16 Best-Selling Japanese Eye Drops for Tired, Dry, or Red Eyes

*This article was sponsored by ROHTO Pharmaceutical.

What's So Special About Japanese Eye Drops?

Japanese eye drops, together with Japanese sunscreens and sheet masks, are some of the best-selling products at Japanese drugstores. While Japanese products are known for their high quality and, in the case of medicines, effectiveness, the main reason for this wild success has to do with the sheer variety of Japanese eye drops out there on the market. Compared to the pharmacies in other countries, the drugstores in Japan have entire walls solely dedicated to the various types of eye drops out on the Japanese market.

Dry eyes? Tired eyes? Red eyes? Irritated, itchy eyes from allergies? No matter what the symptom, there's sure to be eye drops out there for you in a Japanese drugstore. The wide selection also means that no matter your budget, you are sure to find something. All you have to do is look out for the Japanese word for eye drops, "megusuri" (目薬).

What Are the Best Japanese Eye Drops to Buy?

With such a wide selection of Japanese eye drops to choose from, finding the perfect one to cure your ailments can be an incredible struggle. We've scoured the rankings of several top Japanese retailers to come up with this comprehensive list of best-selling eye drops in Japan. Use this list the next time you drop by any drugstore in Japan!

What Are the Best Eye Drops in Japan? Top Two Japanese Eye Drops

１・V Rohto Premium (Vロートプレミアム)

Rohto is one of the top brands for eye drops in Japan, with a history that goes all the way back to 1909. Out of the many eye products in its arsenal, the V Rohto Premium remains its bestseller. This one eye drop can do it all—add moisture back into the eyes, reduce redness, relax tired eye muscles, etc. It might be a bit pricey, but its 12 active ingredients and incredible effectiveness warrants its price, so give it a try!

How to use: Apply 1-2 drops per eye, 5-6 times a day
Price: 1,650 yen for 15mL (tax included)
Use with contacts: Only with hard contacts
Official website: https://jp.rohto.com/vrohto-premium-series/

２・Sante Medical 12 (サンテメディカル12)

Santen is one of Rohto's top competitors, with a history that starts all the way in 1899, and Sante Medical 12 is their answer to Rohto's V Rohto Premium. This eye drop also has 12 active ingredients that work together to tackle all sorts of eye problems, including fatigue, redness, dryness, and so on. One of these ingredients helps improve eye focus, which comes much needed during crunch time.

How to use: Apply 1-3 drops per eye, 5-6 times a day
Price: 1,628 yen for 12mL (tax included)
Use with contacts: Not recommended as its red color may stain your contacts
Official website: https://www.santen.com/jp/healthcare/eye/products/otc/sante_medical_12

Eye Drops With Cute Packaging

３・Lycée Glow（ロートリセグロウ）

Concerned about your eye makeup smudging when using eye drops? Lycée Glow features a specially designed nozzle that delivers micro-droplets, preventing overflow from your eyes regardless of the application angle. The slim bottle fits easily into your makeup pouch, with a charming pink marbled cap as a stylish accent. It contains effective ingredients for tired, dry eyes - including components that improve focusing ability, treat the corneas, enhance eye metabolism enhancers, and help relieve itchiness. Suitable for use with both soft and hard contact lenses.

Used for: Eye fatigue, discomfort while wearing soft or hard contact lenses, blurry vision (such as when experiencing excessive eye discharge), eye itchiness, eye inflammation from ultraviolet or other light rays (such as snow blindness), and eye disease prevention (after swimming, when dust or sweat enters eyes, etc.)
How to use: Apply 1-3 drops, 5-6 times a day
Price: Open price for 8mL
Official website: https://jp.rohto.com/rohto-lycee/lycee-glow/

４・Rohto Meme Moisture Tear Serum（ロートメメ　モイスチャーティアセラム）

The gel-like formula of this eye drop stays in your eyes longer for sustained hydration. Containing corneal treatment ingredients and the same components found in natural tears, it moisturizes your eyes and relieves dryness and fatigue.

Beyond its effective formula, this eye drop stands out with its cute yet practical bottle design. The specially engineered nozzle prevents dripping and allows for clean application even when held at an angle or sideways - no need to tilt your head back!

