Grocery Delivery Guide for Japanese Newcomers in HCMC

Introduction

Congratulations on your move to HCMC! Life in a new place is a mix of excitement and uncertainty, and "how to handle daily meals" is likely one of the first things you want to sort out.

This article introduces how to get started with grocery delivery and make the most of it for Japanese newcomers in HCMC.

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How to Get Japanese Groceries in HCMC

HCMC has a Japanese community and several ways to obtain Japanese food.

Main options

• Japanese supermarkets: Several stores in the city carry Japanese food
• Import food sections in local supermarkets: Basic Japanese seasonings sometimes available
• Grocery delivery services: Order via smartphone app, delivered to your door

When you've just arrived and don't know your way around or where stores are, a delivery service that brings Japanese food to your door is a reliable ally.

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Why Delivery Is Perfect for New Life in HCMC

Reason 1: No local knowledge needed

When you first arrive, you don't know "what store is where." With delivery, just enter your address and food comes to you.

Reason 2: No language barrier

Even without Vietnamese, a Japanese-supported app lets you shop normally. Product names and descriptions are in Japanese, so you can buy with confidence.

Reason 3: No need to navigate HCMC traffic

HCMC traffic is unique. Many people prefer to minimize going out until they get used to the flood of motorbikes. Delivery means shopping without traffic worries.

Reason 4: Eases post-move busyness

Setting up your new home, paperwork, adjusting to work: right after moving there's a mountain of tasks. Reducing shopping time and effort is a big help.

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First-Time Order Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Download the app

First, install the Farmi app on your smartphone. It's available in Japanese, so no language concerns.

Step 2: Create an account

Easily create an account with your email or phone number.

Step 3: Register your delivery address

Register your home address. For apartments or serviced apartments, include the building and room number accurately. Precise addresses ensure smooth delivery.

Step 4: Choose products

Browse categories or search by keyword. Start with the essentials you absolutely need.

Step 5: Select a delivery time slot

Choose a time when you'll be home and can receive the delivery.

Step 6: Confirm your order

Check your cart and total, then confirm. All that's left is to wait for delivery.

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Must-Have Japanese Food List for Your New Life

Here's a list of foods to stock up on when you first arrive in HCMC.

Basic seasonings

• Soy sauce
• Mirin
• Cooking sake
• Miso
• Dashi stock powder
• Salt and sugar (Japanese brands)
• Vinegar
• Sesame oil

Staples

• Rice (Japanese rice or Japonica rice)
• Dried noodles (udon, somen, soba)
• Pasta

Convenient pantry items

• Retort curry
• Instant ramen
• Furikake (rice seasoning)
• Nori seaweed
• Umeboshi (pickled plum)
• Canned goods (tuna, corn, tomato)

Frozen foods

• Frozen udon
• Frozen edamame
• Frozen gyoza
• Frozen croquettes

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Food Tips for New Life in HCMC

Try local ingredients too

Vietnam has wonderful fresh vegetables, fruits, and herbs. Don't limit yourself to Japanese food. Incorporating local ingredients makes your meals richer.

Don't drink tap water

Drinking tap water directly is not recommended in Vietnam. Use bottled water or a water filter. Be mindful of cooking water too.

Watch food storage

HCMC is hot and humid, so opened food can spoil faster than in Japan. After opening, seal tightly and store in the refrigerator as a basic rule.

Tap into the Japanese community

HCMC has Japanese community groups and SNS communities. Getting tips on good stores and food from longer-term residents is a smart move.

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Why Farmi Supports Your New Life

Farmi was created to ease food-related worries for Japanese people in HCMC.

• Japanese peace of mind: App and support both in Japanese
• Japanese food variety: Seasonings, rice, frozen foods and more
• Delivered to you: No local knowledge or traffic skills needed
• Quality you can trust: Temperature-controlled delivery preserves freshness

"Even here, I can have the same dinner table as in Japan." That peace of mind will be a big support for your new life.

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Summary

For your new life in HCMC, grocery delivery makes food shopping much easier.

• Start by downloading the app and ordering basic seasonings and rice
• From ordering to receiving, everything is in Japanese so you can relax
• Gradually incorporate local ingredients to expand your food variety
• When you need help, reach out to Japanese language support

In your new city, build peace of mind starting with food. Farmi is here to help.

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Download the Farmi app

Note: This article and some images were created with the assistance of AI (artificial intelligence) and reviewed by the editorial team before publication.