Want to Shop Smart in Japan? Here are the Discount Schedules and Locations

Did you know that Japan has a unique tradition at the start of the new year? This tradition is called Hatsuuri. If you enjoy shopping, you will love this tradition as it is closely tied to shopping activities. But, what exactly is Hatsuuri? Let’s dive deeper into it in this article!

What is Hatsuuri and Fukubukuro?

Hatsuuri refers to the first sale of the year. It is the first day shops reopen after the new year begins. Generally, stores are closed on 1 January, so hatsuuri typically starts on 2January. However, in recent years, more stores are also closed on 2 January, pushing hatsuuri to 3 January.

What is so special about hatsuuri? On this day, many stores offer various benefits, such as discounts, for their customers. In addition, some stores even hold special events to entertain visitors.

But, the most anticipated highlight of this tradition is the fukubukuro, or lucky bags. These are mystery bags filled with various items sold by the stores. They are called “lucky” and are highly sought-after because although customers do not know what is inside, the contents are often worth more than the price of the bag.

Interested in getting one? If you plan to celebrate New Year’s in Japan, you can start hunting for stores that allow online pre-orders for this fukubukuro. This way, you can avoid the hassle of competing for them and secure your bag in advance.

Hatsuuri Schedule for 2025

According to livejapan, these are some locations and schedules for hatsuuri that you can check out:

• Odakyu Department Store: Shinjuku Store, 2 January, 10:00 AM.
• Tokyo Department Store: Shibuya Hikarie ShinQs, Shibuya Tokyu Food Show, and Sapporo Store, 2 January, 10:00 AM.
• Tobu Department Store: Ikebukuro Store, 2 January, 9:30 AM.
• Seibu Department Store: Ikebukuro Main Store and Shibuya Store, 1 January, 10:00 AM.
• Keio Department Store: Shinjuku Store, 2 January, 10:00 AM.
• Kintetsu Department Store: Main Store, 2 January, 9:30 AM.
• Lucua Osaka: 2 January, 8:30 AM.

In addition to the list above, many other department stores will also hold hatsuuri. So, if there is a department store near the hotel where you happen to stay in, you can check its hatsuuri schedule to join the event.

Interested in shopping during hatsuuri? Be prepared to arrive early before the stores open. Visitors often begin standing in line several hours beforehand. Some stores may even open earlier than normal to reduce crowding.

If you are interested in fukubukuro, research the sales system of the department store you plan to visit. Find out whether the store sells them on the actual day of the hatsuuri or offers pre-orders online in advance.

Also, make sure to keep your spending under control. Although prices are cut and discounts can be substantial, overspending could cause you to exceed the budget you have carefully set.

If you miss out on hatsuuri, don’t worry! Many department stores in Japan hold sales every season, such as summer and winter discounts. The collections available often align with the needs of each season.

Are you ready to hunt for discounts in Japan? Before you go, make sure to purchase International Travel Insurance from MSIG Indonesia. This way, you can shop with peace of mind while in Japan.