A variable-length-code decoding device is operable to decode bit streams encoded in conformity with a plurality of coding systems. The device comprises a decoding unit (100) operable to decode variable length codes encoded by the plurality of coding systems, the stream input unit (10) operable to input the variable length codes, and an interface (30) operable to interface the decoding unit with the stream input unit. The stream input unit and the interface are shared in the plurality of coding systems. The necessity of providing stream input units for every coding systems is removed, thereby increase in circuit area can be suppressed. Since the interface connects the stream input unit and the decoding units, application to other coding systems or to other combinations of coding systems is easily realized.