Why Japanese Products Are Expensive Than Many Other Countries

 Wondering why Japanese products are expensive? Land in Japan is very scarce, which makes the rents and taxes unbelievably expensive. It reflects on all types of businesses, including commercial, industrial, and agricultural, that become costly to operate in Japan, pushing Japanese products to higher prices.

 

Japan is a beautiful country with unique landscapes, a nicely preserved culture, and diverse, rich history. These make Japan trips truly distinct, with rare experiences in other countries.

 

But, when you'll visit Japan as a tourist, you'll realize that the price of Japanese products is more expensive than you usually expect. Indeed, busting metropolitans in Japan, such as Tokyo and Osaka, are top on the list of popular magazines and reports as the most expensive city to live in the world.

 

But why are buying products from Japan so expensive than many other countries? It needs the deep research that we did for you. Let's know them below with some other related topics:

 

Table Of Content

• Why Japanese Products Are Expensive – Top 7 Reasons 
• How Expensive Is Japan – Some Basic Things To Know
• Top Japanese Beauty Products
• Surprisingly Cheap Things In Japan That You Need To Know
• FAQ
• The Bottom Line 

 

Why Japanese Products Are Expensive – Top 7 Reasons 

If you've seen the latest news about Japan, you know that Tokyo and Osaka have secured the top position among the 10 most expensive cities in the world. Why is Japan very expensive? What makes it so costly? Should it be so expensive? 

 

We researched and found some reasons that make things expensive in Japan. Let's know them below:

 

1. Stable Government

From the beginning of the development revolution, a stable government ruled in Japan. The country doesn't have any civil wars or rebellions in recent history. As a result, it focused on economic growth with other factors. Unlike other countries, Japan didn't need to wage war.

 

It could keep focused on its lifestyle and policies that made the country more robust than others. It's not the same as the countries whose governments collapse very often or step down from their ruling power.

 

But, the Japanese government focuses and spends more money on its military force rather than on its people. Also, it doesn't have a strong currency against US dollars. All these things make Japanese products expensive.

 

2. Focus On The Highest Quality

Focusing on top quality is another big reason for expensive Japanese products and commodities. As it has a stable government and a more robust economy, it can focus on the funds for investment that makes the cities and country incredible in terms of costs.

 

Besides, its people get decent pay because of a more robust economy. As it focuses more on quality than quantity, there are some of the world's best electronic brands in Japan. It offers products that are different from the US, which produces both high and low-quality products.

 

3. Country Surrounded By Islands

As islands surround Japan, it was named an island nation. If you go through its history, you'll find it prefers isolation. Because of this isolation, it had to depend on its own for the economy.

 

It has helped the country to keep ahead in terms of development in all sectors than many other countries in Asia and others around the globe.

 

They got very few partners for trading at their earliest age, leading them to make or grow products independently rather than exporting. Even in the days of the world's open trade, it still depends on its own for the basics.

 

4. Higher Transportation Costs

Air travel is the fundamental transportation mode in Japan. Using air is the fastest and easiest way to communicate as it's an island nation. There are indeed ships and cruises that can help it by another mode of transportation.

 

But they're not faster than air. However, flying by air to Japan is as long as expensive, a significant problem the country faces.

 

5. Land Scarcity & Higher Rent and Taxes

Japan has a higher amount of population, that's about half of the US whole people. But, the land area of Japan is only a bit bigger than the US state of California. Apart from the shortage of land in Japan, there are higher rents and taxes.

 

These reasons make the costs higher for commercial, industrial, and agricultural businesses. All of these trigger Japanese products more expensive than other countries.

 

6. Japanese Politics & Commerce Policies

Behind the higher prices of Japanese products, other reasons like politics and commerce policies play a vital role. Market collusion and political influence make products expensive in Japan. Also, they keep the Yen more robust and the economy solid.

 

7. Users' Apathy & Appeal

It's another reason why Japanese products are expensive that Japanese consumers typically don't mind. Indeed, expensive products are of better quality, making a considerable appeal, and consumers are more likely to use them.

 

Also, this is worth nothing to most people in Japan whether the products are higher in price. They don't compare the costs of products and how much higher they're in their country and other countries.

 

How Expensive Is Japan – Some Basic Things To Know

There is no doubt that Japan is one of the cleanest, safest, and best tourist destinations. But, you might be unknown: how much does it cost to travel to Japan? Let's know about the prices of different costly things in Japan before you visit it:

 

Movie Tickets

Traveling to Japan without visiting movie buffs will make it incomplete. But movie tickets are more expensive than in any country in the world. It's because Japanese cinema is a large part of their culture that has the same weight as the opera or concert.

 

Another reason of being movie tickets are costly is that Japanese movie makers put lots of money, time, and effort into making and promoting their films.

 

Foods

Foods in Japan are the first thing that has the most significant cost variation. There is a big misconception about Japanese foods: many people don't know how costly food items are if you eat at high-level or mid-range restaurants.

 

Moreover, you must pay higher costs if you look for high-quality products like tuna belly, abalone, and matsutake mushrooms.

