Top Drugstores and Pharmacies in Japan With Tax-Free Coupons
Find the top Japanese drugstores and pharmacies for skincare, medicine, and food - with tax-free coupons for Matsumoto Kiyoshi, Don Quijote, and SUGI Pharmacy.
Written by
Tokyo, Japan
I’ve been working as a travel editor and writer for seven years and joined the MATCHA team in 2022. Originally from Tokyo, I studied abroad in San Jose during college. It's always exciting to find "hidden gems" in Japan by looking at my home country from a traveler's perspective!
Things I love: Strolling around town, coffee, art, movies, and trips
Top spots: Shinjuku Gyoen, Isshiki Beach, and Mt. Aso in Kumamoto
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Shopping at Japanese Drugstores
Picture courtesy of Pixta
Shopping at Japanese drugstores is an essential experience for any traveler. Renowned for their high-quality cosmetics and supplements, these stores are the perfect place to find unique, must-have souvenirs.
Drugstores vs. Pharmacies: What Is the Difference?
While "pharmacy" and "drugstore" are often used interchangeably in other languages, they serve distinct roles in Japan.
In Japan, pharmacies only handle prescription medications. In contrast, drugstores offer a vast selection of non-prescription medicine, as well as beauty products, health supplements, household essentials like detergent, snacks, and even alcohol.
At the following Japanese drugstores and pharmacies, international visitors can enjoy shopping with discount coupons and tax-free benefits.
Top Drugstores and Pharmacies in Japan
1. Matsumoto Kiyoshi
2. Don Quijote
3. SUGI Pharmacy
4. Sundrug
5. Cocokarafine
6. Tsuruha Drug
7. SATUDORA: Sapporo Drugstore
1. Matsumoto Kiyoshi: A Drugstore with Over 90 Years of History
Matsumoto Kiyoshi was founded by Mr. Kiyoshi Matsumoto over 90 years ago. They handle various items at affordable prices, with some stores offering tax-free services.
You can find Matsumoto Kiyoshi stores in all the major cities of Japan. It is one of the largest drugstore chains with the most branches across the country.
The stores in major cities have employees who speak English or Chinese. This ensures that international customers can learn about how the medicine works and its usage.
When shopping at Matsumoto Kiyoshi, don't forget to use this coupon that offers a maximum 7% discount.
2. Don Quijote: Great Variety of Items at Inexpensive Prices
Photo by Pixta
Don Quijote, known for its wide lineup of items at budget-friendly prices, is a must-visit spot in Japan.
The interior is overflowing with merchandise and lively music, decorated in a cluttered Japanese pop-culture style. The atmosphere is sure to thrill customers while shopping.
Don Quijote also handles drugstore items, including cosmetics and medicine. While there are exceptions, most are subject to tax-free services. Some stores are open 24 hours, so it is easy to make a quick visit during sightseeing excursions. For further tax-free information, please check their official website.
MATCHA is offering a coupon for discounts of up to 17% at Don Quijote. Those interested in shopping to their hearts' content should check the details.
Official Website: https://www.donki.com/en/
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3. SUGI Pharmacy: For Medicine and Advice
Photo by Pixta
SUGI Pharmacy (SUGI Yakkyoku) is a community-focused chain with over 2,000 locations across Japan. True to its name, it offers full prescription services.
If you fall ill during your trip and receive a prescription from a Japanese hospital, you can visit any SUGI Pharmacy to have it filled.
Many locations also feature a dedicated health corner where you can check your blood pressure and receive basic medical advice. However, for emergencies or serious illnesses, we recommend going directly to a hospital.
In addition to its prescription-focused pharmacies, the chain also operates SUGI Drug, a retail branch offering a wide selection of cosmetics, household essentials, and snacks.
Official website: https://www.sugi-hd.co.jp/english/
When shopping at any SUGI Pharmacy or SUGI Drug location, be sure to use this coupon to enjoy tax-free shopping and discounts of up to 18%.
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4. Sundrug: Offering Professional Advice
Sundrug, founded in Tokyo in 1957, manages over 1,200 stores across Japan. The company handles various items, including cosmetics, medicine, health food, and baby products. They also manage Carer Shibuya Ekimae Shop, a store specializing in beauty and health in a district frequented by overseas visitors.
You can also receive professional advice from beauty advisors, registered dietitians, and pharmacists to choose items that fit your needs.
Tax-free shopping is available at most stores. For details, please refer to their official website.
Sundrug is offering a special discount, allowing a deduction of up to 17% by using tax-free services along with a coupon.
Official Website: https://sundrug-online.com/en
5. Cocokarafine: With Stores Open Late at Night
Cocokarafine, founded in 2008, is one of the new drugstore franchises. "Service comes first" is their motto, with around 1,300 domestic stores staffed by employees with a vast knowledge of the merchandise.
