Weed in Shizuoka: A Growing Conversation

Shizuoka, a prefecture known for its breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, vast tea plantations, and coastal beauty, is not typically associated with cannabis. However, in recent years, the conversation around marijuana—both medicinal and recreational—has been evolving in Japan, including in Shizuoka.

The Legal Status of Weed in Japan

Japan has some of the strictest drug laws in the world, and cannabis is no exception. The Cannabis Control Act, established in 1948, prohibits the possession, cultivation, and distribution of marijuana. Anyone caught with cannabis, even in small amounts, faces severe penalties. First-time offenders often receive harsh sentences, including imprisonment and hefty fines.

Despite global trends toward legalization in countries like Canada, Thailand, and parts of the U.S., Japan has remained firm in its zero-tolerance policy. In fact, cannabis-related arrests have been increasing, with younger people being a significant portion of those caught. Japanese authorities regularly warn against the influence of foreign drug culture and maintain strict control over narcotics.

Cannabis Use in Shizuoka

Although the legal stance is rigid, that hasn’t stopped cannabis culture from existing underground. Shizuoka, being a more laid-back and rural prefecture, has some cannabis activity, though it is far from widespread. Some residents and foreigners living in the area discreetly use marijuana, but they do so at great legal risk.

There have also been cases of illegal cultivation. Shizuoka’s warm climate and fertile land make it suitable for growing various crops, including cannabis. Occasionally, police bust illegal weed farms hidden among tea plantations or deep in the mountains. However, such incidents remain relatively rare compared to larger urban areas like Tokyo or Osaka.

The Rise of CBD in Japan

While THC (the psychoactive component in marijuana) remains illegal, CBD (cannabidiol) is legal in Japan—as long as it is extracted from cannabis stalks and seeds, not the flowers or leaves. In recent years, the popularity of CBD has surged, and Shizuoka is no exception.

CBD products, including oils, gummies, and vapes, are now available in select stores and online. Some wellness shops in Shizuoka carry CBD-infused items, marketed for relaxation, stress relief, and sleep improvement. While these products do not produce a “high,” they have gained a following among health-conscious individuals looking for alternative remedies.

Cultural Perception of Weed in Shizuoka

Japan’s overall attitude toward cannabis remains conservative, and Shizuoka is no different. For many Japanese people, marijuana is seen as a dangerous drug, often associated with criminal activity and societal decay. This perception is deeply rooted in post-war anti-drug campaigns and cultural stigma.

However, attitudes are slowly changing, especially among younger generations and those exposed to international trends. Some people in Shizuoka, particularly in artistic and alternative communities, see cannabis differently. They recognize its medicinal benefits and question the harsh penalties imposed on users.

Medical Marijuana and the Future

Japan has begun to take small steps toward acknowledging the potential medical benefits of cannabis. In 2023, the government approved a law allowing the use of medical marijuana-based medications for specific conditions like epilepsy. While this is a significant step, it does not mean full legalization is on the horizon.

In Shizuoka, medical marijuana is not yet widely discussed, but if Japan gradually expands its policies, there could be opportunities for research and development in the future. Given the prefecture’s agricultural strengths, Shizuoka could potentially play a role in legal cannabis cultivation if laws were ever relaxed.

Conclusion

For now, weed in Shizuoka remains mostly underground, with strict laws keeping its use limited and risky. However, the growing interest in CBD and the slow shift in attitudes suggest that Japan—including Shizuoka—may one day see a more open conversation about cannabis. Until then, those interested in the plant must navigate the legal landscape with caution.