 

Accommodation

One of the most expensive things in Japan is accommodation. It's another expenditure that varies significantly in Japan. Dormitories, backpack-style establishments, and capsule hotels can be suitable for budget tourists.

 

But, there are expensive 4-star and 5-star Japanese brand hotels that come with a blend of Japanese and western-style hotels. You'll find these types of hotels in major cities, including Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. Besides, there are many western luxury hotels and Japanese traditional inn named Ryokan.

 

Transportation

Moving from one place to another is simple and painless as Japan offers the best public transport in the world. Traveling by train and foot is the way to go because there is parking issue in megacities like Tokyo, Osaka, etc.

 

The buses, local trains, and ferries would cost $5 per trip. But, the price will be higher if you want to travel a long distance via taxis. For example, you must pay about $200 if you travel from Ginza hotel to Narita Airport. 

 

Local Guides/Translators

The local guide and Japanese language translation business are booming because of many foreign tourists. Indeed, Japan is specially organized with the best infrastructure in the world.

 

But, you'd need help to visit a particular place or if you need any specific things. You'll get many options when you want to hire a local Japanese guide.

 

However, if you're going to a well-qualified, experienced guide with better language skills, you must pay around $500 daily. You need to pay hourly for translation service, which costs a minimum of $100 for one hour.

 

Consumption Tax

Japanese government charges a 10% tax on services and goods consumption. It means you must pay 10% additional costs for any goods or services you get while traveling in Japan. But, these additional costs aren't available at the displayed price. It comes with the point of sale.

 

Service Charge/Luxury Tax

This charge comes at the end of the bill when you stay in a hotel or take a meal. The charge is typically 15%. But some service charges may cost up to 25%, especially for the service staff, for ryokan, Geisha, performance, restaurant, etc... You may know it as a tip or gratuity that will make things more expensive.

 

Special Taxes For Kyoto & Onsen

The tax season doesn't end with the above segments. There are two more different taxes to pay – Kyoto Lodging Tax and Onsen Tax. Also, Kyoto local government applies an additional $10 surcharge every night you stay in their lodges.

 

When it comes to Onsen Tax, everyone, including locals and tourists, must pay an extra $2 or $3 for every night's stay in a hotel with Onsen or a hot spring facility.

 

Top Japanese Beauty Products

Here Are the Best Affordable Japanese Skin Care Products + Beauty Products

Products	Features
KIKUMASAMUNE Sake Moisturizer Skin	Amazing product Great value Makes glowing skin glow Very hydrating
Salux Beauty Skin Cloth	Use less soap Stimulates your skin Helps blood circulation Excellent for massage
Hada Labo Tokyo Ultimate Anti-aging Facial Mask	Boosts hydration Restores firmness 100% cotton mask Smooths fine lines
Utena Proqualite Ex Long Straight Perm Kit	Makes hair silky & Beautiful  Repairs your hair Smoothens your hair with the essence 3-Piece Set
Curél Japan Hydrating Water Essence	Water moisturizer Calms cleansed skin Fragrance & colorant free pH balanced
Pai-Shau Biphasic Infusion	Smoothes Softens Enhances shine Protects & nourishes hair
Shiseido Tsubaki Premium Repair Mask 180g	Premium product Perfect hair treatment 3-piece gift set Great value
Shampoo & Conditioner Set by MyKirei By Kao	Perfect for all hair types Japanese Tsubaki & rice water Lightweight conditioning formula Gentle & balanced formula
Ultimate Anti-Aging Kit By Amaki	Hydrates, soothes, brightens Enjoy a young look Reduce wrinkles & fine lines Inspired by nature
Hada Labo Tokyo Skin Plumping Gel Cream	Fast-absorbing Non-greasy & non-comedogenic Silky texture Moistures all day long

 

Surprisingly Cheap Things In Japan That You Need To Know

We learned a lot about why Japanese products are expensive. And we also found the reasons and the items and services that are higher in price than in many other countries. It doesn't mean there is no cheap stuff. You'll find many products in Japan at affordable prices. Below are the things that you'll get at a reasonable cost:

 

Izakaya

§         Average Food Item: 300 Yen to 500 Yen

§         Average Drink: 100 Yen to 500 Yen

 

A unique Japanese-style establishment, Izakaya, offers meals with alcoholic beverages. Although it's almost like a pub or bar, it also serves other things such as sake, chuhai, carbonated water, and fruit juice.

 

Also, it provides highball, a special drink made with a blend of carbonated water and whisky. Like bars, they serve at night, and there is a presence of huge people during the weekend or holidays.

 

All-You-Can-Drink Packages

§         Average: 1,500 to 3,000 Yen for 2 Hours

 

The root of "All You Can Eat" has spread to many countries. It's another exceptional style of dining like buffet and smorgasbords. But, Japan has its individuality in this type of dining culture.

 

As per its name, you can drink a wide range of drinks as much as you can for a set price and within two hours of a limited time. This system is suitable for budget-minded travelers.

 

It means that you can save some bucks if you get a package from the All-You-Can-Drink by drinking 3 – 5 drinks within two hours. The package offers drinks like beer, wine, sake, chuhai, shochu, and highballs.

