Contents
Why Japanese Cosmetics Are Gaining Global Popularity
Japanese cosmetics have captured the attention of beauty lovers around the world. Their popularity is not just a passing trend—it is rooted in long-standing trust built on quality, safety, and a unique sense of beauty.
Commitment to Ingredients and High Quality
Formulated for Sensitive Skin
Japanese cosmetic brands are known for their gentle formulations, making them ideal for sensitive skin. Many products are alcohol-free, fragrance-free, and allergy-tested, offering a wide selection of skin-friendly options.
Safety and Trust of Made-in-Japan Products
Cosmetics labeled “Made in Japan” are produced under strict quality control standards, earning a reputation for safety and reliability. Internationally, Japanese products are often seen as synonymous with trust and high quality.
Cutting-Edge Skincare Powered by Research and Innovation
Many Japanese companies operate their own research facilities and are constantly developing new technologies and ingredients. Products that utilize the latest dermatological science and fermentation techniques are now leading beauty trends worldwide.
Great Balance of Price and Performance
High Quality at Affordable Prices
Japanese cosmetics are known for their excellent cost performance, even in the low-price range known as “puchipura” (short for petit price). Many top-rated products are available for around ¥1,000, making quality skincare accessible to everyone.
Wide Selection from Budget to Luxury Brands
From budget-friendly brands like CANMAKE and CEZANNE to premium labels like SHISEIDO and SK-II, Japan offers a wide range of cosmetics. Whether you’re on a tight budget or seeking high-end options, you’ll find products that match your needs and preferences.
Even More Savings When Buying Locally (Tax-Free Available)
Many shops in Japan offer tax-free shopping for international visitors. Simply present your passport at checkout to receive a consumption tax exemption. During sales or promotional seasons, buying cosmetics in Japan can be significantly cheaper than purchasing them overseas.
Perfect for Souvenirs and Gifts
Adorable Packaging That Delights
Japanese cosmetics are also known for their aesthetic appeal. The packaging is often beautifully designed and cute, which makes them popular among international shoppers. Many people choose products based on how they look as much as how they work.
Exclusive Local and Seasonal Items
Shops in Japan frequently offer limited-edition items that are available only in certain regions or during specific seasons. These exclusive products are hard to find elsewhere, making them ideal for souvenirs with a special, one-of-a-kind feel.
Plenty of Travel-Sized and Shareable Items
Many cosmetics come in small, easy-to-carry formats like lip balms, sheet masks, or mini skincare kits. These are perfect for trying out new products or sharing with friends and family. Buying them in bulk is both practical and budget-friendly.
Popular Among Tourists! Recommended Japan Cosmetics Shops
Cosmetic shopping is one of the most anticipated activities for travelers visiting Japan. From timeless bestsellers to the latest trends, Japan offers an impressive variety of products—many of which are exclusive to the local market. With perks like tax-free shopping and limited-edition items, it’s no wonder that these stores are a must-visit. Here are some of the most popular Japan cosmetics shops among tourists.
@cosme TOKYO (Harajuku)
Located just steps from Harajuku Station, @cosme TOKYO is one of Japan’s largest and most talked-about japan cosmetics shops. With a floor space of about 1,380㎡ and over 750 brands available, this flagship store is like a theme park for beauty lovers. It brings together cosmetics from across various channels—department stores, online shops, drugstores, and specialty boutiques—under one roof.
Not only can you discover the latest trends firsthand, but you can also enjoy features like AI fragrance matching, ranking displays, and a gift-wrapping station. @cosme TOKYO offers a complete experience where you can “see,” “try,” and “choose” your ideal products.
Explore Three Floors of Beauty
@cosme TOKYO spans three floors, each with its own unique appeal:
- 1st Floor: Test-before-you-buy areas such as the “Tester Bar” and “Mini Cosmetics Corner,” perfect for sampling popular products in smaller sizes.
