Japanese Shopping Phrases — 20 Essential Sentences for Shopping in Japan (2026)
Master Japanese shopping with 20 essential phrases for prices, sizes, payments, tax-free shopping, and more. Study with native audio and spaced repetition.
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Shopping in Japan — A Unique Experience
Shopping in Japan is unlike anywhere else. Department stores employ staff who bow as you enter, konbini (convenience stores) sell everything from hot food to insurance, and the sheer density of shops in areas like Shinjuku or Osaka's Shinsaibashi can be overwhelming. Knowing a few key phrases transforms you from a confused tourist into a confident shopper who can ask about sizes, negotiate gift wrapping, and claim tax-free benefits.
Japan also has a culture of exceptional customer service — omotenashi. Staff will go out of their way to help, but they appreciate when you meet them halfway with basic Japanese. These 20 phrases cover everything from browsing and trying on clothes to payment, receipts, and returns.
Browsing & Selecting
Start with the basics: letting staff know you're browsing, asking about prices, and confirming your choice.
ありがとうございます、見ているだけです。 — Thank you, I'm just looking.
すみません、これはいくらですか？ — Excuse me, how much is this?
このシャツを試着してもいいですか？ — Can I try this shirt on?
もっと大きいサイズはありますか？ — Do you have this in a larger size?
青色はありますか？ — Do you have this in blue?
決めました、これにします。 — I've decided, I'll take this.
これをください、お願いします。 — I'll take this one, please.
Payment & Receipts
Japan is still largely a cash-based society, though card acceptance is growing fast — especially in cities. Always confirm payment methods before you reach the register to avoid awkward moments.
ここでカードは使えますか？ — Can I use a credit card here?
このお店は現金のみですか？ — Is this store cash only?
領収書をください、お願いします。 — Can I have a receipt, please?
すみません、おつりが違います。 — Excuse me, the change is incorrect.
すみません、レジはどこですか？ — Excuse me, where is the cashier?
袋をください、お願いします。 — Can I have a bag, please?
Special Requests & Deals
Japan has some unique shopping customs that tourists often miss — tax-free shopping for visitors, beautifully wrapped gifts, point card systems at most chain stores, and the ability to order out-of-stock items.
観光客ですが、免税になりますか？ — I'm a tourist, is this tax-free?
学生割引はありますか？ — Is there a student discount?
次のセールはいつですか？ — When does the next sale start?
プレゼントなので、ギフト用に包んでください。 — This is a gift, please wrap it.
ポイントカードはお持ちですか？ — Do you have a point card?
サイズが合わなかったら返品できますか？ — Can I return this if it doesn't fit?
売り切れですが、取り寄せできますか？ — It's sold out, can you order it?
Japan Shopping Tips
1. Tax-free shopping is a significant perk for tourists
Foreign visitors can claim an 10% consumption tax refund on purchases over ¥5,000 at stores with a tax-free counter. Ask 免税になりますか？ and show your passport. Department stores, electronics shops like Yodobashi, and many clothing chains participate. It's real money back — use it.
2. Point cards are everywhere — get one
Almost every chain store in Japan has a point card system (Tsutaya T-Point, Rakuten, Ponta, etc.). When you hear ポイントカードはありますか？ at the register, they're asking if you have one. If you're staying for more than a few days, signing up at a major convenience store like Lawson (Ponta) or FamilyMart (T-Point) pays off quickly.
3. Gift wrapping is a free art form
Japanese gift wrapping (tsutsumi) is meticulous and beautiful. Just say ギフト用に包んでください and the staff will wrap your purchase with care — often at no extra charge. This is especially true in department stores and traditional craft shops. Definitely use this when buying omiyage (souvenirs).
4. Carry cash, always
While major cities are increasingly card-friendly, Japan remains more cash-dependent than most developed countries. Smaller shops, markets, vending machines, and some restaurants are cash-only. ATMs at 7-Eleven and Japan Post reliably accept foreign cards. Always ask カードは使えますか？ before committing to a purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Japanese staff speak English in shops?
In major tourist areas (Akihabara, Harajuku, Ginza) and department stores, you'll often find staff with basic English. But in local shops, neighborhood stores, and outside Tokyo, English is rare. A few Japanese phrases — especially これはいくらですか？ and 試着してもいいですか？ — go a very long way.
How do I handle sizing in Japan?
Japanese clothing sizes typically run smaller than Western sizes. "M" in Japan is often equivalent to "XS" or "S" in the US or Europe. Always try things on and use 別のサイズはありますか？ freely — staff won't mind you asking several times.
Can I return items bought in Japan after going home?
Returns can be complicated, especially if you've already left Japan. Most stores allow returns within a short window (a few days to a week) with a receipt and original packaging. Ask 返品できますか？ before buying if you're unsure. Items bought tax-free are generally non-returnable.
Is bargaining acceptable in Japan?
Generally no — fixed pricing is the norm in Japan, and bargaining can be considered rude in most retail settings. Exceptions exist at flea markets (furima), second-hand shops, and some small electronics dealers. You can always ask 割引はありますか？ politely, but don't push if the answer is no.
Shop Smarter in Japan — Study These Phrases First
All 20 phrases above are available as a ready-made deck in Onigiri Anki. Study them with native Japanese audio before your trip so they feel natural when you're standing at a checkout counter in Shibuya.
