Customs rules on how much you can bring home (duty-free allowances) are not covered in this guide. See Duty-free allowances when entering Japan.
| Alcohol strength | Carry-on and checked baggage |
|---|---|
| 24% or less | Both allowed. No quantity limit as dangerous goods |
| Over 24% up to 70% | Both allowed. Up to 5L per person |
| Over 70% | Not allowed in carry-on or checked baggage |
For every strength, the alcohol must be in the retail container. Alcohol poured into a hip flask or similar container is not allowed.
Source
Source: MLIT: "Examples of Dangerous Goods by Air Transportation" (English version, last updated April 24, 2026) (retrieved 2026-09-27)
Alcohol is a liquid, so on international flights departing from Japan, the rule of containers of 100ml or less in a 1-liter clear bag applies if you carry it on board. Bottles over 100ml go in checked baggage (the strength and quantity limits above also apply to checked baggage).
Alcohol etc. bought at duty-free shops after security can be carried on board. However, if you transfer abroad, you will be screened again at the transfer airport and it may be confiscated under that country's rules. Check with your airline in advance.
Sources (2)
Source: MLIT Civil Aviation Bureau: "Security Control for Screening Liquids, Aerosols and Gels (LAGs) carried into International Passenger Flights departing from Airports in Japan" (English version) (retrieved 2026-09-27)
Source: MLIT: "List and Description of LAGs Restriction" (English version of the list of liquids, 2015) (retrieved 2026-09-27)
Flights returning from abroad follow the rules of the departure country's airport. Rules of other countries' authorities may impose different restrictions. Some airlines have stricter rules.
Source
Source: MLIT: "Examples of Dangerous Goods by Air Transportation" (English version, last updated April 24, 2026) (retrieved 2026-09-27)