A refrigerator is one of the most essential home appliances, keeping food fresh, beverages chilled, and groceries well-preserved. Whether you live in a compact apartment or a spacious home, choosing the right refrigerator can significantly impact your daily convenience and energy consumption. In Japan, where space efficiency and advanced technology go hand in hand, the market is filled with a variety of refrigerators that cater to different needs, from high-tech smart fridges to energy-efficient and budget-friendly models.
In this expert review, we have analyzed and compared the best refrigerators in Japan for 2025, considering key factors such as capacity, cooling performance, energy efficiency, smart features, and overall value for money. Whether you’re upgrading your kitchen or buying your first refrigerator, this guide will help you make an informed decision by highlighting the top-rated models that offer the perfect balance of functionality, durability, and innovation.
If you are in a rush, we recommend buying the best suitable item based on your budget, available space to place the washer, color preference, and the market study summary in this article. Based on our study, we concluded that-
– The editor’s choice – Sharp Refrigerator
– The overall best – Hisense Refrigerator
– The best value –Toshiba Refrigerator
The 6 best refrigerator in Japan in 2025
1. Toshiba Refrigerator
2. Iris Ohyama Refrigerator
3. Hisense Refrigerator
4. Hitachi 6-Door French-Door
5. Sharp Refrigerator
6. Yamazen Refrigerator
Here are the details of each energy-efficient, budget-friendly refrigerator listed above–
Brand name: TOSHIBA
Model Number: GR-W15BZ1(K)
Item Weight: 40 kg
Product Dimensions: 47.9 x 58.2 x 126.9 cm
Capacity: 153 Liters
Energy Star: 4 Star
Key Features:
- Energy-efficient – 4-star rating with 298 kWh/year power consumption
- Automatic defrost system – No manual defrosting required
- Heat-resistant top plate – Space-saving design allows placement of appliances
- Slide case freezer compartment – Easy organization for frozen foods
- Quiet operation – Ideal for small apartments and shared living spaces
- Modern aesthetics – Semi-matte black finish with a stylish, rounded door design
The Toshiba 2-Door Refrigerator (2025 Model) is an excellent choice for individuals living alone or in compact spaces. With a 153-liter capacity, it provides ample storage without taking up too much room, making it ideal for small kitchens, apartments, or dormitories. The refrigerator features automatic defrosting, ensuring hassle-free maintenance, while its 4-star energy rating guarantees efficient performance with minimal electricity consumption. The right-opening door and three-tiered glass shelves offer convenient organization, allowing users to store everything from large beverage bottles to everyday groceries with ease.
Designed with both functionality and aesthetics in mind, this refrigerator features a semi-matte black finish that blends seamlessly into any modern kitchen decor. The heat-resistant top plate allows users to safely place appliances like a microwave or toaster oven on top, optimizing space utilization. Additionally, the slide case in the freezer compartment enhances organization, making it easy to store and access frozen items. With low noise operation, a durable build, and a sleek, minimalist design, this Toshiba refrigerator is a reliable and stylish addition to any home.
This Toshiba refrigerator stands out due to its perfect balance of efficiency, storage, and design. Its space-saving structure, combined with smart organization features, ensures maximum usability for individuals living alone. The energy efficiency, low noise level, and automatic defrosting system add to its practicality, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and stylish refrigerator in Japan.
Brand name: Iris Ohyama
Model Number: IRSN-23A-S
Item Weight: 51 kg
Product Dimensions: 59.1 x 54.5 x 170 cm
Capacity:231 Liters
Energy Star: 4 Star
Key Features:
- Large capacity – 161L fridge + 70L freezer
- Full-sized bottom freezer – Ideal for bulk storage
- Energy-efficient – 4-star energy rating (326 kWh/year)
- Automatic defrost system – No manual defrosting required
- Quiet operation (27 dB) – Perfect for living spaces
- Door ajar alarm – Alerts users if the door is left open for 3 minutes
- Sleek silver design – A modern and stylish addition to any kitchen
The Iris Ohyama 231L Refrigerator is an excellent choice for those who need a spacious and energy-efficient appliance. With a full-sized freezer-on-bottom configuration, it provides a generous 70L freezer compartment, making it ideal for bulk storage of frozen foods. The 161L refrigerator section is designed for easy access, allowing users to store and retrieve food items effortlessly. Its automatic defrost system eliminates the need for manual defrosting, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Plus, the 4-star energy rating and low noise level (27 dB) make it an environmentally friendly and quiet addition to any home.
