Tax-free shopping for trading cards in Japan (refund system from November 2026)
Japan's 10% consumption tax can be refunded to visitors on goods they take home, including trading cards, when the shop is a registered tax-free shop. On November 1, 2026 the system changed: you now pay the tax at the counter and get it back after a customs check when you leave Japan.
How it works from November 1, 2026
- Buy at a tax-free shop with your passport. The shop charges the full price including tax and records the purchase in the national tax-free system. The minimum is ¥5,000 before tax, per shop, per day.
- Keep the items with you. Do not open and use them in Japan. Customs may ask to see them, so do not pack them in a suitcase you check in before the customs check.
- Get the customs check when you leave. Within 90 days of purchase, scan your passport at the tax-free kiosk at the airport or port before departure.
- Receive the refund. The shop or a refund company it works with pays the tax back, by the method the shop explains when you buy.
Before November 1, 2026 tax was simply removed at the counter. If you read older guides that say "show your passport and pay without tax", that is the old system.
What this means for card buyers
- Not every card shop is a tax-free shop. Look for a Tax-Free sign or ask 免税できますか？ (menzei dekimasu ka?, "Can I buy tax-free?").
- The ¥5,000 minimum is per shop and per day, so buy in one place if you want to reach it.
- The refund depends on the customs check, so allow extra time at the airport.
- Keep your receipts until you get the refund.
Bringing cards home
Your own country may charge import duty or tax on goods above a certain value. Check your country's customs allowance before buying expensive sealed boxes or graded cards.
Source: Japan Tourism Agency, "Tax-free system (refund method)". Rules can change; check the official information before you travel.
Last updated 2026-10-06.