Monday, October 07, 2013

30 Things You Should Know and/or Will Love about Japan Series: # 19

#19 Convenience Stores: Konbini



Along with the vending machines, you really need to pack nothing when traveling around Japan. There are convenience stores everywhere in Japan.  The are plentiful and easy to spot - mostly with English names, even some familiar companies, the most popular being 7-11, Family Mart and Lawsons.
The Lawson's right across the street from our house.
On Rokko Island alone, there are at least TEN convenience stores.  Five within the greenbelt and another five outside the greenbelt in the port area. (Thanks, Sonny!)



Lola's favorite area - the CHIPS!
At these convenience stores, you can always find, a plethora of snacks, ice cream, drinks, sushi, onigiri, and lunches, even fresh fruit.  You can often times get a fairly healthy meal out of the convenience stores, if you can look beyond the chips, cookies and candy.
Onigiri - rice balls wrapped in seaweed with a variety of fillings
It's also a great place to stop if you've ripped your nylons or are caught out in a rainstorm and need an umbrella.
Paper products &  cleaning detergents

Just in case you need to brush your teeth or ran out of toothpaste!
They also have basic office supplies and odds and ends if you just need flour or eggs or sugar in the middle of baking something.


The convenience stores also provide other services, like mailing and an ATM machine.  It is also a place to go to buy tickets for tickets and other entertainment events.

Interesting flavors and chips and candy to peruse.


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