- 2nd Floor: Discover cutting-edge beauty at the “Next Trend Zone” and browse the visually striking “Sheet Mask Wall.”
- 3rd Floor: Home to the “Fragrance Zone” with around 400 perfumes, including AI-guided scent matching to help you find your perfect fragrance.
Latest Rankings & Award-Winning Products
As the flagship store of the iconic beauty site @cosme, this location showcases top-ranked and award-winning items from the @cosme Best Cosmetics Awards. The shop is intuitively organized by category, making it easy for first-time visitors to browse and shop.
Multilingual Staff Always Available
Staff who speak English and Chinese are always on hand, so international visitors can shop with confidence. Information panels with QR codes also help guide non-Japanese speakers through product details and store navigation.
Exclusive Brands and Limited-Edition Items
From store-exclusive brands to limited-time collaborations, @cosme TOKYO offers plenty of items that you won’t find anywhere else. These make perfect keepsakes or thoughtful gifts for friends and family.
Convenient Gift Services
The in-store “Self-Wrapping Station” allows you to create beautifully packaged gifts using stylish boxes and message cards designed in collaboration with a wrapping school in Meguro, Tokyo. Even products purchased at other shops can be wrapped here—perfect for turning your cosmetics haul into a memorable souvenir.
@cosme TOKYO
Located just steps from Harajuku Station in the heart of Tokyo, @cosme TOKYO is Japan’s largest experiential cosmetics shop. With over 750 brands and a spacious 1,380㎡ layout, it’s a beauty lover’s paradise. Visitors can explore mini-size trial items, AI-powered fragrance matching, award-winning product rankings, and exclusive limited-edition items. This flagship store brings together department store brands, drugstore products, and online favorites all in one place.
- Address: 1-14-27 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0001, Japan
- Official Website: https://www.cosme.net/store/flagship/tokyo/
Matsumoto Kiyoshi (Drugstore Chain)
Affordable Access to Popular and Classic Cosmetics
Matsumoto Kiyoshi is a major drugstore chain found throughout Japan, offering a wide range of skincare, makeup, and haircare products. Large branches near tourist areas often feature multilingual signs and displays, making shopping easy and enjoyable for international visitors.
Wide Selection of Sunscreens and Lip Care Items
Many travelers come to Japan specifically to buy high-quality sunscreens and lip care products. Matsumoto Kiyoshi carries a wide variety tailored to different needs—from sensitive skin to outdoor use—making it easy to find the right product for you.
Tax-Free Counter for Smooth Shopping
If your total purchase exceeds a certain amount, you can shop tax-free. Dedicated tax-free counters are available in-store—simply present your passport for quick and easy processing. Discount coupons can often be combined with tax-free purchases, adding even more value.
Flagship Store: Matsumoto Kiyoshi SHIBUYA DOGENZAKA FLAG
Matsumoto Kiyoshi SHIBUYA DOGENZAKA FLAG is a next-generation flagship store located in the vibrant Dogenzaka area of Shibuya. Blending beauty, health, experience, art, and digital innovation, it goes beyond the typical drugstore model to become a trendsetting hub in Tokyo.
1F: POPUP Corner, New Brands, and Medicine Floor
The first floor features a futuristic atmosphere—from the aurora-inspired lighting at the entrance to the bold, black interior design. A permanent POPUP corner showcases trending, new, and limited-edition products, creating a dynamic space for discovery. In collaboration with crowdfunding leader CAMPFIRE, the store introduces D2C brand products, connecting customers with innovative new offerings.
2F: Total Beauty Care Floor
This floor proposes a holistic approach to “beauty and health from both outside and within.” Set in a stylish black-themed space, it offers skincare, haircare, men’s grooming items, beauty gadgets, and supplements. The product lineup suits all genders and generations seeking their own personal beauty.
3F: High-End Makeup Brands
Featuring popular Korean beauty brand Amorepacific and a curated selection of international and domestic makeup lines, this floor is a haven for cosmetic enthusiasts. With the integration of AR and interactive digital content, it provides an immersive, sensory shopping experience.
