Japan enforces one of the strictest cannabis laws in the world, with marijuana remaining illegal for recreational and medical use under long-standing national legislation. Possession, cultivation, sale, and consumption of weed are treated as serious criminal offenses, carrying severe penalties that apply equally to residents and foreign visitors. This page explains Japan’s current marijuana legality, including legal status under the Cannabis Control Act, potential penalties, cultural attitudes toward cannabis, limited CBD exceptions, and what travelers should know before entering the country. For readers who want to compare Japan’s approach with cannabis laws elsewhere, see our comprehensive breakdown of cannabis regulations by location across U.S. states, major cities, and countries worldwide in the Cannabis Laws by Location guide.
Table of Contents
Is marijuana legal in Japan
1. Legal Status
- Illegal: Marijuana is strictly prohibited in Japan under the Cannabis Control Act of 1948.
- Prohibited Activities: Possession, cultivation, sale, import, and use of cannabis are all criminal offenses.
- No Medical Use: Japan does not allow the use of marijuana for medical purposes, unlike many Western nations.
2. Penalties
- Possession: Penalized by as much as 5 years in prison.
- Cultivation, Sale, or Distribution: Punishable by up to 7 to 10 years of imprisonment, often with additional fines.
- Foreign Nationals: Subject to the same penalties, including potential deportation and blacklisting from reentry.
3. Cultural and Government Attitudes
- Japan maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward all illicit drugs, including cannabis.
- The government and media strongly promote anti-drug messages.
- Public perception is generally negative; cannabis use is socially stigmatized.
4. Exceptions: CBD Products
- CBD (Cannabidiol) is legal only if it contains 0.00% THC.
- Must be derived from the mature stalks or sterilized seeds of the cannabis plant.
- Regulated import and sales are allowed under strict conditions.
Conclusion
Japan is among the most restrictive countries in the world regarding marijuana. Both residents and travelers should avoid any interaction with cannabis to avoid severe legal consequences.
