Can You Fly a Drone in Japan? Registration and Where It Is Allowed

Japan welcomes aerial photography when it follows the rules, and a little preparation with registration, airspace maps and permission keeps every flight smooth.

Published October 20, 2026 at 3:27 PM JST | By Tokyo Paul

Quick answer: Yes, drones can be flown in Japan, but any drone or model aircraft weighing 100 grams or more must be registered with the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT), display its registration ID and carry a remote ID function. Even drones registered in another country, and drones brought in during a short visit, must be registered. Flights near airports, over crowded districts or at night generally need advance permission, so confirm the current rules on the official MLIT pages.

Few things tempt a traveler like Japan's landscapes seen from above, from terraced rice fields to coastlines and temple roofs. The country does allow recreational drone flights, and the rules are organized around registration, a set of restricted airspaces and a permission system for special kinds of flights. Visitors who understand these basics before packing can avoid disappointment at the destination. This guide explains the general picture in plain language, from weight limits to flight permission, and points to the official sources where the details are kept current. Rules are updated from time to time, so treat this as an introduction and confirm everything with the authorities before you fly.

Do you need to register a drone to fly in Japan?

Yes, registration is required for any unmanned aircraft weighing 100 grams or more, and unregistered aircraft are not allowed to fly. The MLIT states that all drones and model aircraft of 100 grams or more that fly outdoors are subject to registration. Each aircraft is registered separately, and the registration ID has to be displayed on the machine in a clearly visible way.

Registration is done online through the government's Drone/UAS Information Platform System, known as DIPS 2.0, in three steps: application, payment of the fee and issuance of the registration ID. The fee depends on the application method, and the official page is the place to check the current amounts. Identity can be verified online, and the official FAQ notes that a passport can be used, with a document showing an address, such as an international driver's license, as an example of the kind of supporting document accepted.

Because the system is designed to keep skies safe and traceable, the rules apply equally to anyone who flies in Japan. A visitor is treated in the same way as a resident when it comes to the registration requirement.

Does the rule apply to visitors and foreign-registered drones?

Yes, the official FAQ answers this directly: even an aircraft registered in another country has to be registered in Japan if it is flown there. It adds that a person who brings a drone during a temporary stay must also register it and install the remote ID function. The same FAQ says the registration system can be used by foreigners and from outside Japan, which allows travelers to complete the process before the trip.

This makes advance planning valuable. Completing the application at home leaves time to resolve any questions about documents, and it means the ID can be displayed on the aircraft before arrival. If you are unsure about a step that specifically affects non-residents, the MLIT help desk for unmanned aircraft can be contacted by phone on weekdays during Japanese office hours, and the page lists the number.

Another useful habit is to keep digital and printed copies of the registration record and any permission you receive. They are easy to carry and can answer questions quickly if someone asks about your flight.

What is a remote ID, and why does it matter?

Remote ID is a function that broadcasts basic identifying information from the aircraft while it flies, and registered aircraft must be equipped with it. According to the MLIT, the broadcast does not contain personal information, and registration involves writing the information into the remote ID equipment before the flight. Some aircraft have remote ID built in, while others use an add-on module, so check the specifications of your model.

There are limited exemptions to the rule, which the official page lists, but most visitors should assume the requirement applies. Because manufacturers differ, the safest approach is to read the MLIT page and the aircraft maker's documentation together before you travel.

Remote ID is one of the tools that help the authorities and other airspace users see who is flying, and it is part of the reason Japan can keep its skies open to hobbyists. Following the requirement is a straightforward way to be a responsible guest.

What about drones under 100 grams?

Multirotors and radio-controlled aircraft under 100 grams, including the battery, are classed as model aircraft, and the registration requirement does not apply to them in the same way. The MLIT guidance notes that the unmanned aircraft flight rules are not the same for these lightweight machines, although permission is still needed for flights near airports or above a set altitude.

Lightweight does not mean free of rules. Local regulations, the ownership of the land, and common-sense courtesy still apply, and many places that restrict larger drones also discourage small ones. Weighing the aircraft with its battery installed is a simple way to be sure which category it falls into.

Where is flying restricted or in need of permission?

