If you’re into Japanese nightlife, or just curious about what the country has to offer, chances are you’ve come across the term Girls Bar, Hostess Bars and Host Clubs. There are thousands of these types of bars in Japan, from big cities to small towns. Jump to the bottom of this page to see the list of plus size Girls Bars you can visit in Japan What is a ‘Girls Bar’? A Girls Bar is a type of establishment where customers pay to socialize with female staff members one-on-one. Employees drink and chat with their customers, play games and form a friendly relationship. The girls will often communicate with customers outside of work hours via blogs and LINE - they work to maintain these “friendships” full-time in order to entice their customers to continue visiting the bar. Many Girls Bars have a ranking system; the more popular a girl is (how often she is requested and nominated) the higher her rates are. Top-ranked girls can receive a better salary, schedule and other perks as they are the ones bringing in the most business. These bars are distinct from typical bars in that people frequent them for the feeling of companionship, rather than just the drinks. The drinks are often far more expensive than your typical bar - customers can easily spend thousands in one night. This is because, ultimately, you’re not paying for just the drinks - you’re paying for the time spent with your hostess of choice. In addition to the higher drinks fee, there are other fees that come along with going to a Girls Bar such as a companionship ship (for a woman to sit with you), time fee (depending on how long and what time of night), and service charges (15%-20%). Many customers frequent the same bar repeatedly, building a bond with one or more employees. Maid Cafes, in a sense, are closely related to what a Girls Bar offers -  women to observe and interact with, for a fee. Locals don’t typically go to a Maid Cafe for the (overpriced) kawaii parfaits, they go for the Maids. In most regular establishments, touching the girls is prohibited. Customers need to be respectful of the girls, though what is tolerated varies. The employees need to maintain a balance of friendly and attentive, appearing interested in a customer. The goal is to make someone feel wanted, whether that’s making them feel like they could have a chance to date a girl (or hookup with her), or just providing friendship. It’s not always about the faux relationship though. It’s pretty common for a group of friends to visit Girls Bars together just for the novelty, or for the female attention while they laugh and drink together. Visiting Girls Bars is a common activity and isn’t seen as taboo. People go alone, with friends, even with colleagues or their boss. It’s a mainstay in the Japanese nightlife and can be a lot of fun if you can afford it. Specialty Girls Bars A lot of Girls Bars have a concept or theme. There are bars for every niche and attraction - from muscle bars, shy girls with glasses, cosplay bars, tall girls, older women, women with tattoos and piercings - whatever your preference, you can probably find a Girls Bar for it. So naturally, Plus Size Girls Bars, or “Pocha” Girls Bars exist (pocha is the term shortened from Pochari, which means chubby or overweight). A Pocha Girls Bar functions similarly to any other Girls Bar; you pay to spend time with a woman (or women) and buy her drinks. However,  in most Pocha Girls Bars, there is a weight minimum for employees. Some bars hire a wider range of plus size women (70 kg and up), while others have a 100 kg minimum. The average weight of Japanese women, as of 2019, is about 59kg. Pocha Bar employees, in general, weigh 20-40kg more than the average population. Some of the most popular Japanese Pocha Bar hostesses weigh more than 150kg, almost 100 kg more than the average Japanese woman. The hostesses usually wear very revealing clothing - lower-cut tops, shorter dresses, and tighter silhouettes than what’s typically seen in plus size fashion. Who visits Pocha Girls Bars? Whether you categorize it as a fetish or just an attraction, the primary audience for these bars are men who like larger women. Some clients are attracted to larger women in general, while others are primarily attracted to women with very large bra sizes, no matter the woman's other physical attributes. A lot of people who visit Girls Bars are people that want to spend time with women they may otherwise not get the chance to talk to. Meeting new people and maintaining friendships/relationships takes time and effort, and some people don’t have the mental energy, social skills or physical time. Going to a Girls Bar, where the women are the ones who prompt conversations and give you undivided attention with little/no effort on your end is appealing to people. Instead of time/effort, you pay money, and for some that fulfills their need for socializing and alleviating loneliness. Being plus size is a minority in Japan, as is having a large bra size. For people who are physically attracted to plus size women, this gives them an opportunity they may not have otherwise had to interact. And, like other themed Girls Bars, some people go for the novelty. These people aren’t necessarily attracted to plus size women or any of their attributes, rather, they’re just curious to see what it’s about and want to have fun. Are Girls Bars Problematic? One could argue that Girls Bars, in general, are problematic and promote shallow social relationships for a fee, as well as for objectifying women.  There are issues of safety, harassment, and boundaries. With such high prices, patrons expect the highest levels of service and undivided attention. Some may even feel entitled to an employee’s time and attention outside of work hours if they visit the bar often enough. You could also argue that these bars provide an important social service, alleviating loneliness and reducing mental stress. The particular issue with Plus Size Girls Bars comes from the weight expectation, and in some establishments, the expectation to eat large quantities of unhealthy food. Along with ordering drinks for employees, many Pocha Girls Bars encourage patrons to order food for the women - and it is the expectation that she will eat a huge portion or multiple dishes. Throughout a week employees can consume thousands of extra calories. Employees are encouraged not to lose weight and can be fired from their jobs if they don’t meet the weight minimum. Some employees do maintain their weight, but it’s more common (and sometimes expected) for employees to gain weight