Designed with functionality and aesthetics in mind, this refrigerator boasts a sleek silver finish, complementing modern kitchen spaces. The clear tray system in the freezer helps users easily locate stored items while minimizing cold air loss. Additionally, the built-in door ajar alarm prevents accidental energy waste by alerting users if the door remains open for more than three minutes. Whether for small families, shared apartments, or those who love to stock up on groceries, the Iris Ohyama Refrigerator delivers exceptional performance with a large capacity, efficient cooling, and a stylish design.
The Iris Ohyama Refrigerator stands out for its spacious storage, energy efficiency, and user-friendly features. The large freezer compartment, automatic defrosting, and intelligent storage design make it perfect for those who value convenience and organization. Additionally, its quiet operation and sleek design enhance both functionality and aesthetics, making it a top choice for modern households in Japan.
Brand name: Hisense
Model Number: HR-B2501
Item Weight: 47 kg
Product Dimensions: 56.7 x 55 x 167.6 cm
Capacity:250 Liters
Energy Star: 3 Star
Key Features:
- Automatic defrost system – No manual defrosting needed
- Energy-saving design – Exceeds efficiency standards by 113%
- Ultra-quiet operation (24 dB) – Perfect for noise-sensitive environments
- Three-tier door bins – Optimized storage for bottles and small items
- Freestanding installation – Flexible placement in any kitchen
- Sleek silver finish – Modern and stylish appearance
The Hisense 250L Refrigerator is the perfect blend of spacious storage, energy efficiency, and modern convenience. Designed for compact yet ample food storage, it features a 2-door design with a right-side opening, making it a practical addition to any kitchen. With a 52L freezer compartment, it allows users to store frozen foods, bulk purchases, and meal preps with ease. The automatic defrost system ensures hassle-free maintenance, so there’s no need to worry about frost buildup.
One of the standout features of this refrigerator is its energy efficiency, achieving 113% of energy-saving standards. This translates to lower electricity bills and a reduced environmental impact. Additionally, the quiet operation (approximately 24 dB) makes it ideal for homes, offices, or shared spaces where noise levels matter. With its sleek silver finish and compact design, the Hisense Refrigerator is a stylish, reliable, and efficient choice for modern households in Japan.
The Hisense Refrigerator is an excellent choice for those seeking a spacious yet compact design with high energy efficiency. Its silent operation, automatic defrosting, and eco-friendly performance make it a top contender for households looking for convenience and sustainability. Whether you’re a busy professional, a small family, or someone who loves bulk shopping, this refrigerator offers the perfect balance of storage, efficiency, and style.
Brand name: HITACHI
Model Number: R-HWC62T N
Item Weight: 116 kg
Product Dimensions: 74 x 68.5 x 183.9 cm
Capacity: 617 Liters
Energy Star: 3.4 Star
Key Features:
- 617L total capacity – Spacious enough for bulk storage
- Whole Child cooling system – Maintains uniform freshness at approx. 2°C
- Special Ice Temperature Room (-1°C) – Preserves meat and fish without freezing
- Fresh Sleep Vegetable Chamber – Platinum catalyst reduces nutrient loss
- Smartphone compatibility – Track food inventory and expiration dates via the app
- Three-tier freezer compartments – Organize frozen food efficiently
- Energy-efficient (303 kWh/year) – Reduces power consumption
The Hitachi 6-Door French-Door Refrigerator is a premium choice for those who need exceptional storage capacity, advanced freshness technology, and smart connectivity. With a massive 617L capacity, this refrigerator is designed to accommodate bulk shopping and organized food storage. Its innovative “Whole Child” chilling system ensures that every compartment maintains consistent cooling at approximately 2°C, preserving food freshness while preventing bacteria growth. Additionally, the Fresh Sleep Vegetable Chamber with a platinum catalyst helps retain moisture and nutrients in fruits and vegetables for longer-lasting freshness.
