Shopping in Fukuoka: Sales and Bargains in 2023

Shopping in Fukuoka: Take Advantage of Special Sales

The yen rate has dropped to its lowest in 33 years in 2023, which is good news for overseas visitors looking forward to shopping in Japan.

There will be large-scale sales in the summer and winter at shopping facilities. Since most stores offer bargain prices at various periods year-round, shoppers should also look for these opportunities.

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Fukuoka, one of the major cities in the Kyushu region, offers various shopping spots, such as malls selling clothing, household appliances, and souvenirs. There are also outlet malls, department stores, and drugstores.

This article introduces the annual sales schedule in Fukuoka. Since some events have not been announced, the previous season's sales dates are included for reference.

Annual Sales and Bargains in Fukuoka

Please note that the sales listed above are typical examples, and specific events vary according to the stores.

December: Year-End Sale

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Most Japanese shopping facilities hold a large-scale sale twice yearly in the summer and winter. December, when the cold climate settles in, is the time when the latter sale is in full swing!

The event is also called a Christmas sale, and items such as cold-weather clothing, household appliances, and interior decorations will be sold at discount prices. Some shopping and outlet malls may start early in mid-November, so be on the lookout!

January: New Year Sale

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The winter sale beginning in December tends to continue into January. Since most facilities in Fukuoka are closed from December 31 to January 1 or 2, the January sale will start after the New Year's holidays.

The event is also referred to as hatsu-uri (first sales). The cost of cold-weather clothing will be cheaper than ever, with department stores holding special events and discounts on items that rarely go on sale.

There will also be the sales of fukubukuro (lucky bags), a sealed package unique to the season, which customers purchase without knowing the contents inside.

February: Final Winter Sale

In February, while the temperatures are still low, new items for the spring season will appear in stores. This is when shopping facilities will be holding clearance sales of the winter stock.

Although the discount rate is lower than the December and January campaigns, the variety of items will also be reduced.

From March to April: Clearance Sales and Items for "Next Life Chapter" Sale

A new semester or term begins in April for most Japanese schools and companies. In March, stores will start a campaign to clear last season's inventory, along with a sale targeting students and new employees.

Various items, such as household appliances, furniture, suits, and bags, will be sold at bargain prices during this period. Mass home electronics retailers will sell a special package consisting of a washing machine, refrigerator, and vacuum cleaner at an affordable price. Those looking for new home appliances should take advantage of this opportunity!

From Late April to May: Golden Week Sale and Uniqlo Customer Appreciation Sale

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The week from late April to May, with four national holidays and often blessed with excellent weather, is called Golden Week. In 2023, there were five consecutive holidays, with three national holidays followed by the weekend. Certain malls and fashion brands hold special events during this period since many people embark on trips or enjoy shopping.

Uniqlo, a famous Japanese brand, holds annual customer appreciation sales in May and November. There will be a 20 to 30% discount on popular items and underwear, along with seasonal sale items, drawing a large number of customers every year.

Uniqlo stores in Fukuoka include facilities at Tenjin, a megastore; and large scale stores in Youme Town Hakata, Mark Is Fukuoka Momochi, and LaLaport Fukuoka.

June: Don Quijote Clearance Sale

From MATCHA article: Don Quijote Discount Coupon: Up to 15% Off Duty-Free Shopping!

Don Quijote, one of the largest discount stores in Japan, sells a wide variety of items including confections, medicine, and home appliances. While there are 16 facilities in Fukuoka, the Fukuoka Tenjin Main Store and Nakasu Store are located close to major sightseeing spots.

The stores hold an annual clearance sale in June, with special prices on food, daily necessities, and home appliances.

MATCHA is currently issuing a 15% discount coupon for overseas visitors, which is redeemable at Don Quijote. It is valid year-round, so do check it out!

From July to August: Summer Sale

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The summer sale, an event rivaling the winter sale in size, starts in July.

Since summer clothing, outdoor gear, and home appliances go on sale, this is an ideal opportunity to purchase items that can be used until September, when the temperature is still hot in Japan.

Parco, a shopping mall housing stylish brands, holds a sale called the "Grand Bazaar" twice a year, with the summer version kicking off in early July. Summer items such as shoes, bags, accessories, and sundries are sold at a 30 to 50% discount. (Please note that there will be a few exceptions.) Be sure to visit Fukuoka Parco, which is right next to Tenjin Station.

September: Final Summer Sale

Autumn items will start appearing in September, even though the weather continues to be hot. This is the time for companies to clear their summer inventory.

Although the item selection will be smaller than during July or August, don't miss this last chance to score a good deal!

November: Black Friday

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November is when the hours of daylight are significantly shorter, with the temperature dropping in the morning and evening. The number of stores hosting Black Friday, a large-scale sale that originated in the United States, is also increasing in Fukuoka.

The sale will be applied to a wide range of items, such as warm clothing, bedding, home appliances, and food. At Marinoa City Fukuoka in 2022, one of the largest outlet malls in the Kyushu region, about 110 stores participated in the event, with the maximum discount of 80%.

Enjoy Shopping in Fukuoka During the Sales Season

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We introduced some of the best sales information and deals in Fukuoka. While there are many attractive spots in the area, don't miss this opportunity to take advantage of the weaker yen and enjoy shopping at a discount!