Matsukiyo Haul Alert! Top 10 Japanese Drugstore Gems Singaporeans Can't Stop Buying
Discover why Matsumoto Kiyoshi (Matsukiyo) is every Singaporean traveler's must-visit Japan destination. From cult-favorite Hato Mugi toner to innovative Chu Lip balm, explore 10 drugstore gems at prices 30-50% cheaper than Singapore. Tax-free shopping, 24-hour locations, and exclusive Japanese products make Matsukiyo the ultimate one-stop beauty haul.
Matsumoto Kiyoshi, affectionately known as "Matsukiyo" or "the yellow store" among Asian tourists, stands as Japan's largest and most beloved drugstore chain. Walk into any Matsukiyo location across Japan and you'll immediately understand why Singaporean travelers consider it a must-visit destination—rows upon rows of innovative Japanese health and beauty products at prices that are 30-50% cheaper than back home, with tax-free shopping available for tourists.
The bright yellow storefront has become so iconic that travelers from across Asia specifically plan their Japan itineraries around Matsukiyo locations. From Shibuya to Osaka, these drugstores offer an unparalleled selection of products ranging from cult-favorite skincare to quirky beauty innovations you won't find anywhere else. Whether you're a J-beauty enthusiast or a first-time visitor, Matsukiyo delivers an authentic Japanese shopping experience that combines quality, affordability, and convenience.
Why Matsukiyo is Every Singaporean's Favorite Japan Stop
Matsukiyo has earned its reputation as the ultimate one-stop shop for Japanese health and beauty products. Unlike boutique cosmetics stores, Matsukiyo offers everything from budget-friendly drugstore brands to premium skincare lines under one roof. Many locations operate 24 hours (with brief Sunday night closures), making it perfect for jet-lagged travelers or those squeezing in last-minute shopping before heading to the airport.
The tax-free shopping benefit alone makes Matsukiyo irresistible to international visitors. Present your passport at dedicated tax-free counters, and you'll save an additional 8-10% on top of already competitive prices. Combine this with exclusive app coupons and seasonal promotions, and you're looking at savings that make it worth dedicating an entire suitcase to your Matsukiyo haul.
Top 10 Must-Buy Products at Matsukiyo
1. Scalp D Eyelash Essence by ANGFA
Price: ¥1,602 (S$14.50) | Size: 6ml
This eyelash serum has achieved "hall of fame" status on Japanese beauty review websites frequented by models and actresses. The Scalp D brand, known for hair care expertise, brings the same science-backed approach to eyelash growth. Apply nightly to clean lashes and watch them become longer, thicker, and healthier over 4-6 weeks.
Why Singaporeans love it: Professional-grade results at drugstore prices. Many users report visible lash growth within a month, eliminating the need for expensive lash extensions.
Where to buy in Japan: Available at all Matsukiyo locations nationwide. Look for the distinctive Scalp D branding in the eye care section.
2. ELIXIR SUPERIEUR Sleeping Gel Pack by Shiseido Japan
Price: ¥2,800 (S$25.50) | Size: 105g
Shiseido's overnight miracle worker transforms your nighttime skincare routine from a 10-step marathon into a single application. This thick gel absorbs quickly without leaving sticky residue, working overnight to deliver intense hydration and anti-aging benefits. Wake up to plump, glowing skin that looks like you've had a full night's beauty sleep—even if you haven't.
Why Singaporeans love it: Perfect for Singapore's humid climate where heavy night creams feel suffocating. The gel texture provides deep moisture without clogging pores or feeling heavy.
Where to buy in Japan: Premium skincare section at Matsukiyo. Also available at airport duty-free shops, but Matsukiyo offers better prices.
3. Chu Lip by ROHTO Pharmaceutical
Price: ¥598 (S$5.40) | Size: 7g
Say goodbye to traditional tube lip balms and hello to this adorable sphere-shaped innovation. The Chu Lip's unique design features a large application surface that coats both upper and lower lips simultaneously. Available in clear and tinted versions, this lip balm combines cuteness with functionality—and you're far less likely to lose it in your bag thanks to its distinctive shape.
Why Singaporeans love it: The novelty factor makes it a perfect souvenir gift. The tinted versions provide a natural flush of color while moisturizing, eliminating the need for separate lip color.
Where to buy in Japan: Near the checkout counters at most Matsukiyo locations. Popular colors sell out quickly, so grab them when you see them.
4. DEOBALL by ROHTO Pharmaceutical
Price: ¥640 (S$5.80) | Size: 15g
Who says deodorant can't be cute? This sphere-shaped roll-on deodorant from ROHTO reacts with perspiration to release a sweet fragrance while keeping skin dry all day. The unique ball design makes application effortless and mess-free, while the compact size fits perfectly in any handbag for on-the-go freshness.
Why Singaporeans love it: Singapore's tropical climate demands reliable deodorant. DEOBALL's Japanese formula is gentler on skin than Western brands while providing superior odor protection.
Where to buy in Japan: Personal care aisle at Matsukiyo. Multiple fragrance options available—the floral and citrus scents are bestsellers.
5. naturie Hato Mugi Skin Conditioner by imju
Price: ¥650 (S$5.90) | Size: 500ml
This cult-favorite toner has been a Japanese skincare staple for decades. Infused with Job's tears (hato mugi) extract, known for its skin-brightening and moisturizing properties, this lightweight toner suits virtually any skin type. The generous 500ml bottle lasts for months, making it an incredible value. Many Japanese women use it as a facial mist, body toner, or even hair treatment.
Why Singaporeans love it: Affordable luxury at its finest. The large bottle size means you can use it generously without guilt, and the simple, effective formula works for the whole family.
