Where to find Western/ International snacks in Japan

Japan is famous for its variety of zesty snacks, ranging from Pocky, rice crackers, dango, mochi and Hi-chew. But sometimes international expats miss the comforts of their childhood midnight snack.

Japan has many international supermarkets as well as their local ones. They offer the most infamous snacks like Dorito’s, Cheeto’s and Lay’s. But the more niche snacks are harder to find. Here are some places you can find international snacks in Tokyo:

International supermarkets:

Seijo Ishii

If you have a craving for a specific brand of snacks or goods, Seijo Ishii is your place. It’s marketed towards western foods with some high-quality Japanese produce mixed in. You can find the big brands you’re looking for as well as some interesting candies and snacks. It’s a good place to start if you’re shopping for imported/international goods. The downside to Seijo Ishii is its high price. Think of it as the more bourgeois way of shopping. You can often find Seijo Ishii close to stations, department stores or upscale neighborhoods.

Gyomu Super

For both locals and expats, Gyomu Super is your average supermarket with a large selection of imported goods. Its international section might not have all of your favorite brands, but they have lots of interesting snacks. The upsides of Gyomu Super are its low and reasonable prices. On the downside, its ever-changing imported stocks, so if you see something you like, go for it! This is also a great place for Halal and vegan options.

Costco

Who could forget the king. The one and only Costco. With three flagship stores in Tokyo, people inevitably pilgrimage to the sacred land with its wholesale prices and large quantities. Although you need a yearly membership (3,850 yen), its ok to piggyback on your friend’s membership and say hello to all you can spend.

Amazon

If none of these stores have what you are looking for, then Amazon is your best friend. Although the prices might be higher than what you want, Amazon is guaranteed to have it!

Independent shops in Tokyo:

Nissin World Delicatessen

Located 5 minutes from the Azabu Juban Subway station, this supermarket hosts a large variety of imported foods, nice selection of wines, meats and vegetables with great prices. For those who live close to this area, and are new to Japan, this is a good place as some staff are known to speak in English.

Kinokuniya International

Located in Omotesando, Kinokuniya International offers a large selection of baked goods such as English muffins, pita bread and sourdough as well as Japanese produce. If you’re in the area, make sure to try out their apple pie!

National Azabu Supermarket

Located in Hiroo, like many of the options presented, National Azabu Supermarket has a wide selection of imported goods. If you live in the area, this is a good place to go to. Its wide selection mainly focuses on imported American candy.

Nasco Halal Food

This Asian grocery store carries spices, herbs, meats and vegetables that cater to the Halal community. Located in Shinjuku city, its products are Halal certified. The staff can answer any questions you might have about products you are unsure about. The prices are not too expensive and portion sizes are large to cater to two or three people.

Chain Stores with international food in Japan

Yamaya

Yamaya is a chain store that sells many snack varieties as well as imported alcohol. Its main advantage is its affordability and variety of spirits, beers, and wines. For those looking at charcuterie boards on Tiktok, this is the perfect place to buy snacks and chips that pair wonderfully with your alcohol of choice.

Jupiter Coffee in Japan

For the coffee lovers out there, Jupiter is your go-to. This is a specialist chain store that caters your coffee bean needs. Since its inception, Jupiter has branched out into candy, savory snacks, and imported international food from places like India and Thailand. Some spices like masala, chutney and herbs can also be found here. The prices are relatively affordable and the Jupiter shops can be found in stations and malls.

Overall, Japan has many shops that cater to expats and locals who are interested in imported foods. Missing your favorite snacks is a given, but don’t deter from Japanese snacks either!

Author: Musashino ALT, S. C. Y. H.