Observations in Japan; 2025
Japan is much more affordable this time around. The major expense remains public transport, but we found that restaurants and coffee shops were significantly cheaper than before, which was a pleasant surprise.
The stock in Muji stores varies by location. I noticed this in Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, but I didn’t expect it in Japan. I’ve made a mental note to purchase any items on my list when I see them in the future.*I travel to Asian countries with a Muji list, as not only are they deemed department stores, they are generally cheaper than at home.
[*Even more important now as we returned to learn the devastating news that our local Muji is closing, meaning we won’t have access to replacement cleaning supplies, travel items, or storage solutions anymore].
Lawsons now stocks Muji foods.
I've discovered many more Japanese foods that I enjoy, thanks to trying small portions on Japan Airlines and the wonderful meals I had at Muji cafes—one of the absolute joys of visiting Asia.
Japan is still immaculately clear. There are still no public bins on the streets. The ongoing delight of being in a country with zero litter and no street bins sells rubbish bags to make it easier to carry your trash home with you as, why should anyone have to pick up after you?
There are more public toilets pretty much in every metro station. Not always the famed Japanese toilets in these, but clean and available.
However, there are not many escalators or lifts and we struggled on the steps with all of our luggage. That’s after navigating the long walks from platforms to the correct street exit. Every station is huge.
Metro trains offer carriages with varying levels of warmth, allowing passengers to choose one that suits them, like a moderately air-conditioned car
There are phone charging points on metro trains
They still have Dean and Deluca.
There are many Mujis but the Tokyo flagship is no longer in the prime shopping area. The biggest one in Japan is in Hiroshima. This is the last mention of Muji, I think.
The quirky electrical shop, Yodobash, aka a small town, appears to be a destination point for a day out and even has a cafe.
There are still smoking rooms for the public to smoke in, although I noticed them less this time.
Where have all the Superdrys gone?? I still had Superfly Guy in my head every time I went near the shops, which is what that store always puts in my head.
Most coffee shops sell filter coffee bags. We bought back a fair few to enjoy on future trips.
I witnessed a crowded and noisy subway train, which was a first for me in Japan. It was a Saturday and it was going to Shibuya.
Japan does offer doggy bags; I received one in Bread and Espresso, possibly because it's also a takeaway bakery and they knew we should have ordered two meals for the three of us.
Having been (as in had a pilgrimage) to a Hario shop/coffee shop in Kyoto, I now know this favourite of coffee sellers and drinkers alike started as glassmakers in Tokyo in the 1920s
Tokyo had clear blue skies, sunshine, and temperatures around 14°C in mid-January—simply perfect!
January 2025
