Looking for the best souvenirs in Japan?
Or maybe you want to buy high-quality cosmetics and delicious snacks at great prices?
The answer might be in an unexpected place: the Japanese drugstore!
This guide will show you why drugstores are a shopping paradise and reveal the must-buy items you need to add to your list.
Sauce: sbbit.jp
More Than Just a Pharmacy
Japanese drugstores are a unique blend of a pharmacy, a supermarket, and a cosmetics shop all in one.
You can find everything from medicine to makeup, daily necessities, and even food.
Look for these major chains all over Japan:
- MatsumotoKiyoshi (マツモトキヨシ): The largest chain, famous for its yellow signs.
- Welcia (ウエルシア)
- Sugi Pharmacy (スギ薬局)
- SunDrug (サンドラッグ)
- Daikoku Drug (ダイコクドラッグ)
Sauce: jbpress.ismedia.jp
The Ultimate Shopping List: Must-Buys by Category
1. Cosmetics & Skincare (化粧品・スキンケア)
Japanese drugstores are a treasure trove of high-quality yet affordable “petit-pura” (budget-friendly) cosmetics.
Must-Buy Examples:
- Face Masks: Look for brands like LuLuLun or Keana Nadeshiko.
- Sunscreen: Biore UV and ANESSA are extremely popular for their light texture and strong protection.
- Face Wash: Shiseido’s Perfect Whip is a classic favorite.
Sauce: vmd-i.net
2. Medicine & Health (医薬品・健康グッズ)
Japanese over-the-counter medicines are known for their effectiveness.
Must-Buy Examples:
- Cold Medicine: Pabron Gold A is a popular choice for all-around cold relief.
- Pain Relievers: EVE is a famous brand for headaches and other pains.
- Eye Drops: Sante FX offers a uniquely refreshing sensation.
- Pain Relief Patches: Salonpas is a world-famous brand for muscle soreness.
If you need help buying medicine, check out our detailed guide on how to navigate a Japanese drugstore.
Navigating Japanese Drugstores: A Tourist’s Guide to Buying Medicine Stress-Free
Sauce: medical.jiji.com
3. Snacks & Sweets (お菓子)
You can often find snacks cheaper than at a supermarket, including unique, limited-edition flavors.
Must-Buy Examples:
- KitKat: Look for Japan-exclusive flavors like Matcha or Hojicha (roasted green tea).
- Healthy Snacks: Protein bars like the “in Bar Protein” series are very popular.
- Throat Lozenges: Ryukakusan herbal throat drops are a classic.
Sauce: ekiten.jp
Tips for Smart Shopping
Tax-Free Shopping
Many drugstores offer tax-free shopping for foreign tourists.
Don’t forget your passport!
You can usually get an exemption from the 10% consumption tax if your purchase exceeds a certain amount (typically 5,000 yen).
Sauce: homemate-research-shopping.com
Use Coupon Apps
Download the official app for the drugstore you’re visiting.
They often have discount coupons available for app users.
Conclusion
Japanese drugstores are the perfect place for both souvenir hunting and personal shopping.
Use this list as your guide and enjoy the treasure hunt!
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