Osaka - Post Report Question and Answers
How would you describe the availability and cost of groceries and household supplies relative to your home country?
The cost of groceries for expats is lower than it has been in recent history due to the very weak yen. Fruits and vegetables can still be expensive, but generally food is very affordable. It is generally sold in smaller amounts (e.g. single servings) so if you have a family you have to buy double. The Hokkaido milk and butter are incredible. Many people shop for daily necessities at Costco or on Amazon Japan which are affordable. Department stores have basement gourmet stands where it is affordable to get prepared foods that are very popular. - May 2026
It's all available and all more expensive than the USA. When I left the US, milk was about $4 a gallon. Here it's more like $10. - May 2021
Same as DC. - Jul 2018
Household goods are available at Costco and while more expensive than the U.S., it's cheaper than local supermarkets. Costco is a ways away and local supermarkets have fresher food. Almost everything is available but it's more expensive. - Oct 2013
Groceries are expensive. The closest commissary is 8 hours away. However, FSOs can order from the Iwakuni Commissary and they will send items by Black Cat. - Aug 2006