Where To Buy Condoms in Japan: The Complete Guide

In Japan, condoms are widely available and purchasing them is straightforward once you know where to look.

Whether you’re a tourist exploring Tokyo’s vibrant neighborhoods, an expat settling into life in Osaka, or simply navigating the Japanese retail landscape, finding contraceptives shouldn’t be a source of stress or confusion.

Japan has a practical approach to sexual health products, making condoms accessible in various retail environments – from ubiquitous convenience stores on nearly every street corner to specialized shops with extensive selections.

While the country maintains certain cultural reservations about openly discussing sexual topics, the actual purchasing process is remarkably normalized and hassle-free.

For foreigners in Japan, several common concerns often arise when seeking contraceptives:

• Language barriers when trying to identify products
• Uncertainty about where to find quality options
• Questions about Japanese sizing standards
• Concerns about cultural etiquette when purchasing
• Navigating unfamiliar store layouts

This comprehensive guide addresses these challenges by mapping out all your options for purchasing condoms in Japan. We’ll explore everything from the quickest, most convenient solutions to specialty retailers offering premium and unique products.

You’ll discover pricing differences between venues, learn about popular Japanese brands worth trying, and gain practical tips for making your purchase with confidence.

By the end of this guide, you’ll have all the information needed to easily find contraceptives that suit your preferences and needs while in Japan, regardless of whether you’re in a bustling metropolis like Tokyo or exploring more rural areas of the country.

Convenience Stores: The Easiest Option

For travelers and residents alike, convenience stores (コンビニ or konbini) are the most accessible places to buy condoms in Japan. These 24-hour stores are ubiquitous throughout Japanese cities and towns, making them the go-to option when you need protection quickly.

Major Convenience Store Chains

The three main convenience store chains where you can reliably find condoms are:

• 7-Eleven (セブンイレブン): With over 21,000 stores across Japan, 7-Eleven is the largest chain and typically offers a decent selection of condoms.
• FamilyMart (ファミリーマート): The second-largest chain with a similar selection to 7-Eleven.
• Lawson (ローソン): Another major chain that carries basic condom options.

Where to Find Condoms Inside

Finding condoms in Japanese convenience stores can sometimes be tricky for first-time visitors. They’re typically located in one of these areas:

• Near the pharmacy/healthcare products section
• Close to the personal care items (razors, toothbrushes)
• Sometimes behind or near the cashier counter (especially in smaller stores)

Look for packages labeled コンドーム (kondomu) or 避妊具 (hiningu, meaning contraceptive). If you can’t find them, don’t hesitate to ask a staff member by simply saying “kondomu wa doko desu ka?” (コンドームはどこですか？), which means “Where are the condoms?”

Available Brands and Varieties

The selection at convenience stores is relatively limited compared to drugstores or specialty shops. You’ll typically find:

• Okamoto (オカモト): Japan’s most popular brand, known for their thin condoms
• Sagami Original (サガミオリジナル): Another premium Japanese brand
• Durex: An international brand that’s commonly available

Most convenience stores carry regular sizes and types, with perhaps 3-5 different varieties. Options usually include:

• Standard condoms
• Ultra-thin varieties
• Occasionally ribbed or dotted options

Price Range

Condoms at convenience stores tend to be slightly more expensive than at other retailers:

Pack Size	Average Price Range
3-pack	¥300-500
6-pack	¥600-900
12-pack	¥1,000-1,500

Premium brands like Sagami Original will be at the higher end of these ranges.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• ✓ Convenient 24/7 access
• ✓ Available everywhere in Japan
• ✓ Quick, simple purchase
• ✓ Self-checkout options at some stores

Pros:

• ✓ Convenient 24/7 access
• ✓ Available everywhere in Japan
• ✓ Quick, simple purchase
• ✓ Self-checkout options at some stores

Cons:

• ✗ Limited selection
• ✗ Higher prices than drugstores
• ✗ Fewer specialty options
• ✗ Smaller pack sizes

Tip: If you’re staying in Japan for more than a few days, it’s worth visiting a drugstore or Don Quijote for better prices and selection. However, convenience stores are perfect for last-minute purchases or when other shops are closed.

