The local convenience store, or konbini as they are called in Japan, is one of the most useful stores for quick purchases and essential services. There’s not much these stores don’t sell.
With an estimated 40,000 stores across Japan, most belong to major chains such as 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Lawson. Many are open 24/7, making them incredibly convenient for just about anything you might need in a hurry.
Konbini carry a vast range of products and can be found on nearly every corner. Due to their abundance, strong competition keeps prices fairly reasonable, and as with all Japanese stores, items are clearly labeled with prices.
These stores are renowned for offering the perfect snack or meal, with everything from sandwiches to sushi. They also sell a wide selection of hot and cold drinks, and most stock liquor, including beer and wine. Additionally, they carry toiletries, cosmetics, newspapers, and cigarettes.
A great cost-saving trick is to skip expensive hotel breakfasts or minibars by purchasing what you need from a konbini the night before. Simply store your food in the refrigerator overnight, and over the course of your trip, you’ll save a significant amount compared to hotel prices.
Beyond food and drinks, many konbini offer services such as photocopying, faxing, and ticket reservations for concerts, sporting events, and attractions. You can also buy batteries, blank CDs, camera memory cards, and even print digital photos—either using self-service machines or by leaving them for pickup later. True to their name, konbini provide nearly everything a traveler might need.
Some stores also have public toilets, making them even more convenient. Many 7-Eleven stores feature ATMs that accept foreign credit cards—particularly useful as some Japanese banks do not accommodate foreign cards.
