Five Things You Must Buy on Your Japan Trip

First up on my must-buy list are Japanese snacks and sweets.

When you step into a Japanese supermarket, souvenir shop, or convenience store, you’ll find aisles filled with intriguing snack options.

From savory rice crackers to matcha-flavored Kit Kats, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Compared to the sweets I’ve had in the US, Japanese treats tend to be less sweet.

While you can find a wide selection of these goodies on Amazon, don’t forget about the ‘Gotochi Gurume’, which are snacks limited to specific regions in Japan, and can only be purchased there.

Japan’s cosmetics industry is world-class, boasting a vast array of high-quality skincare and makeup products.

Leading brands such as Shiseido set the standard. However, don’t overlook less renowned – yet equally amazing – brands found in local drugstores. For instance, you’ll find ‘all-in-one’ cosmetic products, which are perfect for those too busy to spend much time on skincare.

Many of these products feature unique ingredients like rice bran, green tea, and sake, which can work wonders for your skin.

If you’re intrigued by high-tech and unique appliances, Japanese electronics retailers can feel like a wonderland.

Stores like Bic Camera and Yodobashi Camera, for example, offer a diverse selection of high-quality electronics, ranging from cutting-edge gadgets and appliances to niche products you simply can’t find anywhere else.

Particularly popular items include beauty appliances such as skincare devices and shavers, as well as kitchen goods.

Rice cookers also tend to be popular among those who eat rice, such as many Asian visitors.

Japan takes stationery to a unique and extraordinary level.

Even as someone from Japan, I’m always surprised by the meticulous attention to detail that manufacturers put into their products.

Japanese stationery, offering a fine balance of thoughtful design and practical convenience, includes a wide variety of beautifully crafted notebooks, pens, and office supplies.

By the way, can you imagine what kind of stationery the elongated seal in the picture might be?

It’s actually a GLUE TAPE! Cute, isn’t it?

These items make perfect souvenirs or gifts for your friends back home!

Finally, we can’t forget about anime goods.

As the birthplace of anime, Japan boasts an endless array of anime-related merchandise.

From Pokemon cards to Studio Ghibli trinkets, the selection is staggering.

There are also plenty of lesser-known ‘Kawaii’ or soothing character goods that you might not be familiar with. Make sure to search for your new favorite.