The History of Cannabis in Japan: From Tradition to Ban

Japan’s relationship with cannabis is a complex tapestry woven through centuries of tradition, spirituality, and industrialization before arriving at the strict prohibition we see today. While modern Japan enforces some of the harshest anti-cannabis laws in the world, the plant once held a sacred and utilitarian role in Japanese society. This deep dive explores how cannabis went from being revered to reviled—and what that shift says about global drug policies today.

Cannabis in Ancient Japan: A Sacred Crop

Long before prohibition, cannabis was deeply embedded in Japanese culture. Archaeological evidence suggests that cannabis fibers were used in Japan as early as the Jomon period (10,000–300 BCE). The plant, known as asa (hemp), was cultivated for its strong fibers, which were used to make clothing, ropes, and even sacred Shinto rituals.

Shintoism and the Divine Connection

In Shinto, Japan’s indigenous religion, cannabis was considered a purifying agent. Shinto priests used hemp fibers to create shimenawa—sacred ropes that marked holy spaces and warded off evil spirits. The plant’s association with purity made it a staple in ceremonies, and its fibers were even used in traditional wedding garments.

Hemp in Samurai Culture

During the feudal era, hemp was indispensable to the samurai class. Its durable fibers were used for bowstrings, armor lacing, and even as a symbol of resilience. Some historical accounts suggest that samurai would carry hemp seeds as a good luck charm before battle.

The Edo Period: Hemp as an Economic Powerhouse

By the Edo period (1603–1868), hemp had become a major agricultural commodity. Farmers across Japan cultivated it for textiles, paper, and even early medicinal uses. The Tokugawa shogunate regulated hemp production, recognizing its economic importance.

Medicinal Uses in Traditional Kampo

Japanese herbal medicine, or Kampo, occasionally incorporated cannabis for pain relief and digestive issues. However, unlike in China or India, cannabis was never a central component of traditional Japanese medicine. Its use was limited, and psychoactive properties were rarely emphasized.

The Shift: Western Influence and Prohibition

Japan’s relationship with cannabis began to change in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as Western powers pushed global drug prohibition.

The Meiji Restoration and Modernization

The Meiji era (1868–1912) saw Japan rapidly modernize, adopting Western laws and cultural norms. While hemp farming continued, new international drug treaties—like the 1925 Geneva Convention—pushed Japan toward stricter drug policies.

Post-WWII: The American Occupation and the Cannabis Control Act

After World War II, the U.S. occupation authorities influenced Japan’s drug laws, mirroring America’s own war on drugs. In 1948, Japan passed the Cannabis Control Act, criminalizing recreational use while allowing limited industrial hemp cultivation under strict regulation.

Japan Today: Zero Tolerance in a Changing World

Modern Japan enforces some of the strictest cannabis laws globally. Possession can lead to years in prison, and even CBD products face heavy restrictions. Yet, as global attitudes shift, Japan’s stance is being questioned.

The CBD Boom and Legal Gray Areas

In recent years, CBD (cannabidiol) products have gained popularity in Japan, but regulations remain murky. While non-psychoactive CBD is technically legal, any trace of THC can result in severe penalties. This has created a cautious market where consumers and businesses navigate a legal tightrope.

The Global Debate: Is Japan Out of Step?

With countries like Canada, Germany, and Thailand legalizing or decriminalizing cannabis, Japan’s hardline approach seems increasingly isolated. Advocates argue that Japan’s rich hemp history should inspire reform, while opponents fear societal harm.

The Future: Will Tradition Influence Policy?

As scientific research on cannabis advances, some Japanese researchers and politicians are calling for a reevaluation of prohibition. Whether Japan will return to its roots—or double down on restriction—remains one of the most intriguing questions in global drug policy today.

From sacred rituals to samurai armor, from economic staple to banned substance, cannabis in Japan tells a story of cultural evolution—and raises important questions about how societies define what is sacred, what is useful, and what is forbidden.