Japanese convenience stores have garnered immense popularity among tourists, particularly those from Taiwan and Hong Kong. A recent survey conducted by the Tokyo-based Geelee Media Group has revealed intriguing insights about these beloved establishments.
The survey, announced on January 29, 2025, coincided with the Lunar New Year celebrations and was conducted online from December 16 to December 23, 2024. It collected responses from 2,045 users of a tourism website targeting Taiwanese and Hong Kong audiences. The results positioned Lawson as the clear favorite, with 7-Eleven and FamilyMart trailing closely behind.
Respondents showed distinct preferences for items available at these convenience stores. Lawson's popular fried chicken, known as Karaage-kun, topped the list, captivating taste buds and drawing travelers to seek out limited-edition flavors before arriving. It's not just the fried chicken that's got people talking; the other two chains saw snack items emerge as the most popular choices.
Lawson, which introduced Karaage-kun back in April 1986, has sold over 4.5 billion servings. Surprisingly, this iconic product is sold only experimentally at select locations outside of Japan, such as a few stores in Sichuan province, China. This limited availability adds to the allure, making it even more special for foreign visitors eager to try the Japanese original.
But Lawson, 7-Eleven, and FamilyMart offer much more than just culinary delights. They have become pivotal spots for daily activities, providing numerous services beyond mere food transactions. Each store operates cash machines, allowing customers to withdraw money or conduct transactions, though these often incur small fees—¥330 normally, reduced to ¥220 during specific hours.
For those on the go, convenience stores are known for being one-stop shops. Customers can quickly grab not just lunch or snacks, but also household items, household supplies, and even clothing, all without stepping outside their neighborhood.
Many visitors may not realize the extent of services offered: customers can charge their Suica cards used for trains or purchase stamps. Some convenience stores even provide printing services from smartphones and USBs. From bills for health insurance to sending parcels offered by Rakuten or Amazon, these stores do it all.
This variety has made them attractive not only to daily commuters and residents but also to tourists exploring Japan. Imagine being able to pick up concert tickets or print out important documents right on the street corner!
Interestingly, the cultural approach toward age-restricted items also showcases the convenience store's unique standing. Unlike many other countries, Japan doesn't require identification for purchasing items like tobacco or alcohol, giving quick and easy access to potentially sensitive products.
Local adaptations of products also keep the convenience store experience fresh and appealing. While each chain varies slightly, maintaining pace with consumer preferences ensures they don't lose their visitor base. Adaptation extends to customer interactions too; many convenience stores now offer services and transaction options presented in English, appealing to international customers.
The rising popularity among tourists seeking local experiences is undeniable. For Taiwanese and Hong Kong visitors, Lawson’s famed Karaage-kun is not merely about food; it has become part of the cultural experience of visiting Japan—an unmissable delicacy.
Looking to the future, it's clear these convenience stores are not just catering to local demands but are also becoming integral to the Japanese tourism experience. They provide the convenience and accessibility travelers crave, alongside products and services uniquely tied to Japanese culture.
This blend of functionality, local adaptation, and unique offerings has solidified the convenience store's place not only as practical shopping locations but as landmarks of modern Japanese culture embraced by locals and tourists alike.