4F: Hair Salon and In-House Studio
This level houses Matsumoto Kiyoshi’s own studio for livestreams, YouTube content, and product showcases. It also features the “NORA CYNDY color salon” by the renowned salon NORA, offering trendy Korean-style coloring and street-style makeovers. After your beauty service, you can enjoy a self-photo session right on site.
Art Gallery (Signage & Staircase Area)
The store’s massive exterior signage and staircase areas serve as a digital canvas for emerging artists. Featuring video art and visual installations by young creators, the space offers visitors a unique fusion of cosmetics and art—only in Shibuya.
Matsumoto Kiyoshi SHIBUYA DOGENZAKA FLAG
Located in the heart of Shibuya’s vibrant Dogenzaka district, Matsumoto Kiyoshi SHIBUYA DOGENZAKA FLAG is a next-generation flagship store that redefines the drugstore experience. Spanning four floors, the store blends beauty, wellness, art, and digital content into one interactive destination. From trending POPUP items and high-end makeup to a beauty salon and in-house studio, the store offers something for every beauty enthusiast. It’s not just a place to shop—it’s a space to discover, transform, and express.
- Address: 23-4 Udagawacho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0042, Japan
- Official Website: https://www.matsukiyo.co.jp/
Don Quijote (Discount Chain Store)
Don Quijote is a nationwide discount store chain operating in major cities across Japan. Known for its incredibly wide selection of products—including daily necessities, electronics, cosmetics, food, and apparel—it attracts both locals and tourists alike. With surprisingly low prices and a store layout that feels like a treasure hunt, Don Quijote (affectionately called “Donki”) offers a unique and exciting shopping experience.
Long Hours, Late-Night Shopping Available
One of Don Quijote’s standout features is its late-night operating hours. Most stores open between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. and stay open until midnight or as late as 5 a.m. Some locations even operate 24 hours a day, making it easy to shop at any time—whether after work, dinner, or sightseeing.
Excellent Selection of Cosmetics and Skincare
Don Quijote is also highly popular as a Japan cosmetics shop. It offers an impressive variety of affordable cosmetics, trending skincare items, and Korean beauty products. Many items come with testers, so you can try them before you buy—making shopping fun and stress-free.
Original Brands: “me&do” and “cosparade”
Don Quijote invests heavily in developing its own original brands:
- me&do: A lifestyle brand created by female staff, offering products with a woman’s perspective in mind.
- cosparade: A cost-effective skincare line known for its high quality and affordable prices, especially popular among those with sensitive skin.
These exclusive brands are only available at Donki, making them perfect for souvenirs that you won’t find in typical cosmetic stores.
Tourist-Friendly Multilingual Support
Major stores in urban areas are equipped with multilingual signage in English, Chinese, Korean, and more, making it easy for international visitors to shop. Tax-free counters are also available—just present your passport to instantly receive your tax exemption.
What is MEGA Don Quijote?
MEGA Don Quijote is a large-format version of the standard store, offering an even wider selection of goods including groceries, household items, interior goods, and clothing. These locations are ideal for families and shoppers who want to spend more time browsing. You can find everything from daily essentials to cosmetics and souvenirs all in one place, making it a convenient stop during your trip.
Don Quijote Ginza Main Store
Located in Tokyo’s upscale Ginza district, the Don Quijote Ginza Main Store offers a unique shopping experience that combines deep discounts with a massive selection of products. From cosmetics and souvenirs to household items, snacks, and electronics, this branch provides everything under one roof. With multilingual signage, tax-free services, and convenient late-night hours, it’s an ideal stop for international travelers looking to explore a true Japanese-style discount store.