They sell medicine, health food, cosmetics, and daily necessities. Their stores in major cities are open late at night, which is another appeal.
Tax-free information can be found on the official website (Japanese).
When shopping at Cocokarafine, be sure to use this coupon that offers a maximum 7% discount!
Official Website: https://www.cocokarafine.co.jp/top/CSfCustomerTop.jsp (Japanese)
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6. Tsuruha Drug: Based in Sapporo, with Stores Nationwide
Tsuruha Drug, which also manages stores in Thailand's capital, Bangkok, is a famous Japanese company.
With their headquarters based in Sapporo, they have about 1,400 stores nationwide. A multi-lingual service called Tsuruha Free Wi-Fi is also available.
Tsuruha handles items related to health and beauty, such as cosmetics, dietary supplements, and medicine. Tax-free shopping is available with a purchase over 5,000 yen (*).
*There are several requirements for this service. Please check the official website for further information.
MATCHA is offering a coupon for overseas visitors, allowing a maximum 7% discount at Tsuruha. Be sure to take advantage of this!
Official Website: https://www.tsuruha.co.jp/en/
7. SATUDORA (Sapporo Drugstore): With Stores in Hokkaido and Okinawa
SATUDORA (Sapporo Drugstore) is a popular chain founded in Sapporo, with locations across Hokkaido and Okinawa.
In addition to over-the-counter medicines and health products, SATUDORA is a treasure trove of regional treats. You can find exclusive Hokkaido snacks here, such as scallops and gummy candies made with local fruits like haskap and the famous Yubari melon.
In the beauty section, you’ll find more than just the standard Japanese brands. SATUDORA stocks exclusive products made with Hokkaido ingredients, such as the popular Lululun face masks infused with local herbs.
For a truly unique shopping experience, be sure to explore their curated selection. Don’t forget to use the exclusive MATCHA coupon to save up to 17% on your SATUDORA purchase!
Official Website: https://satudora-taxfree.jp/
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FAQ
What is a pharmacy called in Japan?
The Japanese word for pharmacy is "yakkyoku". However, if you need to buy medicine or health care products, you'll likely visit a "drugstore." Popular drugstores in Japan include the Matsumoto Kiyoshi, Sundrug, Cocokarfin,e Seyms, and Tsuruha Drugstore chains. At these stores, you can purchase both prescription and over-the-counter medications, as well as various health and wellness products.
What is the most popular pharmacy in Japan?
One of the most popular pharmacy chains in Japan is Matsumoto Kiyoshi. Matsumoto Kiyoshi is known for its widespread presence throughout Japan, offering a wide range of pharmaceutical products, cosmetics, health supplements, and daily essentials. It is a well-known and trusted brand among locals and visitors alike for their extensive selection and competitive prices.
Can I get antibiotics over the counter in Japan?
In Japan, antibiotics are not available over the counter. You will need a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider, such as a doctor, to obtain antibiotics. The Japanese healthcare system strictly regulates the sale and distribution of antibiotics to ensure proper and responsible use to combat issues such as antibiotic resistance. It's important to consult a healthcare professional and follow their guidance when it comes to obtaining and using antibiotics in Japan.
What is the difference between a drug store and a pharmacy in Japan?
In Japan, pharmacies, known as "yakkyoku," primarily dispense prescription medications under the supervision of licensed pharmacists and offer pharmaceutical services. They are healthcare facilities focused on medications and medical advice. On the other hand, drug stores, also referred to as "doraggu sutoa" or "yakkyoku," have a broader retail scope, selling medicines, cosmetics, health supplements, personal care items, household goods, and snacks. While pharmacies are more medication-centered and staffed by pharmacists, drug stores function as general stores with a wider variety of products and may not always have pharmacists available for medical consultations.
What is the oldest pharmacy in Japan?
Sankogan is considered one of the oldest pharmacies in Japan. Founded in Nara in 1319, it holds a significant historical position in the country's pharmaceutical landscape. Sankogan's long-standing presence and contribution to traditional medicine date back to the Kamakura period (1185-1333), making it a renowned establishment with a rich legacy in Japan's history.
Enjoy Tax-Free Shopping and Discount Services!
Picture courtesy of Pixta
For international tourists, drugstores and their wide variety of items at affordable prices is the perfect spot to look for souvenirs.
Use this article as a guide to enjoy shopping in Japan with tax-free services and discount coupons!
Read also
Main image by Pixta
I’ve been working as a travel editor and writer for seven years and joined the MATCHA team in 2022. Originally from Tokyo, I studied abroad in San Jose during college. It's always exciting to find "hidden gems" in Japan by looking at my home country from a traveler's perspective!
Things I love: Strolling around town, coffee, art, movies, and trips
Top spots: Shinjuku Gyoen, Isshiki Beach, and Mt. Aso in Kumamoto
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