You're at a convenience store register and the cashier says something you don't quite catch. Are they asking if you want a bag? And do you have to pay for it?
This page explains Japan's plastic bag policy, how much bags cost, and what locals do to avoid the question entirely.
The 15-Second Answer
Since July 2020, plastic bags cost money at almost every shop in Japan.
- Convenience stores: Usually ¥3–5 per bag.
- Supermarkets and drugstores: Usually ¥2–5 per bag.
- If asked "袋はいりますか？" (fukuro wa irimasu ka?): That means "Do you need a bag?" — say yes or no, or nod/shake your head.
When did bags become paid?
On July 1, 2020, the Japanese government made it mandatory for retailers to charge for plastic shopping bags. The policy was introduced to reduce plastic waste — part of a broader environmental initiative by the Ministry of the Environment.
Before that date, plastic bags were free everywhere. Today, paid bags are the standard at virtually every convenience store, supermarket, drugstore, and department store in the country.
How much does a bag cost?
Typical prices by store type
- Convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson): ¥3–5
- Supermarkets: ¥2–5
- Drugstores: ¥2–3
- Department stores and specialty shops: ¥5–10
The amounts are small, but the question comes up at every register. Knowing what to expect means you won't be caught off guard.
What the cashier is asking
At the register, staff will often ask: 「袋はいりますか？」 (fukuro wa irimasu ka?) — "Do you need a bag?"
You may also hear: 「お袋はよろしいですか？」or simply 「袋、要りますか？」. All mean the same thing.
How to respond
- Yes, I need one: 「はい、ください」(hai, kudasai) — or simply say "Yes, please."
- No, I'm fine: 「いいえ、大丈夫です」(iie, daijoubu desu) — or shake your head.
Are any bags still free?
Not all bags are paid. A few exceptions exist:
- Thin produce bags at supermarket vegetable, meat, and fish sections — these small bags for separating items are usually still free.
- Paper bags at some stores — policy varies by retailer.
- Pharmacy bags for prescription or over-the-counter medicine — some drugstores still provide these free of charge.
When in doubt, check at the register — staff will let you know.
What locals do now
Since the policy change, most Japanese shoppers carry a reusable bag (エコバッグ / eco bag) as a matter of habit. At convenience stores, many people skip the bag entirely for small purchases and put items directly into their bag or pocket.
Local tip: A small foldable eco bag is easy to find at any 100-yen shop or convenience store. Picking one up early in your trip means you won't need to think about bag fees for the rest of your stay.
Bottom line
Plastic bags cost ¥2–5 at most shops in Japan — a small amount, but worth knowing so the question at the register doesn't catch you off guard.
If you're asked whether you need a bag, a simple yes or no — or a nod or shake of the head — is all that's needed. And if you pick up a small reusable bag early in your trip, you'll rarely need to think about it again.