Flights in certain airspaces and flight methods require permission or approval in advance. The MLIT page lists the main cases: the airspace around airports, flights at 150 meters or higher above the ground, flights over densely inhabited districts, night flights, flights beyond visual line of sight, flights within 30 meters of people or property, flights over event venues, carrying hazardous materials and dropping objects. The official map marks airport airspace in green and densely inhabited districts in red.

In practice this means that many cities, where houses and people are close together, fall under the permission rules, and airports have a large surrounding area that is off limits unless approved. Flights over festivals, fairs and other gatherings are also treated carefully. Daytime flights in clear view of the pilot are the standard, and flying out of sight or at night need specific approval.

A separate law protects certain sensitive sites. The National Police Agency explains that flights of small unmanned aircraft are prohibited over important national facilities, defense facilities, nuclear facility sites, airports and diplomatic establishments, and over a surrounding zone, unless consent is obtained. The details of this law have been updated recently, so check the police agency's current English page for the latest wording.

How does the permission process work?

Applications are made online through DIPS 2.0, using the same account that was used for registration. The MLIT page asks applicants to apply at least 10 working days before the planned start date, and the application goes to the relevant regional civil aviation bureau or airport office depending on the flight. Applicants enter aircraft and pilot information and submit the form, and approved permission can be checked electronically.

Repeat flights in the same area can sometimes be covered by one blanket application for up to a year, which is useful for commercial work but less often needed on a holiday. For most visitors, the practical lesson is that a permission request is a planning task rather than a last-minute task. Anyone wishing to fly in a restricted zone should start well before leaving home.

The official page also reminds pilots that after approval, the flight plan must be reported in advance, a flight logbook must be kept, and accidents or serious incidents must be reported. These steps keep the system orderly and are described step by step on the MLIT site.

What general flying rules apply everywhere?

The MLIT lists a set of operating rules that apply to every flight: do not fly after drinking alcohol or taking drugs, perform preflight checks, avoid collisions and do not fly carelessly or recklessly. Pilots are also expected to keep the aircraft in view, keep a distance from other people and buildings, and avoid crowded places.

Beyond national law, individual locations add their own rules. Local governments restrict drones in some parks, and shrines, temples, resorts and landowners may post signs that prohibit flights. National park areas, castle grounds and tourist spots often have their own notices, so ask the site operator or look for posted signs before launching. Respecting these local wishes is part of the Japanese approach to shared public space.

Privacy is another consideration. Cameras that point at private homes or crowds can cause worry, so many pilots choose open scenery and keep a polite distance from people.

How can visitors enjoy aerial views without a drone?

There are many ways to capture Japan from above with fewer requirements. Observation decks in major cities, mountain cable cars, ropeways and scenic trains offer wide views. A fixed viewpoint at golden hour can look just as dramatic as a drone shot.

Many photographers use a lightweight camera on a monopod, or a long lens from a high lookout. These alternatives allow the focus to stay on the scenery and the moment rather than on paperwork.

Where can you confirm the current rules?

The authoritative sources are the MLIT pages on unmanned aircraft, the registration portal and the DIPS 2.0 site, all available in English, along with the National Police Agency's information for sensitive facilities. Rules, fees and procedures change, so check the official pages shortly before you travel, and use the MLIT help desk if a question remains. When in doubt about a location, choose not to fly there or ask the property manager first.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do tourists have to register a drone in Japan?

Yes. According to the official registration FAQ, even a drone registered in another country must be registered for flights in Japan, and a visitor flying during a temporary stay must register it and use remote ID. The system is online and open to foreigners, so travelers can complete the steps before leaving home.

Is it legal to fly a drone in Tokyo and other big cities?

Flying is possible, but much of a big city counts as a densely inhabited district, where flights need advance permission and safety measures. Airports, event venues and sensitive facilities add further restrictions. Always check the official MLIT airspace information and local notices, and apply for permission well before the trip.

What is the weight limit for drone registration in Japan?

Registration applies to unmanned aircraft weighing 100 grams or more, including the battery. Lighter multirotors and radio-controlled aircraft are classed as model aircraft and follow different rules, although permission is still needed near airports or above a set altitude. Weigh your aircraft with the battery attached to see which group it belongs to.

Keep Exploring

More guides from Tokyo Paul: Visit Japan Web: Preparing for Immigration and Customs, Photographing Shrines and Temples in Japan: Etiquette and Tips and Street Photography in Japan: Etiquette and Respecting Privacy.