while they are employed. Outside of the bar, employees build relationships and gain new followers by frequently posting on social media. If an employee is popular enough or has good relationships with people online, they can receive many gifts. On their social media profiles, you will often find links to Amazon wishlists or similar, where a fan can send their favorite girl gifts of her choosing. If they have a good relationship with an employee and visit her workplace frequently, they may also send her gifts not on her wishlist in hopes of gaining her favor. On these wishlists, you’ll generally see regular things like clothing, makeup and accessories. However, for this niche, you will also see a lot of food and snacks. It’s common for patrons of Plus Size Girls Bars to send food as gifts, with the expectation that she will consume it either at the bar, or post photos/videos of herself eating on her social media. Many girls who have a strong social media presence have fans from across the country. Some followers may have never actually been to her workplace or met her in person. With frequent gifts of food, as well as the expectation to eat in the bar, on top of drinking copious amounts of alcohol regularly, Plus Size Girls Bars employees face a unique issue; weight gain and health issues related to weight. But it’s not just an accepted side-effect of the job; it’s a selling point. Much like fetish content hosted on adult sites related to weight gain, the larger an employee gets, the more popular she can become. The more popular she is, the more she is nominated and moves up the ranks - and the more money she earns. The incentive is there for employees to either passively or purposely gain weight. Should You Visit a Girls Bar? Girls Bars in general are notorious for turning away foreigners or people who do not speak Japanese because there are rules and customs in these bars that they are unable to communicate. It’s also difficult for the employees, as their job is to entertain you with conversation. That’s a little hard to do with a language barrier. Some employees are willing to communicate via translation apps, and some may speak languages other than Japanese, but it’s not common. If you do decide to go for the experience, expect a high bill. Try to become familiar with how Girls Bars work; no touching,  paying for her drinks, paying for the amount of time, table charges, and any other fees a bar may have. It’s not a scam, they aren’t targeting foreigners or taking advantage of you - these are the regular fees for all patron’s. If you do not understand a bar's charge system (often explained verbally, as well as written somewhere for you to read in Japanese) you cannot dispute the bill after racking it up. The responsibility is on you to know how it works and to be able to pay for it if you stay. If you’re not up for shelling out hundreds of dollars for the experience, you can find many employees on X (formerly Twitter) and join their fandoms for free. Plus Size Girls Bars You Can Visit In Japan Like we mentioned above, Japanese is the primary language used in Girls Bars, and if you are not a Japanese speaker you may be turned away. If you are able to enter, be aware that staff may only speak Japanese, and all signage, menus and charge system explanations will be in Japanese. On each bars website you can find charge system information, just use a translation application so you can understand it. Tokyo サクランボ少年 (CherryBoy) Address: 東京都葛飾区新小岩1-43-1 第2東ビル4Fの右側 Website: https://www.pokepara.jp/tokyo/m14/a10047/shop16142/taiken/ Charge System: https://www.pokepara.jp/tokyo/m14/a10047/shop16142/system.html ぽっちゃりASK (ChubbyASK) Address: 東京都墨田区東向島2‐47‐11 ビッグウエスト向島ビル501 Website: https://www.pokepara.jp/tokyo/m14/a10046/shop16231/ Charge System: https://www.pokepara.jp/tokyo/m14/a10046/shop16231/system.html Osaka ぽっちゃりバー Pochari Bar Cocoron Address: 住所 大阪府大阪市中央区千日前1-6-7日宝阪町ファイブ2F Twiter: @cocoron_pocha Website: https://cocoron.info/ Charge System: https://cocoron.info/price/ Sapporo 美豚 Address: 北海道札幌市中央区南5条西2丁目 サイバーシティービル10F Website: http://biton29.com/ Charge System: Not available online

Dear My Love has released their April 2024 LookBook outfits. Dear My Love categorizes their collections by aesthetics and size. While the sister brand Whip typically carries plus sizes (4L-6L), other sister brands have started carrying a wider variety of sizes in some items. Dear My Love Whip - Look 1 Shirt, Sizes 4L-6L, ¥5,990 The combination of heart decals and off-the-shoulder lace detailing make this blouse a sweet statement piece. The high, choker-style neckline features a faux-pearl heart decal and has a keyhole opening at the back of the neck. The ruffled lace extends around the entire shirt along the décolletage and upper back. The front of the blouse has silver gemstone hearts and removable ribbons (attached with safety pins). The shirt is made of a soft stretchy material. Because of the material type, wearing an inner layer under the lighter color options is recommended. Skirt, Sizes 4L-6L, ¥5,990 This skirt matches seamlessly with the blouse, using similar heart gemstones to tie the outfit together. Small pearl decals adorn the front of the skirt, while the belted area is lined with lace. It’s a high waist design that flares out from the body at the hip. And it has pockets! Because of the attention to detail and high-waist design, it’s recommended to pair with a tucked-in blouse. Dear My Love Emily - Look 2 Emily Frill Dress, Sizes 4L-6L, ¥5,990 The Emily Frill Dress features tiered frill details on the skirt, as well as lace details around the neck and sleeve openings. On the front of the dress is a large removable bow and decorative heart buttons. On the cuffs of the dress, there are functional heart buttons and pretty lace trim. The entirety of the dress is lined; the skirt is lined with a delicate tulle for added movement and volume. And true to the brand - this dress has pockets. The dress is made with a firm material (non-stretch) and has a zipper on the back for closure. Check the product measurements to ensure a proper fit. Dear My Love does not have a storefront; Online shopping only. Ships within Japan (does not ship internationally unless a third-party shipping company is used). This post is not sponsored or affiliated with the retailer or brand. RosePlusJapan does not directly sell or receive any commission for promoting the items in this post. The RosePlusJapan lookbook is meant to showcase plus-size Japanese fashion. Links may become void if items are no longer available.

