Every Japanese Home Is Ready for a Blackout — 7 Things They All Own, Priced at Costco

In Japan, a family is expected to ride out a week at home when the power goes out. Some of what they use for it is already in your house — you're just using it for the wrong jobs. We found all 7 at Costco and priced every one. Every item comes with a Japanese word, and every word carries a habit most American homes never picked up. Three of the seven started in American labs. One word is the name of a fire that doesn't start when the lights go out. And halfway through, you'll see why a Japanese city tells its own people: if your house is standing, the shelter isn't for you. One cart. One receipt. The total's at the end. Prices are Costco warehouse and Business Center listings checked in September 2026. Prices and stock vary by location, so check your warehouse before you drive over. Follow the package directions on anything you heat or burn. Not sponsored by Costco. Sources used in this video include the USDA, FEMA, the American Red Cross, the National Hurricane Center, the NFPA, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Japan's Cabinet Office, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, and the product listings themselves.