# Japan Tax-Free Refund Calculator (English)

> Free browser tool that estimates the Japanese consumption-tax refund a foreign
> visitor can expect under the "refund on departure" tax-free system that takes
> effect on 1 November 2026. No sign-up. All calculations run client-side.

## Key facts
- From 2026-11-01 Japan switches from "tax deducted at the register" to "pay the
  full tax-included price, then get refunded after a customs check on departure".
- Minimum spend to qualify: 5,000 yen (tax included), same day, same store.
- Standard consumption tax rate 10%; reduced rate 8% for most food and drink.
- Refund formula used: refund = spend x rate / (100 + rate).
- The 500,000 yen cap on consumables is reported to be abolished under the new
  system; detailed operating rules were still being finalised as of Sept 2026.
- Estimate only: shops and refund agents charge handling fees, so the real
  refund is usually a little lower.

## Related tools
- Korean version: https://japan-tax-refund-kr.vercel.app/
- Japan Trip Cost calculator: https://japan-trip-cost.vercel.app
- Is the JR Pass Worth It?: https://jr-pass-worth-it.vercel.app
- Japan size converter: https://japan-size-converter.vercel.app

## Note
Independent information tool. Not affiliated with the Japanese government or customs.