Don Quijote (nicknamed Donki, and named Don Don Donki overseas) is one of Japan’s biggest large-scale discount stores, where you will definitely be entertained! “Don Don Don, Donki, Don Don Donki~♪”, you know you’ve arrived at Donki when you hear the song on loop♪
There are currently about 500 stores, 40 of which are overseas such as in Singapore, Thailand, and Hawaii. The stores cover popular souvenirs that foreign tourists like to purchase in Japan, such as cosmetics, medicines, electrical appliances, sweets, and branded goods. Products are displayed tightly all the way from the ceiling to the floor, and you can explore the store as if you are searching for treasure in a jungle!
*You can find the store list here: https://www.donki.com/en/ . Make sure you visit one of the “Mega Don Quijote” for the best experience!
Now let’s take a look at the top 10 ranked recommendations to purchase for tourists!
Yaki-imo (Roasted sweet potato)
The yaki-imo, which ranks first in sales among all of Don Quijote’s products, has become a big hit, selling 12.45 million units a year.
The secret of its popularity is its surprising sweetness and reasonable price (within 200 yen) that makes it easy to buy. The reason for the sweetness and low price is that the company uses only sweet potatoes that are grown from seedlings in-house, aged for a certain period of time, and have reached a standard sweetness level on the sugar meter.
Mixed Nuts DX
The nuts are a mixture of almonds, cashews, and walnuts, without using salt or oil, blended in a golden ratio carefully selected by the person in charge who loves nuts so much. It is a very popular product that has received rave reviews on social media for its irresistible taste and high cost performance, and has attracted a number of repeat customers.
Face masks made in Japan
Among the wide variety of beauty items available, face masks are a must buy! We especially recommend those containing rice bran, sake lees, and other uniquely Japanese ingredients. Also, because of their interesting appearance, art masks inspired by traditional Japanese arts and old paintings are also popular. It is also a good idea to purchase several types and distribute them as souvenirs.
Korean Dried Seaweed
The package reads, “When Japanese craftsmen seriously made Korean seaweed, it became so delicious that it surpassed the authentic seaweeds”. It contains 12 packs of 8 slices dried seaweed, with just the right amount of laver flavor and sesame oil aroma, making it a great accompaniment to rice or as a snack.
Gummies
Gummies are addictive with their munchy texture and delicious taste. They are one of the most popular snacks in Japan, and most likely the most sophisticated in the world with all the different types of tastes and textures! Donki usually has a dedicated area for all kinds of gummies.
Pearl Barley Skin Lotion
Contains wheat extract, hyaluronic acid, collagen, and 9 organic plant extracts, to moisturize and condition the skin. Penetrates into the keratinized layer of your skin, which tends to dry out, and replenishes fresh moisture to keep your skin healthy.
3-Hour Quick Drying Jumbo Bath towel (2 pack)
Despite its jumbo size, it dries quickly and is ready to use the next morning even if you dry it at night. The main reasons for its popularity as in the naming of the product, is that it quickly dries, but also its fluffy softness, outstanding water absorbency, and large size that can cover the entire body contributes to its popularity.
Large Volume Edible Chili Oil
The chili oil has a delicious flavor and just the right amount of spiciness! Can be used to flavor multiple foods, such as rice, tofu, or meat. Fried garlic & fried onions make this a satisfying dish.
Roihi-Tsuboko
Poultices and stick-on medications for stiff shoulders and back pain are popular products. “Roihi-Tsuboko” is one of that that comes in warm type, cool type, and a cream type. Large size is also available, so it can be conveniently applied to large areas. The large capacity of 156 sheets for the regular size and 78 sheets for the large size is great.
Ochazuke-no-moto
Ochazuke is another staple of Japanese cuisine. Originally, this dish is made by placing ingredients on top of rice and pouring tea over the rice. “Ochazuke-no-moto” (ochazuke stock), makes this much more convenient just by sprinkling it over rice and adding hot water. There are a variety of flavors, such as salmon, dried seaweed, and wasabi. It can be stored for a long time, so buying in bulk is recommended.
Summary
Hope you enjoyed the recommendations! Don Don Donki is definitely a must go to place for shopping entertainment, and you will find a lot more interesting products there!
*You can find the store list here: https://www.donki.com/en/ . Make sure you visit one of the “Mega Don Quijote” for the best experience!
Comments