Tokyo, Dec. 16, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- With the Japanese yen hitting record lows and the expansion of tax-free shopping starting October 1, the number of inbound touristsrecentlyhas increased significantly. To attract more foreigners to visit Japan through its premium goods and services, the Japan Shopping Tourism Association, which isJTB Communications Inc. serving as the secretariat,officially launched the "Japan Shopping Festival" on December 1 of this year, running through February 28, 2015—a three-month event that is back this winter.
Better Quality, Lower Prices!! Thanks to the weaker yen, Japan has become a shopper’s paradise!
Tax-Free on All Products Japan Rises as a “Shopping Paradise”
Fashion, shoes, bags, jewelry, cosmetics—Japan represents trends and styles across Asia and beyond; electronics, food, daily necessities—“Made in Japan” has long been synonymous with quality, practicality, and user-friendliness. The weaker yen has greatly benefited.shoppersin Japan,and now the expanded range of tax-free products has elevated Japan to a must-shop destination for international tourists.
Previously, tax-free items were limited to general goods such as electronics, clothing, and bags. Starting October 1, consumables including food, medicine, and cosmetics have also been included in the tax-free category. For general goods, shoppers must spend over 10,001 yen at the same store on the same day, while for consumables, the threshold is 5,001 yen—both are eligible with a purchase receipt andapersonal passport (credit card users must ensure the name matches the passport).
As the year-end approaches, major department stores are rolling out discount campaigns. The official JNTO website (http://sij.jnto.go.jp) has newly added links to information on shopping and tax-free shop promotions. By downloading the official “Japan Shopping Festival” app, Japan Shopping App, you can access real-time updates on deals from over 2,000 tax-free shops nationwide. Don’t miss out on these great offers.
More Participating Cities and Stores Even More Discount Events
The “Japan Shopping Festival” was previously held last winter and this summer, receiving high praise. This time, the,Japan Shopping Festival has expanded beyond central cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya to cover all regions of Japan. The number of participating stores has also increased by more than 100 compared to last year.
By visiting the official “Japan Shopping Festival” website or using the Japan Shopping App on your mobile device, not only can you access the aforementioned store discounts, but you can also participate in events to win round-trip flights to Japan, attractive gifts, or free guided tours in Fukuoka, among others. You can also download e-coupons for discounts of up to 30% off at major stores, and find useful information on attractions, food, and hospitals to make your trip more convenient. From Christmas lights to limited-edition merchandise, lucky bag (fukubukuro) rushes, cultural experiences—stay tuned to the “Japan Shopping Festival” for more deals and a more enjoyable shopping and sightseeing experience in Japan.travelersThe journey is made more convenient. Keep an eye on the latest updates of the "Japan Shopping Festival" — Christmas lights, limited-time deals, lucky bag rushes, cultural experiences, and more — to enjoy more discounts and fun while shopping and traveling in Japan.
The “Take the Survey, Get a Japanese Gift” campaign has begun now. For a wealth of information on shopping in Japan, please click here:http://sij.jnto.go.jp.