Interesting Facts!! #47

47. 100 yen store~

Founded in 1983, 100 yen shops (100円ショップ, Hyaku En Shoppu) are one of Japan's Top Franchise Business with over 5,000 retail outlets throughout Japan and worldwide. They are a type of discount store that sell a wide range of products. It's kinda like a 99 cent discount store in the US. 100 yen corresponds roughly to 1 US dollar, making these shops a great source for travelers and residents on a budget.

Typically everything in the store costs 100 yen per item; however, they often sell smaller things, such as candy and snacks, in multiples of 2 or 3 for 100 yen. Some stores also sell selected items for more than 100 yen, which are usually priced in multiples of 100 yen. These items will be clearly marked, and, although more expensive, are usually still a good value for the price.


There are thousands of 100 yen shops across Japan, ranging in size from multi-story "department stores" to small corners in shopping malls. A few convenience store chains have even adopted the model and price everything in their stores at 100 yen. Market leader Daiso operates over two thousand stores nationwide and pursues an aggressive expansion policy.One of the largest 100 yen shops in central Tokyo is Daiso Harajuku in Takeshita Dori, just a few steps from Harajuku Station.

100 yen shops are able to offer an amazing range of products, many of which are their own store branded goods, at a price that is often below the product's actual value. They do this mainly by purchasing products in huge quantities direct from manufacturers, which are often located in countries with low production and labor costs.





Some things sold in the 100 yen store are:

Tableware Plates, rice and miso soup bowls, tea cups, sake sets, forks, etc.

Kitchenware Kitchen knives, dippers, microwave containers, coffee filters, detergent, aluminum foil, etc.

Tools Hammers, measuring tapes, pliers, screwdriver sets, cutter knives, etc.

Gardenware Watering pots, mini rakes, containers, etc.

Stationery Boxes, report pads, memo pads, pens, pins, calligraphy brushes, etc.

Household Goods Sewing threads, towels, socks, slippers, etc.

-The more you know~ http://www.japanguide.com/e/e2077.html

Leisure Goods  Ping pong sets, swimming goggles, English-Japanese dictionaries, etc.