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Teso Life opened its first Virginia store on Jan. 16, drawing a line that stretched nearly three blocks as shoppers waited to explore its expansive collection of Asian imports.
The one-floor Northern Virginia department store carries snacks, beauty products, household goods, collectibles and other merchandise. With more than 30 locations nationwide, the chain offers an experience reminiscent of an East Asian shopping mall, distinguished by the breadth of products packed into a single location.
“I think it’s really different from a lot of other Asian stores,” sophomore Nhoor Sandhu said. “It’s really similar to HMart, just with less food and more diverse products.”
Many items are imported directly from Japan, China, Korea and other Asian countries. The selection gives customers an opportunity to browse and test products that may otherwise be available only online, while avoiding the shipping expenses often attached to international purchases.
“I think just looking around and exploring all these different items [is great], because I don’t see all of these items on a daily basis when I go to Walmart or Giant,” sophomore Jimin Lee said.
The store’s minimalist design, trendy merchandise and selection of products popular online appear geared toward younger shoppers. Claw machines are among its standout attractions, reinforcing the Gen Z-focused atmosphere.
Social media advertising helped build anticipation for the opening. That excitement translated into waits of up to an hour in cold weather, leaving some visitors questioning whether the opening-day experience was worth the delay.
Crowds also magnified the drawbacks of Teso Life’s enormous inventory. Tightly packed aisles keep shoppers moving, but navigating the store can become tiring after about half an hour when it is especially busy.
Even with the long lines and congested aisles, Teso Life offers Northern Virginia shoppers a distinctive mix of viral products and imported goods. Visitors hoping for a more relaxed experience may have better luck going on a weekday.