Japanese convenience stores are convenient …!

Convenience stores (konbini) offer a wide range of services.

Below is a list of major services commonly provided by general convenience stores in Japan.

Product Sales:

• Groceries (not many but some fresh items as well)

• Beverages (Non-alcohol and alcohol)

• Snacks

• Bento (boxed meals) and onigiri (rice balls)

• Sandwiches

• Daily necessities

• Cosmetics

• Books and magazines

ATM Services:

• Cash deposits and withdrawals

• Checking account balances

Copy and Print Services:

• Use of copy machines

• Sending faxes

• Printing photos

Payment Services (cash payment only):

• Payment of utility bills

• Payment of mobile phone bills

Delivery Services:

• Acceptance of courier deliveries

• Courier services such as Yamato Transport (7-Eleven / FamilyMart) and Japan Post (Lawson, Ministop, Seico Mart)

Postal Services:

• Sale of stamps and postcards

• Receipt and sending of postal items

Prepaid Card Sales:

• Electronic money (Suica, nanaco, WAON, etc.) and gift cards (Amazon, Apple, Google, Nintendo, etc.)

Internet Services:

• Online ordering for in-store pickup

• Use of internet corners

Ticket Sales:

• Ticket sales for movies and concerts

Oversized waste sticker:

• Your city may ask to pay for dumping oversized items. You can buy the ticket for it.

My Number Card Services:

·      Residence Certificate

·      Seal Certificate

·      Family Register Certificate

***My Number Card Usage at Convenience Stores:

The My Number Card is a personal identification card issued in Japan, usable in various situations. Below are general steps for using the My Number Card at a convenience store.

1. Check for Eligible Convenience Stores: Begin by confirming which convenience store chains accept the My Number Card. Some major convenience store chains, such as 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart, may support its use.

2. Verify the Availability of a Dedicated Terminal: To use the My Number Card, ensure that a dedicated terminal is available. This terminal is distinct from regular ATMs and is equipped with a specialized card reader.

3. Insert the Card: Insert the My Number Card into the designated slot on the terminal. Terminals typically display where to insert the card or use a card reader.

4. Enter the PIN Code: The My Number Card is associated with a Personal Identification Number (PIN). If prompted, follow the instructions on the terminal to enter the PIN code.

5. Select the Service or Procedure: Choose the desired service or procedure from the menu displayed on the terminal. This could include actions like paying public utility bills or issuing a receipt.

6. Follow the Instructions: If the terminal provides specific instructions, adhere to them to complete the necessary steps. This might involve inputting particular information or confirming details.

7. Transaction Completion: Once the steps are completed, the transaction concludes, and if necessary, you may receive documents or a receipt.