Thailand Experiences Influx of Japanese Tourists Seeking Legal Cannabis

According to Japan Today, citing local sources, Thailand has seen a sharp increase in the number of tourists from Japan over the past couple of months. Many of these visitors are reportedly flocking to the country to experience legal cannabis. The most significant surge, numbering in the thousands, occurred at the end of September during Japan’s “Silver Week,” which coincides with the country’s vacation season.

The publication notes that Japanese citizens have certainly heard the news that Thailand became the first country in Asia to legalize access to cannabis earlier this summer. As a result, many seasoned travelers have become interested in the opportunity to legally use a substance considered “exotic” in Japan.

Legal Risks for Japanese Citizens

While discussing this phenomenon, the magazine warns Japanese tourists that even if cannabis is legal in other countries, Japanese laws still criminalize the use of such substances by its citizens. This means Japanese nationals could face legal issues at home if evidence of cannabis use comes to the attention of authorities.

“Current laws do allow for prosecution for drug use in other countries where such substances are legal. However, this must be proven with convincing physical evidence, such as photographic proof or cannabinoid test results,” explains attorney Hisashi Sonoda.

Official Warnings and Legal Precedents

It’s worth noting that Japanese authorities have already warned their citizens about the potential consequences of “drug tourism” in light of cannabis legalization in various countries and regions. However, so far, no one has been prosecuted or sanctioned for this reason.

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