Japan’s hottest souvenir? A $2 pair of striped socks from a convenience store

Japan’s FamilyMart convenience store chain has become a cultural phenomenon, offering tourists more than just snacks and essentials. The brand has launched tours, clothing lines, and popular striped socks that have become a hot souvenir. These socks, part of the Convenience Wear line, are simple yet well-made, with antibacterial and deodorizing properties, and have sold 1.4 million pairs in their first year. FamilyMart’s success highlights the appeal of convenience stores as a slice of local culture and the growing trend of shopping for unique, locally-made goods while traveling.