How to Use Japan Web for Tax-Free Shopping in Japan (2024 Guide)
Planning to take advantage of Japan’s famous tax-free shopping? Thanks to the streamlined Japan Web system, the process is now easier and more efficient than ever for international travelers. Here's how it works, what you need to know, and what to do when returning home—especially if you're flying back to Australia.
🧾 What Is Japan Web and How Does It Help with Tax-Free Shopping?
Japan Web is an official digital system that allows travelers to register personal and passport information before entering Japan. Once registered, the platform automatically generates a 2D tax-free shopping code that you can use in stores throughout Japan.
🛍️ How to Use the Japan Web 2D Code for Shopping
Register your Japan Web account and input your personal details, including passport number and travel status.
The system will automatically create a 2D tax-free code linked to your passport.
Present this code and your physical passport when shopping at any participating tax-free retailer.
Store staff will scan the code, verify your temporary visitor visa status (automatically granted upon entry into Japan), and seal your tax-free items.
Your tax-free purchases will be digitally recorded against your passport, replacing the older system of stapled receipts.
Note: You must always carry your physical passport, as staff will need to verify it alongside your 2D code.
📦 Important Tax-Free Shopping Rules in Japan
🛑 Items must remain sealed and unused while you're in Japan.
🛄 Do not open or consume tax-free items until after you leave the country.
🧳 You may be asked to present sealed tax-free bags to customs officers at the airport upon departure.
📌 Your tax-free purchases are automatically linked to your passport and will be reviewed at exit.
✈️ Departing Japan: What to Expect at the Airport
At departure, customs will scan your passport, and all your digital tax-free purchase records will be reviewed. You do not need to declare your tax-free items unless they fall under restricted or prohibited categories, such as:
Food and agricultural products
Animal products
High-value goods exceeding duty-free limits
Always check Japan Customs and your home country’s regulations to avoid issues.
🇦🇺 Returning to Australia: Know Your Duty-Free Limits
Upon arrival in Australia, you must declare tax-free or duty-free purchases if:
They exceed your duty-free allowance, or
They are subject to quarantine or customs regulations (e.g., food, plant material, alcohol)
Not sure if an item needs to be declared?
💡 Always declare it to avoid penalties.
👉 Learn more about what you can bring back to Australia on the Australian Border Force website
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