Denim blues are the color of the season. Spring 2024 into Summer, denim colors and monochrome denim looks are in. Instead of thick denim which can get hot in Japan’s humid summers, pieces in airier fabrics are coming out so you can get the denim look without the weight of heavy denim materials. Re-J just released this set that includes an elbow-length denim jacket and matching thin strapped dress. You can wear the set together for a monochrome look, or opt to layer a light shirt under the dress. You can elevate the denim by pairing it with an elegant shirt, or go casual with a tee. Shop the Look: Denim Set Re-J [SET]デニムジャケット×ワンピース ¥8,789 Available in sizes LL - 4L Not looking for a set? These 2 belted dresses are offered in denim colors, but are made with lighter materials. Both have shirring details along the upper back, which means they’ll stretch to fit your curves. The Denim Jumper Skirt is made with a lightweight denim mixed fabric and is available in dark blue, or faded black.  The Contrast Stitch Jumper Skirt isn't denim, but the stitch details combined with the blue color give the illusion. It's made with a much lighter polyester mix fabric that has a slight stretch. It is available in a dark denim blue or sage green. Shop the Looks Re-J Denim Jumper Skirt, ¥6,589 Re-J Contrast Stitch Jumper Skirt, ¥6,589 The Spring collection from Punyus is bringing acid wash back with denim cargo pants and a matching jacket. Offered in green or pink, the set (sold separately) can be worn together for a very 90’s throwback, or on their own to make your fit pop. Punyus uses a different size system from the standard Japanese plus size sizing charts, so be sure to check item measurements before ordering online, or head over to a Punyus location. Shop the Look: Acid Wash Denim Punyus Oversized Jacket, ¥11,000 Punyus Baggy Jeans, ¥6,600 This post is not sponsored or affiliated with the retailer or brand. RosePlusJapan does not directly sell or receive any commission for promoting the items in this post. The RosePlusJapan lookbook is meant to showcase plus-size Japanese fashion. Links may become void if items are no longer available.

Tinder in Japan is almost exclusively a place to find people for casual hookups or services for hire. Despite the company's push to get more users on the app through marketing campaigns, more and more people are turning to competing dating apps like Bumble. Tinder in Japan is used for hookups and is fraught with bots, MLM and Crypto Coin recruiters, and endless pictures of food. It's not particularly popular with locals who are looking to make real connections, and you probably won't find your Japanese soulmate using the app. But if you're willing to sift through the fake profiles and navigate around the weirdos, you might get lucky. Especially in larger cities, you'll find a lot of tourists and foreign locals using the app. If you're a foreigner in Japan you should know how it's viewed by locals and the type of people that do use it. If you're looking to make friends or hoping for a long-term relationship, there are other, much better places to find people. It can be tempting for foreigners to want to use Tinder to meet new people because in many countries it's still popular, but unless you're exclusively looking for a hookup with someone who may or may not be catfishing you/married/trying to recruit you to their cult or MLM, it's really not worth your time. HelloTalk, the language exchange app, is popular with locals looking to meet and (potentially) get with a foreigner. Pairs is a Japanese app for people looking for more serious relationships - the majoroty of users are Japanese speakers, as the entire site is in Japanese. And of course, there is Bumble which has risen in popularity over the years. If you are going to use Tinder, there are things to keep in mind. Not saying that this is the case 100% of the time, but it happens often enough that it's commonly talked about among people who dared to venture into Tinder land. Some of these issues don't apply to everyone, and not all of them are exclusive to just Tinder, but it's still better to know what you're possibly signing up for. Not everyone is interested in foreigners, especially if there is a language barrier. Beware of people who are a little too enthusiastic about hooking up or dating a foreigner. We cringe when we hear things like "Japanese women are the best in the world because they're quiet, docile and respect traditional gender roles" - there are people who seek out foreigners for (different, but equally cringey) stereotypes. The attention may be nice, and if it's just a hookup you might be fine, but getting into a relationship with someone who has preconceived expectations about how you'll act or behave is tiresome. Affairs in Japan are common, for both men and women. There’s a chance that your fling is married or has a family. Some people are upfront about it, and others hide it. While prostitution isn’t advertised openly, it’s extremely common and available across Japan. There are people who take advantage of foreigners for “free” sex, that they would have otherwise had to pay for because the stereotype is that it's easy to get with a foreigner. “Conquest” blogs are a thing. These bloggers will post screenshots of conversations and any photos or videos you’ve shared with them in private. Some blur names and faces (to not break the privacy laws). Some people will go so far as to use hidden cameras to record their adventures without your knowledge/consent, and then post those videos online. "Conquest" Twitter is also a thing. If it wasn't bad enough having weirdos post your image/name/contact details to their blog, some people will post it to their Twitter. So... there's that. Catfishing - lying about age and appearance is SUPER common. Men and women both will use heavily filtered photos to change their appearances. For men, the common tactic is to use very old or filtered photos to appear much younger than they actually are. While you may think you're talking to a 