- Address: 3rd Building, Ginza Nine, 8-10 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0061, Japan
- Official Website: https://www.donki.com/
SHISEIDO THE STORE (Ginza)
Located in the heart of Ginza, SHISEIDO THE STORE serves as the ultimate destination for holistic beauty solutions, backed by Shiseido’s long-standing expertise in skincare and cosmetics. Beyond purchasing products, visitors can enjoy a variety of premium services including esthetics, hair and makeup styling, and personalized beauty lessons—all designed to bring out each person’s natural beauty.
About Shiseido
Founded in 1872 in Ginza as Japan’s first Western-style pharmacy, Shiseido has spent over 150 years innovating and redefining beauty. Today, it offers an extensive range of products including skincare, makeup, fragrances, and haircare, and is loved by customers in over 120 countries and regions worldwide.
BEAUTY SQUARE (1st–2nd Floors) | Luxurious Shopping Experience
In a calm and luxurious space, visitors can test and purchase various Shiseido brands. Expert staff provide personalized suggestions for skincare, makeup, and fragrance based on your skin condition and preferences.
BEAUTY BOOST BAR & PHOTO STUDIO (3rd Floor) | Professional Hair & Makeup + Photography
Artists who work on fashion shows offer personalized hair and makeup styling to highlight your best features. You can even commemorate the transformation with a professional photoshoot on-site.
ESPACE CLÉ DE PEAU BEAUTÉ (3rd Floor) | Premium Esthetics with Clé de Peau Beauté
Enjoy the ultimate esthetic experience using Clé de Peau Beauté products. This all-hand treatment salon offers blissful moments that heal both body and mind in a serene, luxurious environment.
PERSONAL BEAUTY SESSION (4th Floor) | Personalized Beauty Lessons
One-on-one lessons with beauty counselors include skin analysis using advanced tools, helping you learn tailored skincare and makeup techniques. *Note: Services available in Japanese only.
THE LOUNGE (4th Floor) | Exclusive Reservation-Only Space
This private, reservation-only lounge offers small-scale salon events, exclusive skincare sessions, and in-depth lessons featuring THE GINZA products. It provides a deeper and more personal beauty experience in a tranquil atmosphere.
SHISEIDO THE STORE
Located in the heart of Ginza, SHISEIDO THE STORE is the flagship beauty destination by Shiseido, offering not only premium cosmetics but also personalized beauty services. With over 150 years of innovation, Shiseido provides skincare, makeup, fragrance, and haircare solutions supported by its longstanding heritage. Visitors can enjoy a complete beauty experience—from esthetics and makeup to photo studios and private beauty sessions.
- Address: 7-8-10 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0061, Japan
- Official Website: https://thestore.shiseido.co.jp/
Tokyu Plaza Ginza (Ginza)
Opened in 2016 in the heart of Ginza, Tokyu Plaza Ginza stands out with its striking architecture inspired by Edo Kiriko, a traditional Japanese glass-cutting craft. This urban shopping complex was born under the theme of “Tradition and Innovation,” and has become a new landmark that attracts visitors from around the world with its diverse selection of shops.
HANDS EXPO – A Stimulating Culture Zone Full of Inspiration
Located on the 7th floor, HANDS EXPO is a unique cultural zone where visitors can rediscover the charm of Japan. Organized around themes like “Wa (Japanese style), Beauty, and Food,” the shop features a curated selection of quality products from across the country. In the beauty section, you’ll find Japanese skincare and fashion accessories, including rice-derived facial masks—popular among international tourists for their distinctively Japanese quality and craftsmanship.
Lotte Duty Free Ginza – A Must-Visit Before You Leave Japan
On the 9th floor, Lotte Duty Free Ginza is a popular destination not only for international travelers but also for Japanese customers preparing for overseas travel. The layout resembles a high-end department store cosmetics floor, offering a familiar shopping experience. Over 100 cosmetic brands are available, including Japan’s most renowned names such as SHISEIDO, SK-II, THREE, and Clé de Peau Beauté (CPB).
