If you’re traveling in Japan, there’s one place you absolutely shouldn’t miss — the convenience store (known locally as konbini).
These 24-hour shops are more than just quick stops for snacks like sweets, rice balls, or desserts. You can also find cosmetics, daily necessities, stationery, and even seasonal items — making them a reliable travel companion anytime, anywhere.
Convenience stores are also perfect for picking up souvenirs or grabbing small essentials during your sightseeing adventures, and are highly praised by travelers worldwide for their quality and accessibility.
In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at Japan’s four leading convenience store chains — 7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart, and Daily Yamazaki.
We’ll explore their unique features, best-selling items, and introduce recommended stores in Yamanashi Prefecture, along with popular nearby accommodations to help you plan your trip more smoothly.
7-Eleven — Japan’s Most Trusted and Beloved Convenience Store Chain
When it comes to Japanese convenience stores, 7-Eleven stands as the undisputed icon. With over 21,000 stores nationwide, it boasts the largest network of convenience stores in Japan.
In recent years, 7-Eleven has expanded internationally to countries across Asia and North America, establishing itself as a Japanese-born brand trusted around the world for its consistency, safety, and service quality.
What truly sets 7-Eleven apart is its extensive product selection and unwavering commitment to quality. Its rice balls (onigiri) and boxed meals (bento) are made with 100% domestically grown rice, ensuring freshness, safety, and great taste.
Whether you’re picking up a quick sandwich for breakfast, a hearty bento lunch, or a sweet treat in the evening, you’ll find delicious options at reasonable prices.
7-Eleven also releases seasonal and region-exclusive sweets that keep customers coming back for more. New items hit the shelves every Tuesday, so it’s worth stopping by often to discover something new.
If you’re visiting Yamanashi Prefecture, be sure to stop by a local 7-Eleven to check out exclusive items and sweets you can only find here — perfect for souvenirs or a tasty travel break.
【Recommended Store in Yamanashi】7-Eleven Yamanakako Asahigaoka Store
Located right along the shore of Lake Yamanakako, this 7-Eleven offers stunning views of Mt. Fuji.
Inside, you’ll find a spacious eat-in area, perfect for enjoying your rice balls, sandwiches, or desserts on the spot.
Because it sits along the scenic Lake Yamanakako driving route, it’s an ideal place to grab breakfast before sightseeing or take a relaxing break after exploring.
Best time to visit: 7:00～9:00
At sunrise, you can watch Mt. Fuji glow in golden hues, creating a breathtaking scene — the perfect start to your day with a warm cup of coffee in hand.
With many hotels and attractions nearby, this 7-Eleven is also convenient for late-night snacks or quick grocery runs during your stay — a truly dependable stop for travelers.
| Address | 506-296 Hirano, Yamanakako Village, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0502 |
|---|---|
| Phone | 0555-62-9158 |
| Business hours | 7:00～23:00 |
| Closed | – |
【Recommended Accommodation Nearby】Private Villa Glamping Mt. Fuji Yamanakako
One of the most sought-after resorts in the Lake Yamanakako area, Private Villa Glamping Mt. Fuji Yamanakako offers luxury suite villas, each equipped with a private hot spring, pool, and fire pit.
Each villa is completely independent, allowing you to enjoy the changing seasons in style — a refreshing poolside summer, cozy bonfires with autumn foliage, and soothing hot spring baths in winter.
During your stay, you can indulge in a glamping BBQ featuring locally sourced Yamanashi ingredients, or, if you prefer a lighter budget, opt for the room-only plan.
Pick up bento boxes, desserts, or a bottle of local wine from the 7-Eleven Yamanakako Asahigaoka store and enjoy a starlit dinner under the night sky — a uniquely memorable experience offered by this resort.
A night spent at the foot of Mt. Fuji is sure to become one of your most cherished travel memories.
| Address | 262-5 Yamanaka, Yamanakako Village, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0501 |
|---|---|
| Website | https://www.fuji-suitevilla.com/ |
Lawson — The Pioneer of Convenience Store Sweets with Its Iconic “Uchi Café” Series
Lawson is one of Japan’s most beloved convenience store chains, operating not only throughout Japan but also across China and Southeast Asia. Many of its stores are open 24 hours a day, making it a reliable stop for snacks, sweets, and daily necessities — perfect for any travel situation.
Among Lawson’s many offerings, the highlight is without a doubt its signature sweets brand, “Uchi Café”, which revolutionized the concept of “convenience store desserts” in Japan.
The brand’s concept — “enjoy a café-style experience at home” — has earned nationwide popularity for bringing high-quality sweets to the everyday shopper.
One of its most famous items, the Premium Roll Cake, features a light, fluffy sponge filled with rich, smooth whipped cream. It pairs perfectly with freshly brewed coffee from MACHI café, delivering a true café experience right inside a convenience store.
Another fan favorite is the “Overloaded Premium Roll Cake”, a limited-edition version topped with nearly twice the amount of whipped cream — so popular that it often sells out quickly. If you spot it, don’t hesitate to grab one!
