Misty Fujii, Author at Savvy Tokyo

New Life Season in Japan: New Mattress, New Me

Misty Fujii — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 22:00:00 +0000

April marks the start of shinseikatsu—“new life” season in Japan. The season for new apartments, jobs, schools and new everything. By the time you’ve survived the ward office and assembled Nitori shelves, you’re likely running on fumes. We agonize over apartment choices for weeks. But sleep? It’s easy to say you’ll deal with it once you’re settled. Just grab whatever mattress fits through the door. Except “once you’re settled” never arrives. Buying a mattress in Japan isn’t like back home. When your bedroom doubles as your office and living room, the decision takes more planning.

The Japan Mattress Problem

Futons are compact, but they’re firm and need daily folding and airing

Tokyo isn’t exactly the most restful place. Work hours are long, and commutes can be brutal. According to OECD data, people here average seven hours of sleep per night—the shortest in the developed world—and women in Japan sleep even less. So if you’re only getting seven hours, those seven hours had better count.

Then the actual shopping experience is a beast in and of itself. Sales pressure is high, and you’re deciding based on five minutes of lying down fully clothed under fluorescent lights. That doesn’t tell you much about how a mattress will feel after a full night’s sleep, night after night.

Online is easier with better prices and less pressure, but it can be a gamble. Can you trust the return policy? Will it even fit through your door? You won’t know until it shows up.

And there’s the futon versus Western bed debate. Japanese-style futons are compact, but they’re firm and need daily folding and airing. Western beds offer comfort but claim permanent floor space. Most of us just default to whatever seems easiest to buy at the moment and pay for it with our sleep later.

What Actually Matters

Sleep quality matters

I made a classic mistake during my first new life season in Japan. I told myself I’d upgrade my sleep situation once I had more money, space and time. And if you’ve ever tried to wedge a full mattress up a second-floor walk-up in Tokyo, you understand why convenience wins.

Eventually, my finances grew. My family grew. My apartment got bigger. But I never had more time. What I got was a sore lower back and the kind of exhaustion three coffees before noon couldn’t touch.

Here’s the thing about the new life season in Japan, though. It might actually be one of the best times to deal with this. You’re already rebuilding everything from scratch, so routines haven’t hardened yet. “Good enough” hasn’t turned into “this is just how it is now” (which lasted three years for me, not kidding).

If I learned anything, a few new life seasons in, it’s that sleep quality matters, especially balancing work and family. I know a good mattress won’t fix Japan’s work culture, but it can give you a good shot at actually resting during the hours you have.

So what should you look for?

Lower back support – Your commute’s already killing your back, so your mattress shouldn’t finish the job. Look for something that keeps your spine aligned, no matter how you sleep.

Temperature regulation – Japan’s summers are relentlessly humid, and winters are freezing. Hybrid constructions tend to improve airflow, which makes a noticeable difference year-round.

Flexibility – In smaller homes, compatibility matters. Look for a mattress that can work on bed frames or directly on tatami (traditional Japanese floor mats), depending on how your space is set up.

An actual trial period – Not five minutes in a store. You want a 30+ day trial that lets you test it through full sleep cycles in your actual bedroom.

What Works in Japanese Apartments

Emma Sleep mattresses are lightweight, flexible and offer support

The best mattress isn’t the fanciest one. It’s the one that balances comfort and flexibility, especially if you’re living in a small space or might move again in a year or two.

This is where brands that get Japan’s housing situation stand out. Emma Sleep is one example. Their mattresses are lightweight and flexible enough to work on a bed frame or a tatami mat, with the comfort and support of Western mattresses.

The hybrid construction provides lower back support (which, if you’ve ever slept on a too-soft or too-hard futon, you know how much this matters) and temperature regulation built for Japan’s weather. The mattresses are shipped compressed in a box for delivery, which can make that first setup easier in buildings with tight stairwells or small elevators. The fact that your bed can now be delivered to your door in a box is a dream.

Starting Fresh

Small changes can make a bigger difference than you’d think

Each new life season brings excitement and momentum, and it asks a lot of you all at once. Small changes during this reset can make a bigger difference than you’d think. Anchor sleep to fixed wake times. Put work away at night. Cut screens 30 minutes before bed. And make your bed worth sleeping in.

