JapanFree trial auto-converted to paid. Must I pay?
No, you do not automatically have to pay if the free trial was converted to a paid subscription without clear prior consent and proper notice under Japanese law.
What the Law Says
Japanese law strictly regulates automatic renewals and trial-to-paid conversions in online contracts.
Under the Act on Specified Commercial Transactions (Act No. 57 of 1976), businesses must provide clear, written notice before converting a free trial into a paid contract. Without this, the conversion is invalid.
The law requires that consumers give explicit, informed consent to any recurring charge — including automatic renewal after a trial period. Silence or inaction does not constitute consent.
If the business fails to meet these requirements, the consumer may cancel the contract within 7 days of signing (or receiving notice) and is entitled to a full refund of all payments made.
Statutory TextWhere a business operator provides goods or services on a trial basis and intends to enter into a contract for continuous provision of such goods or services thereafter, the operator shall, prior to the commencement of the trial, clearly indicate the terms of the subsequent contract, including the price and duration, and obtain the consumer’s written consent thereto.
— Act on Specified Commercial Transactions, s. 18-2 — Continuous Provision Contracts
Statutory TextIf the business operator fails to comply with the provisions of the preceding paragraph, the consumer may cancel the contract within seven days from the day on which the contract was concluded.
— Act on Specified Commercial Transactions, s. 18-3 — Cancellation Right
What to Do
Check whether you received written notice — before the trial started — explaining the auto-renewal terms and price.
Confirm whether you gave explicit written consent (e.g., checked a separate box labeled 'I agree to automatic renewal').
Send a written cancellation notice to the company within 7 days of contract conclusion (or receipt of notice, if later).
Request a full refund of all charges — the law entitles you to 100% repayment if requirements were unmet.
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.