Minimalist Grocery Shopping in Japan: How I Eat for Under $30 a Week
Introduction Can you really eat well in Japan on less than $30 a week? Yes—and I’ve been doing it for months. As a minimalist living in Japan, my goal is to keep both my belongings and spending simple. Food is one of the easiest places to start. With a little planning and intention, you can eat healthy, satisfying meals on a small budget—and enjoy it. Here’s exactly how I do it every week, including my shopping list, favorite stores, and how minimalism shapes my meals. My Weekly Food Budget: Why $30? I chose a 4,500 yen (roughly $30 USD) limit to match my minimalist lifestyle and reduce waste. It also encourages creativity, healthier eating, and less impulse buying. It’s not about “starving” or strict dieting—it’s about intentional, low-cost nourishment . Where I Shop in Japan Here are my go-to stores for budget-friendly groceries: 🛒 Gyomu Super (業務スーパー): Great for bulk tofu, frozen veggies, and rice 🏪 Seiyu or Aeon : For basic fruits, miso, and eggs 🥬 Lo...