Emma is currently on a New Life Sale that offers up to 50% off, along with an additional 10% off if you use the code “SAVVY10”, which may make upgrading easier during an expensive season. Originally founded in Germany, the company has become one of Europe’s most popular mattress brands, with over five million sleepers and 12.5 million products sold worldwide. For some readers, it may even be a name they recognize from home. That means, unlike your work hours or apartment size, this is one part of a new life season that you can actually choose intentionally.

Don’t let good sleep slip away. Visit the Emma Sleep Japan website to know more.

What are you prioritizing in your space this spring?

100 Yen Shop Must-Haves for Emergency Disasters

Misty Fujii — Wed, 06 Nov 2024 23:00:00 +0000

Japan is susceptible to disasters like earthquakes and typhoons, so having a well-stocked emergency kit is crucial. As we mentioned in our rundown on what to put in your emergency kit, the 100 yen shop is a convenient and affordable place to find life-saving essentials for disasters. You can buy the following goods at Japan’s top ¥100 shops in stores or online at Daiso, CanDo and Seria (in-store only).

LED Flashlight (Battery and Hand Powered)

When the power goes out, you need to be able to see! Flashlights also make it easy to be seen by rescue personnel. LEDs are the best choice for brightness, but a hand-powered light is also useful. If you run out of batteries, you can use your own force to generate short bursts of light.

Price: ¥110
Shop: Daiso (Similar items are available at other 100 yen shops too.)

Whistle

Whistles are essential items for communication following a natural disaster. They’re louder than a scream and easier on your lungs if you find yourself trapped under rubble or on a high floor of a building. If you’re lucky, you may even find a disaster kit for ¥110 with gloves, rope and a whistle.

Price: ¥110
Shop: Daiso (Similar items are available at other 100 yen shops too.)

Tools

A few simple tools can make a big difference in an emergency. Wrenches or pliers can shut off utilities, a hammer can break through barriers and gloves protect your hands. Daiso and other 100 yen shops carry a whole range of tools that can help out around the house and when disaster strikes.

Price: ¥110-¥330
Shop: Daiso (Similar items are available at other 100 yen shops too.)

Slippers/Sandals

Admittedly, slippers or sandals aren’t the first choice of footwear in an emergency. But if you must evacuate quickly, having a pair of these in your bag is very helpful. In a pinch, they’ll protect the bottom of your feet from stepping on glass and other debris. They’re easy to find in various sizes and styles at any 100 yen store.

Price: ¥110-¥330
Shop: Daiso (Similar items are available at other 100 yen shops too.)

Masks

Thanks to corona, 100 yen stores never stopped carrying a full range of face masks. Stock up on some of these, not just for coughs but also for filtering dust. They might not be N95-level, but they’re still a lifesaver in a crisis! They also help prevent infection since illness can quickly spread in close quarters like emergency shelters.

Price: ¥110
Shop: Daiso (Similar items are available at other 100 yen shops too.)

First Aid Supplies (Triangular Towel, Bandages, Adhesive Bandages, etc.)

A well-stocked first aid kit is a must-have. Head to your nearest 100 yen stop for bandages, tweezers and more. You’ll be ready to handle minor cuts, burns and other basic medical injuries quickly and easily.

Price: ¥110
Shop: Daiso (Similar items are available at other 100 yen shops too.)

Batteries (Regular & Rechargeable Mobile Battery)

When the power goes out, batteries are your best friend. They’ll keep flashlights, radios broadcasting and phones powered up. 100 yen stores carry most battery sizes and even battery packs for mobile phones so you can keep all your essential devices fully charged.

Price: ¥110
Shop: Daiso (Similar items are available at other 100 yen shops too.)

Portable Toilet

Disaster or not, when nature calls, you have to answer. To prevent major hygiene concerns, Daiso carries portable and disposable toilets. You can attach the bag to an existing toilet or a bucket and do your business. The bag has a coagulant inside that helps to prevent leakage and stinky smells. It also comes with its own disposal bag so you can safely use (and discard!) it anywhere.

Price: ¥110
Shop: Daiso (Similar items are available at other 100 yen shops too.)

Food and Drinks

100 yen shops have a surprising selection of food and drinks. You can find everything you need for a quick and easy meal, from snacks to staples with a long shelf-life. In addition to bottled water, Daiso stocks green tea bags, canned chicken and sardines, dried ramen, rice and comforting treats like cookies and candy. Don’t forget to grab a can opener for ¥110 from the kitchen section!

Price: ¥110
Shop: Daiso (Similar items are available at other 100 yen shops too.)

