Daiso vs Daiso Japan – What’s The Difference? Exploring The Internationally Famous “Japanese Dollar Store”

Daiso is arguably one of the most famous Japanese 100 yen stores (equivalent to a dollar store) both in Japan and internationally. With locations all over the world, it’s no surprise that Daiso has gained global recognition, boasting almost 5,000 stores across 27 countries, including Japan. This widespread popularity leads many Daiso enthusiasts to wonder: what’s the difference between Daiso and Daiso Japan?

In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Daiso Japan and Daiso abroad by delving into their similarities and differences.

What Are Daiso And Daiso Japan?

When we refer to "Daiso Japan," we specifically mean the Daiso stores located in Japan. On the other hand, "Daiso" usually denotes the Daiso locations outside Japan.

Daiso is a Japanese retailer known for its chain of 100 yen stores across Japan. While the concept is similar to dollar stores found overseas, Daiso locations outside Japan often have slightly higher prices. For example, Daiso stores in the United States typically price items between $1.75 and $1.99, depending on the state.

Why Is Daiso So Special?

Daiso has earned its popularity not only for its inexpensive pricing but also for its wide range of products and innovative approach. Daiso offers an extensive selection of items designed to make everyday challenges a bit less daunting and life more enjoyable and convenient.

One of Daiso’s standout categories is stationery. Children, students, and adults alike love Daiso for its diverse array of stationery products. From competitively priced pens, pencils, and notebooks to highlighters, stickers, and washi tape, Daiso truly is a paradise for stationery enthusiasts.

In addition to stationery, Daiso carries a broad range of household products, skincare items, makeup, snacks, and much more! You can read more about the kind of products they carry in this article.

Where Is Daiso Located In Japan?

It’s no exaggeration to say that Daiso is virtually everywhere in Japan—whether you’re in the city, the suburbs, or the countryside. However, it’s important to note that not all Daiso stores in Japan are the same. For instance, a Daiso located in the heart of Osaka might be much larger and offer a broader selection, including souvenirs aimed at tourists, compared to a Daiso in the Japanese countryside.

Where Is Daiso Located Overseas?

As you already know, Daiso has become so popular that its network has expanded globally to 26 countries outside of Japan. You can find Daiso in various countries around the world, including the United States, Canada, Australia, South Korea, and more. To find out exactly where Daiso stores are located and to see if there’s one near you, we recommend using their store locator.

What Is Daiso Korea?

Daiso Korea is a bit of a special Daiso, in comparison to other international Daiso stores. Daiso Korea caters specifically to the South Korean audience, meaning that its product range and packaging is different than that of Daiso Japan, and other overseas locations. Even its logo and branding is different from the Daiso Japan logo. Daiso Korea is completely separated from the Japanese franchise, as of 2023. 

What Are Some Key Differences Between Daiso And Daiso Japan?

While the Daiso corporation strives to offer a similar experience both overseas and in Japan, there are naturally some differences. These can be categorized into four main areas: pricing, product selection, store size/layout, and overall store experience. Let’s break down each of these categories:

• Pricing: Daiso Japan offers its products at competitive prices, with most items priced at 100 yen. Some specialty products may range from 200 to 500 yen. Overseas Daiso locations, however, must import their products, which generally leads to higher prices compared to Japan. Pricing can vary depending on the location and country, but Daiso consistently aims to keep costs as affordable as possible.
• Product Selection: While many products found in Daiso Japan are available in international locations, not all items can be sold overseas. For instance, certain skincare products like sunscreens or snacks with animal-derived ingredients might not meet local regulations. Additionally, some products designed specifically for Japanese homes may not be suitable for international consumers.
• Store Size and Layout: Daiso stores in Japan vary significantly in size and layout, from large, multi-story locations to smaller shops within shopping malls. Similarly, the size and layout of Daiso stores abroad can differ based on local market conditions and available retail space.
• Store Experience: The shopping experience at Daiso can vary greatly depending on the country. In Japan, Daiso is known for its high-quality customer service, a hallmark of Japanese retail. However, customer service and the overall shopping experience at international Daiso locations might differ based on local practices and cultural norms.

What do you think of Daiso? Have you visited Daiso in Japan before, or do you have a Daiso in your country? Let us know in the comments.