The Cost of Things

Most people think that it's expensive to live in Japan. In a lot of ways, they are so right. Things for the most part are much more expensive than in the States. However, I think a lot of that has to do with the fact that unfortunately, we as Americans can't read the sale ads when they come in the mail or are posted. We have to rely on word of mouth. For example, I found out that many vendors celebrate Wednesday as Ladies Day. Where everything for ladies is 1000 yen. Many times this is for onsen or a lunch special at the local restaurant. Also, there are certain days of the month that restaurants give deals. Like, 30% sushi. The trick is to find out when and where those deals happen.

I haven't really found out to many deals over the time we've been here but I'll share what I do know. Uniqlo has good deals on clothing. I'm usually a Medium in American size which equals out to a large in Uniqlo size. Some things are too short on me. I think it's set up like Petit sizes in America. However, for children they've got some great deals on basic clothing. I just purchased Joshua's shorts there for 1000 yen apiece. These shorts are great. They have a real drawstring and are styled long so that Joshua may get 2 summer's wear out of them.

We also really enjoy going to Hard Off / Book Off. This is a consignment chain store in Japan. I saw a Kate Spade bag there for 2200 yen. I just bought several jumpers for Samuel 100 yen a piece. I bought a Combi infant convertible car seat there for 3200 yen and a buffet style table for 8000 yen (has an outlet for the rice cooker). They sell just about anything there. I usually go first for the children's clothing section though. I find all of the boys Summer yukatas there. They also purchase used items as well but I hear that there isn't a lot of $$$ in that. A girlfriend of mine got me hooked on this place and the second hand store here on base. I have really grown to appreciate thrift stores and consignment stores and am amazed at what people just get rid of.

There are certain things that are just cheaper off base than on base. Diapers for example. I've found nothing as absorbant as American Pampers but I absolutely love Merries Diapers. I use those during the day and American Pampers at night so he doesn't wet through. Merries are soft and for some reason he doesn't get diaper rash from them.

Most folks know this already but the 100 yen store is still one of the best places to find deals. Another good place is Paseos. They sell futons, fabric, & clothing.

As far as food goes, the best deals daily are found in the evening at grocery stores. Most times vendors are trying to clear the shelves of their deli items like tempura, sushi, yakitori, yakisoba, etc. Oh yes, and be sure to bring your own bag. Many stores now offer a discount for customers that bring their own bags.

I hope that this helps anyone out there who is new to Japan and on a shoestring budget. As I find new things, I'll try to report. In the mean time, anyone out there come across some good deals or specials here in Yokosuka, be sure to comment!