You can rely on most Japanese stores to stay open over Christmas, but New Year’s Day is a different kettle of fish. Even some big supermarket chains and convenience stores typically reduce their hours on January 1.
But this year, several large chains are planning to extend their New Year holidays, with some stores closing or limiting their hours between December 26 and January 3. Different companies are operating on different schedules, but most stores in central Tokyo won’t be affected. Here’s the list of major supermarkets and konbini that will be closed over the next week.
Life Corp: operating until 9pm on December 31, closed January 1 and 2
Yaoko Co: varies between stores, but most locations within Tokyo are closed January 1 to 3
Summit: all stores closed from January 1 to 3
Inageya: all stores closed from January 1 to 3, except for locations on this list
Ito-Yokado: reduced hours from December 26 to January 1. Check the official website for the times for each location
Aeon: reduced hours from December 26 to January 1. Check the official website for the times for each location
Lawson: 85 locations nationwide will be closed or operate on reduced hours from December 30 to January 3
Remember, these are just the bigger chains, so be sure to check your local store's hours before heading out.
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