28-year-old, you could actually be chatting with a 60-year-old who has a thing for young women. Or worse, you're unsuspectingly making plans with a high schooler. Japan does not have a good track record when it comes to reporting sexual harassment or abuse. If you are the victim of abuse it can be very difficult to have your case heard or for any recourse at all to take place. There are many tragic stories of women who reported incidents (which in itself is still seen as taboo), that had their cases completely dismissed. Stalking is also common. And, like sexual abuse, law enforcement does very little about reported stalking cases (unless the victim gets assaulted or murdered). The people you'll see on Tinder Still thinking about trying it out? Here are some of the great people you'll see in your match-making journey. Other foreigners: Tinder is popular with foreigners, so you'll likely see quite a few using the app. In some cities (and rural towns), they can be the majority. The food pics: People want to be discreet, The ones who are upfront: At least with these people you know exactly what they're looking for. They will tell you exactly what they want in their profile description or within a few minutes of chatting. The Catfish: These guys all say they're in their 20's or 30's but in reality, they're either high schoolers or much, much older than that. Mr. Sus intentions: They'll say that they want to make friends with foreigners or practice their English, but they actually want to sleep with you. Halfway into your first meetup, they'll make a wtf move out of the blue. The one that's hiding their affairs from their SO: TBH it's hard to tell who's married and who is actually single. If they suggest meeting in the next town over, that's a pretty good sign that they're in stealth mode. Some people put it right in their profile that they don't care if you're also married, because it's a common thing across the board. Scammers and traders: These guys (?) use fake profiles to woo people for extortion scams, or to pitch their shady MLMs or 'fantastic work from home business opportunities'. The guilt trippers: Even though there was no mention of hooking up during your text conversations and you think you're just going for dinner, they'll suddenly try every whiney, begging line to convince you to go to a hotel with them after dinner. "BUT IT'S MY BIRTHDAY". "I CAME ALL THIS WAY". Yadda yadda. Safety measures to take If you're online dating in any country, there are always risks. If you do decide to meet someone irl that you met on Tinder: 1. Know who you're meeting and tell someone where you're going. Get as much information as you can about your date (including a photo) and give it to a trusted person. 2. Set a time for a safety check. Hopefully, you have someone who can text or call at a set time to check that you're okay and things are going well. 3. Don't share your home address or intimate photos with someone you just met. 4. Share your LINE or SNS details at your own discretion. Do you really want this hookup knowing your personal details? 5. Meet someone for the first time in a public place. If you're not comfortable with them in any way, it's okay to decline taking it further. 6. If you show up and your date looks nothing like their photo, it's okay to walk away. Don't feel obligated to stay and be polite with someone who lied to you. 7. Set boundaries and make those boundaries clear before any action starts, especially if there is a language barrier. 8. Don't travel to anywhere that you don't know how to get back from on your own. If your date suggests a hotel on the outskirts of town, in an area with no public transportation or in a neighborhood you've never heard of, decline. If things go bad you want to be able to safely and quickly go home on your own. 9. Bring protection and use protection. Have them suit up for your sake. If they complain or try to guilt you for it, YEET. Their few minutes of fun isn't worth risking disease or unwanted pregnancy. 10. Have an emergency number you can call and learn how to ask for help in Japanese. Worst case scenario. With that, you've heard the warnings and have a grasp on what you're getting into. Be safe, swipe with caution and know that if you pick up with Tinder in Japan, there's a chance you'll have a cringe story to add to the 100s from all the foreigners who came (or not, pun intended) before you. This post is written from the hetero female perspective. Individual experiences may differ.

This plus size lace blouse from Marun features an oversized ruffled collar and is available in Japanese sizes L to 10L. Model in video is 158cm tall, wearing size 4L in all items. Scroll down for the direct links to all items seen in the video. The front buttons are hidden with only a single pearl-like button accent adorning the top. The sheer lace sleeve design has elastic at the wrist, which allows the sleeve to be comfortably pushed up as desired. The blouse is lined with a camisole in the same color. Shop the Looks Available online, shipping within Japan Brand: Marun Website: Nisen Wide Collar Lace Blouse - 大きいサイズ ビッグカラーレースブラウス ¥5,990～¥6,590 Sizes Available: L - 10L White or Blue Rose Button Flare Skirt - 大きいサイズ 薔薇ボタンフレアスカート ¥5,990～¥6,590 Sizes Available: L - 10L Pink Look 1: Ivory Skirt Midi Length Linen Flare Skirt - 大きいサイズ ミディ丈麻調フレアスカート ¥3,990～¥4,490 Sizes Available: L - 10L Ivory, Mocha Brown or Black Look 2: Camisole Dress Shoulder Ribbon Camisole Dress - 大きいサイズ 肩リボンキャミソールワンピース ¥12,900～¥13,900 Sizes Available: L - 10L Ivory or Black Look 3: Navy Skirt Navy skirt is no longer available Look 4: Light Blue Jeans Side Zip Wide Leg Denim Jeans - 大きいサイズ サイドジップワイドデニムパンツ ¥12,900～¥13,900 Sizes Available: L - 10L Off-White or Light Blue This post is not sponsored or affiliated with the retailer or brand. RosePlusJapan does not directly sell or receive any commission for promoting the items in this post. The RosePlusJapan lookbook is meant to showcase plus-size Japanese fashion. Links may become void if items are no longer available.

