5 Best Things to Buy in Japan With Your Last 1000 Yen

When your time in Japan is coming to a close, you might find yourself with a few hundred yen left over, wondering how to make the most of it. Here are five unique and practical ways to spend your last 1,000 yen, ensuring you leave Japan with memorable experiences and useful items.

1. Go on a Daiso Shopping Spree

Daiso, Japan's largest 100-yen store chain, is a treasure trove for last-minute shopping. With everything from Japanese snacks to chopsticks, and loads of cute Japanese-themed items, you can find almost anything you need or want. This is an excellent place to pick up souvenirs for friends and family, such as novelty goods, snacks, or even birthday cards that play "Happy Birthday" when opened.

2. Enjoy Conveyor Belt Sushi

For a delicious and authentic Japanese experience, head to a conveyor belt sushi restaurant. Chains like Sushiro and Kurao offer quick, easy, and affordable sushi, with most plates costing just 100 yen each. This is a great way to fill your stomach and enjoy Japan's most well-known delicacy before you leave.

3. Try Your Luck at Gachapon Machines

Gachapon machines are coin-operated vending machines that dispense a variety of items, from anime figurines to keychains and even tiny hats for cats. These machines are found throughout the country, especially at tourist sites and arcades. Each machine has a different theme, and while the items are random, they can be a fun and unique way to spend your last yen.

4. Relax with a Visit to a Hot Spring or Onsen

If you're looking for a more relaxing way to spend your last 1,000 yen, consider visiting a hot spring or onsen. Many public baths and hot springs offer affordable entry fees, and this is a great way to unwind before your journey home. It's a quintessential Japanese experience that you won't want to miss.

5. Pick Up Practical Items at Muji

Muji, a popular Japanese retail chain, offers a wide range of everyday items and food products. You can spend your last 1,000 yen on practical items like a clothes brush, dish towels, or a woven basket, which can be useful long after your trip. Alternatively, you could opt for skincare products or frozen rice balls, making your last yen count in a meaningful way.

By choosing these options, you'll not only make the most of your remaining yen but also take home memorable experiences and useful items that reflect the essence of Japan.