Saving Money

Groceries in Japan don’t have to be expensive — if you know which stores to use, which products to buy, and when to shop. Most foreigners overpay for years simply because nobody told them the tricks locals use. Here’s how to cut your food bill significantly. Supermarket Types Type Price Level Examples Budget supermarkets ¥ OK Store, Gyomu Super, Hanamasa Standard supermarkets ¥¥ Ito-Yokado, Aeon, Life Department store B1F ¥¥¥ Isetan, Takashimaya food halls Discount/wholesale ¥ Costco, Gyomu Super Best Budget Supermarkets Gyomu Super (業務スーパー) The best value supermarket in Japan. Originally for restaurant industry buyers — sells large quantities at low prices. Great for: ...

Japan can be extremely affordable if you live like a resident rather than a tourist. The gap between how much foreigners spend and how much they could spend is often enormous. Here are the practical habits that actually make a difference to your monthly budget. 1. Cut Your Phone Bill First This is the single biggest win for most foreigners. A lot of people arrive in Japan and end up on a big carrier plan out of convenience — and pay for it. ...