When traveling abroad, one often encounters surprising differences compared to Japan. One such difference that significantly impacts travel plans is the variation in store hours and business days. In some of the countries I have visited, most stores close at night, which made it difficult for me to find dinner or do some shopping. Therefore, I would like to share the general trends of store hours and business days in Japan so that visitors can enjoy a smooth and hassle-free trip.
１．Department Store Hours and Business Days
Most department stores operate from 10 AM to 8 PM. However, some high-end department stores open at 11 AM. Department stores in urban areas are usually open every day, although they may have a few designated holidays each year. In rural areas, business hours may differ between weekdays and weekends, so checking the official website before visiting is advisable.
２. Supermarket Hours
In urban areas, some supermarkets operate 24 hours a day. However, most are open from around 9 AM to 10 PM. In rural areas, some supermarkets close as early as 7 or 8 PM, so travelers should be cautious if they plan to shop late at night. Large supermarkets and those within shopping malls tend to stay open later.
３．Fast Food Restaurant Hours
Fast food chains such as McDonald’s, Sukiya, and Matsuya have many locations operating 24 hours in major cities across Japan, allowing customers to eat late at night or early in the morning. However, some branches in rural areas or within shopping malls may close at night, so checking in advance is recommended.
４．Convenience Store Hours
Convenience stores such as 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Lawson are generally open 24 hours, making them highly convenient for purchasing food and daily necessities. In urban areas, convenience stores are ubiquitous, allowing travelers to shop safely even late at night. However, some stores in rural areas may close during the night, so visitors should be aware of this possibility.
５．Independently-Owned Restaurant Hours
Unlike department stores or chain restaurants, independently-owned restaurants and cafes may have irregular business hours. Many close temporarily between lunch and dinner hours. Additionally, some are closed on Sundays or public holidays, so checking their official websites or social media before visiting is advisable.
６．Izakaya (Japanese Pub) Hours
Most izakaya open around 5 PM and stay open until late at night, with some remaining open past the last train. In urban areas, some izakaya operate until the morning, ensuring travelers won’t have trouble finding food late at night. However, in rural areas, most izakaya close earlier, so visitors should plan accordingly.
７．Brand Shop Hours
Luxury brand shops, excluding those within department stores, generally operate from 11 AM to 7 or 8 PM. While most shops in urban areas are open every day, some have designated holidays, so checking in advance is recommended.
８．Apple Store Hours
Most Apple Stores in Japan are open from 10 or 11 AM to 9 PM. However, hours may vary depending on the location, so checking the official website is recommended before visiting.
９．Drugstore Hours
While some drugstores in urban areas are open 24 hours, most operate from 10 AM to 9 or 10 PM. Drugstores located in tourist areas and near train stations tend to stay open late, making them highly convenient for travelers.
10．Business Hours in Rural Tourist Areas
Unlike urban areas, many stores in rural tourist destinations close at 5 or 6 PM. Souvenir shops and cafes, in particular, tend to close early, so travelers should be mindful when planning evening shopping or dining. Checking store hours in advance will help avoid unnecessary inconveniences.
Store hours and business days in Japan vary significantly depending on the location and type of store. While the prevalence of 24-hour convenience stores and fast food restaurants makes traveling convenient, visitors should be aware that many stores in rural areas close early. Checking store hours in advance will ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
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