If ants have started appearing in your kitchen or around your home in Japan, there's a good chance someone has already recommended this product — Ari no Su Korori (アリの巣コロリ). It's one of the most popular ant baits in Japan, and it works differently from a spray. Instead of killing ants on contact, it lets them carry the bait back to the nest — wiping out the whole colony from the inside.
I picked up the Super version, which comes with two types of bait stations in one package: a granule type and a gel type. The idea is that different ant species prefer different baits, so including both increases the chances of attracting whatever you're dealing with. It's also rated effective against fire ants (ヒアリ), which have become a concern in parts of Japan.
The setup itself takes about a minute. I filmed the whole process below — including the one safety tip that most people don't know about.
How It Works
Ari no Su Korori works in three stages:
- Attract. Ants find the bait and start feeding on it.
- Spread. Worker ants carry the bait back to the nest and share it with other ants, including the queen.
- Eliminate. The effect spreads through the colony, wiping out the nest entirely.
This is why it takes time — usually one to two weeks — to see the full effect. That's by design — it needs time to spread through the colony.
How to Use It
- Read the package instructions. The back of the package includes placement tips and safety information. Worth a look before you start.
- Remove one bait station from the package. The Super version includes two stations. You can use both at once, or save one for later.
- Pull out the plastic tab. There's a small tab on the side of the station. Pull it out to unseal the holes. This activates the product.
- Place it where you see ants. Set the station flat along an ant trail or near where you've spotted activity — along a wall, in a corner, or near an entry point.
- Leave it alone and wait. Don't move it. Don't spray near it. Full effect typically takes one to two weeks.
The One Thing Most People Get Wrong
Do not kill the ants — even if you see a lot of them near the bait. The whole point is to let them carry the bait back to the nest. If you spray insecticide on them or disturb the station, the product won't work. As tempting as it is, leave them alone.
More ants showing up around the bait? That's actually what you want. It means they found it. Give it time.
Safety Tips
- Read the package instructions before use
- Pull out the plastic tab before placing — the holes need to be open for ants to enter
- Do not open the bait station itself
- Keep away from children, pets, food, and tableware
- Do not place in areas exposed to direct rain or water
- Wash your hands after handling
- Dispose of used stations according to your local garbage disposal rules
More Japan Insect Guides
Looking for more ways to deal with insects in Japan? Our Dealing with Insects page has everything from skin repellents to plug-in devices and outdoor sprays.