Booming in Mie Prefecture! Exploring Authentic Vietnamese Supermarkets
In recent years, the number of international students and technical intern trainees staying long-term in Mie Prefecture has been increasing, and along with this trend, authentic Vietnamese supermarkets (Asian grocery stores) have been opening up in various locations.
Step inside, and you’ll feel like you’re on a street corner in Vietnam. Rare seasonings, fresh herbs, frozen oxtail, and lamb, unavailable in typical Japanese supermarkets, are packed tightly on shelves at prices just like in Vietnam. This time, we’ve carefully selected and will introduce deep and charming Vietnamese supermarkets in Mie Prefecture, beloved by locals and Vietnamese residents alike.
ASUKA SHOP – Vietnamese Grocery Store QUÁN VIỆT NAM
📍 Address: 712 Motomachi, Ohatacho, Ise, Mie 519-0503, Japan
‘ASUKA SHOP’ in Ise City is a hidden gem Vietnamese grocery store, converted from a private residence. Although the interior is small, it’s packed with various rare Vietnamese seasonings and ingredients, offering an exciting treasure hunt experience.
The biggest charm of this store is the warm service from the owner. Since she speaks excellent Japanese, even Japanese customers can shop with peace of mind. Many regulars are drawn to the homey atmosphere, where she attentively serves customers while holding her child. If the timing is right, you might even get complimentary homemade herbs like kaffir lime leaves, or find sweet, fresh lychees that have just arrived.
Coriander (cilantro) can be bought for as little as 200 yen per bunch, which is significantly cheaper than at regular supermarkets, making it an essential spot for locals who want to cook ethnic dishes at home. However, there is no dedicated parking, so visitors coming by car will need to arrange their parking.
Thái Dương Mart 5- Yokkaichi
📍 Address: 1-9 Suwa Sakaecho, Yokkaichi, Mie 510-0086, Japan
Located in the shopping arcade (Suwa Sakaecho) of Yokkaichi City, ‘Thái Dương Mart 5- Yokkaichi’ is a branch of the famous Asian chain ‘THÁI DƯƠNG MART’, which operates numerous stores in Aichi, Mie, Gifu, and other prefectures.
The selection is outstanding, especially for instant pho and imported seasonings, which are available at better prices than at Japanese import food stores. Another highlight is the frozen meat selection. You’ll find a wide variety of cuts rarely seen in Japanese supermarkets, such as oxtail and lamb, making it perfect for those who want to enjoy authentic stews or BBQs.
Additionally, the store has a restaurant (dining space) where you can enjoy inexpensive and delicious authentic Vietnamese cuisine in a clean environment. While some staff members may not be fluent in Japanese, a polite ‘Onegaishimasu’ (please) with a smile at the register will ensure a warm response. It’s a recommended spot to enjoy shopping in an exotic atmosphere, feeling the local vibrancy.
Thái Dương Mart
📍 Address: 2764-39 Hisai Shinmachi, Tsu, Mie 514-1118, Japan
This ‘Thái Dương Mart’ in the Hisai area of Tsu City is also a branch of the same chain. It serves as a hub for Vietnamese and Myanmar residents living nearby, allowing you to experience the authentic local atmosphere firsthand.
If you visit this store, you absolutely must try their ‘morning set’. The banh mi (bread) served in-store is perfectly baked, offering an authentic texture that’s crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Enjoy it with Vietnamese coffee, and you’ll undoubtedly be enveloped in the morning ambiance of Southeast Asia.
A practical tip for visiting: the parking lot in front of the store often becomes chaotic due to many international students arriving by bicycle. If you come by car, please be very careful to avoid collisions with bicycles. Also, it’s common to encounter ‘price tags that don’t match the actual price’ – a frequent ‘local supermarket abroad’ trap. The trick for a true local experience is to have the flexibility to enjoy this as part of a ‘real overseas adventure’.
【Tips】Your Shopping Guide to Enjoy Vietnamese Supermarkets to the Fullest
Vietnamese supermarkets operate differently from Japanese ones. Here are a few tips for smart shopping while fully immersing yourself in the local atmosphere.
First, understand that ‘price tags are merely a guide’. In some stores, not all items may have price tags, or incorrect price tags might be displayed. If you’re curious about a price, it’s best to simply ask the staff without hesitation.
Furthermore, communication is part of the fun. While some staff may be fluent in Japanese and others not, a simple ‘Onegaishimasu’ (please) at the checkout or interacting with a smile can ensure a pleasant exchange for everyone. If you’re lucky, you might even receive a small extra or learn about delicious ways to prepare an ingredient.
And the main targets at a Vietnamese supermarket are ‘meat’ and ‘fresh herbs’. You’ll find cuts of meat that are hard to get in Japan, large quantities of coriander (cilantro), and seasonal tropical fruits (like lychees) at affordable prices, so don’t miss the chance to buy in bulk.
