What's the legal drinking age in Japan? Navigating Japan's age restrictions

Cheers to your 20th birthday!

The legal drinking age in Japan

Dude, I could absolutely hammer an Asahi right now!

Ahh, look at you all young and glowing with youth. Japansophy is so envious we could spit! While cultural nuances are often the first thing tourists think about when visiting Japan, understanding the legal landscape, particularly age restrictions, is just as crucial. After all, nobody wants to accidentally step on the wrong side of the law, especially when you're just trying to enjoy your holiday! Japan, like any country, has specific rules about what age you need to be for certain activities, from enjoying a refreshing local beer to booking your own hotel room. And spoiler alert: when it comes to things like sipping sake, the legal drinking age in Japan is 20 years old.

This is tied to Japan's concept of the "age of majority" – the point at which an individual is legally considered an adult and gains full legal rights and responsibilities. Historically, this was 20 in Japan, but in April 2022, it was lowered to 18 years old for most legal purposes. So, now an 18-year-old can sign contracts (like for a phone or an apartment), get married without parental consent, and even apply for a credit card. However, and this is a big "however" for travellers, some key activities, particularly those we associate with "adult" behaviours, still retain the age-20 rule.

So, let's break down the nitty-gritty and ensure you're well-versed in Japan's age limits, making your trip as smooth and hassle-free as possible.

The legal age in Japan for...

...buying and drinking alcohol

Alright, let's start with the big one everyone asks about! In Japan, the legal age for buying and consuming alcohol is 20 years old. This applies universally, whether you're at a bustling izakaya, a convenience store (konbini), a fancy restaurant, or even a vending machine (yes, they sell alcohol, but rely on self-declaration or ID checks for older machines/stores). If you're 19, even if you can drink legally at home, you absolutely cannot purchase or consume alcohol in Japan. Don't worry, there's still plenty of delicious non-alcoholic fun to be had, like endless varieties of vending machine drinks, or even non-alcoholic beers which are surprisingly popular!

You'll be asked to confirm that you're over 20 to buy a beer in Japan

...buying cigarettes and tobacco products

Much like alcohol, the legal age for buying and using tobacco products in Japan is also 20 years old. This includes cigarettes, heated tobacco products (like IQOS or Glo, which are quite popular in Japan), and vapes. Again, expect to be asked for ID at shops or even at tobacco vending machines, which often require a "Taspo" card (a specific ID card only issued to adults) or an age verification prompt. So, if you're under 20, best to leave the smokes for when you're back home and of legal age there.

...booking a hotel room

This one can be a little flexible, so it's always best to check directly with your chosen accommodation. Generally, for an individual to check into a hotel room alone in Japan, they usually need to be 18 years old or older. However, some hotels, particularly business hotels or those catering more to an adult clientele, might set their minimum age at 20 years old for solo check-ins.

If you're 18 or 19 and travelling independently, it's highly recommended to contact the hotel directly beforehand to confirm their specific policy. It's not uncommon for hotels to require a signed consent form from a parent or guardian for minors booking alone. If you're travelling with parents or an adult guardian, younger children and teens can, of course, stay with them without issues regarding their age.

...getting a tattoo

Ah, tattoos in Japan – a fascinating area with a bit of a nuanced history! While the legal landscape for tattoo artists has recently changed (no longer requiring a medical licence), the age for receiving a tattoo generally remains 18 years old. However, many reputable tattoo studios, particularly those that cater to international clients and prioritise legal clarity, will often set their minimum age at 20 years old. Some may even require parental consent if you are under 20.

It's always best practice to research and contact your chosen studio beforehand to confirm their specific age policy and any necessary identification requirements. Remember, visible tattoos historically carried certain connotations in Japan, though attitudes are gradually changing. You might still find entry restrictions to public baths (onsen), swimming pools, or gyms, regardless of your age, if you have visible tattoos.

...entering Japan as a tourist

Good news here! There is no specific minimum age to enter Japan as a tourist as long as you meet the standard immigration requirements (valid passport, visa if required, etc.). Infants, toddlers, children, and teenagers are all welcome!

However, if you are a minor (generally under 18 years old) travelling alone or with only one parent/guardian, it's highly advisable to carry a letter of consent from the parent(s) not accompanying you. While not strictly legally required by Japanese immigration, it can smooth over any potential questions at border control and demonstrate due diligence. It's also wise to check the specific rules of your home country regarding minors travelling abroad, and any requirements from airlines regarding unaccompanied minors. Better safe than sorry when it comes to international borders!

