Goods Across Borders · Customs rule card
Pepper Spray → Japan
Purpose: Traveling · Verified: 2026-04-25
Classified as a weapon; possession illegal
Details
Japan's Firearm and Sword Possession Control Law and Minor Offenses Act prohibit pepper spray (OC), tear gas, and similar incapacitating sprays for civilian carry. Tourists carrying pepper spray are detained at Narita / Haneda / Kansai customs; the device is seized and the traveler typically receives a written warning on first offence (foreign tourist) or fine up to JPY 10,000 under the Minor Offenses Act. Re-export at the airport is rarely offered.
Quantity limit
Zero
Legal reference
Minor Offenses Act, Firearms and Swords Control Law
IATA dangerous goods
Pepper Spray is classified under Class 2.2 — Non-flammable, non-toxic gas. Cabin and checked-baggage limits apply on top of customs rules.
Practical advice
Do not carry pepper spray, OC spray, or tear-gas devices into Japan. Japan Customs treats incapacitating sprays as prohibited weapons under the firearms / dangerous-articles regime; seizure plus a fine is the standard response.
Customs authority
Japan Customs (Ministry of Finance) · https://www.customs.mof.go.jp