Skip to content 
The legal drinking age in Japan is 20, a regulation that remains unchanged despite recent changes to the age of adulthood.
Navigating Japan’s drinking culture can be fascinating yet complex for visitors and residents alike. From the bustling izakayas of Tokyo to the traditional sake breweries of Kyoto, understanding the local alcohol regulations is crucial for a respectful and enjoyable experience.
Did you know that while Japan maintains strict age requirements for alcohol consumption, it has some of the world’s most unique drinking customs? Whether you’re planning a trip to Japan or simply curious about international drinking laws, we’ll guide you through:
- Essential drinking age regulations and enforcement
- Where and when you can purchase alcohol
- Cultural norms and etiquette around drinking
- Public consumption rules and guidelines
- Recent legal changes and their impact
Let’s explore everything you need about legal drinking age in Japan for 2025.
Japan is famous for its cherry blossoms, sushi, and unique traditions. But if you’re planning a trip or even just curious, you might be wondering: What is the legal drinking age in Japan? This guide will answer that question in simple, direct language, with real-life examples and facts anyone can understand.
Confusion About Japan’s Drinking Age
Let’s face it: rules about drinking can be confusing, especially when you travel. In some countries, you can drink at 18. In others, it’s 21. Japan has its rules; if you don’t know them, you could get in trouble or miss out on a fun part of Japanese culture.
Maybe you’re a tourist excited to try sake at a traditional izakaya. Or perhaps you’re a parent worried about your teenager’s safety. Or you’re just someone who wants to follow the rules. No matter who you are, not knowing the legal drinking age in Japan can cause problems.
For more detailed travel advice, check out this handy guide on Art and Culture Festivals in India: Tradition Meets Creativity
Why This Matters (and What Can Go Wrong)
Imagine you’re 19 and visiting Japan with friends. You walk into a bar, order a drink, and the bartender asks for your ID. You show it—and suddenly, you’re told you can’t drink. You feel embarrassed and confused. Or you’re a parent, and your child gets caught drinking underage. Now, you’re facing fines, and your family’s vacation is ruined.
It’s not just about embarrassment. Breaking alcohol laws in Japan can lead to:
- Fines for minors, parents, and businesses
- Trouble with the police
- Being kicked out of bars, restaurants, or events
- Social embarrassment (which is a big deal in Japan)
- Missing out on unique Japanese experiences
Even adults can get confused since Japan changed its age of adulthood from 20 to 18 in 2022 but kept the drinking age at 20. So, what’s the real rule? Let’s clear things up.
The Complete Guide to legal drinking age in Japan
The Simple Answer: 20 Years Old
In Japan, the legal drinking age is 20. This law applies to both buying and drinking alcohol, with exceptions, even if you’re with your parents or at a private party. This rule applies to everyone, including tourists and foreign residents.
Key Facts:
- You must be 20 or older to buy or drink alcohol in Japan.
- This includes all types of alcohol: sake, beer, wine, whiskey, cocktails, and more.
- The same age limit applies to tobacco and gambling.
- The law is called the Minor Drinking Prohibition Act or the Law Prohibiting Minors from Drinking.
Why 20?
Japan chose 20 as the age for drinking because, for a long time, that was the official age of adulthood. Even though other adult rights (like voting or signing contracts) now start at 18, drinking and smoking are still set at 20.
The law, which dates back to 1922, was created to protect young people’s health and keep order in society. It’s one of the oldest rules of its kind in Japan.
How Is the Law Enforced?
ID Checks
If you look younger than 20, you’ll be asked for ID when buying alcohol at:
- Bars and izakaya (Japanese pubs)
- Restaurants
- Convenience stores and supermarkets
- Events and festivals
Your passport is the best ID for tourists. A driver’s license or residence card works for residents.
Sometimes, you may be asked to press a button on a screen at the register to confirm your age, but don’t lie. Getting caught can lead to trouble.
Penalties for Breaking the Law
Japan takes underage drinking seriously. Here’s what can happen:
Who Broke the Law? What Happens?
Minor (under 20) Warning, alcohol confiscated, possible school discipline
Parents/Guardians Fines up to 10,000 yen, mandatory counseling, social embarrassment
Businesses Fines, loss of license, legal trouble
The focus is often on prevention and education, but repeat or serious offenses can lead to bigger problems.
Where Can You Buy and Drink Alcohol in Japan?
Buying Alcohol
You can buy alcohol almost anywhere in Japan:
- Convenience stores (open 24/7 in many places)
- Supermarkets
- Liquor stores
- Bars, izakaya, restaurants
- Some vending machines (mostly in rural areas)
Drinking in Public
Japan’s rules about where you can drink are pretty relaxed:
- You can drink in parks, on the street, at festivals, and even on some trains or buses.
- No open-container laws exist for passengers in cars or on public transport (but never for drivers).
- Drinking at temples or shrines is usually not allowed, except during festivals6.
But remember: just because it’s legal doesn’t mean it’s always polite. Don’t drink in places where it might offend others.
Special Cases and Common Questions
Can Tourists Drink in Japan?
Yes, as long as you’re 20 or older and have an ID. The law applies to everyone, not just Japanese citizens.
What About Underage Drinking at Home or Family Events?
No exceptions. Even if parents allow it, it’s still illegal. Parents can be fined if they let minors drink.
What if I’m 18 or 19, and the Age of Adulthood is 18?
You still can’t drink alcohol. The drinking age is separate from the age of adulthood.
What About Drinking and Driving?
Japan has a zero-tolerance policy for drunk driving. The blood alcohol limit is extremely low; just one drink can put you over. Penalties include huge fines (up to 1 million yen) and jail time7. Passengers can drink, but drivers cannot.
Real-Life Case Study: Alcohol and Young People in Japan
Japan’s drinking culture is unique. Drinking is a big part of social life, from cherry blossom parties to after-work gatherings. But the government is strict about the age limit.
In 2020, a study found that 73% of Japanese men aged 15–39 drank harmful amounts of alcohol-much higher than the global average. The government even ran a contest to encourage young people (aged 20–39) to come up with ideas to boost alcohol sales since fewer people are drinking now due to an aging population and changing habits.
However, research shows that lowering the drinking age could lead to more emergency room visits for alcohol poisoning among young adults, even if it doesn’t increase deaths from accidents. This is one reason why Japan keeps the age limit at 20.
Quick Comparison: Japan vs. Other Countries
Country Legal Drinking Age
Japan 20
USA 21
UK 18
South Korea 19
Germany 16 (beer/wine), 18 (spirits)
Tips for Legal drinking age in Japan
- Always carry your ID if you plan to drink.
- Don’t try to buy alcohol if you’re under 20.
- Respect local customs- don’t drink in places considered rude.
- Never drink and drive.
- If you’re with friends under 20, don’t encourage them to drink.
- Enjoy Japanese drinks like sake, shochu, and umeshu, but know your limits.
Summary: What You Need to Remember
- The legal drinking age in Japan is 20 for everyone, everywhere, and all types of alcohol.
- The law is strictly enforced, especially in public places and businesses.
- Underage drinking can lead to fines, trouble for parents, and problems for businesses.
- Japan’s rules about where to drink are relaxed but always respectful.
- Tourists and residents must follow the same rules.
- The age of adulthood is 18, but drinking and smoking are still 20.
- Always drink responsibly and follow the law.
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning to visit or live in Japan, knowing the legal drinking age is important. It helps you stay safe, avoid trouble, and correctly enjoy Japan’s unique culture. Whether sipping sake under the cherry blossoms or trying Japanese whiskey at a bar, wait until you’re 20, bring your ID, and drink smart.
