Japan Drone Photography 2026: Where You Can (and Cannot) Fly
By Tour in Japan editors · Updated
Drone laws in Japan are strict. Here's what you need to know to fly legally.
Drone laws in Japan are strict. Here's what you need to know to fly legally.
Drone Laws in Japan
General Rules
| Rule | Details |
|---|---|
| Registration | Required for drones over 100g |
| License | Required for commercial use |
| Altitude | Max 150m above ground |
| Distance | Keep 30m from people/buildings |
| No-fly zones | Airports, government buildings |
| Night flying | Prohibited (without special permission) |
| Visual line of sight | Must see your drone at all times |
Registration
- Required for drones over 100g
- Register at MLIT (Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism)
- Online registration available
- Takes 1–2 weeks
Where You CAN Fly
| Location | Notes |
|---|---|
| Rural areas | Open fields, mountains |
| Beaches | Some allow drones |
| Parks | Check local rules |
| Private land | With owner permission |
| Designated drone areas | Some cities have them |
Where You CANNOT Fly
| Location | Why |
|---|---|
| Airports | Airspace restrictions |
| Tokyo | Most of central Tokyo is restricted |
| Kyoto | Many temples prohibit drones |
| Government buildings | Security restrictions |
| Over crowds | 30m distance from people |
| National parks | Often prohibited |
| Private property | Without permission |
Drone Photography Tips
Best Locations (Legal)
| Location | What to Shoot |
|---|---|
| Countryside | Rice fields, mountains |
| Coastline | Beaches, cliffs |
| Shrines/temples | From legal distance |
| Mountains | Volcanic landscapes |
| Islands | Coastal beauty |
Camera Settings
| Setting | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Resolution | 4K minimum |
| Frame rate | 24–30 fps |
| Color | D-Log or flat profile |
| ISO | As low as possible |
Tips
- Check local laws — before flying anywhere
- Register your drone — required for 100g+
- Get insurance — recommended
- Fly during the day — night flying prohibited
- Keep visual contact — always see your drone
- Respect privacy — don't fly over people's homes
- Check weather — wind and rain are dangerous
- Bring spare batteries — flying time is limited
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