Recently (March 2025) in Japan, there was the first arrest case for the use of cannabis under the newly revised Cannabis Control Act (which came effect from December 2024).
Key Point of the Legal Amendment: Criminalization of Use
Previously, under Japan’s Cannabis Control Act, while the “possession” of cannabis was punishable, the act of “using” it was not criminalized (unlike stimulants, etc.). However, due to the recent legal revision, the “use” of cannabis itself is now clearly defined as a criminal offense and subject to punishment.
Penalties for the crime of using cannabis in Japan:
Simple use: imprisonment for up to 7 years
For profit: imprisonment for between 1 and 10 years, or a fine of up to 3 million yen, or both, depending on the circumstances of the case
Warning for Foreign Residents, Especially Young People
In recent years, there has been an increasing trend of foreign nationals, particularly young Americans residing in Japan, being arrested for purchasing or using cannabis within the country, potentially influenced by different legal standards or social acceptance in their home countries or states. Before this amendment, if cannabis (as physical evidence of possession) was not found during a police investigation or questioning, prosecution or arrest did not occur.
However, this has now changed. Following the legal revision, even if an individual is not found possessing cannabis at the time of investigation, if past use is confirmed through scientific methods such as urine analysis, they can be arrested, detained, and potentially face criminal trial for the offense of using cannabis.
Severe Consequences of a Drug Conviction
Receiving a guilty verdict for a drug offense in Japan (including cannabis, MDMA, stimulants, etc.) carries extremely serious consequences beyond the imposed criminal sentence, particularly under immigration law. Specifically, it typically results in deportation (forced removal) from Japan and, as a general rule, a permanent ban on re-entering the country in the future.
For individuals who have already established a life in Japan, with jobs, families, and community ties, the impact of such consequences is immeasurable, potentially overturning their entire lives. Furthermore, this extends beyond personal repercussions, causing significant trouble and distress to family members, friends, employers, and others in their social network.
Therefore, we urge people to understand that regulations concerning illegal drugs, including cannabis, are strict in Japan, potentially more so than in some other countries. This applies equally to other synthetic drugs like MDMA. It is imperative to accurately understand Japanese laws and strongly reaffirm your commitment to having absolutely no involvement with any illegal drugs while in Japan. A casual attitude or misunderstanding could lead to irreversible consequences.
Drug offenses profoundly impact your future and the lives of those around you. We strongly encourage compliance with Japanese laws and hope you lead a safe and healthy life in Japan.
