Our Countryside Neighbourhood Tour in Oita, Japan

The loudest thing we hear in our quiet countryside neighbourhood in our Japanese apartment are the kindergarteners, and the school bell ring across our apartment. That being said, we’re in an optimal location in the countryside, with a convenient 5-minute walk away from one of the main shopping streets in Usa city, includinng two drugstores, a grocery store, a children’s store, a dollar store, electronics and hardware store.

Here’s what is in our vicinity:

Drugstores in Rural Japan

Unlike what you might expect in Canadian drugstores, these in Japan are often a hybrid of drugs, toiletries, rice cookers and washing machines, a cooler section with beer and wine, and even a small grocery section.

Two drugstores face each other, Direx and Drugstore Mori. The proximity to the other doesn’t seem to hurt each other’s businesses, with cars always parked in the front parking lot, but we prefer Direx for its better selection of grocery items.

Children’s Store in Rural Japan

While not necessarily relevant to our lifestyle, there’s also a children’s store with toys and clothing.

Dollar Store in Japan

There’s also Daiso, the Japanese equivalent to a dollar store and small grocery store that has become our go-to stop for groceries. 

Grocery Store in Japan

Hardware Store in Japan

Next door is Komeri hardware store, selling everything from tools, gardening supplies, everyday household items, and electronics.

After finishing shopping, the walk home contrasts the big box stores.

People joke about how poor Usa is, which is never reflected in the neighbour’s lawns. Their trees and yards are always beautifully cultivated, and you can feel the pride in their property.