Drugstores and Pharmacies: Better Selection and Prices

For the best combination of selection, price, and convenience, Japanese drugstores and pharmacies are your ideal destination for purchasing condoms. These establishments offer a significantly wider variety than convenience stores, often at more competitive prices.

Popular Drugstore Chains

Several major drugstore chains can be found throughout Japan, each with reliable condom selections:

• Matsumoto Kiyoshi (マツモトキヨシ) – Recognizable by its distinctive blue and yellow signage, this is Japan’s largest drugstore chain with over 1,500 locations nationwide.
• Sundrug (サンドラッグ) – Another ubiquitous chain offering competitive pricing.
• Welcia (ウエルシア) – A growing pharmacy chain with locations throughout the country.
• Tsuruha Drug (ツルハドラッグ) – Particularly common in northern Japan.
• Cocokara Fine (ココカラファイン) – A merger of several pharmacy chains with stores nationwide.

Finding Condoms in Japanese Drugstores

In most Japanese drugstores, condoms (kondomu or コンドーム) are typically located in one of these areas:

1. Men’s health section – Often near shaving products and men’s skincare
2. Family planning/contraceptive area – Usually alongside pregnancy tests and feminine hygiene products
3. Sexual wellness section – In larger stores, there may be a dedicated area

Look for packaging featuring the words コンドーム (kondomu) or 避妊具 (hininku, meaning “contraceptive device”).

Price Advantages

Drugstores offer significantly better value than convenience stores, with prices approximately 20-30% lower on average. A typical price comparison:

Pack Size	Drugstore Price	Convenience Store Price
3-pack	¥300-500	¥400-600
10-pack	¥800-1,200	¥1,000-1,400
12-pack	¥1,000-1,500	¥1,200-1,800

Brand Selection

Japanese drugstores typically stock both domestic and international brands:

Japanese Brands:

• Okamoto (オカモト) – Known for their “Zero One” ultra-thin series
• Sagami Original (相模ゴム) – Famous for polyurethane condoms
• Jex (ジェクス) – Offers various textures and features

International Brands:

• Durex – Widely available in most drugstores
• Trojan – Less common but found in larger stores

Specialty Options

Unlike convenience stores, drugstores typically offer:

• Large size options (labeled as “L” or “XL”)
• Ultra-thin varieties (0.01mm-0.03mm)
• Textured condoms (dots, ribs, etc.)
• Flavored options
• Warming and cooling sensations

Staff Assistance

While many Japanese may feel shy discussing condoms, drugstore staff are generally professional and helpful. If you can’t locate the condoms, simply show them this phrase on your phone:

コンドームはどこですか？ (Kondomu wa doko desu ka?)
“Where are the condoms?”

Most larger drugstores in tourist areas will have at least one staff member with basic English skills who can assist you.

Best Times to Shop

If you prefer more privacy when purchasing condoms, consider visiting drugstores:

• Early mornings (7-9am) when stores are less crowded
• Late evenings (after 8pm) when fewer customers are browsing
• Weekdays rather than busy weekends

Many drugstores are open from 9am to 10pm, with some 24-hour locations in major cities.

Don Quijote and Discount Stores: Variety and Value

If you’re looking for the ultimate condom shopping experience in Japan, Don Quijote (ドン・キホーテ, often called “Donki” by locals) should be at the top of your list.

This discount megastore chain has earned a reputation as a treasure trove for everything from snacks to electronics—and yes, an impressive selection of condoms.

Don Quijote’s Condom Selection

Don Quijote stands out for offering perhaps the widest variety of condoms available in any physical retail store in Japan. Their sexual wellness sections typically feature:

• Multiple Japanese brands (Okamoto, Sagami, Jex)
• International brands (Durex, Trojan)
• Specialty condoms with various textures, flavors, and features
• Different sizes including larger options that can be hard to find elsewhere
• Bulk packaging with better value per unit

The stores typically dedicate an entire aisle or section to sexual wellness products, making it less awkward to browse compared to the more exposed displays at convenience stores.