Torrid is a popular American shop that carries a wide range of trendy plus-size clothing, shoes, and accessories. With affordable prices, many sales, and reasonable international shipping costs, Torrid pieces can really add some flare to your wardrobe. Torrid has sales almost every week of the year, ranging from BOGO to 30% to 50% off, and up to 70% off of clearance items! I have ordered from Torrid countless times since moving to Japan. On average, my packages arrive 2-4 weeks after making my purchase, costing about $65USD to ship ~$500 worth of items. Once or twice a year, Torrid offers free international shipping along with huge discounts. This is the best time to buy! Pieces I love: Twill Skirts: I live for Torrid's skirts, and the twill fabric items have a beautiful flow. I think I've purchased almost every color of twill mini skirts (hits above the knee) from the past 6 seasons. The fabric and cut is flattering, and it's light weight so it's great for summer in Japan. Skater Skirts and Dresses: My FAVORITE cut of skirt and dress, they create an A-Line shape that always make me feel beautiful. Wide Width Boots: I've yet to buy a boot from Torrid that I don't like. It can be difficult to find knee-high or ankle boots that fit comfortably when you have thick legs. Fortunately, Torrid offers Wide shoes that accommodate wide feet and your plus-size stems. Bombshell Skinny Jeans: These jeans are comfortable and tailored just right for my body type. Skinny Jeans in general are being phased out, and tight-fitting pants are a rare find in Japan. However, as a Millenial and creature of habit, I'm weak for body Hugging denim. There's a wide variety of lengths and styles, and on average I found each pair (at U.S $75) lasting about a year or 2 of wear. Because of the fabric type, these jeans have a bit of stretch, but unlike other plus-sized jean brands, these don't lose their structure after a few hours of wear. And no pilling between the thighs! Pieces I'm not a fan of: V-neck and low cut tops: Including their popular styles "Harper Tunic Blouse" "Favorite Tunic", I found that many of their lower cut tops are too risque for my wardrobe in Japan. "Super Soft" fabric: Many of Torrid's shirts, dresses and skirts are made from this clingy, jersey material. It's totally a preference thing; I find the Super Soft fabrics to be unflattering and too casual to match my vibe. Not to mention, a lot of the shirt designs that use this fabric resemble underclothes that you'll find in Japan (clothing meant to be worn under other items). For casual Torrid tops, I opt for "Heritage Tees" that use a blend that's more cotton than jersey, so you'll get that casual look without that clingy feel. For dresses and skirts, I find that Super Soft fabrics don't create the smooth silhouette I like, so when I avoid anything Super Soft. Final Verdict: ★★★★☆ If you catch a sale, the shipping price to Japan is worth it for large hauls. They offer a lot of great basic pieces that are tailored for a curvy body, as well as a ton of statement pieces that pop. Decent quality for the price, moderate shipping times.

Living in Japan, you're spoiled for choice when it comes to affordable body and skincare. I love trying out new products, and these are the products I'm in love with now. I avoid products that use heavy scents (I always opt for scent free for skincare when I can), and always go for the best quality for the price. I get most of my products online, but you can also head to your nearest drugstore and find most of these on the shelf. Minon Amino Moist Charge Milk ミノン-アミノモイスト-モイストチャージ 3.5 oz (100 g), ¥1,800 Minon Amino Moist Charge Milk has been popular for years, and for good reason. It delivers just the right amount of moisture for the face, and because it's light weight and scent free, it's great for sensitive skin. I have combination skin that's prone to breakouts and this product has a permanent place in my skincare routine. NinoCure 第3類医薬品 ニノキュア 30g, ¥896 Before coming to Japan, I had no idea what those little dots on my upper arms and back of my thighs were. I had them since I was a teenager, and no matter how much moisturizer I slathered on they never went away. Seeing the NinoCure package on the shelf, I skeptically bought this product without any expectations. Needless to say, I was blown away. It's a small pot of scent free lotion that does exactly what it says it'll do. Those little dots, gone! I find this particularly useful in the winter months when my skin is extra dry and those little dots make their return. Cleansing Research AHA Facial Cleansing Wash クレンジングリサーチ-ウォッシュクレンジング ¥711 This facial cleanser is leaves my skin with that squaky clean feeling, without the tightness and dryness that some cleansers can leave. Cleansing Research has a great line of products but this one is my favorite. Made specifically for dry and sensitive skin, this is very gentle on my face and keeps my breakouts under control. House of Rose Sugar Body Scrub ボディ スムーザー - ハウスオブローゼ 12.8 oz (350 g), ¥1,650 I love a good body scrub! I avoid scrubs that use microplastics or rough materials (like seeds or ground apricot pits) that wreak havoc on my skin as well as the shower drain. House of Rose has a scrumptous line of sugar based body scrubs that get it right. My favorite scent is Green Lemon, and the balance of moisturizing ingredients and scrub make it easy to apply. After a light scrub, the moisturizing oils leave your skin feeling absolutely amazing. Cure Natural Aqua Gel - Exfoliator ¥2,500 Cure Natural Aqua Gel is one of the best-reviewed facial exfoliators in Japan. I need a more gentle exfoliation for my face (especially along my temple areas), and this gel hits the spot. It's oddly satisfying massaging this product in and feeling it work. I researched this product thoroughly before purchasing, and was not disappointed. It works so well, that I often find myself using it for my body in areas like my back and chest. It's more gentle than a sugar scrub, so if you have areas on your body that break out but still need some exfoliation TLC, this could be the answer.

