McDonald's in Japan

Last updated July 2026

McDonald's is one of Japan's most ubiquitous restaurant chains, with approximately 2,900 locations across the country. Known locally as "Makku" (マック) in Tokyo and eastern Japan — and "Makudo" (マクド) in Osaka and the Kansai region — it's a reliable option for travelers looking for a familiar meal, a quick breakfast, or a late-night bite after last trains.

McDonald's Locations in Japan

McDonald's can be found in virtually every city and town in Japan. Locations are typically near train stations, in shopping malls, and along major commercial streets. Many locations — particularly in urban areas — are open 24 hours, making them one of the more reliable late-night options.

In Tokyo, you'll find McDonald's near Shinjuku Station, Shibuya, Akihabara, Ikebukuro, and Tokyo Station. In Osaka, they're prominent around Namba, Shinsaibashi, and Umeda. In Kyoto, look near Kyoto Station and the Kawaramachi and Shijo area.

Japan-Exclusive Menu Items

Part of the appeal of McDonald's in Japan is the unique menu. Items you won't find in the US include:

• Teriyaki Burger — A beef or chicken patty with sweet teriyaki sauce, one of McDonald's Japan's most enduring items
• Ebi Filet-O — A shrimp patty burger (Ebi = shrimp in Japanese); available in various forms throughout the year
• McPork — A pork patty burger with Japanese seasonings
• Shaka Shaka Chicken — Fried chicken in a paper bag with flavor powder packets you shake onto the chicken (flavors include cheese, spicy, and seasonal options)
• Seasonal specials — Japan McDonald's rotates limited-time items frequently, often tied to seasons, anime collaborations, or regional ingredients

The standard US menu items — Big Mac, Quarter Pounder, Chicken McNuggets, Filet-O-Fish, McFlurry — are all available in Japan as well.

Ordering Tips

Most McDonald's in Japan have touch-screen ordering kiosks with an English language option — look for the language button in the corner of the screen. Kiosks accept IC cards (Suica, Pasmo), credit cards, and cash. Counter ordering is also available; staff at tourist-area locations often speak some English.

The McDonald's Japan app offers coupons and mobile ordering but requires a Japanese phone number to register. Use the in-store kiosks to access digital deals instead — some kiosks prompt you to scan a coupon from the McDonald's Japan website.

McDonald's in Japan vs. the US

Beyond the unique menu, a few things stand out when visiting McDonald's in Japan. Restaurants tend to be smaller and more compact than US counterparts. Table service is not standard — you order at the counter or kiosk and wait for your number to be called. Dining rooms are generally clean and well-maintained, and many 24-hour locations become late-night social spots for younger Japanese customers after midnight.