All travelers entering Japan must submit a "Declaration of Personal Effects and Unaccompanied Articles" form.

To speed up the process, it's recommended to use the "Visit Japan Web" system for electronic customs declarations. After logging in via the QR code, follow the prompts to enter your declaration details. The system will then generate a light-blue QR code for customs use.

At the airport, scan both your customs QR code and passport at a dedicated terminal in the customs inspection area, then proceed to the electronic declaration gate. If the airport doesn’t have an electronic gate, you can still use a QR scanner at the customs inspection desk.

Paper forms are also available on the plane or ship, and at customs areas in airports and ports.

The "Visit Japan Web" service can also be used for immigration procedures. By registering your travel details in advance, you can show the QR code at immigration to speed up the process. It's especially convenient for foreign travelers, as it can also be used for tax-free shopping while in Japan.

You can register the required information from a computer, but you’ll need a smartphone or tablet to display your QR code during entry. Creating an account requires entering your passport details, full name, nationality, occupation, address, and travel dates.

If you're carrying more than one million yen in cash or equivalent payment methods, you must submit a “Declaration of Carrying Means of Payment,” available at the customs inspection area.

There are also specific limits on what you can bring into Japan duty-free—up to three bottles of alcohol (each 760 ml), up to 200 cigarettes, and items with a total value not exceeding 200,000 yen. Be sure to check the latest rules in advance and follow the proper declaration procedures if required.

Japan strictly prohibits the import of certain items, including narcotics, firearms, explosives, obscene materials such as explicit magazines or DVDs, counterfeit goods, pirated items, and certain animals, plants, and products made from them.

Other regulated items include hunting rifles, swords, and limited quantities of medicines or cosmetics, as well as animals and plants requiring quarantine. Violations of these regulations may result in severe legal penalties.

When departing Japan, there are three main types of documentation you may need to complete. One is the “Declaration of Carrying Out Foreign-Made Goods,” which is required if you’re bringing personal foreign-made items like watches, bags, or jewelry. You’ll need to present the actual items and submit a form listing their names and quantities. Without this declaration, customs may consider them as newly purchased abroad and subject them to tax upon re-entry.

If you're carrying over one million yen or equivalent in cash or monetary instruments when leaving Japan, you must submit a “Declaration of Carrying Means of Payment.” This includes Japanese or foreign currency, checks, promissory notes, and gold bullion (over 1 kg with at least 90% purity). Procedures may vary depending on the amount and type, so be sure to confirm the latest requirements in advance.

(Information last updated in March 2025. Please check with relevant authorities for the most current details.)