Inside Japan’s 100 Yen Shops: Affordable Treasures Worth Exploring

Did you know that there are shops similar to the American dollar store in Japan? These stores are called 100-yen shops, and you should stop by whenever you get the chance. In this post, we’ll reveal how these stores became popular in Japan, the items they sell, famous chains, and shopping tips.

The Rise of the 100 Yen Shop in Japan

A 100-yen shop is a type of Japanese store that prices every item at precisely 100 yen. We can compare the concept of these shops to dollar stores in the United States, where every item costs a dollar. In case you’re wondering, 100 yen is about 66 cents. So, in a way, these shops sell products at cheaper prices than dollar stores.

Japan’s 100-yen shops (hyaku-en shoppu) sell all categories of items, including stationery, instant noodles, electronic devices, cooking utensils, beverages, decorations, and clothing. To ensure that they offer the cheapest prices, the shops import their stocks in bulk from foreign countries with low production costs. China, Thailand, and India are examples of such countries.

Japanese consumers love shopping at 100-yen stores because of the extremely low price of goods. When you include consumption tax, they typically spend 108-110 yen per item. Certain large products may cost more money because they are impossible to sell at 100 yen, but even those are cheaper than 1,000 yen. Despite their cheap prices, products sold at these stores are known for their quality.

Most hyaku-en shoppu operate as store chains owned by corporations, including Daiso, Seria, Can Do, and Watts. Some of these companies have opened branches in other countries around the world. You'll find their stores in China, Indonesia, Singapore, the U.S., and other countries.

History of 100 Yen Shops in Japan

The concept was first introduced in the Edo Period (1603-1868), when some shops began pricing their goods at 19 mon. They later increased the standard price to 38 mon. “Mon” was the Japanese currency from 1336 to 1870. During the Meiji Period (1868-1912), some shops began to sell different products at precisely 1 yen.

The original 100-yen shop opened in Kasugai, Aichi Prefecture, in 1985. It was owned by Akira Matsubayashi, founder of the Japanese company Life Standard. Hirotake Yano, owner of Daiso Industries, opened a store with the same concept in 1991. That was the first ever Daiso store.

What Can You Buy at a 100 Yen Shop?

100-yen shops sell both store-brand goods and items sourced from third parties. These products fall within a surprising range of items you would find in a typical Japanese household. Let’s explore a few examples:

• Kitchenware: Utensils people used to cook, hold, or store food in the kitchen—takoyaki pans, knives, rice cookers, aluminum wrap, egg timers, pot holders, etc.

• Stationery: Writing materials and other office supplies—paper, envelopes, pens, calligraphy brushes, pins, report cards, etc.

• Snacks: Small food portions enjoyed between meals—instant ramen, peeled chestnuts, dorayaki (red bean pancake), chocolate bars, etc. 

• Beauty items: Products used to enhance and care for the skin, hair, and other visible body parts—eyeshadows, pencil eyeliners, false eyelashes, blusher, brush, etc.

• Gardening tools: Special tools used for gardening and landscaping—mini rakes, trowels, spades, shears, containers, watering pots, etc.

• Seasonal goods: Limited-time items that are only available certain periods of the year—swimwear, winter jackets, decorations, holiday-themed products, etc.

• Tableware: Items used to set the dining table or serve food—rice bowls, sake sets, miso soup bowls, forks, tea cups, etc.

• Household goods: Common products used in modern or traditional households—towel, socks, furniture, slippers, sewing threads, etc.

The Big Players: Daiso, Seria, and Can Do

Let’s compare Japan’s top 100 yen shop chains by outlining their unique features and what kind of shoppers each one tends to attract.

• Daiso: The name “Daiso” has been synonymous with the 100-yen business model for decades. Hence, many foreigners call it “the Japanese dollar store.” There are over 6,000 Daiso stores worldwide, and 4,341 of them are in Japan. Each outlet is a variety store that offers an amazing range of products at cheap prices. The Daiso in Harajuku, Tokyo, is one of the largest 100-yen shops in the world. Foreigners and international tourists love to visit because it's as massive as most department stores, and it features English-speaking staff. Daiso is available in 25 countries outside Japan, including 150+ in the U.S.

• Seria: You will find Seria shops as part of Marui malls. However, many of them have standalone locations. Seria has some of the highest-quality products you’ll ever find in a hyaku-en shop. It’s one of the favorite shopping destinations for housewives in Japan.

