TOKYO -- Lawson is the most popular convenience store among visitors to Japan from Taiwan and Hong Kong, according to a recent survey.

The results of the poll conducted by Tokyo-based Geelee Media Group Inc., which were announced Jan. 29 to coincide with the Lunar New Year, placed 7-Eleven in second and FamilyMart in third. Conducted online from Dec. 16 to Dec. 23, 2024, the survey collected responses from 2,045 users of a tourism website catering to Taiwanese and Hong Kong audiences.

When asked about the items they wanted to buy at each convenience store, respondents overwhelmingly chose fried chicken for Lawson, while snacks were the most popular choice for both 7-Eleven and FamilyMart. Among Lawson's offerings, "Karaage-kun," a signature fried chicken product, was particularly popular. Geelee noted that Karaage-kun is so popular that some travelers check for limited-edition flavors before their trip to Japan.

While Karaage-kun is a well-known item in Japan, Lawson Inc.'s public relations team explained that overseas it is being sold experimentally in just a few stores in Sichuan province, China. This rarity adds to its appeal for foreign tourists, they said.

Lawson stated that the limited overseas distribution of Karaage-kun is due to its policy of adapting products to local food cultures and the chain's commitment to using 100% domestic chicken breast meat.

Since its launch in April 1986, Karaage-kun has sold over 4.5 billion servings. Lawson currently offers at least four flavors, including cheese and lemon, at any given time.

(Japanese original by Yuka Kato, Tokyo Business News Department)