Where to Buy Body Wash and Daily Necessities During Japan trip

When traveling in Japan, you may need to purchase body wash or other daily necessities like shampoo, toothpaste, or toiletries. Japan’s convenience stores and drugstores are both great options depending on what you’re looking for, and it’s easy to find the essentials no matter where you are.

Convenience Stores

Convenience stores, like 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Lawson, are found almost everywhere in Japan and are open 24/7. They are an excellent choice for grabbing basic daily necessities quickly and easily.

• What You Can Find:
  Convenience stores stock small, travel-sized bottles of body wash, shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, razors, and deodorant. These are perfect for short trips when you need just a few essentials without carrying extra weight. You can also find items like hand sanitizer, tissues, and face masks, which can come in handy while traveling.
• Advantages:
  Convenience stores are perfect if you need something last-minute or in a hurry. Their locations, open hours, and small sizes make them extremely accessible for travelers. Plus, you can grab snacks, drinks, and even hot meals in the same stop.
• Limitations:
  The selection of personal care products is limited, and most of the items are in small sizes, which might not be enough if you’re staying for an extended period. The brands available may also be fewer compared to larger stores.

Japan’s Convenience Stores: A Traveler’s Best Friend

Drugstores

If you need a wider selection or larger sizes of body wash and other daily essentials, drugstores like Matsumoto Kiyoshi, Sugi Pharmacy, and Daikoku Drug are your best option. These stores offer a comprehensive range of personal care and household products. In Japan, many drugstores often function as both pharmacies and general stores, providing over-the-counter medicines along with a wide variety of toiletries and daily necessities.

• What You Can Find:
  Drugstores stock a wide variety of personal care items, including body wash, shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, skincare products, deodorant, and more. You’ll also find household items like laundry detergent, dish soap, and cleaning supplies, which can be useful for longer stays. They often carry travel essentials like more specific toiletry products like sunscreen or after-sun lotions.
• Advantages:
  Drugstores offer larger sizes of body wash and other toiletries, as well as a broader range of brands, including premium Japanese products and international favorites. If you have specific preferences for sensitive skin, moisturizing products, or fragrance-free options, drugstores are the best place to find them. Many drugstores also have frequent promotions, making them a good place to shop if you’re looking for deals.
• Limitations:
  Drugstores typically close earlier than convenience stores, usually around 9 PM to 8 PM. While they are common in cities, you may have to walk a little farther to find one compared to the more ubiquitous convenience stores.

Additional Daily Necessities You Can Buy

In both convenience stores and drugstores, you’ll find a variety of other everyday items, such as:

• Toothpaste and Toothbrushes: Both convenience stores and drugstores stock these, but drugstores will have a wider selection of brands and types.
• Shampoo and Conditioner: You’ll find travel-sized bottles in convenience stores and larger varieties in drugstores.
• Skincare Products: From facial cleansers to moisturizers, drugstores are your go-to place for a broader selection of skincare products, while convenience stores will have just the basics.
• Feminine Hygiene Products: Drugstores have a wide range of options, but you can also find basic products in convenience stores.

Where to Shop for What You Need

• Convenience Stores: Perfect for small, travel-sized quantities and immediate needs. They’re open 24 hours, making them great for late-night or urgent purchases. However, even if the same products are sold at convenience stores, it’s generally cheaper to buy them at a drugstore.
• Drugstores: Ideal if you’re looking for more variety or need larger quantities. They offer more specialized products and often have multiple brands to choose from. Additionally, products are typically more affordable at drugstores compared to convenience stores.

Other Tips for Travelers

• Refill Packs: Many drugstores offer refill packs for products like body wash, shampoo, and liquid soap. These are eco-friendly and typically cheaper than buying new bottles.
• Japanese Brands: If you want to try high-quality Japanese brands, drugstores carry popular ones like Shiseido, Kao, and Dove Japan, which are well-regarded for skincare and personal care.

Conclusion

Whether you need body wash, shampoo, or other daily necessities during your trip to Japan, both convenience stores and drugstores provide excellent options based on your needs. For quick and small purchases, convenience stores are perfect, while drugstores offer a wider range of products and larger quantities. With these choices available, you can easily stay fresh and stocked up during your travels in Japan!