...driving a vehicle

Fancy hitting Japan's scenic roads? The minimum age to drive a car or motorcycle in Japan is 18 years old. But there’s a crucial catch for tourists: simply having a driver's licence from your home country isn't enough. You'll need to obtain either an International Driving Permit (IDP) or, for some countries, a certified translation of your national driver’s licence before you leave your home country.

Always check the latest requirements from the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF) or your car rental agency before you go, as rules can change. Remember, driving rules might also differ from what you're used to (e.g., driving on the left, different road signs!).

...gambling (pachinko, horse racing, etc.)

Japan has various forms of legal gambling, and they come with age restrictions. For most public sports betting activities like horse racing, bicycle racing, and boat racing, the minimum age is 20 years old. These activities are strictly regulated.

However, for the incredibly popular and uniquely Japanese game of pachinko (a vertical pinball-like game often found in noisy, brightly lit parlours), the minimum age is 18 years old. While pachinko is technically considered an amusement activity rather than direct gambling (winnings are exchanged for prizes that are then often converted to cash nearby), it's a huge part of Japanese popular culture. So, if you're between 18 and 19 and want to experience the unique atmosphere of a pachinko parlour, this could be an option, but remember, no alcohol can be purchased or consumed within the premises if you're under 20!

Enjoy Japan's nightlife after your 20th birthday!

...entering certain entertainment venues

Japan's vibrant nightlife offers a huge variety of entertainment, from karaoke boxes to bustling clubs. For venues where alcohol is served as a primary offering, like traditional bars, pubs, or izakayas, the age limit for consuming alcohol is, of course, 20 years old.

For specific establishments like clubs and music venues, the rules can be a bit more nuanced. While the overall "age of majority" is 18, many of these venues adhere strictly to the 20-year-old rule for entry, especially if alcohol consumption is integral to the experience or if it simplifies their door policy. Even if an 18 or 19-year-old could technically enter (under the new age of majority), they would be legally unable to order or consume alcohol. For more adult-oriented venues, such as hostess or host clubs in entertainment districts, while an 18 or 19-year-old might technically be able to enter depending on the specific establishment's policy, they absolutely cannot drink. It's always wise to check individual venue policies or simply stick to venues that clearly cater to general tourism.

...buying adult media/content

For those wondering, the minimum age to purchase or view adult-oriented media or content (think magazines, videos, certain online content) in Japan is 18 years old. Stores selling such items will often have clear signage indicating this restriction, and staff may request ID if you look underage. This applies to both physical and online purchases within Japan.

...child fares on public transport

While not a "restriction" in the same vein, understanding child fare rules is super helpful for families travelling around Japan! It can save you a few yen (and a headache!) on your journeys.

• Infants (under 1 year old): Generally travel for free on trains and buses, as long as they don't occupy a seat.

• Young Children (1 to 5 years old): Up to two young children can typically ride for free when accompanied by an adult. If you have more than two young children, any additional children will be charged the standard child rate. They also need a child fare if they occupy their own seat on a limited express or reserved seat train.

• Children (6 to 11 years old): These youngsters will need a "child fare" ticket, which is typically 50% of the adult fare.

• Adults (12 years old and older): Once you hit 12, you're generally considered an "adult" for fare purposes and will pay the full adult fare. (Even if a 12-year-old is still in elementary school, for tourist purposes, it's safest to assume adult fare unless specifically noted for a particular transport type).

These rules are generally consistent across JR (Japan Railways), Tokyo Metro, and most local bus and train networks.

"I'm Old Enough"...

...is the title of a popular Japanese series, and now you're now armed with the knowledge to make smart choices.

One final, incredibly important tip: always, always carry your passport with you in Japan. Not only is it legally required for all foreign visitors (failure to do so can result in fines), but it also serves as your primary and most reliable proof of age. Whether you're buying alcohol, trying to get into certain venues, or simply confirming your identity, your passport is your golden ticket. So, keep it safe, keep it handy, and get ready for an absolutely unforgettable (and legally compliant!) adventure in the Land of the Rising Sun.

Have you ever run into any age-related difficulties in Japan? Let us know in the comments!