Shinjuku Yaoya at Go Shinjuku

Around-the-clock greengrocer near Shin-Okubo stocking rare fruit, vegetables and international pantry basics at bargain prices.

Shinjuku Yaoya is a long-running greengrocer on the Hyakunincho strip near Shin-Okubo, famous for being open around the clock and for carrying fruit and vegetables that are not always easy to find elsewhere in Tokyo. The shelves rotate through seasonal Japanese produce, tropical fruit and a few international specialties, often at prices well below what the supermarkets charge.\n\nThe shop is the anchor of a small international cluster of food retailers dealing in exotic spices, halal meat and Korean pantry goods, which makes the wider block a fun detour for anyone interested in Tokyo lesser-known food retail scene. The vibe is utilitarian, the signage is multilingual and the turnover is fast, which is why deals are so good.\n\nFor an after-hours or early-morning produce stop in the Shinjuku area, or simply for the joy of finding starfruit at 3am, Shinjuku Yaoya is a one-of-a-kind pick. Bring cash and a sense of curiosity.