Lawson makes it easy to enjoy delicious, café-quality sweets even while traveling — a treat you won’t want to miss during your trip in Japan.
【Recommended Store in Yamanashi】Lawson Kawaguchiko Station Store
Located in Fujikawaguchiko Town, this Lawson has become famous as a “convenience store with a view of Mt. Fuji.”
It’s often called “the world’s most photogenic Lawson”, as travelers from around the world share breathtaking photos on Instagram and TikTok.
However, as the location gained popularity, some visitors began taking unsafe photos by stepping into the road. To ensure safety, a temporary blackout screen was once installed, limiting the view.
The screen has since been removed, but please take photos safely and respect local manners when visiting.
After your photo session, step inside and enjoy some of Lawson’s beloved menu items — from the Premium Roll Cake to Karaage-kun (bite-sized fried chicken), perfect for eating on the go.
| Address | 3495-2 Funatsu, Fujikawaguchiko Town, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0301 |
|---|---|
| Phone | 0555-72-5052 |
| Business hours | 24 hours |
| Closed | – |
【Recommended Accommodation Nearby】The Garden Resort & Condominium
Surrounded by the natural beauty of Lake Kawaguchiko and the majestic scenery of Mt. Fuji, The Garden Resort & Condominium offers a peaceful, villa-style stay that feels just like a private retreat.
Each room features a bright, modern design with white tones and large windows, creating a clean and open atmosphere filled with natural light.
Conveniently located just an 8-minute walk from Kawaguchiko Station, the hotel provides easy access to popular sightseeing spots, cafés, and restaurants — and the Lawson Kawaguchiko Station Store is also within walking distance for quick snacks or late-night drinks.
All rooms are equipped with a kitchen, microwave, refrigerator, cookware, and tableware, making it ideal for extended stays as well.
| Address | 3561-3 Funatsu, Fujikawaguchiko Town, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0301 |
|---|---|
| Website | https://hotel-thegarden.jp/ |
FamilyMart — The Beloved Convenience Store Famous for Its “Famichiki” Fried Chicken
FamilyMart is one of Japan’s most reliable convenience stores, found everywhere from urban centers to rural sightseeing areas. With bright, clean interiors, a wide product selection, and 24-hour service, it’s often praised by international travelers as “one of the easiest-to-use convenience stores in Japan.”
Since opening its first overseas branch in Taiwan in 1988, FamilyMart has expanded to South Korea, Thailand, China, the United States, and Vietnam, becoming a global Japanese convenience store brand loved around the world.
And when it comes to FamilyMart, one item stands above the rest — the legendary “Famichiki” (fried chicken).
Since its debut, this juicy and crispy snack has become a national favorite, selling at an astonishing rate of about 3.5 pieces per second across Japan. It’s no exaggeration to call it a symbol of Japanese convenience store cuisine.
Over the years, more than 30 different flavors have been released, including Umashio Sauce (savory salt sauce), Yurinchi (Chinese-style sweet vinegar sauce), and Black Pepper, as well as limited-time regional editions. Hunting for exclusive local flavors is part of the fun — if you spot one during your travels, don’t miss the chance to try it!
FamilyMart even offers “Famichiki Buns”, soft rolls with tartar sauce designed especially for Famichiki. Just place the hot chicken between the buns and enjoy your own custom-made burger on the spot.
For an extra treat, you can buy lettuce, sliced cheese, or sauces in-store to craft a café-style burger experience — a fun and delicious memory to take from your trip!
【Recommended Store in Yamanashi】FamilyMart Kawaguchiko Forest Mall Mae Store
Conveniently located near Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchiko, this FamilyMart serves as a perfect base for sightseeing and driving trips. With a large parking lot and spacious eat-in area, it’s ideal for a quick break or pre-sightseeing stop, and it’s also loved by locals.
What makes this branch extra special is its selection of local Yamanashi fruits, such as Shine Muscat grapes — great as souvenirs or as a refreshing mid-trip snack.
But the store’s biggest claim to fame is the local specialty “Juicy-kun Hamburger”, a must-try item among anime fans.
Featured in “Laid-Back Camp (Yuru Camp△)” Volume 11, Episode 61, titled “Mini Beef Festival Tonight”, this hamburger gained instant popularity after its appearance in the series.
Remarkably, this FamilyMart store is the only one in Yamanashi Prefecture that sells it! Stocks are limited and it often sells out quickly, so if you find it, be sure to grab one.
About Juicy-kun Hamburger
quote：https://www.satofull.jp/products/detail.php?product_id=1138322
The Juicy-kun Hamburger is made by Sugimoto Meat, a long-established meat company from Shizuoka Prefecture.
The company is known for its connection to the famous “Sawayaka” charcoal-grilled restaurant, a beloved Shizuoka institution. Before Sawayaka had its own factory, Sugimoto Meat handled its production — leading fans to describe Juicy-kun as “a hamburger that tastes just like Sawayaka’s.”
