What Can I Buy at Japanese Drugstores?
A local's guide to Japanese drugstores. Best products and shopping tips.
“Are Japanese drugstores worth visiting?”
Yes! Japanese drugstores have amazing beauty and health products. Many tourists stock up here!
Popular Chains
“Which stores should I visit?”
Major drugstores:
- Matsumoto Kiyoshi – Most famous, yellow signs
- Sugi Drug – Good selection
- Welcia – Open late
- Cocokara Fine – Common in cities
- Sundrug – Budget-friendly
Best Products to Buy
“What should I get?”
Skincare:
- Hada Labo lotions
- Biore sunscreen (the best!)
- Sheet masks
- DHC lip cream
- Kose products
Medicine:
- EVE (pain relief)
- Salonpas patches
- Eye drops (Rohto)
- Stomach medicine
Beauty:
- False eyelashes
- Makeup removers
- Hair treatments
- Japanese cosmetics
Tax-Free Shopping
“Can I get tax free?”
Yes!
- Spend ¥5,500+
- Show passport
- Items in sealed bag
- Don’t open until you leave Japan
Prices
“Is it expensive?”
Generally affordable:
- Sunscreen: ¥500-1,500
- Face masks: ¥300-1,000
- Medicine: ¥500-2,000
- Cosmetics: Varies
Compare: Prices differ between stores!
What Japanese People Actually Do
Most locals:
- Shop at drugstores regularly
- Know which products are best
- Stock up during sales
- Trust Japanese quality
Extra Travel Tips
-
Biore sunscreen – Number one tourist purchase
-
Don Quijote vs Drugstore – Compare prices
-
Staff recommendations – Ask for help
-
Point cards – Available but not worth it for tourists
-
Multiple stores – Visit a few to compare
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