Beyond its cooling performance, this high-tech refrigerator is compatible with the Hitachi Refrigerator Concierge App, allowing users to monitor food inventory, track expiration dates, and receive smart storage suggestions. Its adjustable glass shelves and spacious door pockets ensure easy organization, while the Special Ice Temperature Room keeps meat and fish preserved at -1°C to prevent dryness and flavor loss. Whether for large families, culinary enthusiasts, or those who prefer bulk shopping, the Hitachi 6-Door French-Door Refrigerator offers a perfect balance of size, technology, and efficiency.
The Hitachi 6-Door French-Door Refrigerator is a top-tier choice for families and food lovers who need ample storage with advanced food preservation features. Its innovative cooling technology, smart management capabilities, and thoughtfully designed compartments make it a versatile and reliable appliance for modern kitchens in Japan. If you’re looking for a refrigerator that maximizes space, preserves food longer, and simplifies organization, this Hitachi model is an outstanding investment.
Brand name: SHARP
Model Number: SJBD23MW
Item Weight: 51 kg
Product Dimensions: 62.7 x 54.4 x 166.5 cm
Capacity: 230 Liters
Energy Star: 2.5 Star
Key Features:
- Balanced capacity – Balanced storage for fresh and frozen items
- Large 87L freezer compartment – Ideal for bulk frozen food storage
- Plasmacluster technology – Reduces bacteria and odors for fresher food
- Slim design (21.6 inches wide) – Perfect for small kitchens and tight spaces
- Quiet operation (23 dB) – No disruptive noise in your living space
- Automatic defrost system – Hassle-free maintenance
- Energy-efficient (286 kWh/year) – Saves electricity while keeping food fresh
For those looking for a sleek, space-saving refrigerator with powerful cooling technology, the Sharp Refrigerator (230L, Freezer-on-Bottom) is an excellent choice. Its modern matte white design, combined with a right-opening door and compact 21.6-inch width, makes it ideal for small kitchens, apartments, or limited spaces. Despite its compact size, it features a large 87L freezer compartment, perfect for storing frozen foods efficiently. The Plasmacluster technology ensures clean, bacteria-free air circulation, keeping food fresher for longer.
With auto-defrost functionality and a quiet 23 dB operation, this refrigerator offers both convenience and peace of mind. The energy-efficient design (286 kWh/year, 115% energy-saving achievement) helps reduce electricity costs while maintaining optimal performance. Whether you need a compact yet spacious cooling solution or a stylish, modern addition to your kitchen, the Sharp Refrigerator delivers outstanding performance with minimal energy consumption.
The Sharp Refrigerator stands out for its compact yet spacious design, advanced freshness technology, and quiet efficiency. It’s perfect for individuals, couples, or small families who need a dependable, stylish, and energy-efficient cooling solution. With Plasmacluster air purification, a large freezer, and a sleek modern look, this refrigerator is a top-tier choice for urban living in Japan.
Brand name: Iris Ohyama
Model Number: IRSN-23A-S
Item Weight: 51 kg
Product Dimensions: 59.1 x 54.5 x 170 cm
Capacity:231 Liters
Energy Star: 4 Star
Key Features:
- Well-organized capacity – Spacious storage with a well-organized layout
- 90L bottom freezer – Perfect for bulk storage with multi-tier organization
- Quick cooling mode – Ideal for rapidly chilling food and beverages
- Slim design (18.7 inches wide) – Fits perfectly in narrow kitchens
- Automatic fan defrost – No manual defrosting required
- Quiet operation (25 dB) – Minimal noise, suitable for open spaces
- Energy-efficient (299 kWh/year, 118% energy-saving achievement) – Eco-friendly and cost-saving
- Adjustable temperature settings (3 levels for freezer, 5 levels for fridge) – Custom cooling for
The Yamazen Refrigerator (236L, Freezer-on-Bottom) is a perfect blend of compact design and high storage capacity, making it an excellent choice for modern Japanese homes with limited space. With a slim 18.7-inch width, it fits effortlessly into small kitchens while offering a generous 90L freezer and 146L refrigeration compartment. The multi-tiered freezer design allows for efficient organization, letting you store groceries in bulk without wasting space. The adjustable temperature settings for both the refrigerator and freezer compartments ensure optimal cooling based on the season and food storage needs.
