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Top 5 Drugstores to Visit in Japan in 2024: With Duty-Free Shopping and Coupons
This service includes sponsored advertisements.
Shopping at a drugstore for reasonably-priced cosmetics and medicine is one of the attractions when visiting Japan. This article features our five recommended stores that offer duty-free shopping. Be sure to check the coupons included in the article, adding up to a 17% discount!
Written by
Tokyo, Japan
Editorial assistant at MATCHA since 2022. I'm from Tokyo, and I often go to parks on weekends to see nature and dogs.
I have loved international exchange since I was a child, and during my university years I studied abroad in San Jose, USA. Now, I'm really enjoying discovering new things by seeing Japan from the perspective of a tourist visiting Japan.
Hobbies: Walking, coffee, art, movies, traveling
Favorite places: Shibuya, Yoyogi Park, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Isshiki Beach, Aso in Kumamoto
Top 5 Japanese Drugstores to Shop for Souvenirs
Picture courtesy of Pixta
Shopping at drugstores is an unmissable experience during a trip to Japan. Japanese medicine, sold in stylish packages, has gained a reputation for its high quality. Drugstores also handle popular cosmetics and various items at affordable prices, making them ideal places to look for souvenirs.
This article aimed at overseas visitors features five popular Japanese drugstores, along with tax-free shopping and discount coupons.
Top 5 Drugstores in Japan
1. Tsuruha Drug
2. Don Quijote
3. Matsumoto Kiyoshi
4. Sundrug
5. Cocokarafine
1. 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/
Coupon for a Discount of up to 7% at Tsuruha Drug
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2. Don Quijote: Great Variety of Items at Inexpensive Prices
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.
Picture courtesy of Pixta
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/
Coupon for a discount of up to 17% at Don Quijote!
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3. 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.
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!
Official Website: https://www.matsukiyo.co.jp/store/online
Coupon for a discount of up to 7% at Matsumoto Kiyoshi!
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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.
Overseas visitors should not miss this opportunity!
Official Website: https://sundrug-online.com/en
Coupon for a discount of up to 17% at Sundrug!
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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)
Coupon for a discount of up to 7% at Cocokarafine!
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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
Editorial assistant at MATCHA since 2022. I'm from Tokyo, and I often go to parks on weekends to see nature and dogs.
I have loved international exchange since I was a child, and during my university years I studied abroad in San Jose, USA. Now, I'm really enjoying discovering new things by seeing Japan from the perspective of a tourist visiting Japan.
Hobbies: Walking, coffee, art, movies, traveling
Favorite places: Shibuya, Yoyogi Park, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Isshiki Beach, Aso in Kumamoto
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