Japan's konbini are far more than convenience stores — they're cultural institutions where you can buy onigiri, pay your taxes, ship packages, get a hot meal, and use immaculate restrooms. Episode 1 explains why konbini culture works only in Japan.
Show notes
Over 50,000 konbini across Japan. 7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart. Three reasons it only works in Japan: density, supplier ecosystem (3x daily fresh delivery), and omotenashi mindset. Hot meals, sushi rolls, tax payments, concert tickets — all in one place.