Where to buy in Japan: One of Matsukiyo's bestselling items. Look for the distinctive white and green bottle in the skincare section.
6. Japanese Sake Toner and Lotion by Kikumasamune
Price: ¥740 (toner), ¥840 (lotion) | Sizes: 500ml, 380ml
Produced by a traditional sake brewery, this skincare duo harnesses the power of nihonshu (Japanese sake) for beautiful skin. Sake contains amino acids that even skin tone and provide deep hydration. Despite using real sake, the alcohol scent is mild and dissipates quickly. The pink bottle has become Instagram-famous among J-beauty enthusiasts worldwide.
Why Singaporeans love it: The unique sake ingredient delivers results that expensive serums promise. Many users report brighter, more even-toned skin within weeks of consistent use.
Where to buy in Japan: Available at most Matsukiyo locations. The distinctive pink bottle makes it easy to spot on shelves.
7. Bifesta Carbonic Acid Foaming Face Wash by Mandom Corporation
Price: ¥600 (S$5.40) | Size: 180g
Bifesta's innovative carbonic acid formula creates luxuriously rich foam with just one pump. The tiny bubbles penetrate deep into pores to remove dirt, oil, and makeup residue without stripping skin's natural moisture. The result is thoroughly clean skin that feels soft and refreshed, never tight or dry.
Why Singaporeans love it: Singapore's pollution and humidity require effective cleansing. This face wash removes everything without the need for harsh scrubbing, making it gentle enough for daily use.
Where to buy in Japan: Cleansing section at Matsukiyo. The brand also offers makeup remover wipes that are equally popular.
8. FERZEA Repair Veil PRIME by Shiseido Medical
Price: ¥1,800 (S$16.30) | Size: 40g
This premium hand cream from Shiseido's medical line provides all-day moisturization with a single application. The high-performance formula is gentle enough for baby skin yet powerful enough to heal severely dry, cracked hands. A little goes a long way—one tube lasts for months even with daily use.
Why Singaporeans love it: Air-conditioned offices and frequent hand washing wreak havoc on hands. This cream provides lasting relief without the greasy feeling of regular hand creams.
Where to buy in Japan: Premium skincare section at larger Matsukiyo locations. Worth the splurge for anyone with chronically dry hands.
9. ARGELAN Skin Care Series (Matsukiyo Store Brand)
Price: ¥950-1,800 | Various sizes
Matsukiyo's own ARGELAN brand offers a complete skincare line made from 99% naturally derived ingredients. The range includes makeup remover, face wash, multiple toner options, beauty oil, lotion, and cream. The ARGELAN shampoo went viral among Taiwanese beauty bloggers, and the skincare line is following the same trajectory.
Why Singaporeans love it: Premium natural skincare at drugstore prices. The complete line allows you to build an entire routine without breaking the bank.
Where to buy in Japan: Exclusive to Matsukiyo stores. Look for the distinctive green and white packaging in the store brand section.
10. Spa Treatment Stretch iSheet by Wave Corporation
Price: ¥5,500 (S$50) | Quantity: 60 sheets
These Swiss-created under-eye treatment sheets are used in high-end spas and salons across Japan. Each sheet delivers intensive hydration and anti-aging benefits to the delicate under-eye area. The 60-sheet box provides two months of daily treatments—a fraction of the cost of professional spa visits.
Why Singaporeans love it: Late nights and screen time cause dark circles and puffiness. These sheets provide spa-quality results at home, making them perfect for special occasions or regular self-care.
Where to buy in Japan: Premium beauty section at flagship Matsukiyo locations. Also available at airport duty-free, but Matsukiyo offers better value.
Insider Shopping Tips for Matsukiyo
Timing is everything: Visit on weekday mornings for the best selection and smallest crowds. Weekend afternoons see long lines at tax-free counters, especially in tourist-heavy areas like Shibuya and Shinjuku.
Download the app: The Matsukiyo mobile app offers exclusive coupons and point rewards. While the app is in Japanese, the barcode scanner function works universally—scan products to check prices and availability at nearby stores.
Tax-free requirements: Minimum purchase of ¥5,000 (approximately S$45) required for tax-free shopping. Bring your passport and allow extra time at checkout for paperwork processing.
Best locations for tourists: The Ikebukuro Part 2 location operates 24 hours and features a dedicated tax-free counter with multilingual staff. Shibuya and Osaka Dotonbori locations are also tourist-friendly.
Stock up strategically: Products like the Hato Mugi toner and Bifesta face wash are consumables that you'll use regularly. Buy multiple bottles to maximize your tax-free savings and avoid running out between Japan trips.
Making the Most of Your Matsukiyo Visit
Start your Japan trip with a Matsukiyo visit to stock up on travel-sized products and daily essentials. This strategy lets you pack lighter from Singapore and leaves more suitcase space for other souvenirs. Save your final Matsukiyo run for the day before departure—you'll know exactly what you want to repurchase and can make informed decisions based on what you've tried during your trip.
Don't be afraid to ask staff for recommendations, even if you don't speak Japanese. Many Matsukiyo employees in tourist areas understand basic English, and product demonstrations are common. The store's layout is intuitive, with clear signage and products organized by category, making it easy to navigate even for first-time visitors.
Remember that Matsukiyo represents the perfect intersection of quality, value, and convenience in Japanese shopping. Whether you're a skincare enthusiast hunting for the latest innovations or a practical shopper looking for everyday essentials at unbeatable prices, Matsukiyo delivers an authentic Japanese drugstore experience that keeps Singaporean travelers coming back trip after trip.