Tax Free (10%) Guide: Shopping at Donki, Uniqlo, and Apple Store

Tourists (Temporary Visitor Visa, under 6 months) are exempt from Japan's 10% consumption tax. This means an instant 10% discount on almost everything. Don't throw this money away!

1. CONDITIONS FOR TAX-FREE

• Bring your ORIGINAL PASSPORT (with the entry stamp). Photos or copies are strictly rejected.
• Total bill must be over 5,500 yen (including tax) at the same store on the same day.

2. THE CHECKOUT PROCESS

• Look for the checkout lane with a "TAX FREE" sign.
• Hand your passport to the cashier. They will scan it and process everything quickly.
• You either pay the pre-tax amount immediately or pay in full and get a cash refund at a separate Service Counter.

3. CONSUMABLES (COSMETICS, FOOD) - VERY IMPORTANT!

Items like snacks, cosmetics, and medicine are "Consumables".

• Staff will pack these into a clear SEALED BAG.
• THE RULE: You absolutely CANNOT OPEN this bag while in Japan. If airport customs find you've opened it or consumed items, you will be forced to pay the 10% tax back.
• Pack it as-is directly into your checked luggage.

4. GENERAL GOODS (CLOTHING, ELECTRONICS)

• Clothes from Uniqlo, Adidas shoes, electronics, etc., are NOT sealed. You can open, wear, and use them immediately in Japan.

5. THE APPLE STORE & IPHONES

Unfortunately, as of 2022, Apple Stores in Japan have SUSPENDED tax-free shopping for tourists. You have to pay full price including tax. However, electronics retailers (like Bic Camera, Yodobashi) might still offer tax-free on certain Apple products + an extra 5% off if using a Visa/Mastercard. Always ask the staff.

6. WHERE TO BUY WHAT?

• Don Quijote (Donki): Paradise for cheap snacks, cosmetics, souvenirs, and quirky items. Open late.
• Matsumoto Kiyoshi / Sundrug: Best for medicine, supplements, and cosmetics (often slightly cheaper than Donki).
• Uniqlo / GU: Clothes here are often 30-50% cheaper than overseas.
• Bic Camera / Yodobashi: Electronics, cameras, watches, and liquor.

CONCLUSION

Group your purchases with friends to easily hit that 5,500 yen minimum. And remember: Do not break the sealed bags!