Japan's "Big Three" Convenience Stores

Above, a FamilyMart in Asakusa. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

When strolling just about anywhere in Japan, there is usually a convenience store handy.

The "big three" of convenience stores in Japan are 7-Eleven, Lawson and FamilyMart. I've been to all three. Some may ask, "What's the difference between them?"

Live Japan has just the answer.

They begin with:

From busy downtown areas to sleepy rural villages, convenience stores are a common sight in Japan, open 24 hours a day and 365 days a year. The three big names of Japanese convenience stores are 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Lawson, dominating the city centers. You won’t only find snacks, boxed lunches, and freshly brewed coffee but also alcoholic drinks, everyday items, and a lot more in these stores. During the night, they even act as a drop-in spot for the police and services like mail reception, ATMs, multifunctional printers, and free-to-use toilets make convenience stores indispensable for Japanese daily life.  

But what is the difference between the difference convenience stores? We’re taking a thorough look at Japan’s “Big Three” and their different services, brands, and more.

To read more, go here.