There’s a place we recommend you visit as soon as you arrive in Japan—not a shrine, not a department store, but the local pharmacy. Though far from the usual tourist destinations, Japanese drugstores are filled with thoughtfully crafted products that speak to the nation’s deep-rooted dedication to detail and daily comfort. Even on your very first trip to Japan, exploring a pharmacy can become a memorable and enriching experience. Here are a few must-buy items that promise both function and delight.

1. Eye Drops – A Small Bottle with Big Variety
Japanese eye drops are famous for their variety and precision. Whether you’re dealing with dryness, redness, itchiness, or tired eyes, there’s a specific formula just for you. Some are even tailored for contact lens users or offer varying degrees of coolness to refresh your eyes instantly. Many come with English labeling, making it easier for first-time visitors to choose the perfect one.

2. Patches & Cooling Sheets – Relief That Sticks with You
Among the most beloved items are cooling patches, such as the popular Netsusama Sheet. Originally designed to reduce fever, these gel-like sheets are now widely used for summer heat, post-travel fatigue, or even just as a gentle refreshment. With different sizes, scents, and cooling durations available—including options for children and families—they’re a thoughtful solution for Japan’s humid summers.

3. Cold & Stomach Remedies – Gentle Yet Effective Care
Japanese over-the-counter medicines are known for their mild and effective formulations. Cold medicine often avoids overly sedative ingredients, and many stomach remedies are gentle enough for sensitive systems. If you feel under the weather during your travels, these products offer quiet reassurance. And even if language is a barrier, you can often rely on pointing to body parts or reading shelf descriptions to find the help you need—pharmacy staff are usually eager to assist.

For women travelers, one unmissable item is sanitary products. Japanese sanitary napkins are widely praised for their gentle texture, excellent absorbency, and superior comfort. They are slim, easy to carry, and come in a wide range of types—from scented varieties to versions designed for sensitive skin. Many of these products are hard to find outside Japan, making them thoughtful and practical souvenirs as well.

Japanese drugstores also shine when it comes to skincare and beauty. Shelves are lined with lotions, serums, and sheet masks—available in a dazzling variety and at reasonable prices. Many come in trial sizes, allowing you to test different options without commitment. Delicate fragrances and textures make them ideal for daily use during your travels, offering gentle care for skin exposed to new climates and environments.

Beyond that, you’ll find everything from oral care items, disposable face masks, eye masks, portable hand sanitizers, to perfectly designed nail clippers and ear picks. It’s a true treasure trove of practical ingenuity. Even the packaging is intuitively designed, so browsing and choosing becomes part of the fun, even if you don’t speak the language.

These items are not only lightweight and easy to pack, but also reasonably priced. Many stores offer duty-free shopping, making it convenient to stock up. What’s remarkable is that many travelers return home still using the products they bought in Japan—not just out of necessity, but out of genuine preference for their quality.

A Japanese drugstore is more than just a place to buy everyday goods. Each shelf tells a story of Japanese wisdom, craftsmanship, and care for daily life. Even a quick stop between sightseeing or dining can lead to delightful discoveries. The secret to a richer first-time travel experience in Japan might just be found on these humble shelves. Sometimes, it’s the most ordinary item that becomes the most treasured souvenir.