Payment Methods, Prices, Self-Checkout & Tips for First-Time Visitors
Japan is famous for its convenience, quality, and attention to detail—and few places capture that better than DAISO.
If it’s your first time visiting Japan, you’ll probably hear people say:
“You have to go to DAISO.”
But once you step inside, you may wonder…
- Is everything really ¥100?
- Can I use a credit card?
- How does the self-checkout work?
- Do I need cash?
- Is tax-free shopping available?
The good news is that shopping at DAISO is much easier than it looks.
This guide explains everything you need to know before your first visit, so you can enjoy shopping with confidence.
What Is DAISO?
DAISO is Japan’s largest 100-yen shop chain, with thousands of stores across Japan and many more around the world.
Although it’s often called a 100-yen shop, not everything costs ¥100 anymore.
Today you’ll find products at various prices, including:
| Price | Tax Included |
|---|---|
| ¥110 | ✔ |
| ¥220 | ✔ |
| ¥330 | ✔ |
| ¥550 | ✔ |
| ¥1,100 | ✔ |
One thing visitors often appreciate is that prices are clearly displayed, and tax is usually already included in the price shown on the shelf.
That means there are no surprises when you reach the checkout.
Why Tourists Love DAISO
DAISO isn’t just cheap.
It’s one of the easiest places to experience everyday Japanese shopping.
Visitors love it because they can find:
- Japanese snacks
- Travel accessories
- Kitchen tools
- Stationery
- Beauty products
- Storage solutions
- Seasonal items
- Unique souvenirs
Many travelers end up returning more than once during their trip because the selection changes frequently.
How to Find What You’re Looking For
Large DAISO stores can feel overwhelming at first.
Products are usually grouped into sections such as:
- Kitchen
- Cleaning
- Storage
- Beauty
- Stationery
- Travel
- Gardening
- Food
Signs are often written mainly in Japanese, but many larger stores also include English category signs.
If you can’t find something, don’t hesitate to ask a staff member.
Simply saying:
“Sumimasen…” (Excuse me…)
followed by the product name or showing a photo on your phone usually works very well.
Japanese staff are generally happy to help, even if they don’t speak much English.
Payment Methods
One of the biggest questions visitors have is whether they need cash.
The answer is:
Usually, no.
Most DAISO stores accept multiple payment methods.
| Payment Method | Available |
|---|---|
| Cash | ✅ Yes |
| Visa | ✅ Most stores |
| Mastercard | ✅ Most stores |
| JCB | ✅ Most stores |
| American Express | Usually |
| Suica / PASMO | Many stores |
| QR Payments | Many stores |
Payment options may vary slightly depending on the location.
Smaller stores inside shopping malls sometimes have different payment systems.
Using Self-Checkout
Many DAISO stores now use self-checkout machines.
If you’ve never used one before, don’t worry.
The process is straightforward:
- Scan each item.
- Choose whether you need a shopping bag.
- Select your payment method.
- Complete your payment.
- Take your receipt.
Some machines also allow you to switch the display language to English.
If not, a nearby staff member is usually available to assist.
Tip: We have a complete guide to Japanese self-checkout systems coming soon.
Shopping Bags
Plastic shopping bags are not free in Japan.
At DAISO, you’ll usually be asked whether you want to buy one.
Many locals bring reusable shopping bags instead.
If you’re planning to shop at several stores during your trip, carrying a small foldable bag can save money and reduce plastic waste.
Tax-Free Shopping
Some larger DAISO stores offer tax-free shopping for international visitors.
Requirements generally include:
- A valid passport
- Meeting the minimum purchase amount
- Purchasing eligible items
Not every DAISO store provides tax-free service, so it’s best to look for signs near the entrance or ask a staff member.
Best Things to Buy at DAISO
Not sure where to start?
Here are some favorites among international visitors:
Travel Essentials
Small bottles, packing cubes, luggage accessories, travel organizers.
Kitchen Goods
Japanese chopsticks, lunch boxes, kitchen gadgets.
Stationery
High-quality pens, notebooks, stickers, masking tape.
Beauty Items
Makeup organizers, mirrors, skincare accessories.
Snacks
Unique Japanese candy and seasonal treats.
Storage Products
One of DAISO’s biggest strengths—and a great example of Japanese organization.
Helpful Tips Before You Visit
✔ Prices are clearly displayed.
✔ Credit cards are accepted at many stores.
✔ Bring your own reusable bag if possible.
✔ Seasonal products sell out quickly.
✔ Large stores usually offer the widest selection.
✔ Some stores have multilingual self-checkout machines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is everything really ¥100?
No.
Many items still cost around ¥100 (¥110 including tax), but you’ll also find products at higher price points.
Can I use my credit card?
Yes.
Most stores accept major international cards, although payment methods may vary by location.
Is DAISO tax-free?
Some larger stores offer tax-free shopping, but not every location does.
Can I return products?
Returns are generally possible with a receipt, although policies may differ between stores.
Do employees speak English?
Some do, but many don’t.
Showing a photo of the item you need is often the easiest way to communicate.
Does DAISO have restrooms?
Some large standalone stores do.
However, many smaller branches inside shopping malls rely on the mall’s shared restrooms.
Final Thoughts
DAISO is much more than a discount store.
It’s one of the best places to experience everyday life in Japan while discovering practical, creative, and uniquely Japanese products.
Once you understand how shopping works—from pricing and payment methods to self-checkout—you’ll feel comfortable exploring not only DAISO, but many other Japanese stores as well.
Whether you’re looking for travel essentials, souvenirs, or simply want to experience local shopping culture, DAISO is an excellent place to begin.
✨ Continue Exploring Japan
If you found this guide helpful, you may also enjoy:
- Why Are There So Few Public Trash Bins in Japan?
- How to Use Self-Checkout Machines in Japan
- Cash or Credit Card? Paying in Japan Explained
- How Japanese Convenience Stores Really Work