This model stands out with its automatic fan defrost system, eliminating the hassle of manual defrosting while maintaining efficient cooling. It also features a quick cooling mode for rapidly chilling drinks and perishables. With a quiet operation of just 25 dB and a 118% energy-saving achievement rate, the Yamazen Refrigerator is both eco-friendly and cost-efficient. Whether you’re looking for a space-saving refrigerator or a reliable energy-efficient model, this refrigerator delivers on both convenience and performance.
The Yamazen Refrigerator is an ideal choice for individuals, couples, or small families who need a compact yet high-capacity fridge. Its thoughtful organization, energy efficiency, and silent operation make it one of the best refrigerators in Japan. Whether you’re storing bulk groceries, meal preps, or fresh produce, this refrigerator provides a seamless, low-maintenance experience with top-tier performance.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Refrigerator in Japan
Choosing the right refrigerator is essential for maintaining food freshness, optimizing kitchen space, and ensuring energy efficiency. With various models available, here are the key factors to consider before making your purchase:
1. Capacity & Size
Refrigerators come in different sizes, so consider your household size and food storage habits. For singles or couples, a 150–250L refrigerator is often sufficient, while families may require 300L or more. Also, measure the available space in your kitchen, ensuring the fridge fits without obstructing pathways.
2. Configuration & Layout
Different refrigerator configurations offer unique advantages:
- Freezer-on-Top: More energy-efficient and common in smaller units.
- Freezer-on-Bottom: Convenient as frequently used refrigerated items are at eye level.
- Side-by-Side or French Door: Ideal for larger households, offering ample storage and better organization.
3. Energy Efficiency
In Japan, refrigerators come with an energy-saving achievement rate (%). A higher percentage means better efficiency, leading to lower electricity bills. Look for models with an Energy Star rating and inverter technology to reduce long-term power consumption.
4. Cooling Technology
- Fan Cooling System (No Frost): Distributes cold air evenly and eliminates the need for manual defrosting.
- Plasmacluster Ion Technology: Found in Sharp models, this helps maintain hygiene by reducing bacteria and odors.
- Multi-Airflow Cooling: Ensures consistent temperature across different sections for better food preservation.
5. Storage & Organization Features
Consider features that improve usability, such as:
- Adjustable shelves & door racks for better flexibility.
- Large freezer compartments if you store frozen foods in bulk.
- Vegetable cases with humidity control to keep produce fresh longer.
- Quick cooling/freezing modes for rapid chilling.
6. Noise Level
If your kitchen is close to your living or sleeping space, opt for a quiet refrigerator (below 30 dB) to ensure a peaceful environment.
7. Smart Features
Some high-end models include touch controls, digital temperature displays, and smartphone connectivity for remote monitoring and control. While these are convenient, consider whether they align with your needs and budget.
Conclusion: The Best Refrigerator for Your Lifestyle
Finding the best refrigerator in Japan depends on your space, budget, and specific needs. Whether you prefer a compact, space-saving model or a high-capacity, feature-packed refrigerator, the options in this list offer energy efficiency, modern cooling technologies, and smart storage solutions. Investing in the right refrigerator enhances your daily life, keeping your food fresher, your energy bills lower, and your kitchen more organized.
By considering the key factors in our buying guide, you can confidently choose a refrigerator that perfectly suits your home and lifestyle. To read more reviews on home appliances such as the robotic vacuum cleaner, coffee maker, bidet toilet seat, floor mat, gaming chair, and microwave oven, you can check our home appliance category articles on the Sakuron Japan website.
– Our editorial team reviewed this article and approved it for publication according to our editorial policy.