Price Advantage

Don Quijote’s competitive pricing is a major advantage when shopping for condoms:

Store Type	Average Price (12-pack standard)	Price Comparison
Don Quijote	¥800-1,200	Best value
Drugstores	¥1,000-1,500	Moderate
Convenience Stores	¥1,200-1,800	Premium pricing

For specialty or premium condoms, the price difference becomes even more significant, with savings of up to 30% compared to convenience stores.

Novelty and Specialty Options

Don Quijote excels in offering products you simply won’t find elsewhere:

• Character-themed condoms (anime, mascots)
• Glow-in-the-dark varieties
• Ultra-thin options (as thin as 0.01mm)
• Warming and cooling effect condoms
• Textured varieties with various patterns and designs

These novelty options make Don Quijote a popular stop for those seeking something beyond standard protection.

Navigating Don Quijote Stores

Don Quijote stores are famously chaotic and packed with merchandise from floor to ceiling. To find condoms:

1. Look for the health and beauty section first
2. Follow signs for 医薬品 (iyakuhin – pharmaceuticals) or ヘルスケア (herusukea – healthcare)
3. Sexual wellness products are typically nearby, often in a dedicated area
4. If you can’t find them, look for the adult goods section which may be separate
5. Don’t hesitate to use Google Translate to ask staff: “コンドームはどこですか?” (Kondōmu wa doko desu ka? – Where are the condoms?)

Other Discount Stores

While Don Quijote leads the pack, other discount stores also offer decent condom selections:

• MEGA Don Quijote (larger format stores with even more variety)
• Loft and Tokyu Hands (department stores with health sections)
• Aeon/JUSCO (shopping malls with pharmacy sections)
• Bic Camera and Yodobashi Camera (electronics stores that also sell health products)

Best Locations in Major Cities

Some Don Quijote locations are particularly well-stocked for condoms:

• Tokyo: The Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Roppongi branches have extensive selections
• Osaka: The Dotonbori branch is open 24 hours and has a large health section
• Kyoto: The downtown location near Kawaramachi Station
• Sapporo: The Susukino branch in the entertainment district
• Fukuoka: The Tenjin branch has a comprehensive selection

“Don Quijote is the go-to place for condoms in Japan if you want variety and value. The chaos of the store actually provides a bit more privacy than the bright lights of a convenience store or pharmacy.”

For tourists and expats especially, Don Quijote represents the perfect combination of accessibility, variety, and value when shopping for condoms in Japan.

Specialty Shops and Adult Stores: The Ultimate Condom Shopping Experience

Japan offers several specialty shops dedicated to sexual wellness products, providing the most extensive selection of condoms you’ll find anywhere in the country.

These stores are perfect for those seeking specific sizes, styles, or premium options that might be unavailable elsewhere.

Condomania: Japan’s Iconic Condom Specialty Store

Condomania stands as Japan’s most famous condom specialty store, offering an unparalleled selection in a bright, welcoming environment. Unlike the potentially intimidating atmosphere of some adult stores, Condomania presents itself as a modern, accessible retail experience.

Condomania Locations:

• Harajuku – The flagship store located in Tokyo’s fashion district
• Shibuya – Conveniently situated near the famous crossing
• Osaka – Located in the vibrant Amerikamura district

What makes Condomania special is not just its vast selection but its presentation. Condoms are displayed like fashion accessories or cosmetics, with colorful packaging and detailed descriptions in both Japanese and English. The stores feature:

• Wall-to-wall displays of domestic and imported brands
• Sample condoms stretched over various objects to demonstrate elasticity and thinness
• Gift sets and novelty items perfect for souvenirs or special occasions

“Condomania transforms the potentially awkward experience of buying condoms into something fun and educational. It’s worth a visit even if you’re just curious about the concept!”