Toiletries (Wet Tissue, Antibacterial Wipes, Toothbrush/Paste, Towels)

Stay fresh and clean even in the face of disaster. Not lifesaving per se, but toiletries are very needed if you have to spend time in an emergency shelter. Antibacterial and body wipes are convenient if you don’t have access to running water after a disaster.

Price: ¥110
Shop: Daiso (Similar items are available at other 100 yen shops too.)

Plastic Rain Coat

Need to stay dry? Grab a folded, pocket-sized raincoat. It doesn’t take up much space in your emergency bag, and you can also use it to sit on or cover up any items you don’t want to get wet.

Price: ¥110
Shop: Daiso (Similar items are available at other 100 yen shops too.)

Plastic Bags

Waterproof bags are your go-to for keeping things dry and safe. They are perfect for storing essentials and can also be used as makeshift shelters, window seals or emergency ponchos. You’ll find grocery to large garbage-sized bags at any 100 yen stop.

Price: ¥110
Shop: Daiso (Similar items are available at other 100 yen shops too.)

Aluminum Emergency Blanket

Daiso’s got you covered, literally. Emergency blankets are your go-to solution for staying warm, dry and safe in any situation. They’re lightweight, compact and easy to carry, making them perfect for an emergency kit.

Price: ¥110
Shop: Daiso (Similar items are available at other 100 yen shops too.)

Lighter, Matches and Candles

Candles aren’t popular in Japan in case they get knocked over in an earthquake; however, they can be helpful in the aftermath of a disaster. When the power goes out, candles can illuminate dark rooms, making navigating easier. They can also be used to cook simple meals or boil water for sanitation.

Price: ¥110
Shop: Daiso (Similar items are available at other 100 yen shops too.)

Camping Supplies

Daiso sells a wide range of camping supplies that can double as disaster supplies. Collapsable cups, emergency water bags, charcoal and pocket knives are all available for ¥110 each. If you want to go all out, you can pack your disaster kit with a tent, BBQ grill, portable rice cooker and more for ¥330 to ¥1,110.

Price: ¥110-¥1100
Shop: Daiso (Similar items are available at other 100 yen shops too.)

Recreational Items

Anything that helps pass the time and provides a sense of normalcy can be comforting. Puzzles, cards and coloring books can turn a stressful situation into a fun family activity, even in an emergency shelter. These 100-yen stop essentials might not save your life, but they’ll definitely save your sanity.

Price: ¥110
Shop: Daiso (Similar items are available at other 100 yen shops too.)

Other 100 Yen Shop Recommendations

Do you have any recommendations for 100 yen shop must-haves for your emergency disasters bag? Let us know about them in the comments!

100 Yen Shop Summer Must-Haves for Cooling Down

Misty Fujii — Wed, 19 Jun 2024 23:00:00 +0000

Here’s a refreshing selection of 100 yen shop summer must-haves for cooling products to keep you comfortable all season long. You can buy the following goods at Japan’s top ¥100 shops in stores or online at Daiso, CanDo and Seria (in-store only).

Face Masks

Disposable cooling face masks are the answer for allergies, summer colds or the still-circulating coronavirus. Seria’s disposable cooling face masks come in a pack of seven and provide a cool feeling when you touch and wear them. All major 100 yen shops offer washable cooling masks for a more eco-friendly option. Look for ones made with breathable fabrics like cotton or linen for maximum comfort.

Price: ¥110
Shop: Seria (Similar items are available at other 100 yen shops too.)

Body Spray

Cooling body spray is perfect for after a hot commute or a midday pick-me-up. The bottles are small enough to fit in your bag and easy to pull out anytime. Give yourself a spritz anywhere you need a blast of refreshment: your face, neck, arms, legs and especially your feet. You can even choose one with a scent like flowers, fruit or soap if you need extra deodorizing power.

Price: ¥110
Shop: Daiso (Similar items are available at other 100 yen shops too.)

Cool Body Soap

Cool body soap brings your body temperature down for relief in the shower. Made to make you tingle with cooling ingredients like menthol, it’s the closest thing to jumping into an ice-cold pool. The soap comes in 250ml eco-friendly refill bags, a bargain when all you have to do is put it into a dispenser. Keep this in the shower all summer for the ultimate cool-down.

Price: ¥110
Shop: Daiso (Similar items are available at other 100 yen shops too.)