Asakusa Kimono Rental Momohime offers a wide range of plus-size kimonos so you can enjoy your time in Tokyo wearing an authentic, stylish kimono. There are hundreds of traditional and modern designs with all the accessories you need to complete your look. This shop specializes in plus size kimonos so you can choose from many designs and sizes. The majority of their collection are items sized 3L to 10L, which would be the equivalent of U.S sizes XL - 7XL. On their website and social media, you can see hundreds of photos of plus size women wearing their kimonos, all styled with different accessories. Take a look at their gallery or Instagram - if you see a particular style or accessory you like, you can enquire about sizes and availability. If you're not sure about what size kimono you wear, take your measurements (height, bust, waist, hips, in centimetres) and be ready to try on a few different sizes to see what size suits you best. Location: 2nd floor of Toda Building, 2-19-4 Kaminarimon, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-0034 〒111-0034 東京都台東区雷門2-19-4 戸田ビル2階 Hours: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, one-day rentals must be returned the same day by 6:30 PM. Kimono Prices & Plans There are different plans and prices, depending on which style kimono you want to rent and what accessories you wish to choose. You can see all plans and prices here. If you're looking for a one day kimono experience, I'd reccomend the Premium Plan. For 5,000 yen (tax included), this plan includes your kimono set, help getting dressed, hair styling and any accessories you want to use). This is the most popular plan. How to Rent a Kimono 1. Request a Reservation: First, head to their website's reservation request form. If you don't read/speak Japanese, I highly recommend using a browser extension to translate the website so you can view all the details carefully. On the reservation form you will need to input your name, email and phone number, date of reservation, time of reservation as well as the plan you'd like and how many people. At the end of the form there is a section for questions/requests. I would highly recommend writing the following: 1) If you can or cannot speak Japanese (they will not call your phone if you cannot). You should also express that you will be communicating via translation apps on your phone while you're in the shop. This is just to help staff be as prepared as possible in advance to give you the best experience. 2) Your measurements 3) If there are any particular colors/styles you want. If you have any questions or requests, include them. Since communication will be hindered due to the language barrier, it'll be easier to ask in advance so that they are prepared. To make communication easier, include a translated version of your message (use a translation application such a DeepL, ChatGPT or Google Translate). Once you have made your reservation request you will reserve a confirmation email as well as answers to your questions and more information about the process. Note that this step is a reservation request, not a confirmed reservation. Please wait to be contacted via email to know if your reservation has been accepted. 2. Pay in Advance to Confirm the Reservation To complete your reservation you will need to pay in advance by credit card. They do offer some discounts to those who make a reservation and pay in advance. (If you'd like to pay in person on the day of, you can arrive to the shop and inquire about any availability.) 3. Arrive Arrive early on your reserved date!!! As with all reservations in Japan, time is extremely important. Do not be late to your reserved time. If you are significantly late it is not guaranteed that your reservation will be held. If you have luggage you can leave it at the shop for the day while you walk around the city in your kimono. You can pick up your luggage when you come to return the kimono. Once payment is complete and all details are confirmed, you can choose your kimono! 4. Choose Your Kimono & Accessories There are 400 items to choose from, and limited time to choose. Staff can help you by directing you to the appropriate sizes, and help recommend colors and accessory coordination. If you have a particular item from their gallery or social media that you want to wear, show staff a picture and they will be able to find it or suggest something similar if it's not available. 5. Change into Your Kimono, Hair Services (if desired) Staff will direct you on how to put on the kimono and help style it, add accessories and make sure everything is secure. If you choose a plan that includes hair styling, staff will then give you a traditional hair style and hair accessory of your choosing. 6. Enjoy Your Day in Kimono! Head out to take some photos and enjoy your time wearing kimono. Asakusa, Kaminarimon, and Sensoji Temple are all nearby and offer fantastic backgrounds for memorable photos. 7. Return the Kimono and all Accessories If you have a one-day rental, return to the shop by 6:30pm to return all items. If you are late, there may be an additional fee.

Dear My Love is dedicated to subculture fashion in sizes up to 6L. Their collections feature unique peices from various brands, and they ship internationally (great news if you're looking for Japanese fashion but aren't in Japan!) The Clothes Dear My Love carries many items and styles in their plus size section. Sweet items (pastels, lace, frills, bows) as well as slightly gothic items (black, white) make up the majority of their offerings. There are some "everyday" fashion items, but Dear My Love is known for the over-the-top girly Japanese fashion look. Impressively, they have one of the largest collections of short dresses and skirts - items rather hard to come by in plus sizes. Unfortunately, if you're a visual shopper you may be turned off by the lack of plus size models on the website. Many of the items, even plus size, are displayed on smaller-sized models - so you will have to depend on the size chart (cm) and your imagination. The sister-brand "Dear My Love Whip" does use plus size models. To make shopping easier, Whip also includes the models size and measurements for most items, so you can have an idea of how it will fit on your body. The largest size available varies, but generally is up to 5L (majority of items), with a few items 6L+ If you can't read Japanese, I'd recommend using a translation application in your browser to read the website and shop with ease. You'll find useful information for each item in the description. I particularly like that they describe the feel and weight of the materials used. The descriptions of each item offer many details that may not be visible from the photos (such as lining materials, zipper placement, and degree of stretch in the material). Price Range (Plus Size Items) Shirts: ¥4,000 ~ ¥8,000 Blouses: ¥3,000 ~ ¥7,000 Sweaters, Knitwear: ¥2,000 ~ ¥8,000 Skirts: ¥2,000 ~ ¥10,000 Dresses: ¥3,000 ~ ¥20,000 Coats:  ¥6,000 ~ ¥18,000 Outerwear: ¥6,000 ~ ¥10,000 Payments and Shipping Dear My Love ships within Japan (excluding remote islands) AND internationally. If you are ordering from an address outside of Japan, your shipping cost will vary. If you are located outside of Japan, be aware that some items cannot be shipped internationally. You will still technically be able to purchase the item, but it will not be shipped to you. It will say in the item's description if it cannot be shipped internationally. A very important note: Not all items displayed are in stock. It will tell you that the item is back-ordered and will give you an estimate of arrival if you go ahead and order it. If an item is back-ordered or is accepting pre-orders (for new items not yet in stock), there will be a longer waiting period to receive the item. Payment options may vary depending on the shipping address. For those within Japan, most major payment methods are accepted. For those outside Japan, payments can only be made by credit card. Dear My Love does accept returns and exchanges for the following issues: ●Returns and exchanges due to defective product delivery. ●Returns and exchanges due to customer convenience. ●Re-shipment/exchange due to incorrect delivery or shortage. There is an extensive list here of conditions for returns, and what would disqualify a return from being accepted.