Adult Stores in Entertainment Districts

For those seeking an even wider variety of options, Japan’s entertainment districts house numerous adult stores with extensive condom selections:

Popular Areas:

• Kabukicho (Tokyo) – Japan’s largest red-light district contains numerous adult shops
• Akihabara (Tokyo) – Some stores catering to otaku culture offer anime-themed options
• Namba/Dotonbori (Osaka) – Several adult stores with good English signage
• Susukino (Sapporo) – Hokkaido’s entertainment district with several options

These stores typically offer:

• Extended hours (often open until late night)
• Wider variety of brands and styles than mainstream retailers
• Adult toys and other products alongside condoms

Specialty Sizes and Unique Options

One significant advantage of specialty shops is their focus on addressing size concerns. While standard Japanese condoms tend to run smaller than Western brands, specialty shops offer:

Size Category	Japanese Term	Typical Width	Available At
Standard Japanese	レギュラー (Regular)	33-36mm	Everywhere
Large	ラージ (Large)	36-38mm	Specialty shops, some drugstores
XL/Western Standard	XL/キング (King)	38-42mm	Primarily specialty shops
XXL	メガビッグ (Mega Big)	42mm+	Only specialty shops

Beyond sizes, these shops excel in offering unique textures, materials, and features not found elsewhere:

• Ultra-thin varieties (as thin as 0.01mm)
• Warming and cooling effect condoms
• Flavored options with distinctly Japanese tastes
• Studded and ribbed designs for enhanced sensation
• Polyurethane options for those with latex allergies

Premium Options and Luxury Condoms

Specialty shops are the best place to find high-end condom options, including:

• Sagami Original 0.01mm – Often considered the world’s thinnest condom
• Okamoto 0.02 EX – Premium ultra-thin with advanced lubrication
• Designer collaboration limited editions
• Gift boxes with assorted premium varieties
• Sustainable and eco-friendly options

These premium condoms typically range from ¥1,000-3,000 per box, significantly more than standard options but offering superior quality and sensation.

Staff Expertise and Shopping Experience

What truly sets specialty shops apart is the knowledge and approach of their staff:

• Multilingual staff at many locations, especially in tourist areas
• Non-judgmental, professional assistance with finding the right product
• Educational displays explaining differences between products
• Testers and demonstrations (of elasticity and strength, not actual use!)

The shopping experience is designed to be comfortable and educational rather than embarrassing. Many stores have bright lighting, clean displays, and an atmosphere more akin to a beauty store than what many foreigners might expect from an “adult shop.”

Most specialty shops also offer discreet packaging for purchases, with plain bags or wrapped packages that don’t advertise their contents, ensuring your privacy is maintained even after leaving the store.

Online Options for Buying Condoms in Japan

For those seeking privacy, convenience, or a wider selection than physical stores offer, online shopping for condoms in Japan provides an excellent alternative.

The Japanese e-commerce landscape offers numerous platforms where you can purchase condoms discreetly and often at better prices than brick-and-mortar stores.

Amazon Japan

Amazon Japan (amazon.co.jp) stands as one of the most convenient online platforms for purchasing condoms in Japan. The site offers:

• An extensive selection of both Japanese and international brands
• Competitive pricing with frequent discounts
• User reviews in multiple languages
• English language navigation option
• Discreet packaging with no indication of contents
• Fast delivery (often next-day with Prime)

To navigate Amazon Japan in English, simply scroll to the bottom of the page and select the language option. Most major credit cards are accepted, and you can even use international cards without issues.

Rakuten

Rakuten is Japan’s largest e-commerce platform and offers an impressive selection of condoms. Benefits include:

• Regular point campaigns and discounts
• Wider variety of Japanese brands than Amazon
• Seller ratings system to ensure reliability
• App available in English
• Multiple payment options including credit cards and convenience store payment

While Rakuten’s interface can be more challenging to navigate in English compared to Amazon, their mobile app provides better translation features. Look for the “Global Express” option if you need international shipping.

Specialty Online Retailers

Several specialty retailers focus specifically on sexual wellness products:

• Condomania Japan (condomania.jp) – The online version of the famous specialty store offers their complete inventory online with discreet shipping
• Kokoro Japan Store – Specializes in premium Japanese condoms with international shipping
• Okamoto Direct – The official online store for Okamoto products with exclusive items not found elsewhere
• Love Piece Club – Female-friendly shop with detailed product descriptions and educational content

These specialty sites often provide more detailed product information and expert recommendations than general marketplaces.

