Among travelers to Japan, visiting local drugstores has become something of a new travel ritual. Scattered near popular sightseeing areas, these stores are neatly packed with everything from medicine and skincare to snacks and daily essentials. Their variety is vast, prices reasonable, and above all, their quality is assured—earning them a reputation for “no-fail shopping.” Within this treasure trove, here are a few must-buy items that consistently win over first-time and repeat visitors alike.

Eye Drops – A Refreshing Essential
Japanese eye drops are known for their incredible range. Whether you suffer from dryness, itchiness, fatigue, or redness—or wear contact lenses—there’s a targeted formula to match. Some even offer varying levels of coolness, with a refreshing sensation that many find pleasantly addictive. They’re particularly handy for tired eyes during long travel days.

Cooling Sheets & Pain Relief Patches
Gel-type cooling sheets are a favorite, especially during Japan’s humid summers or after a long day of walking. Loved by both adults and children, they offer quick relief from fatigue or fever. Lightweight and easy to carry, many travelers buy extra for use back home. Some stores offer value packs—perfect for bulk purchases.

Toothpaste – A Hidden Gem in Oral Care
Japanese toothpaste deserves more attention. With options for whitening, sensitivity, gum care, and more, these products reflect Japan’s meticulous approach to oral hygiene. Many formulas are not available abroad, making them a thoughtful and surprising souvenir.

Face Masks – Skincare for Every Occasion
If you’re a beauty enthusiast, Japanese sheet masks are a must. With lines dedicated to hydration, firmness, brightening, and even fine line care, there’s a mask for every skin concern. From single-use to bulk packs, these masks are affordable and luxuriously gentle—perfect for unwinding in your hotel room after a busy day.

Sunscreen – Light, Gentle, and Effective
Japanese sunscreens are praised for their light textures and non-greasy finish. Many are formulated to avoid white cast and irritation, making them ideal for sensitive skin or family use. Especially in summer, travelers often buy sunscreen on arrival to protect themselves right away.

Other Thoughtful Finds
From bath salts and eye masks to mask sprays, hand creams, and nail clippers, Japanese drugstores are filled with small daily luxuries. Their compact sizes make them suitcase-friendly and ideal for spontaneous shopping, turning a quick stop into a joyful experience.

Across Japan, pharmacy staff are known for their polite and attentive service. Many stores are equipped with tax-free counters, and it’s not uncommon to find multilingual signage and brochures that help visitors navigate the wide selection of products. Since the brands and items carried can vary from store to store, visiting multiple drugstores in different regions becomes part of the shopping adventure.

But the charm of Japanese drugstores goes beyond being merely affordable and convenient. Every product on the shelf reflects Japan’s thoughtful approach to daily living—an intersection of practicality, ingenuity, and subtle hospitality. Just stepping into one of these spaces offers a kind of quiet cultural experience, a window into how Japan values everyday comfort and care.

What you pick up during your travels—whether it’s a tube of hand cream, a packet of herbal lozenges, or a beautifully packaged mask—has the power to enrich your life back home. Japanese drugstores offer small, tangible joys that you can carry with you, long after your trip ends. Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, there’s always a reason to return. So as you plan your journey through Japan, be sure to set aside time to explore a local drugstore. Within its modest aisles, you’ll find not just products, but a deeper connection to Japan’s way of life—where even the ordinary is treated with extraordinary care.