must take place within 90 days of purchase.
・Upon arrival at the airport, please prioritize completing the tax-free procedures.
・After passing through immigration control, you cannot return to the departure lobby to complete the procedures.
・Airport congestion is expected. Please allow sufficient time before your flight.
For Passengers Using Naha Airport
After purchasing tax-free goods, you may receive a refund of the consumption tax by completing the designated procedures at Naha Airport on the day of departure.
Please be sure to complete Customs procedures before checking in your baggage.
The locations and operating procedures of Customs KIOSK terminals, refund counters, and related facilities are subject to announcements by Customs authorities, the airport, and other relevant organizations.
Reference
・National Tax Agency (NTA)
・Japan Association of Tax-Free Shops:What is the Refund System?
・Japan Tourism Agency
・Refund System Leaflet for Travelers (English)
・Refund System Leaflet for Travelers (Japanese)
・Refund System Leaflet for Travelers (Simplified Chinese)
・Refund System Leaflet for Travelers (Korean)
●Tax Refund (Customs KIOSK Terminal)
Location: International Terminal 3F, Check-in Lobby
●Tax Refund (Self Tax Refund) [Refund Kiosk]
Location: International Terminal 2F, Post-Security Departure Area
This is a self-service cash refund system for customers who have purchased tax-free eligible goods.
By following the on-screen instructions, you can easily and smoothly complete the refund procedure and receive your tax refund.
Please note: Some tax-free stores are not eligible for refunds through this service. For details, please refer to the official website below.
Business Hours: 6:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. ※Hours may vary depending on flight operations.
Customer Support / Official Website:
https://www.glory.co.jp/selftaxrefund/
