Drinking age in Japan (2026)

Last reviewed: 31 October 2026

In short: The minimum age for drinking alcohol in Japan is 20 for all alcoholic beverages. Sellers must not sell or serve alcohol to people under 20 knowing it is for drinking and must check age.

RuleWhat applies
Minimum age to buy beer and wineBuying and drinking alcohol20 years [1]
Minimum age to buy spiritsBuying and drinking alcohol20 years [1]
Drinking by younger people with an adultBuying and drinking alcoholPersons under 20 may not drink alcoholic beverages, and a parent or guardian who learns of a minor drinking must stop them (art. 1(1)-(2)). [1]
Drinking in public placesBuying and drinking alcohol⚠ Not yet verified
Where and when alcohol is soldBuying and drinking alcoholA business that sells or serves alcohol may not sell or serve it knowing it is for drinking by a person under 20, and must confirm age or take other necessary measures (art. 1(3)-(4)). Breach of art. 1(3) is punishable by a fine of up to JPY 500,000 (art. 3). [1]

Notes

  • The Act Prohibiting Persons under 20 from Drinking provides that persons under 20 may not drink alcoholic beverages (art. 1(1)). The age stays at 20 although the age of majority in civil law is 18.

Sources

  1. e-Gov Law Search (Digital Agency): 二十歳未満ノ者ノ飲酒ノ禁止ニ関スル法律 (consulted 31 October 2026) · all sources

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General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.