The rule that surprises most travellers
No pseudoephedrine or ephedrine
Japan’s Stimulants Control Act prohibits medicines containing pseudoephedrine or ephedrine. A prescription does not make them legal. Read the ingredient list on every cold, sinus and allergy tablet before packing.
Quantity limits
- Up to a one-month supply of most prescription medicines, and up to two months of many over-the-counter medicines, can be brought without paperwork.
- Larger quantities, and some psychotropic medicines, need a Yunyu Kakunin-sho import certificate — apply at least two weeks before travel.
- Narcotic medicines such as strong opioid painkillers need special permission.
Japan-safe checklist
| Category | Notes |
|---|---|
| Paracetamol | Widely accepted |
| Antacid, ORS, probiotic | Unfamiliar food and long travel days |
| Antihistamine | Spring pollen (cedar) season |
| Cold & cough products | Only if free of pseudoephedrine, ephedrine and codeine |
| Motion sickness tablets | Shinkansen and mountain buses |
Frequently asked questions
Which medicines are banned in Japan?
Medicines containing pseudoephedrine or ephedrine (many cold and sinus tablets), stimulant ADHD medicines and some codeine products are prohibited or restricted. Check the official list before travel.
How much medicine can I bring to Japan?
Generally up to a one-month supply of prescription medicines without paperwork. More than that, or certain controlled medicines, needs a Yunyu Kakunin-sho certificate.
Medically reviewed by
Dr. Chitarth Rajasekaran
Founder & Medical Director · MBBS, MS Ortho, DNB Ortho, MRCS (Edin), Fellow in FIJR, FISS
A practising surgeon and frequent traveller, Dr. Chitarth founded TravelMed after a family trip abroad was derailed by a minor illness.
Read his storySources
This article is general information for travellers and is not a substitute for personal medical advice. Medicine-import rules change — always confirm with the destination’s official health authority or embassy.
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