International Shipping Considerations

If you’re ordering from outside Japan or planning to have condoms shipped internationally:

Retailer	International Shipping	Shipping Time	Discreet Packaging
Amazon Japan	Yes (selected countries)	1-2 weeks	Yes
Rakuten	Limited countries	2-3 weeks	Yes
Kokoro Japan Store	Worldwide	2-4 weeks	Yes
Okamoto Direct	Japan only	N/A	Yes

Discreet Packaging

Privacy is a priority for online condom retailers in Japan. Standard practices include:

• Plain cardboard boxes or bubble mailers
• No mention of contents on the outer packaging
• Generic company names on shipping labels (e.g., “AMZN” for Amazon)
• Option for convenience store pickup (at FamilyMart, Lawson, etc.) if you don’t want delivery to your home

“Japanese online retailers understand the importance of privacy when shipping personal items. Even the delivery slip will never indicate the actual contents of your package.” – Common practice among Japanese online retailers

Language Navigation Tips

While language barriers can be challenging, most major platforms offer solutions:

• Use Google Chrome’s built-in translation feature
• Look for the English language option (usually at the bottom of the page)
• Search using the Japanese terms “コンドーム” (condom) or “避妊具” (contraceptive)
• Use the mobile apps which often have better translation features than websites
• Filter by brand names (which remain the same in any language)

Payment Methods

Online condom purchases in Japan can be completed using various payment methods:

• Credit/Debit Cards: All major cards accepted (Visa, Mastercard, JCB, American Express)
• Convenience Store Payment: Generate a payment code online and pay in cash at any convenience store
• PayPay/LINE Pay: Popular digital payment options in Japan
• Cash on Delivery: Available for domestic orders
• Bank Transfer: Common for domestic customers but not practical for tourists

For tourists or temporary residents without Japanese payment methods, international credit cards work seamlessly on Amazon Japan and most major platforms.

Online shopping provides perhaps the most stress-free way to purchase condoms in Japan, combining convenience, privacy, and often the best prices available.

Japanese Condom Brands and Sizes: What to Know

Japan has earned a global reputation for producing some of the world’s highest quality condoms, with brands that prioritize thinness, comfort, and innovation.

If you’re new to Japanese condoms, understanding the brands, sizes, and unique features will help you make the best choice for your needs.

Top Japanese Condom Brands

Okamoto (オカモト) is perhaps Japan’s most internationally recognized condom brand. Known for their ultra-thin technology, Okamoto consistently produces some of the thinnest condoms in the world. Their flagship product, the Okamoto 003 (named for its 0.03mm thickness), is widely regarded as a premium option for those seeking maximum sensitivity.

Sagami (相模ゴム) is another prestigious Japanese manufacturer with over 80 years of history. They made headlines by creating the world’s first 0.01mm condom, the Sagami Original 0.01, which represents the pinnacle of thin condom technology. Sagami also offers polyurethane options, which are suitable for those with latex allergies.

Jex produces a wide range of condoms with various textures and features. Their Glamourous Butterfly line includes condoms with unique ribbing patterns designed to enhance pleasure.

Fuji Latex makes the popular My Size brand, which offers more size options than typical Japanese condoms, including larger sizes that may be more comfortable for some Western users.

Size Differences: Japanese vs. Western Condoms

One of the most important things for visitors to understand is that Japanese condoms tend to run smaller than Western brands. The standard width of Japanese condoms is approximately 52mm, compared to 53-54mm for standard Western condoms.

Size Comparison	Japanese Condoms	Western Condoms
Standard Width	52mm	53-54mm
Large Size	54-55mm	56-58mm
XL Size	58mm	60mm+

If you typically use larger sizes in your home country, look specifically for products labeled “L” or “XL” in Japan. Brands like Okamoto Mega Big Boy and Sagami Large cater to those needing a more generous fit.

