Let’s be real… Japan is a skincare paradise.
If you’re anything like me, “vacation shopping” isn’t just grabbing a fridge magnet or a keychain, it’s filling half your suitcase with serums, sunscreens, and sheet masks you can’t get back home.
When I went to Japan for my honeymoon (yes, my husband knew what he signed up for 😏), I was ready for temples, sushi, matcha, … and serious beauty hauls. And trust me, I went all in. Many nights of our trip ended with me wandering the aisles of Don Quijote like a kid in a candy store, but instead of candy, it was Japan skincare products stacked to the ceiling.
If you’ve ever Googled “things to buy in Japan” or “best Japanese skincare,” you already know the hype is real. Japan isn’t just about the Japanese skincare routine, it’s about beautifully packaged, high-quality products that work. From Japan beauty products you’ve seen on TikTok to hidden Japanese cosmetics gems, the country is a goldmine.
So, let’s cut the fluff. Here are the 3 absolute best places to go for your Japan shopping list, plus what to buy (don’t worry).
Don Quijote (Donki): The Beauty Wonderland That Never Sleeps
Ever been to a store where the shelves are so full, you wonder if you’ve accidentally walked into a storage warehouse? That’s Don Quijote for you, affectionately known as “Donki.” This place is an Asian products overload in the best way possible.
Here’s why it’s skincare heaven:
- Open late: some locations are literally 24/7, so yes, you can shop for face masks at 2 a.m. (don’t ask me how I know).
- Prices range from drugstore cheap to mid-range, meaning you can stock up without taking out a second mortgage.
- You’ll find everything: from Japanese skin care classics to quirky Japanese products you didn’t know existed, snacks (a must-check section too!), and anything you imagine.
- Shop for skincare, body care, hair, makeup, UV protection products, snacks, and even luggage if needed.
Pro Tip: Don’t get overwhelmed. Go in with a rough list (you can check the @Cosme rankings beforehand), or you’ll leave with the whole store.
Matsumoto Kiyoshi: The Skincare & Drugstore Makeup Favorite
If Donki is a chaotic party, Matsumoto Kiyoshi (also shortened as Matsukiyo) is your organized, slightly more polished friend who still knows how to have fun. This is one of Japan’s biggest drugstore chains, and it’s perfect for finding Japanese skincare products, Korean and Japanese cosmetics, without the sensory overload.
Why I love it:
- The staff organizes products beautifully: it’s easy to find what you need without going on a treasure hunt.
- You will find many testers to try at the store before buying them.
- Frequent sales and multi-buy deals: stock up like a pro.
- They carry many of the most beloved Japan beauty products and even a few Korean skincare aesthetic picks.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for “Tax-Free” signs. Bring your passport and save a chunk of yen for more shopping.
@Cosme Store: Beauty Ranked by Real Reviews
Think of @Cosme as Japan’s beauty Bible. It’s the country’s biggest online review site for cosmetics, but they also have physical stores where they display products based on rankings from real customers. That means you’re not just buying something because it looks pretty, it’s literally been voted the best Japanese skincare or Japanese cosmetics by thousands of people.
Why it’s amazing:
- The award shelves are like a cheat sheet for your beauty and skincare routine.
- You can find cult favorites and discover new Japanese products you didn’t know you needed.
- Seasonal and limited-edition items make each visit different.
- Lots of high-end products as well.
Pro Tip: If something you need is ranked #1 here, just grab it. Don’t overthink it, those top spots aren’t random.
Japan Beauty Shopping Tips You’ll Thank Me For Later
Here’s the thing: Tokyo shopping and Japan skincare hunting can get addictive. You’ll want to buy everything. But to shop smarter (and save suitcase space), keep these tips in mind:
- Tax-Free Shopping: Most big stores offer it if you spend over a certain amount, so bring your passport. Keep in mind that the tax-free products will be sealed in a plastic bag, and you won’t be able to use them while traveling in Japan, only once you leave the country, because you may need to show them at the airport.
- Stock Up: If you love something, buy extras. Japanese skin care products can be hard to find (and more expensive) outside Japan.
- Timing Matters: Weekends = busier stores. Weekdays = more relaxed browsing.
- Test First: Most stores have testers, especially for makeup. Try it before you commit.
- Language Barrier Is Real: Most packaging is only in Japanese or Chinese, and almost nothing is written in English. Bring internet access and use a photo translator app to get the gist, but FYI, the translations aren’t always perfect (and sometimes they’re downright hilarious). That’s why it’s smart to research the products you want before your trip so you know exactly what they look like. Screenshots are your best friend.
Why Japan is Skincare Heaven (IMO)
Japanese beauty is all about quality, innovation, and attention to detail. From sunscreens that feel like water to serums that target specific concerns, the Japanese skincare routine focuses on results and experience. Plus, the packaging is often so pretty you’ll want to keep it forever.
And if you’re into Korean skincare routines too? You’re in luck. Many stores carry lots of Korean skincare aesthetic brands alongside Japanese ones, so you can mix and match for the ultimate Asian products haul.
On my trip, I fell in love with the variety. I could buy a budget-friendly sheet mask one day and a luxury serum the next, all in the same street. Even though the truth was that I simply wanted to buy everything.
Pack Light
If you’re heading to Japan and you love beauty, here’s my honest advice: Pack half your suitcase empty or more. Whether you’re in Tokyo, Osaka, or Kyoto, these three stores, Don Quijote, Matsumoto Kiyoshi, and @Cosme Store , will cover your entire Japan skincare wish list.
You’ll find best Japanese skincare essentials, viral Japan beauty products, and hidden gems you won’t see outside Asia. And yes, you might need to do a little Tetris with your luggage on the way back, but that’s a small price to pay for a dream Japanese skin care haul.
Now excuse me while I go scroll through flight deals… Because I can’t wait to go back, and get some matcha and skincare restock trip 😉.
