Flying Drones in Japan 2026: Registration, No-Fly Zones & the 100g Rule Explained

Flying Drones in Japan: The 2026 Complete Guide for Travelers

Japan is a dream destination for drone photography — from the iconic Mt. Fuji to the torii gates of Kyoto. But Japan also has some of the strictest drone regulations in the world, and they've gotten even tighter since the 100g rule took effect.

This guide covers everything a tourist needs to know to fly a drone legally in Japan.

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Quick Reference: Japan Drone Rules at a Glance

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The 100g Rule: What Changed

Before June 2022, only drones weighing 200g or more needed registration. The threshold was lowered to 100g (including battery weight), which means popular consumer drones like the DJI Mini series (249g) now require full registration.

What Counts Toward the 100g?

• The drone body
• Battery
• Propellers
• Any attached accessories (camera gimbal, etc.)

Drones Under 100g

Drones under 100g (like some toy drones) are exempt from registration but still must follow:

• No flying near airports
• No flying over crowds
• Basic safety rules

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How to Register Your Drone as a Tourist

Step 1: Create a DIPS Account

• Visit DIPS (available in English)
• Create an account using your passport information
• You'll need: passport number, nationality, email address

Step 2: Register Your Drone

• Enter your drone's manufacturer, model, and serial number
• Provide weight and specifications
• Upload a photo of your drone

Step 3: Receive Registration Number

• Processing takes 1-3 business days
• You'll receive a registration number (JU-XXXXXXXX)
• This number must be displayed on your drone

Step 4: Set Up Remote ID

• Remote ID broadcasts your drone's registration info
• Built-in Remote ID (most new DJI drones) or external module
• Must be active during all flights

Step 5: Apply for Flight Permission (if needed)

• Through DIPS, apply for specific flight permissions
• Required for: night flights, flights over people, flights beyond visual line of sight
• Processing: 10+ business days — apply well before your trip!

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No-Fly Zones in Japan

Permanently Restricted Areas

Popular Tourist Spots: Can You Fly?

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Flying Rules You Must Follow

Always Required

1. Keep visual line of sight — you must see your drone at all times 2. Stay below 150m altitude 3. Don't fly over people without permission 4. Don't fly near airports (6km radius) 5. Don't fly at night without permission 6. Don't drop objects from your drone 7. Don't fly under the influence of alcohol or drugs

Best Practices

• Check weather conditions before flying
• Carry your registration certificate
• Have your DIPS approval documents ready
• Respect local signs prohibiting drones
• Be considerate of other people — not everyone enjoys drone noise

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Penalties for Violations

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Bringing Your Drone Through Japanese Customs

What to Know

• Drones are legal to bring into Japan — no special import permit needed
• Lithium batteries must be in carry-on luggage (not checked bags)
• Spare batteries should be in protective cases
• No quantity limit for personal use, but be reasonable

At Customs

• You may be asked about the drone's purpose
• Declare it if asked — it's personal electronics
• No duty is charged for personal-use drones

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Recommended Drone-Friendly Locations

Best Spots for Legal Drone Flying

1. Hokkaido countryside — vast open spaces, stunning landscapes 2. Tottori Sand Dunes — unique desert-like scenery 3. Lake Biwa (rural shores) — Japan's largest lake 4. Aso Caldera (Kumamoto) — dramatic volcanic landscape 5. Shiretoko Peninsula — UNESCO World Heritage, check local rules 6. Rural rice paddies — iconic Japanese scenery

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I fly my DJI Mini 4 Pro in Japan?

A: Yes, but you must register it first. The DJI Mini 4 Pro weighs 249g, which is above the 100g threshold. Register through DIPS before your trip.

Q: I only have a small toy drone under 100g. Do I need to register?

A: No registration needed, but you still must follow basic flight rules (no airports, no crowds, etc.).

Q: Can I fly my drone at a Japanese festival or event?

A: No — flying over gatherings of people requires special permission, which is very difficult to obtain for tourists.

Q: How long does DIPS registration take?

A: Account creation is instant. Drone registration takes 1-3 business days. Flight permission applications take 10+ business days. Plan ahead!

Q: Can I fly my drone indoors in Japan?

A: Indoor flights (completely enclosed spaces) are generally not subject to aviation law. However, the property owner's rules apply.

Q: What about FPV racing drones?

A: FPV drones must also be registered if over 100g. Flying FPV (without visual line of sight) requires special permission.

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Timeline: Prepare Before Your Trip

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Related Articles:

• Japan Customs Prohibited Items Guide
• Power Bank & Lithium Battery Flight Rules