Cooling Body Packs and Patches

Cooling body patches are a simple and effective way to keep you and your little ones comfortable. All you have to do is apply the patch to dry, clean skin anywhere you want to stay cool. Popular spots include the back of the neck, forehead, back and legs. The patches are made with gel but don’t leave any sticky or greasy residue on the skin, making them popular and safe for anyone on the go or for helping to sleep at night.

Price: ¥110
Shop: Daiso (Similar items are available at other 100 yen shops too.)

Ice Bags

Ice bags are a year-round necessity for bumps and bruises and a must-have for summer relief. Fill them with ice for targeted cooling on your head, neck, back or anywhere else you need. Their reusability and compact size make them a convenient summer essential, easy to throw in your bag and fill up on the go. These are ideal for anyone with sensitive skin or who wants to be able to move the ice pack around to different areas.

Price: ¥110
Shop: Daiso (Similar items are available at other 100 yen shops too.)

Cool Eye Masks

Combat eye strain and cool down with a refreshing eye mask. Simply pop it in the fridge for a quick chill and enjoy the added benefit of reduced puffiness. The masks cool you down from pulse points like your temples and forehead. Relax, unwind and close your eyes for the best cooling effect. Some masks even come with eye holes for on-the-go use!

Price: ¥110
Shop: Daiso (Similar items are available at other 100 yen shops too.)

Cooling Towels

Cooling towels are made from fast-drying materials and can keep you cool on their own. Soak them in water for an extra refreshing experience, or chill them in the fridge or freezer for maximum cooling. Drape them around your neck or use them to wipe away sweat. Thanks to a variety of colors and prints, they’re practically a summer fashion staple.

Price: ¥110-¥220
Shop: Seria (Similar items are available at other 100 yen shops too.)

Cool Body Wipes

To freshen up between activities, grab a pack of cooling body wipes. They work by being infused with menthol, alcohol and sometimes even moisturizing ingredients or deodorizing powder. Opt for wipes made with aloe vera or other soothing ingredients to avoid irritation if you have sensitive skin. Body wipes can be harsh on the face, but there are cooling face wipes to choose from, too.

Price: ¥110-¥330
Shop: Daiso (Similar items are available at other 100 yen shops too.)

Coolmax Clothes

Keep up with Japan’s sun protection culture with Daiso’s Coolmax line, which features socks, UV neck covers, arm covers and gloves. The lightweight, breathable fabric keeps skin cool and protects you from the sun’s harmful rays. This is an excellent option for long outdoor days, whether sightseeing, hiking or relaxing at the beach. The socks can’t be beaten, though. By helping keep feet cool and dry, they also help eliminate odor.

Price: ¥110-¥330
Shop: Daiso (Similar items are available at other 100 yen shops too.)

Fans

100 yen shops are a one-stop shop for fans. Choose from traditional paper fans in all colors and patterns or hand-powered fans that cool when you squeeze the button. If you’re willing to spend a few hundred yen more, Daiso’s battery-operated mini fans are a steal thanks to their high quality and rival fans at a higher price tag. Just press the power button for a portable mini air con to use on crowded trains or anywhere you need to go.

Price: ¥110-¥770
Shop: Daiso (Similar items are available at other 100 yen shops too.)

Cool Pillows

Pop a cool pillow (refrigerate it) inside your pillowcase for a comfortable night’s rest. This way, you can sleep and stay cool without worrying about melting ice or anything sticking to your body. The only downside is that if you run hot, it may not stay cool for too long. An easy solution is to buy two and rotate them as needed.

Price: ¥220
Shop: Daiso (Similar items are available at other 100 yen shops too.)

Face Wash

Daiso’s Cica Clear Wash Cool goes beyond cleansing. This gentle face wash removes dirt, oil and makeup while leaving you feeling cool and refreshed. The wash is mild, so you don’t have to worry about the feeling of menthol burning your skin, but it has a noticeable cooling effect, making the skin feel extra clean.

Price: ¥220
Shop: Daiso

Neck Ice Rings

Daiso’s neck ice rings deserve a spot because they are one of the most popular products for staying cool and are usually a lot more expensive! The reusable ice packs are frozen and worn around the neck, cooling you down from your pulse points. Neck ice rings are particularly favored during summer festivals thanks to their lightweight, and they come in sizes for kids and adults.

Price: ¥550
Shop: Daiso

Other 100 Yen Shop Recommendations

Do you have any recommendations for 100 yen shop summer must-haves for cooling down? Let us know about them in the comments!