I'm an American who visited 7-Eleven in Japan. I loved it, and a few things surprised me.

Sarah VincentJan 26, 2024, 01:12 IST

I can't wait to go back to Japan — when I do, I know my first stop will be 7-Eleven. Sarah Vincent

7-Elevens are on almost every street corner in Japan and are known for delicious, affordable food.
Most Japanese locations don't serve the iconic Slurpee, but they have other great drink options

In the US, I'd never go out of my way to visit a 7-Eleven for a meal. But when I was in Japan, 7-Eleven was one of my favorite places to grab a bite.

And it's largely because the Japanese convenience stores are a far cry from their American counterparts.

Known for delicious food and low prices, the chain is incredibly popular in Japan — and the island country has more 7-Elevens than anywhere else in the world.

I visited 7-Elevens across 11 cities in Japan. I loved the convenience and tasty offerings and a few things surprised me.

Most of the 7-Elevens in Japan don't have Slurpees …

Slurpees are hard to find in Japan.Sarah Vincent

Still, I missed the Coca-Cola Slurpees in the US.Sarah Vincent

If your phone is dying, you no longer have to compete for the one working outlet at the coffee shop.Sarah Vincent

You can buy alcohol at 7-Eleven in Japan. Sarah Vincent

I couldn't help but eye the packaged squid or the seafood pasta with scallops and shrimp when I stopped by. Sarah Vincent

You can make your own coffee concoctions in Japanese 7-Elevens.Sarah Vincent

Water bottles in the US are usually pricier. Sarah Vincent

The bakery section of the 7-Eleven had tons of options. Sarah Vincent