Quick Facts
| Legal Status | Since | Adult Use | Access Type | Est. Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| No Medical Programme | N/A | No (illegal) | No access | N/A |
How to Get Medical Cannabis in Japan
- Japan has NO medical cannabis programme
- Cannabis is classified as a narcotic under the Cannabis Control Act
- Possession, cultivation, and distribution are criminal offences
- CBD from cannabis stems and seeds only (not leaves or flowers) is technically permitted
- Japan is one of the strictest countries in Asia on cannabis policy
Qualifying Conditions
- No programme — no access exists
Cost & Clinics
Japan maintains strict prohibition of cannabis under the Cannabis Control Act. There is no medical cannabis programme. CBD products derived strictly from cannabis stems and seeds (not leaves or flowers) exist in a grey area. The Japanese government is considering regulatory changes to allow some cannabis-based medicines (like Epidiolex) but has not implemented them as of 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is cannabis legal in Japan?
No — cannabis is fully illegal under the Cannabis Control Act. There is no medical programme. Japan has strict enforcement.
Is CBD legal in Japan?
CBD from cannabis stems and seeds only (not leaves or flowers) is in a legal grey area in Japan. Many CBD products are sold, but their legality depends on the source material.
What are the penalties for cannabis in Japan?
Possession: up to 5 years imprisonment. Cultivation or import: up to 7 years. Japan is one of the strictest countries in the world for cannabis enforcement.
Is Japan considering medical cannabis reforms?
The Japanese government has been evaluating whether to allow cannabis-based medicines like Epidiolex, but no formal medical cannabis programme has been established as of 2026.