CULTURE

The Convenience of Japanese Convenience Stores: A Foreigner’s Perspective

2023.10.26

A Glimpse into Japanese Konbini: A Foreigner’s Fascination

Convenience stores in Japan, or “konbini,” are truly remarkable establishments where you can purchase everything from food and drinks to daily necessities. With numerous outlets available for utmost convenience, it’s not just the accessibility but also the high quality of food and beverages that attract many foreigners to Japanese convenience stores. It seems that for foreigners, Japanese konbini hold a unique charm not found in convenience stores in their own countries.

The Incredible Aspects of Japanese Convenience Stores from a Foreigner’s Perspective

24/7 Operations

First and foremost, foreigners are often amazed by the fact that convenience stores in Japan are open 24/7. While there are 24-hour stores in other countries, they are quite rare. The prevalence of stores in Japan that operate around the clock, regardless of the time of day, is indeed a rarity.

Interestingly, 7-Eleven, the pioneer of convenience stores, was not initially open 24 hours a day. Its name is derived from its original operating hours: from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. The concept of 24/7 operations actually began in the United States, where 7-Eleven originated, but did not become as widespread as it has in Japan, mainly due to security concerns.

High Quality Products

A significant factor that impresses foreigners about Japanese konbini is the high quality of products available. In particular, private brand food items such as onigiri (rice balls), side dishes, and sweets are all affordable, delicious, and come in a wide variety. The increasing availability of products with added value, such as low-carb options and seasonal limited-edition items, has made every visit exciting for many foreigners living in Japan.

Diversity

From daily necessities to food, hot snacks, alcohol, and more, Japanese convenience stores offer an incredibly diverse product range. In addition, services like microwaves, copy machines, parcel delivery, utility bill payments, and certificate issuance contribute to a comprehensive experience. Comments like “It’s wonderful they warm up onigiri for you!” “It’s reassuring to have umbrellas and raincoats available when it suddenly rains,” “Back home, you can only make copies at dedicated copy shops, so this is convenient!” and “I can’t believe you can handle high-value transactions like ticket payments!” reflect the sense of security and thoughtful service that impress many foreigners.

Consistency

Everywhere in Japan, convenience stores generally offer the same products and services (excluding regional specialties), with shelves fully stocked even in limited space. The ability to shop safely even late at night adds to their appeal. This consistency is truly unique to Japanese konbini.

Popular Convenience Store Products Among Foreigners

Onigiri: Foreigners often choose onigiri when shopping at convenience stores. The reasons include their ease of consumption when slightly hungry, affordable prices, satisfying portion sizes, and delicious taste.

Hot Snacks: With a variety of food options available, many of which are cold or require heating, the convenience and warmth of hot snacks make them a popular choice.

Coffee: The affordability of coffee at convenience stores is a significant draw, with many options available for 100 yen, leading some people to purchase coffee daily. The common consensus is that it’s inexpensive yet delicious.

From salads to main dishes, bread, rice, desserts, alcohol, and coffee, the array of full-course menu options is impressive. Even when overindulging, digestive aids, dishwashing detergent for cleaning up, and shampoo for a pre-bedtime shower are all readily available 24/7. For foreign tourists, the sheer convenience of Japanese convenience stores might just seem “crazy” in the best way possible.