Daiso may be known as Japan’s iconic “100-yen shop,” but its appeal goes far beyond the price tag. While many items now cost a bit more (typically still under 500 JPY), the store remains a favorite for travelers seeking affordable, uniquely Japanese souvenirs. With everything from playful stationery to traditional homeware, Daiso is much more than a discount chain. For thoughtful finds on a tight budget, there’s no better place to browse.
Cute and useful stationery
Japanese stationery is renowned worldwide for its quality, design, and charm, and Daiso delivers on all three—often for just 110 JPY per item. These make perfect small gifts or personal mementos.
Washi tape
A Daiso staple, washi tape comes in an endless array of patterns—from traditional motifs to playful characters and vibrant modern designs. It’s ideal for decorating journals, wrapping gifts, or sprucing up everyday items.
Unique pens and pencils
Look for pens with fun toppers, smooth fine-point tips, or multi-color options. Erasable pens are another popular and practical find.
Notebooks and memo pads
Choose from a range of sizes and styles, with everything from minimalistic designs to covers with whimsical Japanese illustrations. Compact memo pads featuring animals or scenic prints are easy to pack and fun to collect.
Stickers
From practical labels to decorative sets with characters, seasonal motifs, and food-inspired art, Daiso’s sticker aisle is a bright mix of whimsy and utility.
Erasers
Daiso goes beyond the basics with novelty erasers shaped like sushi, animals, and miniature foods. These erasers are small, lightweight, and full of personality.
Traditional Japanese-style goods
Daiso channels traditional Japanese aesthetics with surprisingly detailed pieces at low prices. They’re simple to pack, easy on the wallet, and add a touch of Japan to daily life.
Small ceramic dishes
Look for plates, bowls, and soy-sauce dishes featuring traditional patterns like seigaiha (waves), asanoha (hemp leaf), or seasonal florals. Great for condiments, jewelry, or display.
Chopsticks and chopstick rests
A wide variety of chopsticks are available, along with rests shaped like cats, fish, or traditional icons—practical and easy to pack.
Furoshiki / tenugui (wrapping cloths & hand towels)
Daiso often stocks decorative cloths with Japanese prints. While not always made from traditional materials, they work well as hand towels, gift wrap, or decorative accents.
Uchiwa / sensu (paddle & folding fans)
Especially in summer, uchiwa and sensu are easy to find. Designs range from classic landscapes to anime characters, making them both functional and fun.
Small pouches and bags
Look for fabric pouches or coin purses adorned with motifs like cherry blossoms, maneki-neko (beckoning cat), or kimono patterns.
Origami paper
A staple for craft lovers, Daiso carries a wide selection of origami paper, often printed with elegant or metallic patterns.
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Snacks and seasonal items
Beyond daily essentials, Daiso is also a treasure trove of snacks and rotating seasonal items that make for fun, distinctly Japanese souvenirs.
Japanese snacks
Browse the aisles for candies, chocolates, and rice crackers like senbei and arare, alongside Japan-exclusive flavors of familiar brands—many for just 110 JPY.
Green tea products
Casual-use (not ceremonial-grade) matcha, tea bags, and sweets are compact, inexpensive, and ideal for gifting.
DIY candy kits
These quirky kits let you create edible candies in various shapes and flavors, often as mini versions of real food.
Seasonal decorations
Daiso rotates its offerings year-round: cherry blossoms in spring, festival goods in summer, Halloween items in fall, and winter ornaments for Christmas and New Year’s.
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Tips for finding the best Daiso locations
Not all Daiso stores are created equal—especially for souvenir hunting.
・Larger stores are better
The bigger the store, the broader the selection, especially for traditional goods and stationery. Smaller locations may focus more on daily necessities.
・Check department-store basements or shopping malls
Daiso shops in shopping centers or department-store basements are often well-organized and better stocked.
・Look for multi-story locations
If a Daiso spans multiple floors, that’s a strong sign it has an extensive inventory.
・Visit more than one
Stock varies by location, so checking out more than one store might yield different finds if you have the time.
Final thoughts: smart shopping on a budget
Daiso shows that memorable souvenirs can come from everyday places—not just expensive boutiques or gift shops. From cleverly designed stationery to traditional accents and regionally flavored snacks, it offers a glimpse into everyday Japanese goods, which are often accessible, affordable, and well-made. With most items under 500 JPY, you can bring home a suitcase full of delightful new finds. It’s undeniably budget-friendly, but the quality and charm make it feel far from cheap.
