How to shop for groceries in Tokyo; Simple yet Wise Hacks!

Buying groceries smartly in Tokyo involves being mindful of prices, shopping habits, and local customs. Living in Tokyo for 8 years has taught me some savvy grocery-shopping tricks. Now, I can whip up tasty home-cooked meals while also being kind to the environment and minimizing food waste.

So here are some tips to help you navigate grocery shopping in Tokyo efficiently:

1. Shop at discounted supermarket chains: Supermarkets in Japan offer a wide range of groceries at reasonable prices. Look for local supermarket chains like Okay Store, Gyomu, and Hanamasa.

Hacks: Personally, I love Hanamasa. Cooking at home is my passion, and as a self-made chef, I often buy meat in bulk since the prices are unbeatable. This way, I can pick up the larger packages and divide them into meal-sized portions when I get back home. The same goes for non-perishable items like rice, pasta, and canned goods. I buy it in multipacks, this can be more cost-effective in the long run.

2. Consider Discount Days: Some supermarkets have discount days during the week, where certain items are marked down. Check with the store for their specific schedule.

Here's a sample photo for you to check out from the supermarket near my apartment, Sanwa.

3. Use Discount Cards: Some supermarkets offer loyalty cards or discount cards for regular shoppers. These cards can provide significant savings over time.

Have you ever signed up for a discount card before?

4. Shop in the early morning or evening: This is when you can often find discounts on fresh produce like vegetables and fruits to prevent wastage, as well as markdowns on baked goods and pre-packaged foods as stores clear out stock for the next day.

Keep an eye out for discounted corner shelves and yellow tags on food items.

5. Buy Seasonal Produce: Seasonal fruits and vegetables are often cheaper and tastier. Japanese cuisine often celebrates seasonal ingredients.

Grapes are at their peak in September!

6. Use Reusable Bags: Bring your own reusable shopping bags. Some stores charge for plastic bags to reduce plastic waste.

Just grab it once, and you've got an eco-bag for life!

By following these tips and shopping mindfully, you can efficiently manage your grocery expenses while enjoying the unique culinary offerings Japan has to offer.

Have fun while you go grocery shopping!