 

Alcohol & Cigarettes

§         From 120 Yen/350ml Can (Alcohol)

§         From 500 Yen/20 Pack (Cigarettes)

 

Apart from the Japanese Izakaya and All-You-Can-Drink packages, you can buy alcohol and cigarettes cheaply from supermarkets and convenience stores. As a result, alcohol is one of the cheap things in Japan.

 

Also, it's available 24 hours, and you can drink on the streets, a related regulation of drinking in Japan. But, it's not allowed to disturb others after drinking alcohol.

 

Similarly, cigarettes are cheap in Japan and available in stores where alcohol is available. But, you must avoid smoking outside of designated areas for smoking.

 

Sushi

§         From 100 Yen/2-Piece Dish

 

Sushi is one of the traditional Japanese cuisines that are often high in price. But, you have options to taste sushi at a lower price if you visit the conveyor belt sushi restaurants.

 

In these restaurants, you'll get sushi slowing around it on a rail-like track with a conveyor belt. Also, a touch panel can be used when you need to order any items, and they'll be available on your seat by a conveyor belt, sports car, or shinkansen.

 

Although sushi is affordable here, they provide it hygienically, rapidly, precisely, and without compromising the quality.

 

Fast Food & Family Restaurants

§         From 300 to 400 Yen

 

Japanese cuisine got appreciation by UNESCO in 2013 in their Intangible Cultural Heritage list. You should taste them at least once while visiting Japan.

 

Many people think Japanese things are expensive, which is not valid for all items – especially when it comes to fast food and Japanese family style restaurant.

 

Indeed, you'll find many casual, cheaper fast food and family-style restaurants daily that are value for money and achieve massive support from all ages of Japanese people.  

 

100-Yen Stores

§         Anything For 100 Yen

 

These shops allow you to buy anything for 100 Yen. It isn't a uniquely Japanese concept because America has one-dollar and 99-cent stores. But, 100-Yen shops like Daiso gained colossal popularity and expanded globally – especially in Asian countries.

 

These stores drew people's attention because of their high-quality products and value for money. They offer convenient daily items like candy, snacks, drinks, stationery, kitchenware, storage goods, and cleaning products. Also, you'll get trendy cosmetics, homewares, and more.

 

Japanese Clothes

Japanese clothing brands are making positions in the global markets, which are expensive outside the country. But, you'll find them cheaper at the cloth stores in Japan that are run by particular clothing brands.

 

Also, many branded products are reasonably priced, with great design and high quality. You may know about famous brands like Uniqlo, Muji, Yohji Yamamoto, and Comme des Garçons. They all have retail shops in Japan where you can buy their clothing cheaply.

 

Frequently Asked Question - FAQ

Still, have something more to know about Japan in terms of Japanese products or services? Here are some frequently asked questions that will help you learn more about Japan:

 

Are Japanese Things More Expensive?

Japanese things are more expensive than in countries like the USA, UK, and Australia. Despite considering Japan a more expensive country, it also has exceptions. Knowing the price differences from other countries for particular things, you can make a better deal in Japan.  

 

Why Many People Like Japanese Products?

The mantra of the Japanese product is "Success Through Quality." Manufacturers in Japan believe that many people love high-quality products, which will increase gradually. Besides, many prioritize quality over quantity, prompting them to choose Japanese products.

 

What Are Famous Japanese Shopping Items?

Famous Japanese items to shop for include cosmetics, electronics, inexpensive clothes, Matcha, and 100-Yen products. Besides, you can shop Weird & Unique Products and Traditional Japanese Products.

 

Why Is Japan Famous Worldwide?

Japan has earned a global reputation for traditional arts like calligraphy, flower arranging, and tea ceremonies. It's a heritage of various sculptures, gardens, and poetry. Also, Japan is famous as the place of birth of sushi, a world-renowned cuisine.  

 

Does Japan Scare Of America?

Japan is well-known as a pro-American nation in the world. More than 67% of people in Japan think America is more favorable, as per a recent survey. And more than 75% of them trust America rather than 7% for China.

 

Are Japanese People Friendly?

Japan isn't just an amiable country; it's also very welcoming in tradition and history. Travelers in Japan are surprised by their politeness, graciousness, and courtesy.

 

What Should You Buy In Japan?

A lot of things you should purchase while traveling to Japan. These include Sake, KitKat bars, Hanko, Kimonos, Vending machine toys, Wagashi candies, and Sensu folding fans. Etc.

 

What Are The Most Popular Shops In Japan?

If you visit Japan, you can shop different things from many popular shops, including Daiso, Don Quijote, Hard-Off, Tokyu Hands, Nakamise Shopping Street, Kyoto Handicraft Center, Ameya Yokocho, and Bic Camera.

 

Are Japanese Shoes Cheaper?

Sneakers are one of the cheaper items in Japan than in many other countries. 

 

The Bottom Line 

You learned much about why Japanese products are expensive, what they are, and what inexpensive things are available. Most travelers share their experience paying higher prices for loading, food, and entertainment.

 

Japan has a strong economy, so its prices are typically comparable to the Americas. But, you're aware enough of Japanese products and services. You can travel to Japan and move into different parts of the country easily as you learn how to deal with the prices of Japanese things.