"Dodge the Duties: Shop Like a Pro in Japan and Korea!"

Understanding Duty-Free Shopping

Duty-free shopping is a service available at international airports, offering travelers the opportunity to purchase certain goods without paying taxes. Travelers visiting Japan can shop at duty-free stores at Japanese airports upon departure and at Korean airports upon arrival. It’s important to understand and plan according to the different duty-free limits and regulations of each country.

shopping at a duty-free store and overwhelmed with gifts.

Shopping Duty-Free in Japan

1. Check the Duty-Free Limit: The duty-free allowance in Japan is typically 200,000 JPY. Within this limit, you can purchase a variety of goods including alcohol, tobacco, perfumes, and cosmetics.
2. Recommended Products: Japan is renowned for its duty-free goods such as cosmetics, electronics, and fashion items. Japanese brand cosmetics and skincare products are particularly popular for their high quality and cost-effectiveness.
3. Utilize Promotions: Japanese duty-free shops often offer various promotions. Before departure, visit the duty-free store’s website to check for discounts, and prepare any coupons or special deals in advance.

Shopping Duty-Free in Korea

1. Check the Duty-Free Limit: The duty-free allowance in Korea is 600 USD. Be careful, as purchases exceeding this limit may be subject to customs duties.
2. Recommended Products: In Korea, cosmetics, health supplements, and luxury fashion items are particularly popular. Korean brand cosmetics are well-regarded for their effectiveness and are also suitable as gifts.
3. Utilize Promotions: Like Japan, Korean duty-free shops offer various promotions, so gather information in advance and make the most of these opportunities.

Purchase Precautions

• Prepare a Shopping List: To avoid unnecessary expenses, list the items you need in advance and shop accordingly.
• Comply with Regulations: Adhere to the customs regulations of each country and be careful not to exceed the allowances.
• Security Inspection: All purchased goods will undergo security inspection. Choose products that are easy to package and won’t cause issues during these checks.

Duty-free shopping in Japan can not only provide economic benefits but also enhance the enjoyment of your trip. Use these tips for a more effective and enjoyable shopping experience.