The store also partners with services like Japan Airlines (JAL), Jeju Air, Reward U, and HAPPY GO, allowing customers to earn points or miles with their purchases. Free baggage storage is available, making it a convenient stop for travelers before their departure.
Tokyu Plaza Ginza
Opened in 2016 in the heart of Ginza, Tokyu Plaza Ginza is a stunning urban shopping complex known for its iconic Edo Kiriko-inspired façade. With the theme of “Tradition and Innovation,” it features a diverse lineup of shops and experiences that captivate both locals and international visitors. It has quickly become a symbolic landmark in Ginza, showcasing the charm of Japan through beauty, food, fashion, and culture.
- Address: 5-2-1 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0061, Japan
- Official Website: https://tokyu-plaza.com/ginza/
Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku (Omotesando)
Standing at the intersection of Omotesando and Harajuku, Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku is a hub for youth culture and the latest beauty and fashion trends. Floors 3 to 5 are especially popular among women looking to express their individuality through beauty products and cosmetics.
NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP (3F)|Affordable, Professional-Grade Makeup from LA
One of the highlights on the 3rd floor is NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP, a vibrant and playful brand born in Los Angeles. Loved by women across Asia, it offers professional-level products at accessible prices. With a colorful range of items, you’re sure to find makeup that perfectly suits your unique style.
JILL STUART Beauty & PARTY / ISETAN MiRROR (3F)|A Charming Selection for Beauty Lovers
Also on the 3rd floor are JILL STUART Beauty & PARTY, which brings a festive mood to everyday makeup, and ISETAN MiRROR, a curated boutique featuring luxury cosmetics from Japan and abroad. These shops offer adorable and high-quality items ideal for both personal use and gifting.
LIPS & HIPS (4F)|Body and Skincare Designed for Women
Located on the 4th floor, LIPS & HIPS is a cosmetic brand created with women’s skin in mind. Their line includes body care, facial care, and hair care products that emphasize femininity and gentle comfort, making them a joy to use every day.
AUX PARADIS (5F)|Healing Fragrances with Natural Ingredients
On the 5th floor, you’ll find AUX PARADIS, a fragrance and cosmetics shop focused on natural ingredients. With perfumes made from essential oils and skincare developed by pharmacists, the products are as gentle on the skin as they are delightful in design—perfect for anyone who values both quality and comfort.
Multilingual Support for a Worry-Free Shopping Experience
Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku offers multilingual support via phone interpretation services. Even if you’re not confident in Japanese, you can shop with ease. Simply ask any store staff to connect you to the language service center for assistance.
Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku
Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku is a striking landmark located at the intersection of Omotesando and Harajuku, two of Tokyo’s trendiest districts. Opened in 2012, the building is famed for its kaleidoscopic mirror entrance and its unique blend of fashion, culture, and lifestyle offerings. Inside, visitors will find a curated selection of domestic and international brands, a rooftop terrace offering panoramic views, and various cafés perfect for relaxing amid the buzz of the city. It’s a must-visit for those seeking the pulse of youth culture and stylish Tokyo trends.
- Address: 4-30-3 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0001, Japan
- Official Website: https://tokyu-plaza.com/omokado/
Isetan Shinjuku Store (Shinjuku)
Located in the heart of Shinjuku, the Isetan Shinjuku Store is one of Japan’s most prestigious department stores, loved by shoppers both locally and internationally. Known for its seamless blend of the latest trends and refined customer service, the store offers a wide variety of retail experiences. Among them, the cosmetics floor on the 1st floor of the main building is so popular it’s often referred to as a “beauty sanctuary.”
Unrivaled Selection at the 1st Floor Beauty Apothecary
The 1st floor of the main building is home to an impressive lineup of both domestic and international beauty brands. From SHISEIDO, SK-II, SUQQU, and THREE to CHANEL, Dior, and YSL, all the top-tier brands are gathered in one elegant space. Covering everything from skincare and makeup to fragrance, the floor is a dream destination for beauty-conscious shoppers.
