If you are traveling or living in Japan and are accustomed to using tampons, you may have found yourself asking: Are tampons in Japan difficult to find? What brands are available? How do they differ from tampons in other parts of the world?
The short answer is, yes, you can buy Tampons in Japan, but there are essential things to know before you go. In this blog post, you’ll find everything you want to know about using, buying, and tampon etiquette in Japan.
Are Tampons Common in Japan?
Napkins are the most commonly used menstrual product in Japan. However, you can also find tampons, especially in large cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto.
Pads, at least, continue to be easier and more comfortable for many Japanese women. Many also feel that tampons are for specific occasions only such as swimming, sport,s or travel. For this reason, tampons have not been as accessible as they should be. But don’t fear, you can still find them here, and they’re safe and high-quality.
Where to Buy Tampons in Japan
Tampons can be purchased in most drugstores, convenience stores , and supermarkets. You can find women’s products in the women’s personal hygiene section, typically located near the sanitary pads. Here are some popular spots to buy tampons:
- Matsumoto Kiyoshi (マツモトキヨシ) – Big chain drugstore
- Welcia (ウエルシア)
- Don Quijote (ドン・キホーテ) – Great for travelers, open late hours
- 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart – May have small boxes near the cosmetics or bathroom items
- Amazon Japan or Rakuten – Good for bulk buying or foreign brands
Tip: In rural areas, tampons may be hard to find. So if you’re going to the countryside, buy them in the city first.
Popular Tampon Brands in Japan
Several local and international brands are sold in Japan. Some of the most common ones include:
Japanese Brands:
- Unicharm ソフィ (Sofy)
- Kao ロリエ (Laurier)
These are the two biggest names. Their tampons are of high quality and come with plastic applicators.
Imported Brands:
- o.b. (non-applicator tampons)
- Tampax (rare but sometimes available on Amazon Japan)
IMPORTANT: In Japan, tampons are typically sold with an applicator; non-applicator tampons are extremely rare.
How to Read the Packaging (in Japanese)
If you can’t read Japanese, here are some helpful terms to look for:
| Japanese | English | Meaning |
| タンポン | Tampon | The word for tampon |
| レギュラー | Regular | Standard absorbency |
| スーパー | Super | High absorbency |
| ライト | Light | Low absorbency |
| アプリケーター | Applicator | A tampon with an applicator |
| ノンアプリケーター | Non-applicator | No applicator included |
| 多い日用 | For heavy days | For heavy flow |
| 普通の日用 | For normal days | Regular flow |
Most tampon boxes also include pictures or diagrams; even if you can’t read Japanese, the visuals can still be helpful.
Are Japanese Tampons Different from Western Ones?
Yes, there are some differences:
- Size: Japanese tampons are usually smaller and sleeker.
- Absorbency: Japanese tampons may be less absorbent than those in the United States or Europe.
- Applicator: The majority have plastic applicators, which are sleek and thin.
- Packaging: Small boxes, perhaps containing only 8-10 tampons.
Not bad, though. “References.” They’re significantly better than everything else; some even say that Japanese tampons are gentler and more comfortable.
Price and Availability
Tampons in Japan typically cost between ¥300 and ¥500 (approximately $2–$4) per box. A small box usually contains 8 to 10 tampons.
Prices may vary based on:
- Brand
- Absorbency
- Where you buy them (drugstores are usually cheaper than convenience stores)
If you use tampons frequently, you may want to stock up or order them online.
Are Tampons in Japan Comfortable and Safe?
Yes! Tampons in Japan are of high quality and safe for use. Major brands adhere to strict hygiene standards.
Most come with:
- Smooth plastic applicators
- Individually wrapped tampons
- Clear instructions
If you’re new to tampons or sensitive, the Japanese ones can be a great introduction because they’re designed with comfort in mind.
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Tips for Foreigners
Here are some practical tips to make things easier:
- ✅ Bring a few from home – especially if you prefer a specific brand or type (like non-applicator).
- ✅ Use the Google Translate app – Scan the packaging to check absorbency and directions.
- ✅ Stock up in the city – Before visiting smaller towns or islands.
- ✅ Try before you’re trip – If you’re not used to Japanese tampons, try one before your trip so you’re more comfortable.
Eco-friendly Creators
If you’re eco-conscious, Japan is slowly catching up with reusable menstrual products.
You can now find:
- Menstrual cups (available online or in some stores)
- Reusable cloth pads (check organic or natural lifestyle shops)
- Period underwear (Wacoal, Muji, and Uniqlo have launched some lines)
However, these products are still not widely available in regular drugstores, so consider buying online if interested.
Final Thoughts
You can easily find tampons in Japan, especially in larger cities, and even in pharmacies. The selection will be more unusual than what you’re accustomed to, and most tampons with applicators are on the slimmer side of the spectrum.
Whether you are traveling, studying, or working in Japan, you can stop worrying about period products. But if you have specific needs, it’s always smart to plan and pack a few extras.
Japan is a clean, modern, and safe country. And yes, they have tampons!
FAQs About Tampons in Japan
Q1. Can I use my tampon in Japan?
Absolutely! There’s no restriction. If you have a favorite brand or type (such as organic or non-applicator), bring some.
Q2. Can you buy tampons at Japanese convenience stores?
Some convenience stores, like Eleven or FamilyMart, do carry tampons, but the selection is limited. Drugstores are preferable.
Q3. Can I flush tampons down the toilet in Japan?
Don’t flush tampons. Use the small bin that’s available in nearly all public and private toilets.
Q4. Do Japanese tampons come in any organic or fragrance-free options?
There are very few fragranced tampons in Japan. They’re not commonly found in stores, but organic options can be found online.
Q5. Do Japanese women not use tampons?
Many Japanese women prefer pads, although tampons are used more frequently for swimming or travel.
Found this blog helpful? Please share it with whoever is traveling to Japan!
