The State of CBD in Japan
I’ve just come from my first trip to Japan, a country notorious for their hardcore stance against illegal drugs – even medications!
However, while marijuana and psychedelics are absolutely illegal in Japan, the non-psychoactive compound cannabidiol (CBD) is legal. That said, regulations of CBD are stricter compared to western nations where the legal marijuana market is already mature, or Japan’s Asian neighbor, Thailand. In the United States and in other western nations, CBD with trace amounts of THC, such as 0.3% is allowed, only CBD with 0% THC is legal in Japan.
That said, tourists looking for a mild hit of their usual weed won’t get lucky while visiting Japan. Using or possession of even small amounts of illegal drugs can land you in jail for up to 10 years, or a fine of up to 5 million yen. That doesn’t even include the penalties imposed if you are caught bringing it into Japan, which is life imprisonment – so don’t even think about it! If you need CBD, buy it in Japan – don’t bring it into the country.
Even then, I was surprised to find that there were CBD dispensaries openly selling a variety of CBD wellness products around touristy areas in Tokyo – and even in Japan’s ubiquitous vending machines.
Add CBD Omotesando
While browsing Omotesando one afternoon, I stumbled on Add CBD, my first encounter with a CBD dispensary in the country. Even from a few steps away, I could already see the distinct green and white signage with a green cross, commonly found amongst cannabis dispensaries around the world.
I walked in and browsed the array of CBD products, including vape pens, edibles, and topicals, which were impressive for a country like Japan. No wonder: Add CBD is a renowned company with several branches around the country, including Okinawa, Osaka, Tokushima, Saita, Kyoto, and several more around Tokyo. They even have an online store from where customers can order various CBD goods to be shipped out to prefectures around Japan.
CBD Market Asakusa
One evening, walking around bright and glitzy – albeit chaotic Asakusa, I came across CBD Market. Again, the bright green lights stood out among the shops with various other colors in the well-lit street buzzing with nighttime activity.
I entered the shop and saw that the wall ceilings were adorned with photos of indoor marijuana grows. I asked the friendly staff where their product comes from, and they let me know that the weed is produced in the United States. They also offered a great selection of CBD products, including packaged flower, vape pens, lubricants, oils, and much more.
Japan’s Progressive Attitudes Towards CBD
These are just some of many CBD shops and cafes found throughout Japan. And the fact that they are located in touristy locations, in full view of everyone, clearly demonstrates the Japanese people’s progressive stance towards cannabidiol.
There are several factors at play, though we can certainly hypothesize that there is a large cultural aspect to begin with. After all, Japanese culture focuses heavily on wellness and holistic health.
There is also the historical role that cannabis plays. Cannabis hemp plants were one of the first cultivated crops in the country; ancient Japanese used to rely on cannabis fibers to grow clothes, cords, ropes, and so much more. Hemp was particularly prolific during the Jomon period. In addition, there is still a strong stigma associated with psychoactive THC but none associated with CBD since the latter is known for its potent medicinal, therapeutic, and calming properties.
Clearly, there is a growing demand for CBD products in Japan, and the market is listening. They’ve successfully adopted local trends in their own way, but the local CBD market remains a highly regulated one. As we mentioned earlier, any association with THC isn’t even going to be entertained.
That said, Japan will likely never ever legalize marijuana with THC or for recreational purposes.
The Future of Japan’s CBD Market
In 2023 alone, CBD sales in Japan surpassed a whopping $59 million dollars according to Statista, but there’s no slowing down.
There is still a lot to look forward to in terms of Japan’s growing CBD market. According to Business of Cannabis, there are already over 150 businesses in Japan that either manufacture, distribute, or import CBD products.
But will the acceptable, legal amounts of THC ever change? According to the Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare in February 2024: “In order to prevent the occurrence of health and hygiene hazards, a maximum residue limit for THC remaining in trace amounts in cannabis grass-derived products shall be established.”
The Japanese CBD customer base is seen to continue to grow, especially as more learn about the therapeutic applications and wellness benefits of CBD. It can easily be integrated into cosmetics, topicals, and a wide array of edibles for easy consumption. We can expect to see a burgeoning market featuring CBD matcha teas, skincare, and so much more.
Conclusion
Japan is definitely a more conservative nation when it comes to cannabis, but there may be signs of them opening up rather slowly. No detectable THC is allowed on any CBD products at the moment, which greatly impacts the selection and availability of products for the local market. It also influences the manufacturing processes though that hasn’t impeded the demand for CBD products in Japan.
Furthermore, the aging population and increasing awareness on health will further propel a demand for natural remedies. We’ll likely see even more interesting products and a surge in cannabis shops and cafes in the near future – something to look forward to, not just for tourists, but residents as well.
JAPAN IS A TOUCH PLACE FOR CANNABIS, READ ON...
