Shopping
How the October Consumption Tax Hike Will Affect You
Worried about the upcoming increase in consumption tax in Japan? Here's how it might impact your daily life.
By Annelise Giseburt 5 min read
Shotengai: Exploring the Nostalgic Pulse of Japan’s Local Shopping Streets
Beyond the tourist hotspots, old shopping streets, train stations, and underground arcades have the power to transport you decades back in time.
10 More Essential Items for Your New Japanese Apartment
Moving to Japan can have its challenges. Equipping your new home with the basics shouldn't be one of them.
Why Are These Things So Expensive in Japan?
Movies, pizza, bullet trains and mobile phones seem more expensive in Japan than elsewhere. Here's how you can save.
7 Convenience Store Items for Vegetarians in Japan
A survival guide for meatless options in Japanese convenience stores.
3 Simple Ways to Discover Japan’s Unique Food Culture
Let Japan and its unique culture of food blow your mind — and your senses — with amazing “konbini,” exclusive “ekiben” and subterranean “depachika.”
7 Weird Japanese Valentine’s Gifts You Won’t Regret Giving
Celebrate this Valentine's Day in Japan by being super weird about it.
10 Unique Low-Cost Japanese Presents to Send Home for the Holidays
Simple ideas for presents that capture the fun of Japan.
Point Break: Loyalty Cards in Japan Thicken Wallets but Lack in Payoffs
Japan, we’ve gotta talk. This point card habit of yours is getting out of control.
Noren: The Coolest Souvenirs in Kyoto?
When matcha KitKats won’t make the grade, it’s time to up your souvenir game (and buy yourself something in the meantime).
5 things you didn’t know you could buy at the “Kombini”
Whether it’s a hot coffee, an iced tea, or even an umbrella, chances are there’s a vending machine near you that sells it.
Top 5 Luxurious Japanese Cosmetics at Bargain Prices
Japan is home to some of the world’s best skincare and beauty products, many of which can be found easily at everyday chain stores and conbini.
