Takamatsu Shopping Guide 2026: Don Quijote & Drugstore Must-Haves

Hey there, fellow travelers!

No trip to Japan is complete without diving into the vibrant aisles of Don Quijote and local drugstores for some retail therapy. While Takamatsu boasts its own Don Quijote, I couldn't help but notice that prices seemed a bit higher than I remembered.

In fact, for some identical items, the local drugstores offered better deals.

Rumor has it that Don Quijote stores in smaller cities like Takamatsu might be pricier than their counterparts in bustling metropolises like Tokyo or Osaka. Whether that's true or if prices have simply climbed across the board, it's worth keeping an eye out!

Nevertheless, I've put together a curated list of popular must-haves from both Don Quijote and local drugstores to help you maximize your shopping spree.

Eye Drops

One item I always make sure to stock up on is Japanese eye drops. Years ago, a local guide recommended a specific brand for tired eyes, and it worked wonders! Having nearly run out, I was set on grabbing 'Sante FX V Plus' again.

This enhanced formula is packed with Vitamin B6, delivering a nourishing boost and an intense, refreshing zing that instantly makes your eyes feel wide awake.

If you prefer a milder sensation, I highly recommend V Rohto 40, which also makes for a fantastic gift. Priced around ~$2-3, it's a steal, loaded with Vitamins E and B6 to combat tired, blurry vision. The yellow version is softer, while the blue provides a cool, refreshing kick – pick your preference!

I picked up the Sante for myself and the Rohto for my husband, and interestingly, the drugstore was about ~$1 cheaper than Don Quijote for these.

Melano CC Essence

This Japanese Don Quijote perennial bestseller is famous for tackling dark spots and blemishes. Just a drop of this potent yellow essence, housed in a sleek silver tube, works wonders to soothe skin stressed by sun exposure during your travels. Its compact size also makes it a perfect little souvenir for friends back home.

Nivea Super Water Gel Sunscreen

While many travelers swear by Biore sunscreen, my personal holy grail is the Nivea Super Water Gel EX.

You might think, 'I can get Nivea anywhere!' but this specific formulation isn't readily available outside of Japan. I've been stocking up on this gem for years during my trips here.

It bypasses the dreaded white cast and stickiness often associated with sunscreens, boasting a lightweight, hydrating texture that feels more like an essence. This makes it incredibly easy to reapply throughout the day. My husband even insists on packing it for his golf outings!

It used to be around ~$4, but now it's closer to ~$6.

Ramen & Udon Kits

Bring the authentic flavors of Japan home with these amazing ramen kits from renowned spots like Ichiran and Ippudo. The beautifully packaged boxes add to the experience, and there's no better way to savor the delicious memories of your trip.

And since Takamatsu is famously the 'Udon Capital,' you'll find an incredible variety of udon kits too. These are an absolute must-buy, especially as a local specialty unique to Takamatsu!

Sharonpas & Coin Patches

Sharonpas patches, known for their strong adhesion, and the convenient coin-sized patches for targeted relief, are incredibly popular globally. While you can find them in many places, buying them locally in Japan, especially with tax-free benefits, is far more economical. They make excellent thoughtful gifts for parents or anyone needing some muscle relief.

However, I've noticed that pharmacies in Vietnam often offer these at even better prices. Since I still had some from my recent trip to Vietnam, I didn't stock up this time around.

Suntory Old Whisky

Highballs are a massive trend globally right now, and in Japan, you'll find Suntory whisky at significantly lower prices than in many other countries. It might add a bit of weight to your luggage, but for any whisky enthusiast, bringing back a bottle is absolutely worth it.

Various Cosmetics & More

I also spotted many familiar Korean cosmetic brands like Anua and Mediheal. The prices weren't drastically different from back home, so I didn't feel a strong urge to buy them here. It truly shows how popular Korean beauty products have become worldwide!

I debated picking up some Hokkaido rice masks but ultimately decided to pass this time.

You'll recognize many of these products, right? From Kyusoku Jikan foot patches to various other familiar items. Don Quijote is always a fun place to browse, even if it doesn't feel quite as 'new' as it once did.

Aren't these little dolls adorable? It's quite a trend right now to accessorize bags with multiple cute charms, so my friend grabbed a few for her daughter.

After thoroughly checking out Takamatsu's Don Quijote, I popped into the drugstore conveniently located right across the street.

Sure enough, the eye drops were cheaper, and cold medicines were significantly more affordable. It seems drugstores definitely win when it comes to medical supplies.

Wrapping Up Your Shopping Spree

The real magic of Japanese shopping lies in the 'Tax-Free' system. For consumable items, if you spend over ~$31 (excluding tax), you can get an instant 10% refund. So, whatever you do, don't forget to bring your passport!

For larger retailers like Don Quijote, you can often find extra discount coupons online or through travel apps, which can lead to even bigger savings!