15-Second Answer
Sending packages from Japan to another country is straightforward. Japan Post offers EMS (tracked express) and standard international parcel options from any major post office. Private couriers like FedEx and DHL are also available. Delivery time and cost depend on the destination and service — check Japan Post's website before you go.
What Are the Main Options?
Japan Post is the most accessible starting point for most travellers:
- EMS (Express Mail Service) — Japan Post's tracked express international service. Fast, reliable, and available to most countries. Often the easiest fast option for travellers sending souvenirs or excess luggage.
- International parcel post — airmail and surface options at lower prices but longer delivery times. Availability and conditions vary by destination country.
Private couriers are also an option:
- Yamato International — available to select countries; English-language tracking and some English support available
- FedEx, DHL, UPS — higher cost, strong tracking, faster to some destinations; often used for documents and business shipments
For most sightseeing travellers, Japan Post — EMS in particular — is where to start.
How to Send from a Post Office
step
1Larger branches handle international mail more reliably. Look for 郵便局 (yubin-kyoku) signs, or search Japan Post's branch locator online.
step
2Bring the item packed and ready. Boxes and tape are sometimes available at post offices, but bringing your own is safer.
step
3Staff will provide the necessary forms. Fill in the contents, declared value, and destination. Being accurate on the customs declaration avoids delays.
step
4Keep the receipt — it contains the tracking number you will need to follow the shipment.
Japan Post offers an International Mail My Page Service that lets you prepare labels and customs forms online before visiting the counter. Having this ready in advance can make the process faster, especially at busy branches.
What Can You Send?
Prohibited and restricted items vary significantly by destination country. Japan Post provides a country-by-country check tool on its website — it is worth checking before you pack, particularly for:
- Liquids and aerosols (restricted on airmail)
- Products with batteries (subject to restrictions)
- Food items (subject to destination country import rules)
- Cash and valuables
What is acceptable in one country may be restricted in another. Do not assume — check the destination rules first.
How Much Does It Cost?
EMS pricing starts from around ¥1,450, but the actual cost depends heavily on weight and destination zone. A small, light package to a nearby country will cost considerably less than a heavy parcel to North America or Europe.
Japan Post's website has a full rate calculator — entering the weight and destination gives you an accurate figure before you visit the counter. Checking this in advance avoids surprises.
A Tip for Travelers
Some major airports have postal or shipping counters where international parcels can be sent — useful if you realise just before departure that your luggage is overweight or you want to send last-minute items home. Availability and hours vary by airport, so check in advance if you are counting on this option.
Bottom Line
Japan Post is the most accessible way to send packages home. EMS is fast and tracked — a reliable choice for souvenirs and excess items. Check Japan Post's website for rates and destination restrictions before heading to the counter. Costs and delivery times vary significantly by weight and where it is going.