You can also check the Amazon bestseller refrigerator list:
- 【コンパクト】本体サイズ：幅478×奥行509×高さ852mm、重量：28KG、容量：90L、冷凍室 28L・冷蔵室 62L。使いやすさにこだわった、シンプルデザインの2ドアタイプです。
- 【すっきり収納】ガラス棚やクリアケース、ドアポケット付きだから、冷蔵庫の中がいつでも整理整頓でき、使いやすい。
- 【省エネ】1日間消費電力量約0.6Wh未満（年間消費電力量約207Wh/年）、省エネ基準達成率は100％以上、環境にも家計にもやさしい。
- 【耐熱天板】天板は耐熱素材を採用しており、電子レンジを上に置いてスペースを有効活用できます。
- ※通常配送でお届けする商品となります。設置工事につきましてはお客様ご自身でお手配ください。
- 幅440×奥行475×高さ515mmでちょっとした空間に収まる使いやすいサイズ感です。コンパクトサイズなので様々な場所で大活躍。
- 整理しやすいドアポケット 2Lのペットボトルや牛乳など高さがある飲み物と、細かい小物を分けて収納できる便利なポケット。
- 内容量に合わせて冷蔵庫と冷凍室の冷却温度を段階調節できます。 耐熱温度100℃の天面で、電子レンジなどすっきり収納。 本体が水平になるように高さを調節できます。
- 【コンパクト】幅490×奥行558×高さ1,429mmのコンパクト仕様でシングルにぴったり。
- 【大容量】冷蔵室が122L、冷凍室が53L収納可能。コンパクトなのにしっかり大容量。
- 【プライベート利用に】ドリンクやおつまみに。自分だけの空間をお楽しみ頂けます。
- 【見つけやすい】透明引き出しだから、何が入っているかが一目瞭然。使い忘れもなくなり、経済的。
- 【大容量設計】この冷蔵庫は271Lの大容量で、3人～4人の日常食材や飲み物を簡単に収めることができ、家庭用に最適です。商品サイズ：*幅562×奥行595×高さ1778mm *容量：271L。冷蔵室共171L 変温室36L 冷凍室100L *質量：52kg *定格電圧：AC100V *定格電源周波数：50/60Hz
- 【薄型設計·整理やすい 】奥行59.5cm 薄型設計で手が届きやすくて、食材が取り出しやすい。様々な食材の飲み物が整然と並べられ、食材の分布がはっきりしていて簡単です。
- 【高い収納空間】271L大容量＝冷蔵室135L+変温室36Ｌ+冷凍室100L、すっきり収納！使いやすい変温室：-18℃~5℃調整可能、野菜ボックス、冷蔵・冷凍としても問題ない。多機能収納スペース-冷蔵庫の内部には様々な仕切りと収納ボックスが備えられており、自由に調整でき、異なる食材の収納ニーズを満たします。
- 【自動霜取り】ファン式冷蔵庫なので、霜取りの手間がかからない。風冷技術を採用し、冷気が直接食品に当たらないようにして、食品を美味しさに保ち、霜がつきません。
- 【外形寸法（㎝）】幅47.9×奥行58.2×高さ126.9 【製品質量】40kg
- 【定格内容積】153L（冷蔵室：110L〈90L 〉冷凍室：43L〈29L〉）※〈〉内は食品収納スペースの目安
- 【年間消費電力量* (50/60Hz)】298（kWh/年） [*]年間消費電力量は、家庭用品品質表示法により表示が義務付けられており、15年測定方法(JIS C 9801-3:2015)により測定したものです。
- 【ノンフロン】○
- 【セレクトゾーン】保存する食品に合わせて、［チルド］と［冷蔵｜野菜］2つのモードをボタンひとつで簡単切換できます。
- 【低温消臭触媒】冷蔵庫の空間にある臭い成分を分解し、空気をきれいな状態に保ちます。
- 【大容量ドアポケット】 2Lペッドボトル3本置いてもまだ余裕の下段ドアポケットや、500ml缶がたっぷり入り調味料も整理できる独自設計の中段ドアポケットなど、たっぷりと収納。
- 【うるおい野菜室】冷気が直接野菜に当たらないように、野菜の乾燥を防ぎ、新鮮に保ちます。
Last update on 2025-08-11 .
