Top 10 Most Popular Potato Chips in Japan (2023-2024)

Japan’s top 10 potato chips ranked! Discover the most popular Japanese snacks and where to buy them.

If you're planning a trip to Japan and you're a snack lover, you won't want to miss the incredible variety of Japanese potato chips. From classic flavors to regional favorites, Japan offers something for every chip enthusiast. We've compiled a list of the Top 10 Best-Selling Potato Chips in Japan, along with detailed descriptions and buying tips for travelers. Perfect for those curious about Japanese convenience store culture, this guide is your go-to snack list!

 

1. Calbee Potato Chips Lightly Salted (Calbee ポテトチップス うすしお味)


This is Japan's most iconic chip. With just the right amount of salt, it's beloved for its simplicity and perfect crunch. A staple in any Japanese home.

 

Why it's popular: Familiar, non-overpowering flavor that appeals to all ages.
Where to buy: Found in any supermarket, konbini (convenience store), or drugstore.

2. Calbee Potato Chips Consomme Punch (Calbee ポテトチップス コンソメパンチ)


A savory, slightly sweet beef consommé flavor with a satisfying umami punch.

 

Why it's popular: Unique Japanese twist on Western-style seasoning.
Where to buy: Widely available in family marts and Don Quijote stores.

3. Calbee Potato Chips Nori Shio (Calbee ポテトチップス のりしお)


Seaweed and salt flavor chips that blend umami and aroma beautifully.

 

Why it's popular: Combines traditional Japanese flavors with a modern snack format.
Where to buy: Check Aeon, Lawson, and 7-Eleven locations.

4. Yamazaki Chip Star Lightly Salted (Yamazaki Chip Star うすしお)


Pringle-style stacked chips with a smoother, milder taste.

 

Why it's popular: Easy to store and carry, great for travel.
Where to buy: Supermarkets, convenience stores, and souvenir shops.

5. Calbee Hard-Fried Potato Chips Lightly Salted (Calbee 堅あげポテト うすしお)


Thicker-cut chips with a crunchy, satisfying bite.

 

Why it's popular: Texture lovers adore its crispy, hearty feel.
Where to buy: Found in supermarkets and discount stores like OK Store.

6. Calbee Potato Chips Happy Butter (Calbee ポテトチップス しあわせバター)

 

A sweet-and-savory butter flavor with honey and parsley notes.

 

Why it's popular: A whimsical flavor experience—Japan’s version of comfort food in chip form.
Where to buy: Look for the pastel-colored packaging in any konbini.

7. Koikeya Karamucho Hot Chili Chips (Koikeya カラムーチョチップス ホットチリ味)

 

Japan’s answer to spicy chips. Bold chili flavor with a light texture.

 

Why it's popular: Spicy but approachable—popular with teens and young adults.
Where to buy: Check Don Quijote or NewDays convenience stores.

8. Koikeya Suppa Mucho Ume Flavor (Koikeya すっぱムーチョ さっぱり梅味)

 

Tart and tangy chips flavored with Japanese pickled plum (ume).

 

Why it's popular: Distinctly Japanese taste that's refreshing and addictive.
Where to buy: Often sold near the seasonal flavor section in stores.

9. Calbee Hard-Fried Potato Chips Black Pepper (Calbee 堅あげポテト ブラックペッパー)

 

A peppery twist on Calbee’s crunchy hard chips.

 

Why it's popular: Adds a satisfying spice for those who prefer bolder flavors.
Where to buy: Found in supermarkets and online platforms like Rakuten.

10. Pringles Sour Cream & Onion (Pringles サワークリームオニオン)

 

A global favorite, still popular in Japan for its rich, creamy flavor.

 

Why it's popular: Recognizable and reliable flavor, especially for foreign visitors.
Where to buy: Available almost everywhere, from airports to convenience stores.

Pro Tips for Tourists Looking to Buy Japanese Chips

 

  • Visit Don Quijote, 7-Eleven, and FamilyMart for the widest variety.
  • Watch for seasonal or regional limited-edition flavors—they make great souvenirs!
  • Many chips come in compact or resealable packaging, ideal for travel.
  • Look for kanji like 「新商品」(new product) or 「限定」(limited) on the package.

 

Japan’s snack scene is both nostalgic and innovative, and potato chips are no exception. Whether you're a salty purist or a daring flavor explorer, this list guarantees you won’t leave Japan without a new favorite chip in your bag.