If you’re shipping to Japan, you need to be careful about what you send. Some items are prohibited or restricted, such as weapons, explosives, and drugs.
To avoid a delay or extra fee make sure you label fragile goods properly and offer insurance. Also, factor in duties and taxes when planning your shipment.
1. Electronics
One of the most common types of goods sent to Japan are electronics. They are used in televisions, audio equipment and as components in solar panels, computers and vehicles.
Electronics stores in Japan are a bit different from those you would find back home. They are usually huge megastores that carry everything imaginable.
They are organized to carry similar or related items so that shoppers can easily find what they are looking for. These stores can be a great way to purchase electronics while in Japan and the tax-free areas allow tourists to save on the prices.
2. Medical Supplies
For travelers in Japan who are in need of medical care it is essential to arrive with a supply of prescription medications. US prescriptions are not honored in Japan so it is important to have a sufficient amount of medicine to see you through until you can obtain local care.
It is important to understand that certain medications can be prohibited in Japan. If you plan to bring any narcotics or psychotropics into the country, you should contact your doctor in advance to ensure that they are allowed.
As a result, many foreign manufacturers are seeking to bypass the traditional Japanese distribution system by selling directly to consumers in the United States. While this can be a successful strategy it is important to understand the laws and regulations that govern medical devices in Japan so you can be confident that your products are safe.
3. Furniture
Furniture is the large objects like tables, chairs and beds that are kept in a house to make it fit for living or working. It is made from different materials like wood, particle boards or leather.
People use different kinds of furniture for different purposes in their homes. For example, they have desks in offices and cupboards in dining rooms.
The word furniture means “the things in a room that people sit on, lie on or put things on”. Each piece of furniture is made to suit the style of the house.
4. Kimono
The kimono is the traditional Japanese costume. It is worn by both men and women and was the formal dress for samurai warriors during the Edo period (1603-1867).
Unmarried girls and young single women wear furisode, a colorful style of kimono with long sleeves tied with a brightly-colored obi (sash). The kimono may be embroidered with flowers, bamboo, or other patterns.
During weddings, the bride will usually wear a white heavily embroidered kimono called shiromuku. Her groom will wear a black kimono made from habutae silk and carrying the family crest, along with hakama (a pleated skirt) and a half-length black coat called a haori.
During the Meiji era (1868-1912) the government discouraged the wearing of kimono, and people began to switch to western clothing. Today, kimono are only worn on special occasions.
5. Food
Japan is home to some of the world’s most popular and iconic foods, including sushi, ramen, rice bowls, matcha and more. Whether you’re sending these items to a loved one living in Japan or giving them as a gift there are some important things to keep in mind before you send them.
In addition, there are some products that are prohibited from entering Japan. Generally, these include meat, animal-derived products such as jerky and sausages and any product that can be contaminated with disease-causing pathogens.