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If you’ve ever tried to send post from Japan to another country, you’ll know it can be a confusing process — especially after Japan Post updated its requirements for international parcel labeling.
As a study abroad student, you’ll probably want to send some things overseas, whether they’re special gifts for your loved ones or personal items you want to send back home. We’ve put together this guide on how to send parcels from Japan to hopefully make the process less painful and confusing!
Delivery methods
When sending post overseas from Japan, you generally have several options: Surface Mail, Airmail, or EMS (Express Mail Service). (SAL, or economy air, is largely suspended to most destinations as of 2025.)
Surface Mail (船便 funabin) is the most budget-friendly option if you don’t mind a longer delivery time. Packages typically take one to three months to arrive, depending on the destination. It’s a practical choice if you’re leaving Japan and want to send personal belongings early. Make sure your items are well-packaged and watertight, as tracking is usually not available.
Airmail (航空便 kōkūbin) is faster than surface mail, usually taking three to ten days. Prices are higher than surface mail but lower than EMS. This option is ideal if you need your package delivered more quickly without paying EMS rates.
EMS (国際スピード郵便 kokusai supīdo yūbin) is the fastest international option, generally arriving within two to five days. EMS includes tracking and insurance, making it ideal for valuable or time-sensitive items. For some destinations, including Taiwan, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, India, and France, Cool EMS is available for shipping items at controlled low temperatures.
Please note that certain items cannot be sent via EMS (or other services), such as matches, lighters, lithium batteries, paint, and aerosol sprays. Always check the latest Japan Post prohibited items list before sending a package.
Changes to international labels
Since March 1, 2024, Japan Post no longer accepts handwritten labels for packages containing goods. All international parcels must now have labels created and printed electronically using the International Mail My Page Service.
When preparing your shipment, you’ll need to enter:
- Your name and address
- Recipient’s name and delivery address
- Package contents and value
This digital process ensures your package complies with customs requirements and avoids delays.
Handwritten labels are no longer accepted for any destination, not just the US. Using the electronic system is now mandatory for all parcels containing goods. Following this procedure helps prevent your package from being returned, delayed, or rejected.
How to send post from Japan: the process
The steps you need to take to send post from Japan will get easier the more you send packages. For your first one, it always helps to have someone with you who speaks Japanese if your language skills aren’t quite advanced enough.
However, even if you go about it on your own, you should be able to manage with our guide.
1. Log in to Japan Post’s International Mail My Page Service
Before going to the post office, log in to International Mail My Page to create your shipping label. This step is mandatory, as handwritten labels are no longer accepted for packages containing goods.
2. Create your label
Enter all required information about your shipment:
- Sender information — your name and Japanese address
- Recipient information — name, address, and contact details
- Shipping method — choose between EMS, Airmail, or Surface Mail depending on speed and cost. (Note: “International ePacket” is no longer a standard option.)
- Package contents — describe what’s inside, and include weight and value
3. Order a plastic pouch (optional but recommended)
Your printed label should be placed in a plastic pouch and attached to your package. You can order pouches through the My Page Service to be delivered to you. Since this can take a few days, it’s best to order early.
4. Take your package to the post office
Bring your package to the post office, pay the postage, and let the staff handle the rest. EMS shipments will automatically include tracking.
If you want a quick Japanese phrase guide for the post office, check out our blog article on useful Japanese words and phrases at the post office.
Gift ideas to send from Japan
There are many wonderful items you can buy from Japan to send your family and friends back home as gifts. Popular ideas include confectionery and chocolate, especially Kit Kat bars. There are many unique flavors available only in Japan, including limited edition and seasonal specialties.
Japanese alcohol, such as sake, whiskey, or plum wine, could also be an idea, although it could get costly and there’s the chance it might get broken on the journey. Be aware, though, that alcohol shipments can be restricted depending on the destination country. Japan Post generally allows items up to 24% ABV, but always check the rules of the country you’re sending to before shipping.
If you’re traveling around Japan, you could also send souvenirs and non-perishable food items from the places you’re visiting. Perhaps a good luck amulet from a famous shrine?
Whatever you choose, double-check that your items can be sent internationally, pack them securely, and remember that heavier or larger packages cost more. Including accurate customs information (like item value and HS codes) will also help your package clear customs without delays.
For more articles about the Japanese language, society, culture, and traditions, visit our blog.
