If you’re visiting or living in Japan, one of the first rules you need to know is the legal drinking age. Japan takes alcohol laws seriously, and breaking them can cause fines, trouble with authorities, or even visa issues if you’re a foreigner.
This guide covers everything you need to know about the legal drinking age in Japan, ID requirements, public drinking rules, and penalties for underage drinking.
What Is the Legal Drinking Age in Japan?
The legal drinking age in Japan is 20 years old.
This applies to:
- Japanese citizens
- Foreign tourists
- International students and workers
No matter where you are—bars, izakayas (Japanese pubs), restaurants, convenience stores, or festivals—you must be at least 20 to buy or consume alcohol.
Are There Any Exceptions?
Unlike some countries where drinking at home with parents is allowed, Japan does not allow under-20s to drink alcohol under any circumstance.
That means:
- No parental permission exceptions
- No cultural or home drinking exceptions
- No exceptions for tourists from countries with a lower age limit
ID Checks in Japan
If you look young, expect to be asked for ID when buying alcohol. Many convenience stores even have self-checkout screens where you must confirm your age. Some bars will check ID no matter how old you look.
Accepted ID in Japan includes:
- Passport
- Japanese Residence Card
- Japanese Driver’s License
- International Driver’s License (sometimes accepted)
Digital IDs or student cards are usually not accepted.
Can You Drink in Public in Japan?
Yes Public drinking is legal in Japan, which is different from many Western countries.
You’ll often see people drinking:
- In parks during cherry blossom (hanami) season
- Outside convenience stores
- During festivals
However, being loud, disruptive, or leaving trash behind can attract police attention. Always drink respectfully in public.
What Happens If You Drink Underage in Japan?
Japan enforces its drinking age strictly. If caught underage drinking, you could face:
- A police warning or fine
- Legal problems for the store or bar that sold alcohol
- Trouble with your school or employer (many Japanese companies are very strict)
- For foreigners: possible visa issues
Why Is the Drinking Age 20 in Japan?
In Japanese law, 20 marks the start of adulthood. At this age, people gain full legal responsibilities, including the right to:
- Vote
- Sign contracts
- Legally smoke
- Legally drink alcohol
This law is meant to encourage responsibility and reduce underage drinking problems.
Can Foreigners Drink in Japan?
- Yes. Foreigners can drink in Japan as long as they are 20 or older.
- The law applies equally to everyone, no matter your nationality.
Drinking Age in Japan
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Legal Drinking Age | 20 years old |
| Applies To | Everyone (citizens + foreigners) |
| Parental Consent Exception | Not allowed |
| Public Drinking | Legal, but be respectful |
| Accepted ID | Passport, residence card, driver’s license |
| Penalty for Underage Drinking | Warning, fines, legal or visa trouble |
FAQs
Q1. Can you drink in Japan if you’re 18?
No. The minimum age is 20, even if your home country has a lower limit.
Q2. Can tourists drink alcohol in Japan?
Yes. Tourists can legally drink in Japan once they turn 20.
Q3. Can you drink in public in Japan?
Yes, public drinking is allowed, but noisy or disruptive behavior may get you in trouble.
Q4. What happens if you’re caught drinking under 20 in Japan?
You could face fines, warnings, or problems with school, work, or visa status.
Q5. Is parental consent allowed for underage drinking?
No. Japan has a strict zero-exception policy.
Final Thoughts
The legal drinking age in Japan is 20 years old, with no exceptions for parental permission or tourists. Public drinking is legal but must be done respectfully. Whether you’re a visitor or resident, understanding and following Japan’s alcohol laws will help you enjoy the country safely and responsibly.