Heads up: Japan's "Do Not Buy" List of Electrical Goods

By MOOK Scenic Spots Home Travel Life Network Editorial Team
 
When visiting an electronics store in Japan, the abundance of products and attractive prices might make you want to bring everything home. However, not all electrical goods are suitable for use in Taiwan. Additionally, some items may raise aviation safety concerns, and ground staff could... Editors have compiled a list of electrical products to avoid buying in Japan. Pay extra attention when planning your shopping list.

● Dehumidifiers and Air Purifiers
Some dehumidifiers and air purifiers that use compressors and refrigerants may be flagged as aviation safety risks and are therefore classified as prohibited items by airlines. Since ground staff are not electrical experts, they can’t always tell which items are allowed on planes and which aren’t—so there’s a high chance these could be rejected at the airport.

● Kerosene Heaters
Kerosene heaters may contain unburned fuel residue in their fuel lines due to factory testing, which could compromise flight safety. As a result, they will absolutely be refused at the airport—don’t risk trying to take them on board.

● Kotatsu (Heated Table)
Seeing the cozy Japanese-style electric kotatsu in dramas might make you want to bring one back to Taiwan, but these items are often bulky and may exceed airline carry-on or checked baggage size limits. The built-in heating element might also raise aviation safety concerns among ground staff.

● Gas Stoves
Cooking appliances can also raise aviation safety concerns for ground staff. Although some travelers have successfully brought them back to Taiwan, with increasingly strict airport inspections, it's better to avoid purchasing them.