Japan Alcohol Laws

Alcohol Regulations in Japan

Alcohol is legal in Japan for individuals aged 20and above. However, regulations exist regarding where you can buy, consume, and restrictions during certain periods.

Legal Drinking Age

The legal drinking age in Japan is 20 years old. This applies to purchasing and consuming alcohol in public places. Bars, restaurants, and alcohol retailers strictly enforce age verification.

Can Tourists Drink Alcohol?

Yes

Where to Buy Alcohol

• Convenience stores (24/7)
• Supermarkets
• Vending machines
• Bars and izakayas
• Restaurants
• Don Quijote stores

Where You Can Drink

• Anywhere - no open container laws
• Public parks
• Streets (common during hanami - cherry blossom season)
• Trains (not discouraged)
• Bars and izakayas
• Restaurants

Where Alcohol is Banned

• While driving (strict enforcement)
• Generally no restrictions on public drinking

Dry Days (No Alcohol Sales)

• None - alcohol available 24/7

Japan has no dry days. Alcohol is sold every day of the year.

Penalties for Violations

• Drink driving: Extremely severe - imprisonment, heavy fines (up to ¥1 million), license suspension
• Providing vehicle to drunk person: Also punished
• Being passenger with drunk driver: Can be charged
• Public intoxication rarely enforced unless causing trouble

Cultural Context

Drinking is deeply embedded in business culture

Nomikai (drinking parties) are common

Okay to drink on trains and in parks

Cherry blossom season (hanami) involves public drinking

Salarymen often drink after work

Being drunk in public is socially acceptable

Tips for Tourists

• Always carry valid ID showing you meet the legal drinking age
• Only drink in licensed establishments
• Never drink and drive - zero tolerance policies are common
• Respect dry days and religious observances
• Avoid public intoxication - it's illegal in most countries
• Be aware of local customs regarding alcohol consumption

Popular Local Drinks

• Japanese beer (Asahi, Kirin, Sapporo, Yebisu)
• Sake (rice wine)
• Japanese whisky (world-renowned)
• Shochu (distilled spirit)
• Chu-hi (canned cocktails)
• Highballs (whisky and soda)
• Umeshu (plum wine)

Important Reminders

• Laws are strictly enforced - ignorance is not an excuse
• Penalties can be severe, including deportation
• Respect local customs and religious sensitivities
• Check current regulations before traveling as laws can change