Update: We are happy to report that as of December 1st, Japan Post has started to once again allow Airmail packages bound for the U.S.

Due to tighter security measures related to cargo bound for the United States, which includes international mail, as of this Wednesday, November 17, Japan Post will for the foreseeable future not accept Airmail packages bound for the U.S. that weigh over 16 ounces (or 453 grams) from non-registered shippers. This effects all EMS, Standard Airmail, and Economy Airmail (SAL) shipments. As far as we understand, this does not affect Surface shipments. With the exception of a few titles, most books we sell in the bookstore weigh more than 16 ounces. Please note that these restrictions only apply to items bought from the bookstore and not from the Japan Exposures Shop, which is back to operating as normal after their autumn holidays.

We are doing our utmost to fulfill all outstanding bookstore orders bound for our U.S. customers before the cutoff, but for any orders received from the US from here on out, a temporary delay while we adjust our shipping methods will occur, so we ask for your understanding. You can of course still place orders and we will hold the books for you until such time as we can make the delivery, or choose Surface as your shipping method. If you are worried about securing titles with limited availability, or wish to inquire about the status of an existing order, or wish to reconfirm time frames prior to placing your order, please feel free to contact us.

We know that, with the Christmas shopping season upon us, these restrictions couldn’t have come at a worse time. Please understand that this situation is largely out of our hands but we are doing our best to find alternatives and to satisfy our customers as best as possible. We are confident that most orders intended for Christmas will reach you in time for the holidays.