Explore Japan’s best souvenir shopping destinations, from unique and cheap finds at Daiso to signature kitchenware at Kappabashi.
Japan is not only famous for its culture and technology, but also for the diversity of products that can be made into typical souvenirs to take home.
Japan’s various shopping destinations offer unique products, from budget-friendly items to high-quality goods. If you are planning to visit Japan and want to buy unique and unforgettable souvenirs, here are the 10 best shopping places in Japan that you must visit.
1. Daiso
Daiso is one of the most well-known stores for tourists looking for souvenirs in Japan. With over 3,000 stores across Japan, Daiso is known for its 100 yen store concept, meaning almost everything sold in the store is priced at around 100 yen, or about $1.
Despite its affordable prices, Daiso offers a variety of unique and interesting products, from household goods to tableware to cute toys.
Daiso is a great place to buy cheap and memorable souvenirs. Some must-see items include colorful goldfish purses, lucky cat plushies, and sushi-shaped erasers, which can only be found at Daiso Japan.
2. Matsumoto Kiyoshi
Matsumoto Kiyoshi or better known as Matsukiyo is one of the largest drugstore chains in Japan. This store has branches in almost every city in Japan, with striking yellow shops in the front.
After shopping, you can explore nearby spots offering Typical Japan Food, making it a well-rounded local experience. Here, you can find a wide range of products, from medicines to beauty treatments at very competitive prices.
If you are looking for cosmetic souvenirs from Japan, Matsumoto Kiyoshi is the right place. Beauty products from famous brands such as Shiseido, SK-II, and other Japanese cosmetics can be found here at prices that are cheaper than their home countries.
3. Don Quixote
Don Quijote, or often referred to as Donki, is a convenience store chain that is widespread in Japan. This store is a shopping paradise for anyone looking for unique and inexpensive items.
You can find various products, from snacks, cosmetics, medicines, to electronics and clothing at attractive discount prices.
Don Quijote is open 24 hours a day, so you can shop anytime. The store is also known for its Japanese-style items, such as cartoon character face masks or unique T-shirts with cute designs, making it a top choice for tourists looking for a different kind of souvenir.
4. Tokyu Hands
Tokyu Hands is a must-visit shop if you are looking for quality and innovative Japanese souvenirs. The store is known for its extensive collection of DIY (do-it-yourself) products, ranging from arts and crafts supplies, to household tools and other unique items.
Tokyu Hands has its main branch in Shibuya, Tokyo, and offers a wide range of local and international products.
Here, you can find unique bathroom accessories, camping supplies, Japanese stationery, and more. Don’t forget to buy unique Japanese equipment or accessories that are hard to find elsewhere as souvenirs.
5. LOFT
LOFT is a famous department store also located in the Shibuya area of Tokyo. With seven floors offering around 80,000 different items, LOFT is the perfect place to buy unique souvenirs from Japan.
Here, you can find various products ranging from stationery, cosmetics, household appliances, to home decorations.
Some of the signature items you can buy at LOFT include daruma dolls, tenugui towels (traditional Japanese towels), and various design items inspired by Japanese culture. LOFT is open until 9 p.m. daily, giving you plenty of time to explore every corner of the store.
6. Uniqlo
Uniqlo is a Japanese clothing brand known for its simple yet elegant designs. This brand offers high quality clothing at relatively affordable prices. Uniqlo is also known for having big sales, so you can buy quality clothes at more affordable prices.
At Uniqlo, you can buy various clothes with typical Japanese designs that can be used as practical souvenirs.
One of the most popular products is jackets and t-shirts with minimalist designs that are comfortable to wear everyday. Uniqlo has several branches in Japan, including a large flagship store in Ginza, Tokyo.
7. Harajuku
Harajuku is a famous area for youth fashion culture in Tokyo. Here, you will find many small shops selling clothes and accessories at affordable prices. Especially on Takeshita Street, which is filled with shops offering unique and trendy items.
Harajuku is the ideal place for those looking for fashion souvenirs with a different style and a distinct Japanese feel. Here, you can find clothes with funky designs, cute accessories, and unique items that you won’t find anywhere else.
8. Ameyoko
Ameyoko is a traditional market located in Ueno, Tokyo. This market is a perfect place to hunt for cheap souvenirs and get affordable items.
Ameyoko is known for its bustling atmosphere, with friendly vendors and a wide variety of products ranging from food, clothing, cosmetics, to electronics.
One of the great things about shopping at Ameyoko is that you can bargain, allowing you to get items at a cheaper price. Ameyoko is a great place to find souvenirs and other cheap items.
9. Shimokitazawa
Shimokitazawa is an area in Tokyo known for its vintage and second-hand shops. This place is a heaven for those looking for unique items at affordable prices. In addition to vintage clothing and accessories, you can also find art and other unique items.
Shimokitazawa is the center of indie culture in Tokyo, with many cafes and bars offering a relaxed atmosphere. If you like looking for retro and vintage items, this area is the right place to hunt for souvenirs.
10. Kappabashi
Kappabashi is a famous area in Tokyo known for its kitchenware shops and restaurants. Here, you will find a variety of quality kitchenware, from sharp Japanese knives to traditional Japanese cooking utensils.
Kappabashi is also famous for its highly detailed food replicas, which are often used by restaurants in Japan to showcase their menus.
These food replicas are very realistic and can be unique souvenirs that illustrate the uniqueness of Japanese culinary culture. If you love cooking or are looking for kitchen equipment, Kappabashi is a must-visit place to buy typical Japanese goods.
With the diversity of shopping places in Japan, you can find a variety of unique souvenirs that reflect the richness of Japanese culture.
From functional items to cute and unique items, each place offers a different shopping experience, including a variety of Typical Japan Souvenirs to take home.
So, be sure to visit these places while you’re in Japan to get the best souvenirs that will always remind you of your amazing trip.