Japanese 100-Yen Shops: Daiso, Seria, Can Do Compared
By Tour in Japan editors · Updated
Japan's 100-yen shops are a traveler's best friend — great souvenirs, travel essentials, and quirky finds, all for ¥100 (plus tax).
Japan's 100-yen shops are a traveler's best friend — great souvenirs, travel essentials, and quirky finds, all for ¥100 (plus tax).
The Big Three
| Chain | Strengths | Locations |
|---|---|---|
| Daiso (ダイソー) | Largest, most variety, international | 5,000+ stores |
| Seria (セリア) | Best design, most aesthetic | 1,500+ stores |
| Can Do (キャンドゥ) | Good for craft supplies | 800+ stores |
What to Buy
Travel Essentials
| Item | Why |
|---|---|
| Umbrella | Sudden rain, ¥100 beats ¥1,000 |
| Towel | Small hand towel (essential in Japan) |
| Toiletries | Toothbrush, razor, cotton pads |
| Ziplock bags | For wet items, snacks |
| Pencil case | For organizing small items |
| Adapter plug | If you forgot yours |
| Pen and notebook | For notes and journaling |
| First aid | Band-aids, pain relief patches |
| Socks | Emergency replacement |
| Underwear | Emergency replacement |
Souvenirs
| Item | Why |
|---|---|
| Chopstick sets | Beautiful designs, great gifts |
| Furoshiki | Wrapping cloths, uniquely Japanese |
| Stationery | Notebooks, pens, washi tape |
| Kitchen gadgets | Unique Japanese items |
| Cosmetic pouches | Cute designs |
| Tea cups | Japanese-style cups |
| Mini fans | Great summer souvenirs |
| Keychains | Cute character goods |
| Hair accessories | Japanese-style clips and bands |
Home & Kitchen
| Item | Why |
|---|---|
| Storage containers | Japanese organization |
| Kitchen tools | Unique gadgets |
| Cleaning supplies | Compact travel sizes |
| Seasonal items | Cherry blossom, autumn themes |
Stationery (Best in Japan)
| Item | Why |
|---|---|
| Washi tape | Japanese decorative tape |
| Notebooks | High quality, cute designs |
| Pens | Smooth Japanese pens |
| Stickers | Kawaii designs |
| Wrapping paper | Beautiful patterns |
Tax-Free Shopping
- Daiso: Tax-free for purchases over ¥5,000
- Seria: Not tax-free (already very cheap)
- Can Do: Tax-free for purchases over ¥5,000
Tips
- Seria has the best design — most aesthetic products
- Daiso has the most variety — biggest stores, most products
- Check the back of the store — new arrivals and seasonal items
- Buy travel essentials here — don't overpack
- Great for kids — toys, stationery, snacks
- Look for Japanese kitchen items — unique gadgets you can't find elsewhere
- Don't assume everything is ¥100 — some items are ¥200, ¥300, or ¥500
📱Get a Japan eSIM
Stay Connected in Japan
Yesim eSIMs work on arrival — no physical SIM needed. Japan data plans from $5.