Synopsis

For the last year, nearly everyone in Japan – 98% – has visited a 100 yen shop. Once perceived as purveyors of inexpensive, low-grade goods, these stores have steadily raised their standards. Today, items from 100 yen shops are commonplace in daily life. How do these ubiquitous stores contribute to the overall well-being of the Japanese people? This episode of Japanology Plus features Emiko Masao, a leading voice on a popular blog dedicated to maximizing the value of 100 yen shop finds. And in P