Japan Drugstore Shopping Guide: Matsumoto Kiyoshi & Welcia

Features and Tips for Using Welcia

Welcia is one of Japan's largest drugstore chains, operating approximately 3,000 stores nationwide. It offers a wide range of products, including medicines, health foods, cosmetics, daily necessities, food, and alcohol, aiming to be a "platform for daily life" where you can find everything you need. In particular, many stores have attached dispensing pharmacies, serving as local community pharmacies.

Must-Buy Standard Medicines and Popular Cosmetics at Welcia

Welcia also boasts an attractive and wide range of products.

Examples of Standard Medicines (as of July 2026) Similar to Matsukiyo, the following medicines are standard products that are easy to find at Welcia:

• イブA錠 (Eve A Tablets)
• キャベジンコーワα (Cabagin Kowa α)
• 太田胃散 (Ohta's Isan)
• 龍角散ダイレクト (Ryukakusan Direct)
• Vロートプレミアム (V Rohto Premium)
• 熱さまシート (Netsusama Sheet)
• 休足時間 (Kyusoku Jikan)
• めぐりズム 蒸気でホットアイマスク (MegRhythm Steam Hot Eye Mask): Popular as an eye mask to soothe tired eyes.
• ピップエレキバン® (Pip Elekiban®): Expected to improve blood circulation with magnetic power, effective for stiff shoulders and lower back pain.

Examples of Popular Cosmetics (as of July 2026) Welcia also offers cosmetics across a wide price range.

• スキンケア商品 (Skincare Products): Skincare products from famous manufacturers, collagen drinks, and vitamin C supplements are popular among international tourists.
• フェイスパック (Face Masks): Face masks, essential for skin care during travel, are also popular items.
• ベースメイクアイテム (Base Makeup Items): Makeup primers and UV emulsions that emphasize a natural, bare-skin look are trending in 2026.

Welcia's Tax-Free Procedures and Opening Hours

Welcia Holdings is enhancing its services for international visitors and has significantly expanded its tax-free sales stores. By the end of February 2024, it had enabled tax-free sales at 1,000 stores. A distinctive feature is that tax exemption is available not only in the Tokyo metropolitan area and major cities but also in suburban stores.

Tax-Free Procedure Steps (as of July 2026) Similar to Matsukiyo, tax exemption applies to purchases of 5,500 JPY (tax included) or more. The procedure generally involves presenting your passport at the register and having your items sealed in a special bag.

Opening Hours (as of July 2026) Many Welcia stores are open from 8 AM until midnight, making it convenient for late-night shopping. However, opening hours vary by store, so it's recommended to check the official website before visiting. Pharmacy opening hours often differ from the main store section, so caution is advised. For example, at Welcia Toyonaka Naka-Sakurazuka Store (ウエルシア豊中中桜塚店), the store is open from 8:00 AM to 12:00 AM, while the dispensing pharmacy is open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM (closed on Sundays).

Making the Most of Your Drugstore Shopping in Japan

Japanese drugstores offer a diverse range of products, including not only medicines and cosmetics but also daily necessities, food, snacks, and more, catering to all your needs during your trip. They are also perfect for souvenir hunting.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What should I be aware of when buying medicine at a drugstore? A. Japanese over-the-counter (OTC) medicines are classified into "Class 1," "Class 2," and "Class 3." Class 1 medicines have strong effects and potential side effects, requiring explanations from a pharmacist. Class 2 medicines are common drugs, with explanations provided by a registered seller. Class 3 medicines are relatively safe and can be purchased freely. If you have any concerns, it's recommended to consult a store clerk or pharmacist.

Q. What kind of products are eligible for tax-free procedures? A. Tax exemption applies to both consumables (food, beverages, medicines, cosmetics, etc.) and general goods (electronics, clothing, bags, etc.). However, there are purchase amount conditions for each. Consumables are eligible for tax exemption with a total purchase of 5,000 JPY to 500,000 JPY. General goods are eligible with a total purchase of 5,000 JPY or more. (As a reference, 5,000 JPY is approximately $33.33 USD, assuming 1 USD ≈ 150 JPY). Some products may not be eligible for tax exemption, so please confirm details at the store.

Q. Are there any other recommended drugstores besides Matsumoto Kiyoshi and Welcia? A. Japan has many other drugstore chains. For example, Don Quijote (ドン・キホーテ) has many stores open late at night, Cosmos Pharmaceutical (コスモス薬品) is community-based with a rich selection of food items, and Sundrug (サンドラッグ) is known for its affordability. Each chain has its own characteristics, so it's good to choose according to your purpose.

Q. Are there any advantageous coupons I can use at drugstores? A. Matsumoto Kiyoshi sometimes offers coupons for international tourists. For example, presenting a coupon from "Japan Guide for Gourmets and Shoppers! (楽吃購！日本)" may give you a discount ranging from 3% to a maximum of 7% off your purchase amount. The Welcia Group also sometimes offers advantageous point coupons through its app. It's recommended to check websites and apps for the latest coupon information before your visit.

Q. Besides medicine, what else do Japanese drugstores sell? A. Japanese drugstores handle a wide range of products beyond medicines, cosmetics, and daily necessities, including food, beverages, snacks, alcohol, and even fresh produce. Many stores blur the lines between supermarkets and drugstores, making them useful for various purposes, from quick shopping during your trip to finding souvenirs.