Flying a Drone in Japan🕹️

Everything you need to know before flying a drone in Japan

Any drone weighing over 100 grams must be registered with Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT).

Registration is done online via the DIPS 2.0 system. It’s not the most user-friendly process (very Japanese…), but it’s manageable. Once registered, you’ll receive an identification number that must be attached to your drone, along with activation of Remote ID. For those unfamiliar—Remote ID is a safety feature that broadcasts your drone’s identification details. It’s now required in many countries worldwide.

If you’re using a DJI drone: Fly → Settings → Safety → Remote ID

❌ Where you can’t fly

About 90% of urban areas in Japan are off-limits for drone flights.

You are not allowed to fly:

Over urban areas (including Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and most cities)

Near airports

Above 150 meters

Over people or crowds

At night

In sensitive locations (temples, national parks, government facilities, etc.)

Technically, special permits can be obtained - but for the average tourist, this is extremely difficult.

✅ So where you can fly?

In nature, rural areas, and open spaces - assuming your drone is properly registered.

So, long story short

If you’re a traveler planning to fly a drone in Japan:

1. Register your drone with MLIT (if over 100g)

2. Check no-fly zone maps in advance

3. Fly only in nature - not in cities

4. Get third-party liability insurance (highly recommended)