Is Heroin Legal in Japan?
Prohibited — do not bring
Heroin (diamorphine) is prohibited in Japan and cannot be imported under any circumstance. Some countries (e.g., the UK) prescribe diamorphine for severe pain; Japan does not recognize foreign prescriptions for diamorphine and treats possession as a serious criminal offense.
Japan status
Prohibited
Quantity threshold
Not applicable
Substance class
Narcotic
Why is Heroin controlled in Japan?
Heroin is a Schedule I narcotic under Japan's Narcotics and Psychotropics Control Law. No exception exists for medical use.
What you need to know before travel
- 1A doctor's letter does NOT permit import of prohibited substances — they cannot be brought into Japan under any circumstance.
- 2If you take this medication, ask your prescribing doctor for a written treatment plan documenting an alternative therapy that is legal in Japan.
- 3Carry that alternative-therapy letter at customs in case you are asked to explain why you do not have your usual medication.
Frequently asked questions
Can UK patients bring prescribed diamorphine to Japan?▼
No. Even though diamorphine is a legitimate prescription medication in the United Kingdom and other countries, Japan does not recognize foreign prescriptions for diamorphine. You will need to work with a Japanese physician for an alternative pain regimen before travel.
Related medications
Morphine is a Schedule I narcotic under Japan's Narcotics and Psychotropics Control Law. Personal use is allowed with advance NCD permission.
Fentanyl is a Schedule I narcotic under Japan's Narcotics and Psychotropics Control Law. Personal use is allowed with advance NCD permission.
Oxycodone is a Schedule I narcotic under Japan's Narcotics and Psychotropics Control Law. Personal use is allowed with advance NCD permission.
Check your full travel kit
Heroin is just one medication — most travelers carry several. Our free checker reviews your entire prescription list against Japan’s import rules.
Check all my medicationsSource: MHLW Narcotics Control Department — Controlled Substances List (12 Dec 2024). Page last reviewed 2026-05-31 by Dr. Lo and Dr. Lee (PharmD). Regulations change — verify with the MHLW Narcotics Control Department before travel. This page is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your prescribing physician or from a Japanese customs authority.