Fujiya Market
Tucked away in a strip mall at 1335 W University Dr, Fujiya Market is Arizona’s premier destination for an authentic Japanese konbini (convenience store) experience. Since 1995, this small but mighty market has served as a "Little Japan" oasis in the desert, specializing in imported goods and freshly prepared meals that are notoriously hard to find elsewhere in the Valley.
The Fujiya Specialties
The Bento Rush: The market is most famous for its daily-made Bento boxes and Donburi bowls. Prepared every morning (Tuesday–Saturday), these affordable meals—featuring chicken katsu, karaage, and salmon—often sell out by early afternoon.
Onigiri & Ready-to-Eat: A staple for ASU students and local workers, their selection of onigiri (rice balls) and small-bite Japanese sandwiches offers a quick, authentic taste of Tokyo street food.
Specialized Pantry: While small, the shelves are packed with high-quality Japanese essentials, including premium Kewpie mayo, furikake, specialty miso pastes, and a curated selection of sake and Japanese teas.
Frozen Yatai Vending: Recently, the market has hosted innovative "Frozen Yatai" vending machines—state-of-the-art tech from Japan that dispenses gourmet, freshly frozen meals like Eel Rice and Spicy Tuna rolls that maintain their quality after a quick microwave.
Snack Heaven: From seasonal Kit-Kat flavors to Pocky and rice crackers, the snack aisle is a colorful journey through Japanese pop culture.
Why It’s Unique
Fujiya Market is the opposite of a sprawling international supermarket. It is intimate, organized, and focused strictly on Japanese excellence. It feels like a neighborhood shop in a quiet Tokyo suburb. The staff are famously friendly and bilingual, and the store even provides on-site microwaves and seating, encouraging you to heat up your bento and enjoy it immediately.
Insider Tip: If you want the best selection of Bentos, aim to arrive right when they open (usually around noon) or shortly after. By 2:00 PM, the "grab-and-go" coolers are often nearly empty!
Essential Information
Address: 1335 W University Dr #5, Tempe, AZ 85281
Hours: Typically Tuesday–Saturday 10:30 AM – 7:00 PM, Sunday 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM (Closed Mondays).
Location Perk: It is conveniently located right next to Arai Pastry, an authentic Japanese bakery, making it easy to grab a melon pan or cream puff after you finish your grocery run.
