"MUSASHI JAPAN," has launched a new service called "SAMURAI TAX" to support tax-free procedures for duty-free shops and non-residents.

TAIMATSU Co., Ltd., which promotes the appeal of traditional crafts both domestically and internationally, primarily through its Japanese kitchen knife brand "MUSASHI JAPAN," has launched a new service called "SAMURAI TAX" to support tax-free procedures for duty-free shops and non-residents.

In anticipation of the major revision of the tax exemption system (transition to a refund system) scheduled for November 2026, we will provide a highly convenient tax exemption solution for both businesses and foreign visitors to Japan.

■Background of the business launch

1. Expansion of the inbound tourism market and increased demand for duty-free shopping.  

The number of foreign tourists visiting Japan continues to increase year after year, and is projected to reach a record high of approximately 42.68 million in 2025 (according to JNTO statistics). In addition, per capita spending and the number of duty-free shops are also on the rise, both reaching record highs.

2. A major shift in the tax exemption system  

From November 1, 2026, the tax exemption system will shift from the current "tax exemption at purchase" system to a "refund system."
This means that travelers will pay the tax-inclusive price at the time of purchase, and the consumption tax will be refunded after customs approval upon departure. This system change will necessitate the implementation of refund-compatible systems for businesses.

3. Services born from the field  

TAIMATSU Co., Ltd. has been operating the Japanese kitchen knife sales business "MUSASHI JAPAN" since 2020, with over 90% of its customers being foreign visitors to Japan. In 2023, they opened an offline store and, while operating it as a duty-free shop, have accumulated practical experience in application flows, on-site operations, and systemic challenges.
Based on this experience, "SAMURAI TAX" was developed as "a duty-free service that is truly needed on the ground."

■Features of "SAMURAI TAX"

1. Easy implementation via a web-based system  

No dedicated app installation is required. It can be used from any device with a web browser.
*If your store is not yet registered as a duty-free shop, you will need to register separately.

2. Smooth application process that can be completed in as little as 1 minute.  

Supports passport scanning and QR code reading for Visit Japan Web.
Furthermore, by integrating with Shopify POS, it automatically retrieves order information, significantly reducing the operational burden on staff.
*Installation of a dedicated application for Shopify POS is required.

3. No setup or usage fees.  

There are no initial or monthly fees.
Since we operate on a model where we receive a commission from the refunded funds, there is no cost burden on the business operator.
*A device with browser access is required.

4. A reliable refund system that supports a refund method.  

We collaborate with Digital Wallet Co., Ltd., one of Japan's largest international money transfer service providers, through their "TAX REFUND JAPAN" service to ensure safe and smooth refundsMu

■Future developments

TAIMATSU Corporation will establish a standard of trust and convenience in Japan's duty-free market through "SAMURAI TAX." Moving
forward, we will expand its adoption to duty-free businesses nationwide and enhance its convenient and safe service functions to contribute to improving the shopping experience for foreign visitors to Japan.

TAIMATSU Corporation Overview

Established: November 2023
Representative Director: Wang Weihan
Address: 22nd Floor, Office Tower X, Harumi Island Triton Square, 1-8-10 Harumi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
URL: https://www.tai-matsu.jp/
E-mail: help@tai-matsu.jp

TAIMATSU Corporation is a company that redefines traditional Japanese crafts. Our team, comprised of members from diverse backgrounds around the world, pursues the possibilities of traditional crafts with innovative perspectives. From traditional Japanese kitchen knives to sake and experiential facilities imbued with the spirit of the samurai, the services and products we create maximize the appeal of tradition and share it globally.

<Website>

SAMURAI TAX
https://samurai-tax.com/

<Operating Brands>

MUSASHI JAPAN
https://www.musashihamono.com/