Goods Across Borders · Customs rule card

Melatonin → Japan

Purpose: Traveling · Verified: 2026-05-13

RESTRICTED

Not sold in Japan — personal import permitted

Details

Melatonin is classified in Japan as an ingredient that has not been approved as a medicine under the Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Act (PMD Act). The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare permits personal-use import up to a two-month supply without a Yakkan-Shoumei certificate. Larger quantities — or any product marketed with medical claims — require the Yakkan-Shoumei importer's certificate, submitted at least two weeks before travel to the relevant regional Bureau of Health. Keep original labelling showing the dose and manufacturer; customs officers routinely inspect supplement quantities.

Quantity limit

One month supply without permit

Documentation required

Yakkan Shoumei for larger quantities

Legal reference

Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Act

Practical advice

Carry original retail packaging + prescription if dispensed Rx. Personal-use 30-90 day supply clears with documentation.

Customs authority

Japan Customs (Ministry of Finance) · https://www.customs.mof.go.jp