If you go into an Apple store, especially in Tokyo, you'll likely find several english speaking staff that will help you out.

Many years ago I purchased an SLR camera at a camera store, and the salesman sold it to me without adding the tax (even though I actually lived in Japan!) - it also helped that I paid in cash.

Apart from the Apple store - the large electronic stores in Tokyo - such as Bic Camera have tax-free shopping and services within the store - so they'd help you with it all there.

Do check that you get a product that is operable in english/ dutch - an export version - as opposed to a product that is for the japanese market, and may not work overseas (or be all in japanese!)

Hi Alex,

I just got an Apple Watch from the Apple shop in Tokyo 2 weeks ago. The tax refund was done on the spot, before i made the payment. You'll need your passport.

It seems that more stores have gone to not charging the sales tax up front when payment is made. I bought a suit yesterday at one of the many suit specialists. I showed my passport and my payment was net of taxes. The same is true for cosmetics. Department stores still require you to take your invoice and passport to the tax refund counter to get cash back (must be done on the day-of-purchase).

To wich apple store did you go? Gavin_Nikicody_Lee

Hello! I'm going to Tokyo this weekend. Can I know which apple store did you purchase your apple watch and manage to get tax refund on the spot?

Hi Alex,

Which apple store did you visit?

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