It features a gradient logo that changes color in different lighting and a crystal-clear bottle that's stylish enough to carry everywhere. Here's a fun secret: when you open the cap and look from above at an angle, you'll discover a hidden heart at the top of the bottle. Look out for it the next time you use it!

Suitable for use without contacts as well as with colored contacts and both soft and hard contact lenses.

Used for: Tear fluid supplementation (eye dryness), eye fatigue, blurred vision (such as when experiencing excessive eye discharge), discomfort when wearing soft or hard contact lenses
How to use: Apply 1-2 drops, 3-4 times a day
Price: 1,430 yen for 12mL (tax included)
Official website: https://jp.rohto.com/rohto-meme/

５・Rohto Lycée（ロートリセ）

When it comes to cute eye drops in Japan, Rohto Lycée is the one to reach for! 

Formulated with the maximum concentration of anti-redness ingredients, it works quickly to clear up red, irritated eyes. On top of that, it takes a multi-faceted approach to the various causes of eye redness - from UV damage to uncomfortable itching - treating eye problems right at their source.

The charming pink color comes from vitamin B12, an essential nutrient that supports the eyes' focusing function. The moment you apply it, a crisp and refreshing cooling sensation spreads through your eyes, leaving you feeling instantly revitalized!

Make your daily eye care routine a little more special with its heart-fluttering rose scent.

How to use: Apply 1-3 drops, 5–6 times a day
Price: 770 yen for 8mL (tax included)
Use with contacts: Do not use while wearing soft contact lenses.
Official website: https://jp.rohto.com/rohto-lycee/eyedrop/

Eyes Failing as You Get Older? Japan's Top Eye Drop Selections for Aging Eyes

６・V Rohto Active Premium（Vロートアクティブプレミアム）

This eye drop is targeted towards the elderly, formulated to treat the deterioration of eye function due to factors such as age. On top of relieving symptoms such as itchy and bloodshot eyes, it contains vitamin A to help retain moisture in the eyes, as well as other ingredients that improve eye concentration. It also has four highly concentrated amino acids, such as taurine. Choose V Rohto Active Premium if you want to reduce symptoms like eye fatigue and blurred vision, especially if they're caused by age.

Used for: Apply 1-3 drops, 5-6 times a day
Price: 1,650 yen for 15mL (tax included)
Use with contacts: Only with hard contacts
Official website: https://jp.rohto.com/vrohto-premium-series/eyedrop-active/

７・Rohto Gold 40 (ロートゴールド40)

With six active ingredients, including taurine—previously mentioned for its incredible cell turnover effect—this eye drop is amazing for the older generation that often suffer from eye fatigue. Of course, you don't have to be old to use it; this product is especially popular with people in their 20s, too! Pick up the mild version if you're not a fan of how menthol feels on the eyes.

How to use: Apply 2-3 drops per eye, 5-6 times a day
Price: 858 yen for 20mL (tax included)
Use with contacts: This eye drop isn't formulated for use with contacts - instead, please get the Rohto Gold 40 Contact.
Official website: https://jp.rohto.com/gold40/eyedrop/

８・Lion Smile 40 Premium (ライオンスマイル40 プレミアム)

Unlike the other eye drops mentioned in this section, Lion Smile 40 Premium has a whopping 10 different active ingredients! Three especially key ingredients—vitamins A, E, and B6—are amazing at alleviating eye fatigue and itchiness, two common ailments that become more common as you age. It also contains several other components that have an antihistamine effect on the eyes, which is great for anyone with incredibly puffy or itchy eyes. It may be more pricey compared to the other eye drops in this section, but the benefits are well worth it. Like the others, you don't have to be old to be able to use this! It has plenty of fans among the younger demographic.

How to use: Apply 1-3 drops per eye, 3-6 times a day
Price: 1,540 yen for 15mL (tax included)
Use with contacts: Only with hard contacts
Official website: https://smile.lion.co.jp/products/smile40_premium_dx.htm

Eye Drops That Can Be Used With and Without Contacts

9・V Rohto Dry Guard Premium（Vロートドライガードプレミアム）

Do you find yourself struggling with persistent dry eyes from computer work or air conditioning? Do your eyes constantly feel uncomfortable, like they’re scratchy or something’s in them, or like even blinking’s tough?

