Setting Up in Japan: Shopping Guide

By YiPin Wu, University of Tokyo, Japan

Moving to Tokyo? Here are the shops you actually need to know about.

Daiso (ダイソー) — Your First Stop

Seriously, go here first. Daiso is Japan’s famous 100-yen shop, and it’s so much better than it sounds. Plates, bowls, chopsticks, hangers, storage boxes, cleaning supplies, stationery, kitchen stuff, all ¥110 (about 70p) each. Whatever you think you need, just check Daiso first. I managed to tick off most of my moving-in list for under ¥3,000 (roughly £15). I’d recommend doing a big Daiso sweep in your first few days before spending money anywhere else.

Nitori (ニトリ) — Japan’s IKEA

For the bigger stuff, like bedding, furniture, kitchenware, Nitori is your go-to. They stock everything from affordable basics to nicer mid-range pieces, so there’s something for every budget. A duvet set, pillow, and fitted sheet will run you around ¥3,000–¥5,000 (roughly £15–£25). If your accommodation doesn’t come furnished, this is where you sort that out. There are branches all over Japan, with big stores in Shibuya and Ikebukuro.

Loft (ロフト) — Lifestyle & Stationery

Loft is a bit pricier than Daiso but the stuff is genuinely nice— stationery, cosmetics, desk organisers, storage boxes, travel accessories, and a lot of cool, cute, aesthetic things you didn’t know you needed until you saw them. I go there occasionally just to have a browse and it always ends up costing me money. The Shibuya branch is dangerously good. Also worth a visit if you’re looking for gifts for friends or people back home.

Don Quijote (ドン・キホーテ) — The Everything Store

Donki, as everyone calls it, is hard to explain until you’ve been inside. It sells everything, like snacks, electronics, clothes, luggage, kitchen appliances, cosmetics, even bikes, usually across several very loud, very crowded floors. It’s always packed with tourists so it’s not exactly a relaxing experience, but it’s open late (loads of branches are 24 hours). Honestly, I only go there for last-minute needs, especially when online shopping would just mean waiting and paying for delivery.

Supermarkets — Ozeki, My Basket, LIFE & Gyomu Super

For day-to-day groceries, these are the ones worth knowing. Ozeki (オオゼキ) is a great all-rounder for fresh produce, meat, fish, everyday staples, all at decent prices. One tip: go in the evening around 7–8pm and look for the yellow discount stickers on bento boxes and prepared food. Genuinely one of the best budget hacks in Tokyo.

My Basket (マイバスケット) is smaller and more of a convenience store setup, which is perfect for a quick top-up without trekking to a bigger shop. You’ll usually find one pretty close to wherever you’re living.

If you want a wider range, LIFE Supermarket is well-stocked and reliable, and Gyomu Super (業務スーパー) is brilliant if you cook, bulk items at very low prices.

A Few Tips Before You Go

• Start with Daiso and Nitori. Do these in your first week before you spend money anywhere else.
• Sign up for member cards. Most shops have a point card or app that gives you cashback. Takes two minutes and adds up over time.
• Bring a reusable bag. Plastic bags cost extra everywhere in Japan, it’s better to keep one in your backpack.

Tokyo has a reputation for being expensive, but honestly, once you know where to look, you can live really well without spending a lot. These are the places that made my first few weeks so much easier. I hope they do the same for you.