2024.11.28
How to Get a Costco Membership in Japan
Costco is a renowned membership-based warehouse originating from the United States. It has gained significant popularity worldwide for its vast array of groceries, household goods, electronics, and bulk items sold at wholesale prices. In Japan, Costco is famous for offering the American Costco experience while also carrying regional products from Japan and Asia. This also includes Costco Pharmacy, Costco Tire Center, and Costco Gas Station. Only members can shop at Costco, but getting a membership at Costco Japan is simple and comes with many benefits. Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting your Costco membership, as well as some common FAQs to help you make the most of your shopping trip.
Understanding Costco in Japan
Costco Japan works in the same way as its counterparts in the United States. There are over 30 warehouses across the country as well as online shopping. One of the closest Costco branches to central Tokyo is in Makuhari and Kawasaki. If you are not traveling by car, the best way to get to Costco Makuhari is by taking a train to JR Kaihin-Makuhari and walking. If you are going to Costco Kawasaki, you can take a bus from JR Kawasaki Station.
For other locations, check here:
Membership Types and Costs
Costco Japan offers different types of memberships: individual and business. Costco membership cards are valid at any warehouse worldwide.
- Gold Star Members:
- Ideal for individuals and families, this basic membership grants access to all Costco locations worldwide.
Annual fee: ¥4,840 (tax included)
Membership type: Individual
- Executive Gold Star Members:
- You’ll earn up to 2% Executive Rewards on annual purchases and this membership grants access to all Costco locations worldwide. Ideal for frequent Costco shoppers or restaurants and other small businesses.
Annual fee: ¥9,900 (tax included)
Membership type: Individual
- Executive Business Members:
- Designed for business owners, you’ll earn up to 2% Executive Rewards on annual purchases, and this membership grants access to all Costco locations worldwide. You’ll also get an additional business membership card.
Annual fee: ¥9,900 (tax included)
Membership type: Business
- Business Members:
- Designed for business owners, this membership type offers the same benefits as the Gold Star membership at a slightly lower price. Business members can add additional cardholders and enjoy access to Costco’s extensive range of products for both personal and business use. You’ll earn cash back rewards with the Costco Global Card. You’ll also get an additional business membership card.
Annual membership fee: ¥4,235 (tax included)
Membership type: Business
How to get a Costco membership card in Japan
1. Visit your nearest warehouse or apply online
You can choose to apply online here, but it will take time to deliver your membership card in the mail, so many people choose to get their card at a Costco store in-person. Head to your nearest warehouse during opening hours. Most are open from 10 AM and close around 8 PM. The membership desk will be clearly located near the entrance.
2. Choose your membership type
Costco has various membership options, which are outlined above. Generally, the Gold Star membership is ideal for individual shoppers and their families. It grants access to all Costco locations globally. Additionally, you can get a complimentary second card for another adult family member.
3. Complete the application form
The Costco staff will ask you to fill out the membership application form. You’ll need to provide personal information such as your name, address, and contact details. You can also fill out a pre-registration form online here to save you time. Don’t worry if you are not confident speaking or writing in Japanese as the stores have English-language forms available.
4. Show a form of valid identification
Have a valid form of identification ready, such as a driver’s license, residency card, or passport.
5. Pay the membership fee
Importantly, please remember that Costco Japan only takes cash or Mastercard as payment methods. At this time you can pay for your first year of membership and set up a payment method for future annual payments.
6. Receive Your Membership Card
Costco will give you your membership card on the spot. This card grants you access to warehouses and also serves as your key to Costco’s exclusive deals, discounts and services.
7. Start Shopping!
Grab a shopping cart and explore the warehouse to discover all kinds of products available at Costco’s discount prices. Don’t forget to check out the sample stations as well as the famous Costco food court’s hotdogs and soft-serve ice cream.
Costco membership FAQs
- Q. What are the benefits of a Costco Japan membership?
- Your Costco Japan Membership Card is valid in all warehouses worldwide. As a Costco Japan member, you’ll enjoy numerous perks, including access to exclusive products, discounted prices on bulk purchases, and the convenience of online shopping through Costco’s website. Additionally, executive members can benefit from cashback rewards and special discounts, enhancing the overall value proposition of Costco membership in Japan.
- Q. What are the recommended products to try at Costco?
- Costco has its own premium in-house brand called “Kirkland Signature”. You’ll see lots of these products in its warehouses, from food items to daily necessities. Costco also sells lots of American brands that you cannot buy anywhere else in Japan, such as Jones Dairy Farm’s 100% American pork products:
- Q. What special deals are available at Costco?
- You can check the latest coupon information on the website, email newsletter, or at the warehouse store entrance. The coupon price is automatically applied at the checkout for eligible items. Make the most of these by stocking up on non-perishable items! Executive Gold Star Members in Japan can enjoy additional perks of “Secret Coupons” that are given out at the entrance to Members or you can ask at the counter.
- Q. Can I enter Costco without a membership?
- In Japan, Costco typically allows up to two additional people (no limit for children under 18) to enter using one membership card. However, these rules may be subject to change at any time. If you do not have a membership card, you won’t be able to shop at Costco, so please obtain one at the information desk upon arrival.
- Q. When do I pay my annual Costco membership fee?
- When you first register for your membership card, you’ll have one year of membership. After that, you can set up a payment method for future annual payments, renew in-store or online.
- Q. Can I buy Jones Dairy Farm products at Costco?
- Yes! Jones Dairy Farm products are sold in Japan exclusively at various Costco locations. See the full store list here.
- Q. Can you add a family member to your membership?
- The Gold Star Costco membership grants you a complimentary second card for another adult family member. This way, they’ll also get the benefits of a Costco membership.