Can I take my drone to Japan? - Guide 2025
- Aubin Patrix
- Apr 27
- 5 min read
Updated: May 20
My name is Aubin, an aerial photographer and creator of the blog Dronelog. I travel the world with my drone to immortalize the most beautiful landscapes seen from the sky. In this article, I share with you the rules to know, the mistakes to avoid, and above all, a somewhat comical but instructive misadventure I experienced in Tokyo...
Summary
Traveling with your drone in Japan - what you need to know
Dreaming of capturing the beauty of Japan from the sky with your drone? Before taking to the skies in the Land of the Rising Sun, make sure you're familiar with the regulations.
This 2025 guide explains everything you need to know to fly a drone legally and safely in Japan.
💡 Travel Tip: Heading to Japan? Check out my 2025 Japan travel guide here, or download my drone authorization card to find out all the places you can fly your drone!
What Japanese law says about drones
Since 2015, Japan has strictly regulated the use of drones. The Japan Civil Aviation Authority (JCAB) imposes specific rules based on the weight and purpose of the aircraft.
Drones weighing more than 100g: These are considered aircraft and subject to regulations. This applies to the majority of recreational drones (DJI Mini, Mavic, etc.).
Prohibited areas: Where not to fly a drone in Japan
Densely populated urban areas
Near airports or heliports
Near official buildings (government, Imperial Palace, etc.)
At busy tourist sites (e.g., temples, castles)
Good to know: Even in non-prohibited areas, it is recommended to notify local authorities and obtain the necessary permits. Violating these rules can result in a fine of up to 500,000 yen (about $3,000) or even administrative detention. From experience, I advise you not to take your chances!
Where can you legally fly a drone?
Flights are generally permitted:
Outside urban areas
In the countryside or mountains
On uncrowded beaches
You must always:
Fly during daylight hours only
Keep the drone in sight
Fly at an altitude of less than 150 meters
Respect people's privacy
Can you film with a drone in Japan?
Yes, provided you comply with privacy laws. Capturing images of people without their consent may be considered an invasion of privacy.
Requesting Special Permits: How to Apply?
Certain areas or uses require special permission:
Night flights
Flights over crowds
Commercial use
If you still wish to fly your drone in a prohibited or restricted area (such as an urban park or in Tokyo), you must:
Apply on the MLIT (Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism) website
Provide proof of your project, the drone model, and your identity
Allow approximately 10 business days for a response
Anecdote in Tokyo: 3 hours at the police station for a drone photo
During my last trip to Japan, I spotted an incredible photo spot in the capital: Shiinamachi Station, with a unique urban perspective at sunset. Excited, I flew my drone to capture the scene… unaware that I was breaking the law. A few minutes later, four police officers approached me. And then, I spent 3 hours at the police station in a Tokyo neighborhood, explaining my actions.
The problem: even the authorities weren’t entirely sure about the drone laws. They asked me to write a handwritten letter promising not to fly my drone again in Japan.
That day, I realized that regulations are strict, but often poorly understood even by the authorities. So here’s what you need to know if you plan to take aerial photos in Japan.
Practical Tips for Drone Pilots in Japan
✅ Always carry your drone registration (if required)
✅ Have liability insurance
✅ Use an app like DJI Fly or AirMap to check flight zones
✅ Follow local regulations specific to each prefecture or city
Drones in Japan: Is it allowed in 2025?
✅ Yes, but with conditions. It is crucial to be fully informed before flying.
This guide has been updated for 2025: take into account the rapidly changing regulations, particularly with the 2025 World Games.
Where can you legally fly your drone?
Luckily, there are still splendid and legal areas to fly:
Mount Fuji: an exceptional but regulated spot
Mount Fuji, the icon of Japan, attracts thousands of travelers and photographers each year. Its perfect lines and solitary silhouette make it a spectacular subject from the sky.
But be careful: Mount Fuji is partially regulated. Here’s what you need to know if you want to fly there:
Flights prohibited on the site itself (especially around official hiking trails)
Possible flights from surrounding lakes like Lake Kawaguchiko or Lake Yamanaka, keeping a good distance and favorable weather conditions
Strong winds are common: absolute caution required
For beautiful shots, prefer sunrise or sunset, when the mountain is clear (if you’re lucky... it’s quite capricious!)
It’s one of those places where preparation is key: always check local rules and respect the peace of sacred and natural sites.
Hokkaido
Wild landscapes, frozen lakes in winter, and flower fields in summer: perfect for drone flights.
The Japanese Alps
Rural areas around Nagano or Takayama where flying is often possible with care.
Shikoku and Okinawa Islands
Paradisiacal coasts, less populated, perfect for shooting without breaking the law.
Tip: use platforms like the DIPS app to check authorized flying areas in Japan.
Practical tips for flying safely in Japan
✅ Always check local regulations
✅ Carry a Japanese translation of your registration (most Japanese people are not comfortable with English)
✅ Keep your identification number handy
✅ Avoid major cities to minimize risks
✅ Respect residents and privacy: a drone can quickly be perceived negatively
FAQ: Drone in Japan 2025
Should you register a 249g drone like the DJI Mini 3 Pro?
Yes, all drones over 100g must be registered.
Can I fly to Kyoto or Tokyo?
Do you need permission to fly in a park?
What are the penalties for violations?
Can I travel with my drone without flying it?
In summary: Can you fly with a drone in Japan?
✅ Yes, if you follow the rules: registration, flight zones, distance, height, visibility.
❌ No, if you plan to fly in Tokyo without permission or in a prohibited area.
Flying a drone in Japan is possible and can provide stunning images, provided you follow strict legal guidelines. Prepare your trip, get local information, and fly responsibly.
🎒 Download the checklist and share this article with other drone enthusiasts!
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