• Can Do: A significant chunk of Can Do’s offerings are Japanese products. The chain is famous for its high-quality kitchenware and stationery. Domestically, there are over 1,000 Can Do shops, and the best one is located in Ikejiri-Ohashi, Tokyo.

Quality on a Budget: Why 100 Yen Doesn’t Mean Cheap

There is a common misconception that products priced at 100 yen must be low quality, used, or defective. Despite the low price points, Japanese 100-yen stores maintain surprisingly high quality, clever design, and thoughtful packaging. But how are they able to achieve this feat?

The most effective method is to source goods from countries with low costs of production and labor. To further drive prices well below market value, these shops import their stock in huge quantities.

Another cost-saving strategy they use is avoiding brand names. For example, many branded phone cases are often overpriced. By sticking to phone cases made from the same materials but created by generic companies, 100-yen shops save massively on cost price.

When sourcing for new stock, these shops sometimes prioritize durability over design. Hence, they would rather offer plain white kitchenware that would last a lifetime than fancy stuff that falls apart in a year.

Best Souvenirs to Grab at a 100 Yen Store

Souvenirs and small gifts are an important part of the tourist experience, but they should not put a strain on your wallet. If you’re looking for fun and affordable souvenirs, 100-yen shops have beautiful, durable, and high-quality gift items.

When shopping for kids’ gifts, we suggest some DIY craft items such as washi tape, origami paper, and miniature building blocks. Both adults and children will love the wide variety of Japanese snacks and bento supplies available. 100-yen shops in Japan are as good a place as any to get your hands on Sanrio merchandise, ranging from Hello Kitty phone accessories to Pompompurin clips. 

Seasonal & Limited-Time Finds

100-yen shops reflect the seasons by offering holiday-themed items and limited-time goods. Many of these products change monthly, so they are perfect for collectors and curious shoppers. Our top recommendations are seasonal snacks, ongoing or upcoming festival decorations, Christmas decorations, and cherry blossom-themed houseware (for spring).

Organization Hacks with 100 Yen Store Finds

The organizing section in these stores is always worth checking out, especially for locals. There, you’ll find all kinds of items that help with household storage—from storage baskets to closet dividers. For small items, check out the cute kawaii-themed containers. You can also get transparent glass containers for storing dry items in the kitchen. Boxes, shelves, and rope baskets are more useful for storing larger items. Please note that not all items in the storage and organization section cost 100 yen. Some are priced at multiples of a hundred (e.g. 200 yen, 300 yen, etc.). 

Snacks and Sweets at 100 Yen Shops

Looking to shop for lots of Japanese snacks and sweets on a budget? 100 yen shops offer various treats for locals and tourists. Their offerings range from heavily discounted regional chips to instant ramen. Don’t hesitate to try chestnut candy and cooked sweet potato. You have everything you need for a tasty souvenir or a quick, mid-afternoon meal.

Shopping Tips: How to Get the Most Out of a 100 Yen Shop Visit

When visiting a 100-yen shop, you want to spend a small amount of money and leave with plenty of value. To achieve your goals, remember the following shopping tips:

• Navigating the stores: In Japan, there are probably more than a dozen 100-yen shops near you. Whichever one you choose to shop at needs to have an abundance of the type of products you need. For example, visit Can Do if you need high-quality kitchen utensils and Daiso if you want many souvenirs. They typically have a dedicated section in the building for displaying a specific kind of product.

• Reading labels: When buying products that contain chemicals, like cosmetics and sweets, be sure to read the labels carefully. Doing that will help you avoid substances that you may be allergic to or that go against your diet. Also, be sure to look for price tags, as some of the items on display cost more than 100 yen.

• Avoiding impulse buys: With such low prices, it’s easy to lose your discipline and go on a shopping spree. But little drops make an ocean, so you need to avoid impulse buys if you hope to stick to your budget. Always have a shopping list and try to stick to it. Before buying any item, ask yourself how much you really need it.

• Spotting special items: Most shops will indicate that an item is a limited edition or an import. They often partner with major brands to bring these goods to customers at low prices.

Conclusion: Why 100 Yen Shops Are a Must-Visit in Japan

100 yen shops are a cultural staple because of their low prices and diverse product offerings. You can find these stores in major cities like San Francisco, Miami, and Las Vegas. They offer affordable ways to enjoy Japanese design, everyday life, and hidden gems.

Another, more convenient way to enjoy similar perks is to get a Bokksu Snack Box Subscription. Every month, we will send you a box filled with treats that would make any 100-yen shop envious. Subscribe today to enjoy the best of Japanese snacking culture.