Popular Japanese plus size brands are coming together for the LaFarfa Shop 2024 Spring Event. Various brands are coming together so you can browse and try on items otherwise only found online. Osaka Pop-Up Shop Date: Saturday, March 30th - Sunday, March 31st Location: imagine and design (2-6-12 Minamisenba, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka Prefecture) Tokyo Pop-Up Shop Date: Friday, April 5th - Saturday, April 6th Location: Laforet Museum (Harajuku 1-11-6 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo) Brands featured at the LaFarFa Plus Size Pop-Up Events: Glamour Princess is a Japanese retailer that specializes in large-size bras. They carry a large variety of beautiful lingerie in sizes up to 10L and bras in sizes up to J (cup size) 140 (band size). To check your Japanese bra size, visit the international size conversion chart for bras here. Cocochic GEVS is a casual streetwear brand offering plus size Japanese fashion from L to 10L. LaFarFa Shoes stocks wide-width and wide-calf trendy footwear. 09WOMEN: Plus Size Korean Fashion MI AND MOU marun

Through sensationalized English headlines and poor translations the internet has been perpetuating rumors about what Japan's "Fat Tax" is. It is not illegal to be fat in Japan. People aren’t taxed based on their weight or size. People aren’t denied entry to Japan based on their weight or size. And yet, people still love talking about Japan's “Fat Tax” and the country's “extreme measures to combat obesity”. What is Japan’s “Fat Tax”? Fat Tax is the English term given to the "Metabolic Syndrome Countermeasures Promotion Law” (タボリックシンドローム対策の推進に関する法律), which was introduced in 2008 as a way for companies to support employee health. The law's objective is to reduce the cases of Metabolic Syndrome in the workforce, and in turn, lower rates in society as a whole. Japan treats obesity as a medical condition; Like other diseases, there is a list of criteria one needs to meet to be considered medically obese/have Metabolic Syndrome (including waist circumference, high blood pressure, blood sugar, and lipids). People with Metabolic syndrome have obesity. How The "Law" Actually Works: If an employee has Metabolic Syndrome and is over 40 years old, their employer is required to provide resources to them to help improve their health. The employee is then given a generous timeframe to reduce their weight using those resources. At no point is the individual ever required to pay a tax or fine, and there aren’t any other legal repercussions. However, if the company is found to have not provided adequate resources, it can be held responsible and can be fined. While the word "law" is used in English, it is not meant as a legal term. Being overweight or employing those who are overweight is not illegal. Who It Affects: It only applies employees of certain companies. It only applies to employees over 40 years old It only applies if the employee meets the conditions of Metabolic Syndrome The “Fat Tax” is NOT a tax on the individual or the employer. “Fat Tax” is a poor translation of what the program really is or how it’s implemented. It is NOT illegal to be fat in Japan. An employee cannot be legally terminated from their position due to having a Metabolic Syndrome - unless it impacts their job function (even after reasonable accommodations have been made). Even then, unless it’s an extreme case it’s rare for an employee to be terminated rightfully as a result of their weight. Annual Health Checks: Before the “Fat Tax”, Japan had already implemented an annual employee health check. Many large companies are required to have ALL of their employees undergo an annual health check conducted at a local hospital. These health checkups test various things such as vision, bloodwork, BMI, and TB testing, among other things. A more in-depth test can be requested by the employee if desired. After the test, the individual is given a summary of their health and an overall grade. Japan has very different rules and regulations around the privacy of information in regards to employee health: As an employee, the result of your health test is shared with your employer. If a company is required by law to have their employees undergo annual health checks, they must report the results to health officials. Misinformation Around the "Fat Tax" It’s troubling to see Japan’s “Fat Tax” misinformation being used as ammo for those in pro-anorexia, fitness/health and anti body-positivity groups. Because the idea of fat people being taxed fits these groups' ideal narratives, few put in the research before spreading the lies further. It does not help that trusted English news sources and websites have also misreported on the Fat Tax throughout the years. It brings up flashbacks of the early 2000s “Islam is illegal in Japan” misinformation that continues to spread today. Despite readily available information proving otherwise (including a tourism campaign by the Japanese government geared towards the Muslim community, and the fact that Japan has over 100 mosques), people still cherrypick information to fit their own agendas. The Metabo Law, or “Fat Tax” is one of many initiatives Japan has implemented to improve people's health. While its effectiveness is debatable, it's a testament to how highly Japan prioritizes health and physical health care. It's just unfortunate that a unique solution to a public health issue has been reduced to a misinformed echo of "it's illegal to be fat in Japan".

