Language/Japanese/Vocabulary/Shopping-and-Consumer-Culture
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Introduction
Konnichiwa! In this lesson, we will be learning about shopping and consumer culture in Japan. Japan has a unique and fascinating shopping culture that is deeply embedded in its society. From the famous department stores to the traditional markets, Japan offers a wide range of shopping experiences. Understanding the consumer culture and phenomena is essential not only for shopping but also for socializing and understanding Japanese society.
Shopping Terminology
First, let’s start with some basic shopping vocabulary:
| Japanese | Pronunciation | English |
|---|---|---|
| 買い物 (kaimono) | kaɪmoʊnoʊ | shopping |
| 買い物する (kaimono suru) | kaɪmoʊnoʊ suːrʊ | to shop |
| 商品 (shōhin) | ʃoʊhɪn | merchandise, product |
| 値段 (nedan) | neɪdæn | price |
| 割引 (waribiki) | wɑːrɪbɪki | discount |
| 売り場 (uriba) | ʊrɪbɑː | sales floor |
| セール (sēru) | seːru | sale |
| レシート (reshīto) | rɪʃiːtoʊ | receipt |
Types of Stores
Japan offers a wide variety of stores for shopping, including department stores, supermarkets, convenience stores, and specialty stores. Here are some of the most common types of stores in Japan:
Department stores
Department stores, or depāto, are multi-level stores that offer a wide range of products, from luxury brands to household goods. The major department stores often offer tax-free shopping for tourists, and some provide customer services in English, Chinese, and Korean.
Supermarkets
Supermarkets, often called suupaa or chomado, are the most popular type of store in Japan, and can be found in almost every neighborhood. They offer a wide variety of groceries, household goods, and daily necessities at reasonable prices.
Convenience stores
Convenience stores, known as kombini, are a ubiquitous part of Japanese society. They are open 24/7 and offer a variety of products, from snacks and drinks to toiletries and magazines. They are also known for their high-quality bento boxes and other prepared foods.
Specialty stores
Japan has a large number of specialty stores that offer unique products and services. Some examples include:
- Bookstores, such as Kinokuniya and Tsutaya, which offer a wide variety of books, magazines, and DVDs.
- Electronic stores, such as Yodobashi Camera and Bic Camera, which offer the latest electronics, appliances, and gadgets.
- Drugstores, such as Matsumoto Kiyoshi and Kokumin, which offer a wide range of skincare products, supplements, and medicines.
Consumer Culture and Phenomena
In addition to the types of stores, Japan has many unique consumer culture and phenomena that are worth knowing.
Fukubukuro
Fukubukuro, or lucky bags, are a popular New Year’s Day tradition in Japan. Many stores offer a mystery bag filled with various products at a discounted price. The contents of the bag are often worth more than the price paid, but the specific items are not revealed until after purchase.
Kawaii Culture
Kawaii culture, or the love of all things cute, is a dominant trend in Japan. Products with cute characters, such as Hello Kitty and Rilakkuma, are popular among people of all ages. Kawaii culture also influences fashion, food, and entertainment.
Tax-free Shopping
Many stores offer tax-free shopping for tourists. To be eligible, you must show your passport and meet certain spending requirements. The tax exemption is currently 10%, but it may change depending on the store and the location.
100 Yen Shops
100 yen shops, such as Daiso and Seria, offer a variety of products for just 100 yen (about 1 US dollar). These stores are popular among bargain hunters and are known for their vast array of products, including stationery, kitchenware, and cosmetics.
Conclusion
Shopping and consumer culture in Japan offer a unique and fascinating experience. Knowing the basic vocabulary and understanding the consumer culture and phenomena will not only help you navigate the stores but also give you insights into Japanese society. Happy shopping!
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