It’s a rich, flavorful, and authentically meaty burger, delivering the perfect balance of juiciness and umami — a true hidden gem for gourmet travelers.
| Address | 4523-1 Kodachi, Fujikawaguchiko Town, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0302 |
|---|---|
| Phone | 0555-83-3360 |
| Business hours | 24 hours |
| Closed | – |
【Recommended Accommodation Nearby】GLAMPING VILLAGE FUJI KAWAGUCHIKO
Just a 10-minute drive from the FamilyMart Kawaguchiko Forest Mall Mae Store lies GLAMPING VILLAGE FUJI KAWAGUCHIKO, one of the largest luxury glamping resorts in the Kanto region.
Set amid the majestic scenery of Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchiko, this resort offers a premium outdoor experience where you can relax and enjoy nature in style — no camping gear required.
Each villa features a fully equipped kitchen with cookware, utensils, and seasonings, allowing guests to cook and enjoy items purchased from FamilyMart, such as a homemade Famichiki burger or Juicy-kun Hamburger.
A special highlight is the exclusive “Nature Bar”, an all-inclusive drink bar for guests featuring a curated selection of Yamanashi wines and local beverages — perfect for pairing with your meal.
With stunning Mt. Fuji views and resort-level comfort, this is the perfect place to unwind and experience the beauty of Japan’s outdoors in luxury.
| Address | 262-5 Yamanaka, Yamanakako Village, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0501 |
|---|---|
| Website | https://www.fuji-suitevilla.com/ |
Daily Yamazaki — A “Local-Style” Convenience Store Loved for Freshly Baked Bread and Exclusive Ice Cream
Daily Yamazaki is a unique convenience store chain operated by Yamazaki Baking Co., Ltd., one of Japan’s largest and most trusted bread manufacturers.
Unlike other major chains, Daily Yamazaki stands out for its freshly baked bread and handmade deli items, which are prepared right inside the store.
Its in-store bakery, Daily Hot, offers a variety of breads and pastries baked fresh by staff every day. If you’re lucky, you might catch the moment when warm, fragrant bread comes straight out of the oven.
From croissants and donuts to savory buns and sandwiches, the selection is always exciting — with new items released monthly, there’s always something new to try whenever you visit.
In recent years, the store has also gained attention for offering Baskin-Robbins (31 Ice Cream) cups, including limited seasonal and Daily Yamazaki-exclusive flavors. This makes it one of the few convenience stores where you can enjoy both freshly baked bread and premium ice cream — a pairing that’s become a hit on social media.
【Recommended Store in Yamanashi】Daily Yamazaki Oshino Shibokusa Store
Just steps away from Oshino Hakkai, one of Yamanashi’s most famous sightseeing spots, the Daily Yamazaki Oshino Shibokusa Store is a favorite among both locals and travelers.
It’s a perfect place to take a relaxing break during sightseeing, grab a freshly baked bread or a refreshing drink, and unwind before continuing your journey.
Inside, you’ll find the Daily Hot bakery corner, where you can experience the delightful aroma of bread baking in the oven. If your timing is right, you might even enjoy one still warm from the tray.
Despite being located near a popular tourist area, the store offers ample parking, making it easy to access by car. Beyond baked goods and sweets, it also carries daily essentials and bento boxes, making it convenient for both short stops and longer stays.
| Address | 1496-1 Shibokusa Irikakugoyama, Oshino Village, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0511 |
|---|---|
| Phone | 0555-84-1878 |
| Business hours | 6:00～22:00 |
| Closed | – |
【Recommended Accommodation Nearby】GLAMP DOME FUJI OSHINO
Located about 10 minutes by car from the Daily Yamazaki Oshino Shibokusa Store, GLAMP DOME FUJI OSHINO is a private resort nestled in the natural beauty of Oshino Village, featuring eight luxurious villas and dome-type accommodations.
Each unit comes with a refrigerator, microwave, dishes, and cookware, so you can bring back freshly baked bread, drinks, or ice cream from Daily Yamazaki and enjoy them in your room.
Guests can also enjoy the resort’s all-inclusive service, which includes complimentary drinks and light snacks, such as local wines and soft drinks — perfect for a relaxed evening around the firepit.
Imagine sipping wine under a crystal-clear starry sky, surrounded by the soft glow of the bonfire — a truly magical, once-in-a-lifetime moment in the heart of Yamanashi.
| Address | 2834 Shibokusa, Oshino Village, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0511 |
|---|---|
| Website | https://www.glamping-oshino.com/ |
Summary
In this guide, we’ve introduced Japan’s four major convenience store chains — 7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart, and Daily Yamazaki.
A simple stop at a local convenience store can unexpectedly become a doorway into everyday Japanese culture.
On your next trip to Japan, be sure to visit a few different stores, discover regional specialties and local flavors, and enjoy your own “convenience store hopping adventure.”
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