To all international students: Please join the University of Tokyo Co-op

About the University of Tokyo Consumer Co-op (Todai Co-op)

The University of Tokyo Co-op was established in 1946 by students and faculty members of the University of Tokyo.
The University of Tokyo Co-op supports the lives of its members through various services such as purchasing, books, cafeterias, travel, and housing on each of the University of Tokyo's campuses.

  • There are many stores on campus, all run by the Co-op
  • Co-op supports daily meals
    • Our cafeterias offer a wide variety of unique menus that change weekly, with each location having its own special offerings. We also have menus that cater to halal and vegan diets.
      *Vegan menus available at: Hongo Central Cafeteria and Komaba Cafeteria (1st floor)
      *Vegetarian menus available at: Hongo Central Cafeteria
      *Halal menus available at: Hongo Central Cafeteria, Hongo 2nd Cafeteria, Komaba Cafeteria (1st floor), and Komaba Cafeteria (2nd floor)
    • Our store offers takeout options including rice balls, bento boxes, bread, and sandwiches. We also stock halal-certified foods and snacks.
      *Halal food available at: Hongo Second Store, Komaba Store, and Kashiwa Food Shop
  • Housing support

Join the University of Tokyo Co-op and become a member

To use the University of Tokyo Co-op, you must become a member.
By joining the Co-op and becoming a member, you can receive various benefits.
A capital contribution is required to join the Co-op.
The University of Tokyo Co-op asks everyone to contribute 24,000 yen for 60 shares (400 yen per share).

What is capital contribution?

This fund is used to operate the cooperative's business (for purchasing goods, equipment, etc.).
It will be refunded upon graduation or completion of your studies at the University of Tokyo, in accordance with the articles of association.
Please remember to complete the withdrawal procedure at the campus office before leaving the University of Tokyo.

Benefits for members

  • 30% off dining hall use
  • 10% off books
  • Joining a protection system to prepare for the risk of injury, illness, or accident
  • Apply for a service that provides 24/7 support for any problems you may have during your university life (available in English, Chinese, Korean, Portuguese, and Spanish)
  • Introducing the rent guarantee service "Daigakuseikyo Anshin Sumai-kun" when searching for housing
  • What is Anshin Smile-kun?
  • Use the Co-op app to charge your card and enjoy smooth checkout and points
  • For more information about the Co-op app, click here

    (The Co-op app will be available after you have completed your membership application.)

    • Points are awarded when using support services for finding a home
    • Points may be awarded by participating in events held by the Co-op
    • A Japanese SIM card is required to use the Co-op app
    • SIM card information here

How to join

You can apply to join the Co-op online

    Join the Co-op here
  • Please apply via the website above.
    When applying, you will need to provide your name in katakana (Japanese phonetic script). Please prepare this in advance.
    Using a generation AI such as Gemini is convenient.
    Example: "John Smith katakana"
    Corrections can also be made at the counter later.
  • You can choose from bank transfer (Pay-easy), convenience store payment, credit card payment, or in-person payment.
    We request 24,000 yen (60 units).
  • Within 1-3 business days of receiving your payment, we will send you instructions on how to register for the Co-op app to your registered email address. Please set up the app after receiving the email.
    *Attempting to set up the app before receiving the email will result in an error.
  • Please use your "temporary membership card" until the app setup is complete.
    *You can display your "temporary membership card" after registering by clicking the "Application Details Confirmation" URL in the payment confirmation email.

To apply for CO-OP Student Comprehensive Mutual Aid, Student Liability Insurance, or Student Life Hotline, please visit the campus office

Campus Office

Hongo, Asano, and Yayoi Member Center
(2nd floor of the Second Cafeteria Building, near the Toei Bus "University of Tokyo Campus" bus stop)
Hongo Map
Komaba I Co-op Office Map of Komaba

*If you are using the Medical Research Institute store, please contact the following:
Member Center (Hongo Campus) Email:sosen@mail.utcoop.or.jp

SIM card information for international students

When applying for a credit card or starting a part-time job, you will need a contact number in Japan (i.e., a mobile phone number)

  • We recommend applying for a SIM card with voice service
  • You can apply online before entering Japan, and you can provide your Japanese phone number in advance, so you can let your family and friends back home know

Once you start living in Japan, it can be difficult to get a mobile phone contract

  • Many people do not have Japanese bankbooks or credit cards, making it difficult to obtain a mobile phone contract. However, GTN MOBILE, offered by the University of Tokyo Co-op, offers a special plan for international students that allows you to pay at a convenience store (post-payment)
  • You can rest assured that we also provide reliable support in your native language
  • GTN MOBILE Information
    Apply here
English