V Rohto Dry Guard Premium is here to rescue those parched eyes! It's the first eye drop in Japan to combine both cornea-protecting and cornea-repairing active ingredients at their maximum concentrations, taking a dual approach to caring for both the cornea and tears. It also contains sesame oil as a stabilizer to help prevent tear evaporation, effectively soothing painful dry eye symptoms and eye fatigue. To top it off, it can be used not only without contacts, but also with any type of contact lens, whether soft or hard! 

Experience the satisfying sensation of your desert-dry eyes being instantly flooded with moisture the moment you apply it.

Used for: Eye fatigue, tear supplementation (dry eyes), discomfort when wearing soft or hard contact lenses, blurred vision (such as when experiencing excessive eye discharge)
How to use: Apply 1-2 drops, 3-4 times a day.
Price: 1,650 yen for 15mL (tax included)
Official website: https://jp.rohto.com/vrohto-premium-series/dryguard-premium/

１０・Namida Rohto Five（なみだロートファイブ）

These eye drops are perfect for those concerned about hygiene. They come in a package of five 4mL bottles that are designed to be used within 14 days. Formulated to closely match natural tears, these drops feel gentle and won't sting your eyes. They're preservative-free, making them suitable for children ages 1 and up, and effectively relieve uncomfortable symptoms like dry eyes and feeling when you have something stuck in your eyes. The soft, squeezable container makes application easy, while the hexagonal cap prevents rolling when set down.

Used for: Discomfort when wearing soft or hard contact lenses, tear fluid supplementation (dry eyes), eye fatigue, blurred vision (such as when experiencing excessive eye discharge)
How to use: Apply 1-3 drops, 5-6 times a day
Price: 825 yen for 4mL x 5 bottles (tax included)
Official website: https://jp.rohto.com/namida-rohto/promo/five/

１１・Lycée Contact （ロートリセコンタクト）

Moisturizes the corneas as well as hydrates the eyes. Especially recommended for those who frequently experience discomfort when wearing contact lenses. This eye drop is formulated with the lens-moisturizing ingredient "hypromellose" and the nourishing component "glucose" - when used on contact lenses, it helps them glide onto your eyes smoothly. It also addresses dryness and discomfort during lens wear. The gentle formula creates minimal irritation and spreads softly across your eyes. The adorable pink bottle will help boost your motivation for studying or working!

Used for: When used as regular eye drops: Discomfort when wearing soft or hard contact lenses, tear fluid supplementation (dry eyes), eye fatigue, blurred vision (such as when experiencing excessive eye discharge)
When used for contact lenses: Facilitates easier insertion of soft or hard contact lenses.
How to use: When used as regular eye drops: Apply 1-3 drops, 5-6 times a day
When used for contact lenses: Wet both sides of the contact lens with 1-2 drops before insertion
Price: 770 yen for 8mL (tax included)
Official website: https://jp.rohto.com/rohto-lycee/

１２・Soft Santear Hitomi Stretch (ソフトサンティアひとみストレッチ)

The "Hitomi Stretch" version of the Soft Santear comes with a much more complicated formula and, fittingly, a higher price. This eye drop specifically targets and alleviates any discomfort that may come from wearing contacts, and also helps improve overall eye focus. Since it comes with four 5mL bottles per box, you can put several in places you really need it—one in your bag, another on your desk, and so on!

How to use: Apply 1-3 drops per eye, 5-6 times a day
Price: 1,320 yen for 5mL x 4 bottles (tax included)
Use with contacts: Can be used with any type of contacts except for colored lenses
Official website: https://www.santen.com/jp/healthcare/eye/products/otc/hitomi_stretch

Solve the Eye Problems Caused by Digital Devices! Eye Drops for Eye Strain

１３・Rohto Digi Eye（ロートデジアイ）

Staring at smartphones and computers for long periods reduces how often you blink, quietly placing a heavy burden on the eyes' focusing muscles. Give your digitally fatigued eyes the recovery they deserve with Rohto Digi Eye!