RosePlusJapan is dedicated to everything plus size in Japan and our goal is to connect you with the clothes made for your body. Below is our comprehensive list of every store or brand in Japan that offers plus size Japanese clothes. Stores are (roughly) organized by the largest size available. This list was last updated in February 2024. For the most up-to-date list, links and more store information, visit our Where To Shop Guide ACDC RAG | Largest size: JP 3L | Alternative Fashion | In-Person or Online Located in Harajuku, ACDC RAG offers unique clothing made in collaboration with creative designers. You will not find anything like what this store carries anywhere else for plus size. Their collection features bold prints, playful designs, and oversized silhouettes, catering to individuals looking for unconventional and statement-making fashion. Louiosy (ルオシー) | Largest Size: 4L | Shop Online This online brand specializes in sweet aesthetic plus-size clothing for women. Their collection includes cute dresses, tops, and skirts in sizes LL to 4L, designed to embrace feminine and charming styles popular in Japanese fashion trends. Uniqlo | Largest Size: 4L | Shop Online (For Plus Sizes) Uniqlo offers a wide range of plus size clothing up to size 4L. You can conveniently shop online for all your plus size wardrobe needs, from everyday essentials to trendy pieces. If you deal with excessive sweat, many people swear by sweat-wicking tops to layer under your clothes during Japan’s hot summers. Punyus (プニュズ) | Largest size: JP 4L | In-Person or Online Punyus is Iconic. Their collections feature stylish dresses, tops, bottoms, and outerwear designed to empower and celebrate diverse body shapes and styles. You’ll find unique pieces at Punyus, as the brand has come to be popular for its all-over prints and creative graphics. H&M Japan | Largest Size: 4L | Shop Online (For Plus Sizes) H&M Japan offers a lot of the same trendy and affordable plus-size clothing as you would find in Western locations. Depending on the location they may carry up to 3L in-store (select items mixed amongst the other stock, not in a dedicated section). For their full plus size selection, you will want to shop online. Clette | Largest Size: 4L | In-Person or Online Clette is a Japanese fashion brand renowned for its chic and contemporary clothing designs. They offer a curated selection of stylish apparel, including dresses, tops, skirts, and outerwear, characterized by modern silhouettes, bold prints, and sophisticated details. Re-J & Supure | Largest Size: 5L | In-Person or Online Specializing in versatile and practical clothing for everyday wear, Re-J is a favorite in the plus-size community. Their collections feature comfortable and functional pieces, such as casual tops, bottoms, and knitwear, designed to provide effortless style and comfort for the modern individual. You will be able to find locations across Japan, or shop online for even more options. BodyLine Tokyo  | Largest Size: 5L | Shop Online (For Plus Sizes) If you’re a fan of cosplay or lolita fashion, you know BodyLine. This shop offers alternative and cosplay-inspired clothing and accessories. They specialize in unique and eye-catching designs, including Lolita fashion, cosplay costumes, and Gothic-inspired clothing, catering to enthusiasts of Japanese subcultures and alternative fashion styles. Plus sizes are available on their website, and they can ship to almost anywhere in the world. Eur3 (エウルキューブ) | Largest size: JP 5L | In-Person or Online Offering clothes with a polished aesthetic, Eur3 is one of the better-known plus size clothing stores selling quality pieces for both business and every day. Erring on the smaller side, you’ll be able to find fashionable seasonal pieces to add to your wardrobe, as well as staples for year-round wear. Sab Street | Largest Size: 6L | Shop Online Update your wardrobe with a trendy and edgy selection of women's plus-size clothing, featuring urban-inspired designs, streetwear elements, and bold graphics. Their collection includes statement pieces like oversized hoodies, graphic tees, and denim jackets, perfect for those seeking a cool and contemporary look. Dear My Love | Largest Size: 6L | Shop Online A newer brand that focuses on romantic and elegant plus-size clothing for women. Their collections consist of dresses, blouses, and skirts, adorned with lace, ruffles, and floral prints, ideal for those who appreciate whimsical and traditionally feminine fashion styles. Gold Japan | Largest Size: 7L | Shop Online Don’t let the website's (very cluttered, very Japanese) layout put you off - this shop has something for everyone. Shein Japan | Largest Size: 8L | Shop Online Shein ships worldwide; while it’s not a Japanese brand, you can easily find items that are fashionable in Japan. Sazakan | Largest Size: 7L | Shop Online (For Plus Sizes) While their brick-and-mortar shops tend to focus on men's fashion (with a considerably smaller women’s section), they have an excellent range of plus size clothes and suits online. Cecile Plump (セシールプランプ )  | Largest Size: 8L | Shop Online Cecile offers both casual and workwear in a large range of sizes. You can purchase their plus sizes at their online shop, or if you’re an Amazon.jp (select items/sizes) Clover Shop | Largest Size: 8L | Shop Online Modern and chic, their collections focus mainly on timeless pieces like quality blouses, tailored trousers, and stylish outerwear. AngeLsize | Largest size: JP 9L | Shop Online What you picture in your head as sweet Japanese fashion is exactly what you will find on AngeLsize. If you’re looking for lolita inspired items, frills and lace, pinks and pastels, cupcake silhouettes, even cosplay and costumes you will want to check out their online shop. There is a decent selection of both everyday clothing, as well as specialty items. Shimamura (しまむら) | Largest size: JP 10L | In-Person or Online Shimamura is a big box store offering a range of styles across Japan. It’s one of the cheaper options for plus-sized items. While they do offer up to 10L online and in some larger locations, in smaller locations you may only find up to 5L or 6L. Shop online for more sizes and styles. Nissen SmileLand | Largest size: JP 10L | Shop Online (For Plus Sizes) The amount of plus size options on Nissen SmileLands websites are overwhelming. Online, you will find a marketplace-type online mall, meaning you can shop from a variety of brands all on one site. You can find almost anything you need, from casualwear to suits to formalwear. A Happy Marilyn (ア ハッピー マリリン) | Largest size: JP 10L | Shop Online Closing their physical stores in 2014, this shop thrives online. Their collections include a lot of wardrobe staples as well as seasonal items. It’s one of the few plus size brands that sell short-length dresses, and fashionable clubwear in larger sizes. Their online shop (on RakutonMall) is stocked with hundreds of options. Bonus: this is another brand that has a small selection listed on Amazon.jp.