Looking for the best drugstores in Japan for tourists? Japanese drugstores are famous for affordable cosmetics, high-quality skincare, tax-free shopping, and unique health products you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re hunting for J-beauty brands, Japanese medicine, snacks, or daily essentials, these top 10 drugstore chains in Japan are must-visits.
1. Matsumoto Kiyoshi
Matsumoto Kiyoshi is easily the most recognizable drugstore in Japan, especially for tourists visiting Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. Known for its bright yellow signage, it offers a massive selection of Japanese cosmetics, skincare, OTC medicine, snacks, and beauty tools. Popular brands like Shiseido, Canmake, and Hada Labo are widely available. Many branches are located near major stations and offer tax-free shopping with multilingual support. Prices are competitive, and seasonal discounts are common, making it one of the best drugstores in Japan for travelers looking to stock up on souvenirs and J-beauty products.
2. Don Quijote
Don Quijote, affectionately called “Donki,” is a paradise for tourists seeking tax-free drugstore shopping in Japan. Open late (many branches 24 hours), it sells cosmetics, medicine, electronics, snacks, and even luxury goods. The chaotic yet exciting layout makes treasure hunting fun. Tourists love it for bulk discounts and exclusive sets designed for overseas visitors. English, Chinese, and Korean signage are common in major cities. If you want one-stop shopping for beauty products, health supplements, and quirky Japanese items, Don Quijote is one of the most convenient and affordable drugstores in Japan.
3. Sugi Drug
Sugi Drug is a fast-growing pharmacy chain popular among both locals and tourists. With branches across Japan, especially in urban areas, it offers a strong selection of skincare, vitamins, baby products, and daily necessities. Prices are often slightly cheaper than competitors, and frequent promotions make it budget-friendly. Many stores provide tax-free counters and accept international credit cards. Tourists appreciate its clean layout and organized shelves, making shopping easy and efficient. If you’re searching for affordable Japanese drugstore cosmetics and health supplements, Sugi Drug is definitely worth visiting.
4. Tsuruha Drug
Tsuruha Drug started in Hokkaido but has expanded nationwide, becoming a favorite Japanese drugstore chain for tourists. It offers competitive prices on cosmetics, cold medicine, pain relief patches, and supplements. Tsuruha is particularly strong in northern Japan, making it convenient for travelers visiting Sapporo or the Hokkaido region. Many locations offer tax-free services and seasonal discount coupons. Tourists love finding Japanese-exclusive skincare brands and value-sized packages here. If you want reliable service and good deals outside central Tokyo, Tsuruha Drug is a fantastic option.
5. Kokumin
Kokumin is commonly found in major train stations and shopping malls, making it incredibly convenient for tourists. The stores may be smaller, but they carry essential Japanese cosmetics, travel-sized products, medicine, and daily necessities. It’s perfect for last-minute airport shopping or quick beauty restocks before heading home. Many branches offer tax-free purchases and accept foreign credit cards. While the selection may not be as huge as Donki, Kokumin’s accessibility and easy layout make it one of the best Japanese drugstores for travelers on tight schedules.
6. Daikoku Drug
Daikoku Drug is known for aggressive pricing and discount campaigns, especially in Osaka and major tourist districts. Bright red signage makes it easy to spot. The chain frequently offers time-limited sales and member discounts, helping tourists save even more on Japanese skincare and over-the-counter medicines. Tax-free counters are common in tourist-heavy branches. If you’re comparing prices between drugstores in Japan, Daikoku often comes out cheaper for popular beauty brands and health products. Bargain hunters should definitely add it to their shopping list.
7. Welcia
Welcia is one of Japan’s largest drugstore chains, offering a wide range of pharmaceuticals, beauty items, groceries, and household goods. It’s popular among locals, which means prices are reasonable and the product variety is wide. While not every branch targets tourists, many urban stores offer tax-free shopping. Welcia is a great place to explore authentic Japanese daily-life products beyond just cosmetics. If you want a more local shopping experience while still finding high-quality skincare and supplements, Welcia is an excellent choice.
8. Sun Drug
Sun Drug combines competitive pricing with convenient locations in shopping streets and malls. Tourists appreciate its straightforward layout and strong selection of J-beauty brands, haircare, and cold remedies. Many stores provide tax-free services and multilingual assistance in major cities. Sun Drug frequently runs promotions, making it a smart stop for travelers comparing Japanese drugstore prices. Whether you need skincare refills or popular Japanese eye drops and supplements, Sun Drug is a reliable and tourist-friendly option.
9. Create SD
Create SD is especially common in suburban and residential areas like Yokohama and Kanagawa. While less flashy than Donki, it often offers lower prices and a relaxed shopping environment. Tourists staying outside city centers may find better deals here on vitamins, skincare, and daily essentials. Some locations provide tax-free services, though not all target international visitors. If you prefer quieter stores with less crowding, Create SD offers a practical and affordable Japanese drugstore experience.
10. Cosmos Yakkyoku
Cosmos Yakkyoku is known for everyday low prices rather than flashy tourist promotions. Popular in regional cities, it’s ideal for budget-conscious travelers exploring beyond Tokyo and Osaka. The store focuses on health products, supplements, snacks, and affordable cosmetics. While not every branch offers tax-free services, the base prices are often very competitive. If you’re traveling through smaller Japanese cities and want a dependable, low-cost drugstore, Cosmos Yakkyoku is worth checking out.
Final Tips for Tourists Shopping at Japanese Drugstores
- Bring your passport for tax-free shopping.
- Compare prices between chains for the best deals.
- Look for seasonal coupons near entrances.
- Check luggage limits before bulk buying liquids and supplements.
If you’re planning a Japan trip in 2026, these are the best drugstores in Japan for tourists to save money and discover amazing Japanese beauty and health products.