Personalized Consultations by Beauty Advisors
One of Isetan’s unique features is the presence of specialized zones like the “Beauty Apothecary” and “ISETAN MiRROR,” where visitors can receive advice that goes beyond brand boundaries. Knowledgeable beauty advisors are on hand to recommend products based on your skin type and needs, making the experience comfortable and informative, even for first-time visitors.
Exclusive & Pre-Launch Items Available
Isetan Shinjuku frequently offers department store exclusives and pre-release items from various brands. This attracts beauty enthusiasts from around the world who are looking for something truly special. Limited seasonal collections and collaborations also add to the excitement, ensuring that every visit brings new discoveries.
Traveler-Friendly Services for International Visitors
In addition to tax-free shopping, the store offers multilingual support and interpretation services, creating a stress-free environment for international guests. If you’re a beauty lover visiting Shinjuku, Isetan is a must-stop destination.
Isetan Shinjuku Store
Located in the heart of Shinjuku, Isetan Shinjuku Store is one of Japan’s most iconic department stores, renowned for its sophisticated selection of fashion, gourmet, and beauty products. Its beauty floor on the first level is particularly famous, often described as a “sanctuary for beauty lovers,” featuring an unmatched variety of domestic and international luxury cosmetic brands. With elegant service, curated exclusives, and traveler-friendly support, it’s a must-visit destination for shoppers from around the world.
- Address: 3-14-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0022, Japan
- Official Website: https://www.mistore.jp/store/shinjuku.html
Mitsukoshi Ginza (Ginza)
Located in the heart of Ginza, Mitsukoshi Ginza is a prestigious department store with a long-standing history and reputation for excellence. It is highly regarded by shoppers both in Japan and abroad. One of its standout attractions is the cosmetics floor, which spans from the basement level 1 to the ground floor—an area worthy of Ginza’s reputation as a beauty hub.
A Beauty Haven Featuring World-Class Brands
The cosmetics floor at Mitsukoshi Ginza features a stellar lineup of luxury brands from Japan and around the world, including CHANEL, Dior, Guerlain, YSL, Clé de Peau Beauté, SHISEIDO, and SK-II. Visitors can enjoy shopping in a refined, luxurious atmosphere while testing out the latest in skincare and makeup—a true paradise for beauty enthusiasts.
Personalized Consultations by Highly Skilled Advisors
Each brand counter is staffed by trained beauty advisors who offer expert guidance based on your skin type and concerns. Reservation-based consultation booths are available, as well as services such as makeup application and skin analysis. Customers appreciate the attentive, professional support.
Exclusive and Pre-Launch Items Available
As a premier department store, Mitsukoshi Ginza offers many brand-exclusive products and items available for early release. Limited-edition seasonal collections and gift sets add a sense of excitement and make ideal purchases for both personal use and gifting.
Tax-Free and Multilingual Services for International Visitors
Mitsukoshi Ginza caters to international travelers with tax-free shopping, multilingual signage, and interpretation support. A wide variety of payment methods, including credit cards and QR code payments, ensures a smooth and stress-free shopping experience.
Mitsukoshi Ginza
Located in the heart of Tokyo’s iconic Ginza district, Mitsukoshi Ginza is a historic and prestigious department store known for its elegant atmosphere and world-class selection. Renowned for its beauty floor stretching from the basement to the ground level, the store showcases top-tier Japanese and international cosmetic brands. From luxury skincare and makeup to attentive customer service, Mitsukoshi Ginza offers a sophisticated shopping experience for discerning visitors from around the world.
- Address: 4-6-16 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-8212, Japan
- Official Website: https://www.mistore.jp/store/ginza.html
Find Your Perfect Match! Types of Cosmetics Shops for Every Shopper
For Beginners → Don Quijote
If you’re new to Japanese cosmetics and want to check out popular items all in one place, Don Quijote is the perfect starting point. This nationwide discount store chain is easy to access, especially in central city locations, making it an ideal first stop for a Japan cosmetics shop experience. With a mix of cosmetics, souvenirs, lifestyle goods, and snacks all under one roof, it’s a favorite among international visitors.
