The historic Sangai Pharmacy (三千里薬品) located at Shibuya Scramble Crossing has closed its doors after 62 years of service, marking the end of an era for this well-known establishment. The pharmacy, which served the local community and visitors alike, officially ceased operation on December 31, 2022, leaving behind fond memories and significant changes within the retail scene of Shibuya.
Founded in 1962, Sangai Pharmacy began its life as the first outlet of the Sangai brand. Originally, it built its reputation on providing affordable medicine and cosmetics to the public, catering to both residents and the diverse foot traffic drawn to the iconic Shibuya area. The pharmacy was known for its bright red and blue logo and accessible pricing, making it a go-to destination for health and beauty products.
Throughout its history, Sangai Pharmacy adapted to the changing retail environment, moving locations within the Shibuya area but maintaining its core mission of affordability. The pharmacy's closure is just one example of how the pandemic has shifted consumer habits and affected numerous long-standing businesses across the globe. Many similar establishments have faced difficulties as online shopping takes precedence, and foot traffic declines due to various factors, including health concerns and changes led by the pandemic.
According to the management firm, Aishan Brothers, which operates Sangai Pharmacy, the closure is not the end of the brand but rather a transformation. On their plans for the future, they conveyed, "This integration will allow us to focus on providing the best possible products and services with renewed energy." The pharmacy's operations will be merged with the outlet located at Udagawa-cho, just across the Scramble Crossing. The new store is slated to open later this year with fresh offerings aimed at meeting the needs of Shibuya's ever-evolving consumer base.
To many locals, the pharmacy was not just another retail store; it was part of their daily life. Customers have expressed their sadness at the news, reflecting on the years they spent visiting the pharmacy. One regular customer shared, "This place has been here longer than I can even recall. It’s hard to believe it’s gone. It didn’t just serve products; it served the community."
The pharmacy's closure signifies more than just the disappearance of one store; it highlights the bigger picture of how retail spaces are changing. With the dominance of online shopping and the rise of different consumer behaviors during the pandemic, traditional storefronts like Sangai Pharmacy must adapt or face the risk of closure.
Through the years, Sangai Pharmacy has witnessed the evolution of Shibuya, from quiet streets to the vibrant, fast-paced hub it is today, marked by the iconic Scramble Crossing. Despite this visible transformation, the community has found solace in local businesses, demonstrating the importance of preserving small shops even as many larger chains and online platforms thrive.
Looking forward, the integration of Sangai Pharmacy with its Udagawa-cho location underlines this adaptability. "We’re thrilled to continue serving our customers from this new location, ensuring they have access to what they need," stated Aishan Brothers as they reassured the public about their commitment to maintain the pharmacy's legacy.
While the closing marks the end of one chapter, it also paves the way for new beginnings. The upcoming store aims to recreate the friendly atmosphere and community-focused service Sangai Pharmacy was known for. This transition serves as a microcosm of the broader retail evolution taking place not just within Shibuya, but across many urban centers worldwide.
Shibuya’s charm has always centered on its unique mix of history, culture, and innovation, which presents both challenges and opportunities for businesses. The remaining businesses, including the iconic sweet chestnut shop, Tianjin, which operates separately from Aishan Brothers, continue to thrive, reinforcing the importance of diversity among local retailers. Their long-standing presence alongside new establishments creates the rich fabric of the community.
Even as Sangai Pharmacy turns the page, the memory of its lessons on community engagement and resilience lingers on. For many, it was more than just medication; it embodied the spirit of Shibuya—a place where tradition meets modernity, and where local businesses continue to play an integral role amid change.