Just about a 5-hour flight from Narita, Hong Kong is within easy reach. If you’re visiting Hong Kong, it’s the perfect opportunity to buy expensive brand-name items or products you’ve been wanting—duty-free, without the taxes you would pay in Japan.
In fact, Hong Kong has no consumption tax at all! This means that technically every shop in Hong Kong is a duty-free store, and there’s no need to do any tax-free procedures at the airport. So why do designated duty-free shops exist in Hong Kong?
For example, “T Galleria Hong Kong,” with three stores in the city, offers an extensive lineup of brands and excellent services. The stores are very spacious, clean, and comfortable, making shopping a relaxing experience. You can even enjoy free Wi-Fi and take a break on provided sofas when you’re tired from shopping. Here, we’ll introduce these stores along with helpful information such as Japan’s duty-free allowance upon re-entry.
How Much Duty-Free Shopping is Allowed?
Before introducing the stores, here’s an overview of Japan’s duty-free limits for items brought back from Hong Kong:
◆Cigarettes: Up to 200 Japanese-made cigarettes and 200 foreign-made cigarettes, or up to 50 cigars. For other types, up to 250 grams.
Note: People residing overseas get double the allowance.
◆Alcohol: Up to 3 bottles (760 ml each).
◆Perfume: Up to 2 ounces (56 ml).
Note: Eau de Cologne and Eau de Toilette are not included.
◆Other goods: Total overseas market value must not exceed 200,000 yen.
If you exceed these limits, you will have to pay tax on the specific items. Always check if your purchases are within the duty-free limit before buying.
Name: Japan Customs
Official site: http://www.customs.go.jp/kaigairyoko/menzei.htm
1. A Treasure Trove of Duty-Free Shops Inside Hong Kong International Airport
Hong Kong International Airport is filled with duty-free shops offering fashion, jewelry, and cosmetics. Over 70 luxury brands are spread across three floors, including PRADA, RAY-BAN, BOTTEGA VENETA, BURBERRY, Chloe, GUCCI, COACH, PANDORA, and Tiffany & Co.—many of which are expensive in Japan but more accessible here.
For food and souvenirs, you’ll find favorites like Panda Cookies (熊猫曲奇), Egg Roll Cookies (家郷雛蛋卷), and GODIVA chocolates. A common offer you’ll see, especially for sweets, is “Buy 4, Get 1 Free,” making it perfect for those wanting to buy souvenirs in bulk. Large supermarkets and the airport are great spots for such deals.
Name: Hong Kong International Airport Shopping Information
Address: 1 Sky Plaza Rd, Chek Lap Kok, Hong Kong
Official site: https://goo.gl/WR3DFg
2. T Galleria Hong Kong – Canton Road
Located in Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, T Galleria Hong Kong – Canton Road is one of the must-visit duty-free stores in the city. It’s easily accessible, with several entrances and even a connection to the underground passage. The store spans from the 1st to the 3rd floor, offering a bright, clean, and spacious shopping environment. Rest areas with sofas make it easy to take breaks during your shopping spree.
Name: T Galleria Hong Kong – Canton Road
Address: Lippo Sun Plaza, 28 Canton Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
Official site: https://goo.gl/1McS4P
3. T Galleria Hong Kong – Tsim Sha Tsui East
Located just north of the New World Millennium Hong Kong Hotel (千禧新世界香港酒店), T Galleria Hong Kong – Tsim Sha Tsui East is another large-scale duty-free store. Spanning from the basement level to the 3rd floor, it offers everything from luxury brands to snacks. There are sofas for relaxation, and free Wi-Fi is available, so you can take your time browsing.
Name: T Galleria Hong Kong – Tsim Sha Tsui East
Address: 77 Mody Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui East, Hong Kong
Official site: https://goo.gl/i1BiKZ
◎ Summary
We’ve introduced some of the best duty-free shops in Hong Kong. These stores not only offer cosmetics, perfumes, luxury brands, alcohol, watches, accessories, and souvenirs, but also surprising everyday items you might not expect. If you’re nearby, it’s worth stopping by and enjoying a leisurely shopping experience.