Wide Variety of Products
Don Quijote carries an extensive range of products—from affordable drugstore cosmetics to high-end department store brands, popular Korean items, and even men’s grooming products. Visitors especially love Japanese brands like CANMAKE and CEZANNE for their quality and affordability. Skincare items such as sheet masks and brightening lotions are also in high demand. The store layout is organized by category, making it easy to find what you’re looking for.
Late-Night Hours for Flexible Shopping
Many Don Quijote locations stay open late or operate 24 hours, allowing shoppers to visit whenever it fits their schedule. Whether after a day of sightseeing or just before heading to the airport, it’s easy to stop by. Flagship stores in areas like Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Akihabara are especially convenient for travelers.
Easy-to-Understand Signs and Displays
Inside the store, colorful signs and labels such as “Bestsellers” or “Trending on Social Media” make it easy to navigate—even if you can’t read Japanese. Many popular product sections feature multilingual tags or staff recommendations. This tourist-friendly environment ensures a comfortable shopping experience even for those not confident in Japanese.
For Luxury Seekers → Department Store Beauty Floors
If you’re looking for premium Japanese cosmetics, the beauty floors of traditional department stores are the place to go. Major Tokyo destinations like Isetan Shinjuku, Mitsukoshi Ginza, and Takashimaya Nihombashi host flagship counters of top-tier brands. In these elegant and serene environments, you can enjoy an upscale Japan cosmetics shop experience enhanced by refined service and a wide range of luxury products.
Top Brand Highlights at Mitsukoshi Ginza & Isetan Shinjuku
Mitsukoshi Ginza features high-end Japanese brands like SUQQU, ADDICTION, POLA, and SHISEIDO, including many Japan-exclusive products not available overseas. Meanwhile, Isetan Shinjuku is home to trendsetting brands like RMK, THREE, and LUNASOL. You’ll find department store–exclusive colors, seasonal collections, and limited-edition sets—offering something new with every visit.
Exclusive Gift Sets and Limited Editions
Department stores often carry rare items like exclusive coffret (gift sets) and seasonal limited shades that can’t be found elsewhere. These highly sought-after items are especially popular during spring, fall, and holiday seasons, often requiring advance reservations. For travelers seeking a special souvenir from Japan, these unique cosmetics are perfect choices.
Attentive Service and Ample Samples
What sets department stores apart is their exceptional customer service. Professional beauty advisors offer tailored recommendations based on your skin concerns and preferences. Testers and samples are readily available, allowing you to try products before making a purchase. Many stores now also offer English-speaking staff or translation support, making them friendly and accessible for international visitors.
Tips and Savings When Shopping for Cosmetics in Japan
Japanese cosmetics shops offer high-quality products that you can purchase with confidence. However, differences in language and regulations may cause some confusion for international travelers. Here are some key tips and useful information to help you shop smarter and make the most of your beauty purchases in Japan.
How to Use Japan’s Tax-Free System
Show Your Passport to Get Consumption Tax Exempted
In Japan, foreign tourists can enjoy tax-free shopping if they spend a minimum amount (generally 5,000 yen or more at the same store). Simply present your passport at the time of purchase, and the 10% consumption tax will be waived—you’ll only pay the tax-free price on the spot.
Some Stores Support Electronic Tax-Free Processing
Many major stores and airport shops are equipped with electronic terminals for tax-free procedures. These systems streamline the process by eliminating the need for physical paperwork. Most also offer multilingual support, making it easy for travelers to complete the procedure without stress.
Confirm Eligibility as a Non-Resident
Note that Japan’s tax-free system is only available to tourists and short-term visitors. If you’re a resident of Japan, including long-term visa holders or international students, you may not be eligible. Be sure to check your visa status and the store’s conditions before making a tax-free purchase.
