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Can I bring vitamins and supplements to Japan?

Supplements that count as drugs or quasi-drugs follow the medicine rules: up to a 2 month supply without Import Confirmation. Products with designated ingredients sold abroad as enhancing cerebral function may not be imported except on a doctor's prescription or instruction.

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With limitsAllowed into Japan
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Into Japan: limits applyChecked on arrival

Supplements at the Japanese border

This is decided when you land in Japan, by Japan Customs. Airport security at your departure airport is a separate check.

Supplements that count as drugs or quasi-drugs follow the medicine rules: up to a 2 month supply without Import Confirmation. Products with designated ingredients sold abroad as enhancing cerebral function may not be imported except on a doctor's prescription or instruction.

Drugs other than prescription drugs, and quasi-drugs
up to 2 month supply without Import Confirmation
Above that
Import Confirmation, received before you leave home and shown at customs
Products advertised as enhancing cerebral function
not to be imported unless used under a doctor's prescription or instruction; a traveller may carry them for self-medication during the stay
Ephedrine and pseudoephedrine
stimulants' raw materials; substances containing 10% or less are excluded from the list

If you carry more than the allowed supply

Above the stated amounts, apply for Import Confirmation, receive it before you leave home and show it to the officer at customs.

Frequently asked questions

Can I bring vitamins and supplements to Japan?

Supplements that count as drugs or quasi-drugs follow the medicine rules: up to a 2 month supply without Import Confirmation. Products with designated ingredients sold abroad as enhancing cerebral function may not be imported except on a doctor's prescription or instruction.

How much of a supplement that counts as a drug can I bring?

Up to a 2 month supply of drugs other than prescription drugs, and of quasi-drugs, without applying for Import Confirmation.

Are products sold as boosting brain function allowed?

Products containing designated pharmaceutical ingredients that are sold abroad with advertising on enhancing cerebral function may not be imported unless used under a doctor's prescription or instruction. A traveller may still bring such a product personally for self-medication during the stay.

Are supplements with ephedrine a problem?

Ephedrine and pseudoephedrine are controlled as stimulants' raw materials. Substances containing 10% or less are excluded from the controlled list.

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Compiled by Japan Japan !! · Updated October 2, 2026