In a highly anticipated event, the first Costco store in Yamanashi Prefecture opened its doors to eager customers on April 11, 2025, at 4:30 AM, two and a half hours earlier than planned. The Costco South Alps Kofu store, located in Minami Alps City, drew massive crowds, with many lining up for days to be among the first to enter the new warehouse.
Reports from the news program "news every." indicated that people began queuing outside the store as early as April 7, 2025, with some arriving at 4:00 PM that day. By 3:30 AM on the opening day, more than 1,000 people were waiting in line, and the store's parking lot, which accommodates 820 vehicles, was completely full. To keep the spirits of the waiting crowd high, Costco staff generously provided croissants and water to those in line.
Many of the customers were excited to experience the unique atmosphere of a Costco opening. A woman in her 30s from Narashino City, Chiba Prefecture, who had arrived on April 9, shared her enthusiasm, stating, "This is my fourth time waiting in line for a Costco store opening. I love the atmosphere of the moment when the store opens." Meanwhile, a 54-year-old man from Minami Alps City joined the queue on April 10 after hearing about the famous Costco opening day lines on social media, expressing his desire to experience it firsthand.
The grand opening was not only a significant milestone for Costco but also for the local community. On April 10, 2025, Minami Alps City and Costco Wholesale Japan signed a disaster support agreement. This partnership will allow Costco to provide essential goods to the city in the event of a disaster, ensuring that the community is well-prepared for emergencies.
As the clock struck 4:30 AM, the anticipation reached its peak. Shoppers rushed into the store, eager to explore the vast array of products that Costco is known for, from bulk groceries to household items. The excitement was palpable, and the atmosphere was electric as the first customers stepped inside.
The opening of the Costco South Alps Kofu store marks a significant expansion of the membership-based retail giant in Japan, further solidifying its presence in the country. The store's location in Yamanashi Prefecture is expected to attract not only local residents but also customers from neighboring regions, eager to take advantage of Costco's unique offerings.
Costco's strategy of opening early to accommodate the large crowd is a testament to its understanding of customer enthusiasm and the importance of community engagement. The store's management has indicated that they are committed to providing a welcoming and enjoyable shopping experience for all customers.
In addition to the excitement surrounding the store opening, various unrelated news items have also captured public attention. Reports of a 7000 yen fine related to traffic violations, issues with ETC payments affecting 920,000 cases, and the struggles of elderly residents due to the sudden closure of a local supermarket have surfaced. These stories, while not directly related to Costco, highlight the diverse range of issues currently facing the community.
As the day progressed, the lines outside the Costco store remained long, with customers eager to take advantage of the grand opening deals. The store was not just a shopping destination; it became a social event, with families and friends gathering to share the experience together.
Overall, the opening of the Costco South Alps Kofu store is a landmark event for both the company and the local community. It signifies a new chapter in retail for Yamanashi Prefecture and offers residents a chance to enjoy the benefits of membership shopping. The enthusiasm displayed by the community reflects the strong demand for Costco's unique shopping experience, and as the store settles into its new role, it will undoubtedly become a staple for local shoppers.
As the sun rose on April 11, the excitement surrounding the Costco opening was a reminder of the joy that new beginnings can bring. With its commitment to quality products and customer satisfaction, Costco is poised to become a beloved part of the Yamanashi community.
