By MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team, compiled and reported
The Japanese yen has weakened, and various airlines are offering different promotions, making travel to Japan more frequent among locals. But what special precautions should you take before boarding a flight? The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism of Japan has announced that starting July 1, when flying, electronic devices must be completely powered off during checked luggage transport. To prevent possible fires caused by damage to lithium batteries during transit, these electronic devices must be placed in more durable suitcases and protected with clothing.
Travelers heading to Japan, please pay attention to electronic items in your luggage. (Image provided by Japan Airlines)
The new regulations introduced by Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism mainly consist of two points, with potential fines of up to 500,000 Japanese yen (approximately 135,000 New Taiwan Dollars) for non-compliance. First, electronic devices such as mobile phones, laptops, tablets, and cameras must be completely powered off when placed in checked luggage to prevent machines in sleep mode from activating. Second, even if the device itself is turned off, it could still start up due to unexpected impacts during the flight. To avoid damage to lithium batteries from shocks, the regulation requires that electronic devices be protected with shock-absorbing packaging or clothing, and placed inside a sturdy suitcase.
Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism enforces new checked baggage rules starting July 1. (Image source: Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism of Japan)
The original regulations remain in effect. When checked luggage contains lithium batteries, the batteries should be installed inside the electronic device itself before being placed in the suitcase. Spare lithium batteries such as power banks are still not allowed in checked luggage.
Additionally, there are several items on the list of dangerous goods issued by Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism that the public needs to be aware of—such as lighter fuel, camping and household stoves, aerosol sprays, fuel-powered lighters, paint, as well as fireworks and firecrackers. All of these are prohibited items and cannot be brought onto an airplane.
Passengers traveling to Japan are reminded that it is best to carry electronic devices such as mobile phones, laptops, cameras, tablets, and power banks with you to avoid violating regulations—especially power banks, which absolutely cannot be checked. Before departure, double-check your luggage to avoid penalties.