Japan is a haven for beauty enthusiasts. Whether you’re seeking viral J-beauty trends, luxury skincare, or limited-edition makeup items, Japan has it all. This guide introduces six of the best places to shop cosmetics in Japan — from accessible drugstores to curated beauty boutiques.

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1. Pharmacy (Drugstores)

Examples: Matsumoto Kiyoshi, Sundrug, Welcia

Japanese drugstores are packed with affordable and high-quality beauty products. You’ll find them everywhere — near stations, in shopping streets, and even underground malls.

Highlights:

• Affordable brands like Canmake, CEZANNE, Hada Labo, Saborino, KATE and Kose
• Frequent sales and convenient tax-free shopping for tourists
• Great for skincare, sheet masks, and daily makeup

Ideal for anyone wanting to stock up on essentials or discover cult-favorite J-beauty products without spending a fortune.

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2. Department Stores

Examples: Isetan, Mitsukoshi, Takashimaya

For a luxurious experience, department stores in Japan offer a refined beauty floor with full brand counters and professional service.

Highlights:

• Premium brands like Shiseido, Clé de Peau Beauté, SK-II, SUQQU, Chanel, and Dior
• Beauty consultants available for product advice and demos
• Japan-only limited editions and exclusive gift sets
• Sophisticated service and packaging

Visit Isetan Shinjuku or Mitsukoshi Ginza for a premier shopping experience.

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3. @cosme Stores

@cosme is Japan’s most trusted beauty review site, and their physical stores reflect real-time customer trends. They operate both flagship and compact stores across Japan.

Flagship Stores:

• @cosme TOKYO (Harajuku)
• @cosme OSAKA (Shinsaibashi PARCO)
• @cosme NAGOYA (Nagoya Station area)

Features:

• Over 600 brands across skincare, makeup, and more
• Product displays based on @cosme user rankings
• Testers available, with multilingual staff in flagship stores
• Tax-free counter for tourists

Standard Stores:

• Located in train stations, shopping malls, and commercial streets
• Focused on top-selling and seasonal items
• Still curated based on real user feedback

Perfect for discovering what’s trending in Japan — based on real consumer reviews.

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4. LOFT

Examples: LOFT Shibuya, LOFT Ginza

LOFT is a lifestyle department store that has become a hotspot for trend-savvy beauty shoppers.

Highlights:

• Indie and fashionable brands like &be, UZU, Excel, Fujiko, and Nara Cosme
• Exclusive collabs, limited editions, and seasonal features
• Stylish, colorful layout that makes browsing fun

Great for beauty lovers looking for something new, unique, or highly Instagrammable.

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5. Tokyu Hands

Examples: Tokyu Hands Shibuya, Tokyo Station

Tokyu Hands offers a mix of functional and creative beauty items, especially for those who love beauty tools and gadgets.

Highlights:

• Face rollers, eyelash curlers, beauty tech, and skincare tools
• Trusted brands like Lululun, Rosette, Nameraka Honpo
• Often includes Japan-made, high-quality items

It’s the best place to explore the innovative side of Japanese beauty.

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6. PLAZA

Examples: PLAZA Lumine Shinjuku, PLAZA Tokyo Station, PLAZA Umeda

PLAZA is a fashion-forward select shop specializing in cosmetics, accessories, and lifestyle goods that appeal especially to young women and K-beauty fans.

Highlights:

• Focus on trend items and global hits from Japan, Korea, and beyond
• Popular brands include rom&nd, Etude, MERZY, Peripera, Jill Stuart Beauty, and CipiCipi
• Great selection of mini sizes, gift sets, and limited packaging
• A pop-culture-friendly vibe, with anime or character collabs often featured

If you’re into cute packaging, trending makeup, or Asian pop beauty, PLAZA is a must-visit.

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💄Tips for Shopping Beauty in Japan:

• Bring your passport: Many stores offer tax-free shopping for purchases over ¥5,000.
• Use testers: LOFT, @cosme, and department stores offer testers to try before you buy.
• Language barrier? Use apps like Google Translate to scan labels and ingredients.
• Ask staff: Many are familiar with international visitors and will happily help.

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From viral drugstore finds to refined luxury picks, Japan’s beauty scene offers something for every traveler. With this guide, you’re ready to explore the country’s most exciting cosmetic destinations.

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