Japan’s drugstores (ドラッグストア) are treasure troves for travelers! Beyond medicine, they offer beauty gems, unique snacks, and everyday essentials at affordable prices. Here’s a curated shopping list to maximize your haul:
✨ Skincare Wonders
- Hada Labo Gokujyun Lotion
- Why? Hyaluronic acid powerhouse for plump, hydrated skin. The gold bottle is cult-favorite.
- Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF50+
- Why? Featherlight sunscreen that doubles as a makeup base. No white cast!
- Kose Softymo Speedy Cleansing Oil
- Why? Melts makeup effortlessly. Perfect for sensitive skin.
- Sheet Masks (Lululun, Kose, etc.)
- Tip: Grab regional exclusives like Kyoto green tea or Okinawa sea kelp.
💄 Makeup Must-Haves
- Heroine Make Mascara (Long & Curl)
- Why? Holds curls for 12+ hours without smudging. The remover is essential!
- Canmake Cream Cheek Blush
- Why? Dewy, buildable color. #16 “Terracotta Orange” is universally flattering.
- Dolly Wink Eyeliner
- Why? Jet-black, brush-tip precision. Survives humidity.
🌿 Health & Daily Essentials
- Eve Quick Headache Relief
- Why? Gentle on stomachs. Stronger than Western brands.
- Rohto Lycee Eye Drops
- Why? Pink drops reduce redness instantly. Contacts-friendly version available.
- Pitta Masks (Pollution Masks)
- Why? Reusable, breathable, and folds compactly.
- Deodorant Sheets (Shiseido, Gatsby)
- Tip: Lifesavers in humid summers.
� Haircare & Bath
- Shiseido Tsubaki Hair Mask
- Why? Camellia oil transforms dry ends. Red can is bestseller.
- Bath Salts (Bathclin, Onsen Minerals)
- Why? Recreate onsen vibes at home. Look for yuzu or lavender scents.
🍬 Snacks & Souvenirs
- Matcha Kit Kats
- Why? Japan-exclusive flavor. Grab mini boxes for gifts.
- Meltykiss Chocolate
- Why? Silky winter-limited treat. Hokkaido milk version is divine.
- Lip Balms (with flavors like sake, matcha, or peach)
- Tip: Q-pot. and Ettusais have food-themed balms.
🛍️ Smart Shopping Tips
- Tax-Free Savings: Spend over ¥5,000 (with passport) for 10% off at chains like Matsumoto Kiyoshi, Sundrug, or Don Quijote.
- Discount Apps: Download store apps (e.g., MatsuKiyo) for digital coupons.
- Language Hack: Use Google Translate camera mode for labels. Staff often know basic English!
- Sample Hunt: Look for 試供品 (shikōhin) testers. Many stores offer free samples.
💡 Final Advice
Stock up early! Popular items sell out fast. Drugstores near tourist hubs (Shinjuku, Shibuya) restock often but charge slightly more. For deals, explore residential areas. Happy hunting—your suitcase will thank you! 🇯🇵✨
Pro Tip: Bring an extra foldable bag. You’ll need it!