Ultra-Thin Technology

Japan leads the world in ultra-thin condom technology. While standard condoms elsewhere typically range from 0.06-0.07mm thick, Japanese brands offer:

• 0.03mm options (Okamoto 003, Sagami 003)
• 0.02mm options (Okamoto 002, Jex 0.02)
• 0.01mm options (Sagami Original 0.01)

These ultra-thin condoms use advanced manufacturing techniques and high-quality materials to maintain strength and reliability despite their minimal thickness.

“Japanese condoms are so thin you’ll forget you’re wearing one, but they’re engineered to be just as safe when used properly.”

Special Features and Innovations

Japanese condoms often include unique features not commonly found in other markets:

• Textured surfaces: Many Japanese condoms feature dots, ribs, or specialized textures designed to enhance sensation
• Warming lubricants: Products like Okamoto Hot Type include warming agents
• Cooling sensations: Brands like Jex offer “cool” versions with menthol-infused lubricants
• Aroma options: Scented varieties ranging from subtle floral scents to fruit flavors
• Colored varieties: Beyond basic colors, you’ll find glow-in-the-dark options and multi-colored designs

Most Popular Varieties

Based on sales and popularity, these are the standout products in Japan:

1. Okamoto 003 – The thin yet durable standard-bearer
2. Sagami Original 0.01 – The ultimate in thinness technology
3. Okamoto Crown – Known for its comfortable fit and reliability
4. Jex Glamourous Butterfly – Popular for its unique texturing
5. Sagami Original 0.02 – Balances extreme thinness with strength

Quality and Performance

Japanese condoms undergo rigorous quality testing that often exceeds international standards. Each condom is electronically tested for defects, and samples from each batch undergo additional strength testing.

The materials used—primarily high-grade latex and advanced polyurethane—contribute to both the thinness and durability.

While Japanese condoms are typically more expensive than generic options, the quality difference is noticeable in terms of comfort, sensation, and reliability.

For those concerned about allergies, brands like Sagami offer polyurethane options that are completely latex-free while maintaining the ultra-thin profile that Japanese condoms are famous for.

When shopping for condoms in Japan, experimenting with different Japanese brands can be worthwhile—you might discover features and sensations that aren’t available with the brands you’re used to at home.

Alternative Options: Vending Machines and 100-Yen Shops

Japan is famous for its vending machine culture, with machines selling everything from hot coffee to umbrellas—and yes, even condoms.

While not as common as they once were, condom vending machines still exist and offer another purchasing option alongside budget-friendly 100-yen shops.

Condom Vending Machines

Condom vending machines (コンドーム自動販売機, kondomu jidou hanbaiki) were once ubiquitous across Japan but have decreased in number over the years. You can still find them in specific locations:

• Outside public bathhouses and sento
• Near love hotels in entertainment districts
• In some public restrooms (particularly in older establishments)
• Back streets of entertainment districts like Kabukicho in Shinjuku, Roppongi, and Dotonbori in Osaka
• Train station restrooms (though increasingly rare)

These machines typically offer basic condoms in small quantities (often 1-3 per package) for around ¥200-500. The purchasing process is straightforward and completely anonymous—simply insert coins and retrieve your purchase.

Quality Considerations

It’s important to note that vending machine condoms come with several caveats:

• Unknown storage conditions may affect quality and reliability
• Limited selection of brands and types
• Potentially older stock with shorter remaining shelf life
• No customer service if you have questions or issues
• Higher price per unit compared to multi-packs from stores

For these reasons, vending machines are best considered as a last resort option rather than your primary source.