Communicating with Store Staff
Use Translation Apps or Pointing Sheets
If you’re worried about the language barrier, tools like Google Translate or traveler-friendly pointing apps can be extremely helpful. They are especially useful when you need to explain skin type or ask about product ingredients. Preparing key phrases in advance will make the conversation smoother.
Basic Phrases Like “Can I Try This?”
Learning a few simple English phrases such as “Can I try this?” or “Do you have a sample?” can help put you at ease. Many store staff are used to assisting tourists, so even gestures or body language are often enough to communicate effectively.
Major Stores Often Have English-Speaking Staff
Popular locations like @cosme TOKYO, Shiseido stores, Isetan, and Don Quijote typically have staff who can speak English or Chinese. Multilingual signage is also becoming more common, making the shopping experience more comfortable for international visitors.
What to Check Before You Buy
Check the Manufacturing Date or Expiry Period
While Japanese cosmetics are known for their high quality, many products do not have an explicit expiration date printed on the packaging. Ask a staff member or check the expected shelf life based on the manufacturing date for peace of mind.
Ingredient Labels and English Translations
Most product labels are in Japanese, so if you have allergies or sensitive skin, it’s a good idea to check the brand’s official website for English ingredient lists in advance. This helps ensure the product is safe and suitable for your skin.
Find the Perfect Japan Cosmetics Shop for You!
Japanese cosmetics shops are world-class in terms of quality, price, and overall experience. Whether you’re a first-timer or a beauty enthusiast, Japan offers a wide variety of stores to meet your needs. Even a quick stop during your sightseeing can lead to discovering your next favorite product.
Choose a Store That Matches Your Style and Purpose
Drugstores for Quick and Efficient Shopping
If you’re short on time or just want to pick up a few popular items, drugstores like Matsumoto Kiyoshi and Sundrug are perfect. They offer affordable prices and stock a wide selection of best-selling cosmetics.
Flagship Stores for a Full Beauty Experience
For those who want to enjoy trying products before buying, experience-based stores like @cosme TOKYO or the SHISEIDO Global Flagship Store are ideal. Features like fragrance AI diagnosis and tester bars make shopping in Japan both fun and interactive.
Department Stores for Style and Exclusives
If you’re looking for premium gifts or exclusive items, head to high-end department stores like Isetan or Mitsukoshi. You’ll find seasonal coffrets, limited editions, and receive professional customer service in an elegant setting.
Bonus Perks That Enhance Your Travel Experience
Shops with Cafés or Art Exhibits
Modern cosmetics shops are more than just places to shop—they’re attractions themselves. Many now feature in-store cafés and art displays, offering a relaxing and cultural experience along with beauty browsing.
Free Samples and Gift Wrapping Available
Most stores offer free samples and gift wrapping services, making them great for souvenir shopping. Some locations even have self-wrapping stations so you can prepare beautiful gifts right on the spot.
Close to Must-See Tourist Spots
Cosmetics stores are often located near major train stations and sightseeing areas, making it easy to combine shopping with sightseeing. Areas like Harajuku, Shibuya, and Ginza are especially convenient for efficient travel and shopping.
Make Your Next Travel Destination a Cosmetics Shopping Adventure!
Japan: A Journey into the Joy of Beauty
Japanese cosmetics culture has expanded worldwide not just as “products” but as immersive “experiences.” Taking time to explore beauty during your travels will become a truly memorable part of your journey.
Get Ahead of the Trends with Local Discoveries
In Japan’s cosmetic shops, you may find the latest items that haven’t even been released overseas yet. For beauty lovers, Japan is at the forefront of global beauty trends.
Photo-Worthy Finds to Share on Social Media
Japanese cosmetics are not only high quality but also visually stunning. Their cute and stylish packaging makes them perfect for sharing on social media. Visiting Instagram-worthy shops will add a fun and memorable touch to your trip.