Top 5 Stores to Visit When You First Arrive in Japan [2026 Edition]

Japan has 100-yen shops, drugstores, discount stores, restaurant chains, and many other businesses that are useful during a trip. Their affordable shopping and dining options make them widely used by international travelers. However, many visitors are unsure which store to visit first or where to conveniently buy daily necessities and meals. Here are five recommended stores that are useful when traveling in Japan in 2026.

Top 5 Stores to Visit First When You Arrive in Japan

Convenient chain stores for shopping and dining operate throughout Japan. Their affordable prices and accessibility make them a common choice among international travelers. The following ranking introduces recommended stores to visit after arriving in Japan.

1. 100-Yen Shops (Seria and Daiso)

100-yen shops are a practical choice for international travelers who want to buy everyday items at low prices in Japan. At Seria, every item costs 100 yen, or 110 yen including tax. Many products therefore cost about one U.S. dollar, making the store suitable for budget-conscious travelers. Daiso, meanwhile, has an extensive nationwide store network and a very broad product selection. In addition to 110-yen items, it carries products priced at 330 yen, 550 yen, and other price points. Its wide selection includes both travel supplies and everyday household items.

Products Popular with International Travelers

• Japanese-patterned goods featuring cherry blossoms, Mount Fuji, ukiyo-e, or sumo
• Snacks that cost less than those sold at convenience stores
• Character goods featuring Sanrio, Disney, and other brands
• Melamine sponges from the Ochi Ochi V series
• Compression bags for clothing

2. Sukiya

Sukiya is a gyudon beef bowl chain with locations throughout Japan. Many branches are open 24 hours and serve Japanese-style meals at reasonable prices. The menu also includes curry, set meals, and many other choices besides gyudon.

Menu Items Popular with International Travelers

• Gyudon beef bowl
• Negitama gyudon with green onions and egg
• Curry
• Breakfast sets

3. Matsumoto Kiyoshi

Matsumoto Kiyoshi is one of Japan’s leading drugstore chains. It carries a wide range of products, including medicine, cosmetics, daily necessities, and snacks, allowing travelers to complete several types of shopping in one place. Japan also has many other drugstore chains selling high-quality products at affordable prices, including Welcia, Tsuruha Drug, and Sugi Pharmacy.

Products Popular with International Travelers

• Moisturizing face masks
• Eye drops
• Advanced skincare products
• Anti-itch treatments
• Sunscreen

4. Don Quijote

Don Quijote is a discount store offering a broad selection of food, snacks, cosmetics, electronics, character goods, and other products. It is suitable for travelers who want to shop for souvenirs and daily necessities in one place.

Products Popular with International Travelers

• Japanese snacks
• Ichiran ramen
• Suntory Kakubin whisky
• Suitcases

5. UNIQLO

UNIQLO is an apparel retailer that sells high-quality clothing at affordable prices. It is convenient for buying additional clothes during a trip or preparing clothing suited to the season.

Products Popular with International Travelers

• HEATTECH and AIRism functional innerwear
• T-shirts with Japan-exclusive designs
• Socks

Shopping Tips for First-Time Visitors to Japan

Can I use a credit card?

Many stores accept major international credit cards and cashless payment methods.

Can I shop in English?

Many stores in tourist areas and major cities provide English signage or multilingual assistance.

Are all products eligible for tax-free shopping?

Only items taken overseas as souvenirs are eligible, such as clothing from UNIQLO, cosmetics from Matsumoto Kiyoshi, and snacks from Daiso or Don Quijote. Purchases used during your stay are not tax-free. Policies vary by store, so check with the retailer for details.

Where to Shop First When You Arrive in Japan

Japan has many stores where travelers can buy useful products at affordable prices. Starting at Seria or Daiso for travel supplies, then visiting a drugstore or Don Quijote for cosmetics and souvenirs, makes it easier to complete necessary shopping efficiently. When using tax-free shopping, remember to bring your passport and check each store’s instructions before making a purchase.