This beautiful purple eye drop - inspired by the digital world - gets its striking color entirely from natural ingredients, with no artificial colorants used whatsoever. And packed into each vibrant drop are six active ingredients working hard for your eyes.

Anti-inflammatory ingredients help cool down the irritation and discomfort that comes from prolonged screen use, while vitamin B12 supports the recovery of the overworked focusing muscles. On top of that, it contains cornea-protecting ingredients that provide extra care for tired, strained eyes.

Gamers who put their eyes through a lot will love this eye drop!

How to use: Apply 1-2 drops, 5-6 times a day
Price: 968 yen for 12mL (tax included)
Use with contacts: Do not use while wearing soft contact lenses
Official website: https://jp.rohto.com/digieye/

１４・Rohto Yojunsui（ロート養潤水）

Did you know that the corneal cells on the surface of your eyes actively work to repair damage even while you sleep? Rohto Yojunsui was developed with this vital nighttime repair process in mind.

Its nourishing ingredients deliver a generous supply of nutrients to the eyes, boosting the corneal cell turnover and supporting recovery from eye fatigue. On top of that, it locks in moisture on the surface of the stressed cornea to help protect it and prevent eye disease.

Formulated with superior moisturizing ingredients also found in beauty serums, its rich, viscous texture helps keep the cornea hydrated for longer. Give your eyes some intensive nighttime care, and wake up the next morning to refreshed, clear eyes full of moisture!

How to use: Apply 1-3 drops, 5-6 times a day
Price: 968 yen for 13mL (tax included)
Use with contacts: Do not use while wearing soft contact lenses
Official website: https://jp.rohto.com/youjun/

Looking for a Refreshing Kick? Ultra-Cool Eye Drops

１５・Rohto Z! （ロートジー）

Rohto Z! b offers a quick refresh during long hours of work, study, or driving. When applied, a revitalizing cooling sensation spreads across your eyes, instantly rejuvenating tired vision. Its formula includes ingredients that activate eye function and promote metabolism, plus zinc sulfate hydrate to reduce inflammation caused by UV rays and other factors. Highly recommended after outdoor activities like sports. The bottle features a nozzle that allows application from any position.

Used for: Eye fatigue, eye disease prevention (after swimming, when dust or sweat enters eyes, etc.), eye inflammation from ultraviolet or other light rays (such as snow blindness), discomfort when wearing hard contact lenses, conjunctival redness, itchy eyes, blepharitis (eyelid irritation), blurred vision (such as when experiencing excessive eye discharge)
How to use: Apply 2-3 drops, 5-6 times a day
Price: 605 yen for 12mL (tax included)
Official website: https://jp.rohto.com/zi/

１６・Sante FX Neo ®（サンテFXネオ）

For the ultimate refreshing sensation, check out Sante FX Neo! 

These eye drops deliver an intense cooling effect - just one drop creates the sensation of a cool breeze sweeping through your eyes, providing an incredibly refreshing experience. Perfect for those spending long hours on PCs and smartphones, staying up late, or dealing with eye fatigue. Formulated with two types of metabolism-boosting amino acids and vitamins, plus anti-inflammatory ingredients that soothe fatigue while promoting eye metabolism, reducing redness, and restoring clear vision. The stylish silver packaging gives it a sleek, sophisticated appearance.

Used for: Eye fatigue, conjunctival redness, itchy eyes, eye disease prevention (after swimming, when dust or sweat enters eyes), eye inflammation from ultraviolet or other light rays (such as snow blindness), blurred vision (such as when experiencing excessive eye discharge), blepharitis (eyelid irritation), discomfort when wearing hard contact lenses
How to use: Apply 2-3 drops, 5-6 times a day
Price: Open price for 12mL
Official website: https://www.santen.com/jp/healthcare/eye/products/otc/sante_fx_neo

Conclusion

The eye drops carefully selected above are all very popular, but remember — your eyes are the windows to your soul, so don’t use eye drops carelessly! Before trying one based on a friend’s recommendation or online reviews, be sure to check the ingredients, understand the effects, or consult a doctor or pharmacist. With modern people spending more time on screens—whether it's computers, TVs, or games—it’s important to give your eyes the care they deserve. I hope this article helps you better understand Japanese eye drops!