100-Yen Shops

Budget-conscious shoppers might be surprised to find that many 100-yen shops (¥100 stores like Daiso, Seria, and Can Do) sometimes carry condoms. Here’s what to know:

• Location within stores: Usually found in the health/hygiene section
• Brands: Typically lesser-known brands or basic varieties
• Packaging: Often sold in smaller quantities (2-3 per pack)
• Price: Despite being in 100-yen shops, condoms may actually cost ¥150-200 due to tax and product value

What You’ll Find at 100-Yen Shops

Store Chain	Condom Availability	Typical Offerings
Daiso	Inconsistent	Basic 2-3 packs, lubricants
Seria	Less common	Limited selection when available
Can Do	Varies by location	Basic varieties only

Pros and Cons of Alternative Options

Pros:

• ✅ Anonymity: Minimal human interaction
• ✅ Convenience: Potential 24/7 availability (vending machines)
• ✅ Emergency option: When other stores are closed
• ✅ Budget-friendly: Lower initial cost for small quantities

Cons:

• ❌ Limited selection: Few options for sizes, materials, or features
• ❌ Quality concerns: Particularly for vending machines
• ❌ Higher unit cost: More expensive per condom than buying larger packs
• ❌ Availability issues: Not consistently stocked or located

Privacy Considerations

Both vending machines and 100-yen shops offer different levels of privacy:

• Vending machines provide the most anonymous experience, with no interaction required
• 100-yen shops are busy with various customers buying diverse items, making your purchase less conspicuous
• Both options typically don’t require speaking with staff about your purchase

If privacy is your primary concern, vending machines offer the most discreet option, though at the potential cost of quality and selection. For a balance of privacy, quality, and value, drugstores and online retailers remain superior alternatives.

Cultural Tips and Language Guide for Buying Condoms in Japan

Purchasing condoms in Japan can sometimes feel intimidating, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the language or local customs. This section provides practical advice to help you navigate the cultural aspects of buying contraceptives in Japan with confidence and ease.

Dealing with Potential Awkwardness

Many visitors worry about potential embarrassment when buying condoms in Japan, but rest assured that:

• Cashiers are professionals and handle these transactions matter-of-factly
• Self-checkout options are available at many drugstores and larger retailers
• Shopping baskets (not transparent) are provided in most stores, allowing for discreet purchases
• Stores often wrap purchases in opaque bags automatically

Remember that while Japan is often perceived as conservative, the purchase of contraceptives is considered a normal, responsible action.

Useful Japanese Phrases

If you need to ask for assistance, these phrases may help:

English	Japanese	Pronunciation
Condoms	コンドーム	Kon-dō-mu
Where are the condoms?	コンドームはどこですか？	Kon-dō-mu wa doko desu ka?
Do you have larger sizes?	大きいサイズはありますか？	Ōkii saizu wa arimasu ka?
I would like this one, please.	これをください。	Kore o kudasai.
Thank you	ありがとうございます	Arigatō gozaimasu

Most urban stores will have staff with some English ability, particularly in tourist areas, but having these phrases handy can be helpful in more remote locations.

Asking for Assistance

If you need help finding condoms or have specific questions:

• Use simple language or translation apps if your Japanese is limited
• Point to your phone with the Japanese translation displayed
• Look for younger staff members who typically have better English skills
• Use universal gestures if language is a barrier

Don’t be discouraged if staff seem reserved—this is often just professional courtesy rather than judgment.

Cultural Attitudes Toward Contraception

Japan has some interesting cultural nuances regarding contraception:

• Condoms are the most popular form of birth control in Japan (approximately 80% of contraceptive users)
• The birth control pill was only legalized in 1999 and remains less common
• There’s a strong emphasis on male responsibility in contraception
• Japanese brands focus heavily on thinness and sensation, reflecting local preferences
• Sex education varies widely, but contraception is generally viewed as responsible behavior

“In Japan, condom use is normalized and considered the standard for responsible sexual activity, which explains their widespread availability.”

Privacy Considerations

If privacy is a concern:

• Online shopping offers the most discreet option with plain packaging
• Self-checkout kiosks at larger stores eliminate face-to-face interactions
• Busy stores provide more anonymity than quiet neighborhood shops
• Vending machines in entertainment districts offer complete anonymity (though limited selection)
• Shopping during busier hours means less attention on individual purchases

Pro tip: Many Japanese stores place condoms in sealed boxes or opaque packaging specifically to address privacy concerns, making the shopping experience more comfortable for everyone.

Remember that buying condoms in Japan is a routine transaction. While cultural differences exist, the practical process is straightforward, and taking care of your sexual health is universally respected.