Amazon Japan offers high-quality and exclusive products from Japan that are often not available elsewhere. However, accessing these items can be challenging due to language and shipping barriers. This article will provide you with a detailed, step-by-step approach to ordering from Amazon Japan by using Japan Flow, a proxy purchasing service.
Can I buy from Amazon Japan if I'm in another country?
Yes, you can buy things from Amazon Japan even if you're not in Japan. Amazon Japan welcomes customers from around the world, but shopping there as an international customer is more complex than shopping locally.
You'll need to figure out how to use the Japanese website, understand how shipping and payments work, and handle other details. However, it is important to note that not all items are available for international shipping.
To buy items from this Japanese marketplace, you should use a proxy-buying service. Japan Flow can help you buy from Amazon Japan and many other Japanese online stores, giving you access to all its listings as if you were living in Japan.
How to order from Amazon Japan: A simple guide
Here are the steps for using Japan Flow to order from Amazon Japan:
Step 1: Go to the Amazon Japan website and search for items
To get started, go to Amazon Japan at https://www.amazon.co.jp/.
To change the language on the website, start by looking for the three-line icon, next to the Amazon Japan logo. Click on it, then scroll down until you find the globe icon. You can change the language from there.
While some parts of the site may still be in Japanese, important sections like navigation and account settings should be in English.
If you can’t find the language settings or English isn’t an option, consider using a web browser with built-in translation, such as Google Chrome. When you access Amazon Japan, Chrome will often offer to translate the page for you.
Once you're set-up, you can start searching for the items you want.
If you have product numbers from your home country's Amazon site, you're in luck. Just paste the number into Amazon Japan's search bar.
Step 2: Copy and paste your item links on Japan Flow
If you’ve already found an item on Amazon Japan, you'll have to copy the URLs of the product pages. Here's how:
- Open the product page in a new browser tab.
- Click on the address bar, then copy it.
- Go to the Japan Flow website and log in to your account.
- Navigate to Japan Flow's "Product Request Form" web page and enter the link in the product link field.
- Fill out the form completely with all the necessary information.
- Click on the “Create a Buy Request” to send an order request
- After submitting all your requests, you can view them by clicking on the shopping cart icon at the top of the page
Step 3: Wait for approval
After submitting a buy request, you will need to wait for approval from us, which may take up to 2 working days.
Step 4: Pay 1st charge
Upon receiving approval from us, you will make the first payment covering the item price and service fee.
Step 5: Awaiting warehouse
We will purchase your products once we receive the notification of successful payment for the first charge from you. The item typically takes 2-3 days to reach our warehouse.
Step 6: Paying the 2nd Charge and Shipping
After the item arrives at our warehouse, we will notify you. At that point, you can request packing for your order. We will pack the item, calculate the shipping fee, and approve it within the next 2 days.
Following this, you will need to pay the shipping fee. Once we receive your payment confirmation for this second fee, we'll ship your order. The delivery time will vary depending on the shipping method you choose.
Why should you purchase on Amazon Japan with Japan Flow?
Shopping on Amazon Japan using Japan Flow offers a seamless experience that makes navigating this unfamiliar marketplace much easier. Here are some reasons to consider our service:
- Smooth shopping experience: Using Japan Flow streamlines the shopping process, eliminating potential hassles and allowing you to enjoy browsing a wide variety of products.
- Clear shipping information: When buying from Amazon Japan, shipping can be tricky. Japan Flow provides clear shipping updates, so you always know where your order is.
- Cost savings: By using a proxy service like Japan Flow, you can sometimes avoid extra taxes and fees, making your overall costs lower than shopping domestically.
In short, Japan Flow helps you access unique Japanese products with ease, empowering you to enjoy a hassle-free shopping experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my existing Amazon account for Amazon Japan?
You cannot use your existing Amazon account for Amazon Japan. If you want to purchase items from Amazon Japan, you will need to create a new account.
However, you can use the same email address and password if you choose. Just keep in mind that your account settings, order history, and payment methods will not transfer over.
Does Amazon accept PayPal?
Amazon Japan does not accept PayPal, but Japan Flow does accept PayPal payments. So, if you prefer to pay using PayPal, we can purchase things for you from Amazon Japan.
We also take VISA, MasterCard, American Express, Maestro, and other cards from all around the world
Can I browse Amazon Japan in English?
Yes, you can browse Amazon Japan in English! The website has an option that allows you to switch to English, which makes it easier for non-Japanese speakers to shop.
To change the language, you can look for the "Amazon Language Switcher" feature on the site. Keep in mind that while many product listings will have English descriptions, not all of them may be fully translated.
If you need more help with translations, you can also use the Google Translate Chrome extension to translate the entire website.
How much is shipping from Amazon Japan to the US?
Shipping costs from Amazon Japan to the US can vary based on several factors, such as the type of items, their weight, and the shipping method you choose. Here are some important details about shipping rates:
- Expedited shipping: Rates for expedited shipping begin at $5.61 per item, along with a $12.63 delivery fee.
- Standard shipping: This typically starts at around $17.50 per shipment, plus $3.90 for each pound of the item.
- Shipping calculations: Exact shipping charges are determined at checkout. They take into account the number of items, their type, weight, and size. Larger or heavier packages will cost more to ship.
- AmazonGlobal shipping: Items eligible for AmazonGlobal international shipping will have specific rates that may differ from standard options. You'll see the total cost before you complete your purchase.
- Import fees: Remember that additional customs duties or taxes may apply when the items arrive in the US, based on their value and the shipping charges.
In conclusion, shopping on Amazon Japan might feel overwhelming because of language barriers and shipping details, but Japan Flow can make the process much easier. With its help, you can navigate the website, handle payments smoothly, and get clear updates on your shipping status. By simplifying these steps, Japan Flow allows you to explore and buy unique items from Japan with confidence and ease.