Which medicines are not allowed in Japan?

Medicines that are hallucinogenic, narcotic, and/or psychotropic in nature will be confiscated, except in extenuating circumstances where prior approval has been obtained (e.g., a cancer patient taking a type of medication that has a high percentage of pain killer; these cases are treated on a case by case basis).



Japan has some of the strictest drug laws in the world, and many medications that are common over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription items in other countries are strictly prohibited. The most notable ban is on stimulants, including those containing pseudoephedrine or codeine. This means common cold and allergy medicines like Sudafed, Actifed, and certain Vicks inhalers are illegal and can lead to detention or deportation. Additionally, many ADHD medications that are stimulant-based, such as Adderall, are completely forbidden, even with a valid foreign prescription. While Concerta and Ritalin are sometimes permitted under very specific circumstances with prior "Yunyu Kakunin-sho" (import certificate) approval, the process is rigorous. Narcotic painkillers like Oxycodone or high-dose Codeine are also heavily restricted and require advance legal permission from Japanese health authorities. Even CBD products are risky because Japan has a "zero-tolerance" policy for any detectable THC content. If you are traveling to Japan in 2026, it is vital to consult the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare website months in advance to ensure your necessary medications won't land you in legal trouble at customs.

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Specifically, products that contain stimulants (medicines that contain Pseudoephedrine, such as Actifed, Sudafed, and Vicks inhalers), or Codeine are prohibited if it contains more than allowed quantity of stimulant raw materials.

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Medication is usually screened by X-ray; however, if a passenger does not want a medication X-rayed, he or she may ask for a visual inspection instead. This request must be made before any items are sent through the X-ray tunnel.

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Medication is usually screened by X-ray; however, if a passenger does not want a medication X-rayed, he or she may ask for a visual inspection instead. This request must be made before any items are sent through the X-ray tunnel.

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Items designated as prohibited by the Civil Aeronautics Act cannot be placed inside checked baggage. (Examples include toxic gases, flammable gases, flammable liquids, compressed gases.) Although dry ice, alcoholic liquids, and cigarette lighters fall under the “Prohibition for Carriage of Explosives etc.

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There is no limit on the amount of any currency that may be brought into or taken out of Japan. However, if you transport (any currencies, checks, securities or other monies) exceeding 1,000,000 yen worth in Japanese currency into or out of the country then you must complete a customs declaration.

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So roughly 2,000 USD per person for lodging, transportation in Japan, food, and souvenirs. You can do it for less, but that was fun for the whole trip. I highly recommend ordering about 50,000 yen in cash from your bank before going.

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You can bring your medication in pill or solid form in unlimited amounts as long as it is screened. You can travel with your medication in both carry-on and checked baggage. It's highly recommended you place these items in your carry-on in the event that you need immediate access.

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If you are searching for the answer to the question can you take tablets in hand luggage, then the simple answer is yes for paracetamol (and Ibuprofen ). Generally speaking, you are allowed to take as much as you need with you in your hand luggage.

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Declare all drugs, medicinals, and similar products to the appropriate CBP official; Carry such substances in their original containers; Carry only the quantity of such substances that a person with that condition (e.g., chronic pain) would normally carry for his/her personal use; and.

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As a quick answer: Yes, most airport scanners will detect pills inside your bag and it doesn't matter if they are in a plastic or a metal container, and it is really helpful to travel with your pills in their original prescription bottles even though it is not obligatory or recommended by the TSA.

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When drugs are confiscated in airports, TSA officers usually refer to law enforcement to secure the confiscated substances and store them in a warehouse known as a crime laboratory. Here, the drugs will be tested, organized, and shelved for trials.

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Entry & Exit: You must have a valid passport and an onward/return ticket for tourist/business visa free stays of up to 90 days. Your passport must be valid for the entire time you are staying in Japan.

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You can bring your medication in pill or solid form in unlimited amounts as long as it is screened. You can travel with your medication in both carry-on and checked baggage. It's highly recommended you place these items in your carry-on in the event that you need immediate access.

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