[2023 GUIDE] The Best Shopping in Tokyo | Where to Go

Shopping in Tokyo is the perfect place to find unique and interesting items for every budget.

Tokyo boasts many shopping destinations, from large department stores and malls to small boutiques and street markets. Tokyo shopping districts such as Ginza, Harajuku, Ikebukuro, Shibuya, Roppongi Hills, Akihabara, Nihonbashi, and Kanda are packed with shops selling the latest fashion trends and unique wares. Shopping centers like LaLaport TOKYO-BAY offer an abundance of shops for all shoppers.

SHOPPING TIP: Shopping tax-free in Tokyo is a great way to save money while shopping in this vibrant city. Travelers can enjoy tax-free shopping at many of the city’s major department stores, malls, and other shopping centers. Shopping tax-free allows international visitors to purchase items without paying Japan’s 8% consumption tax. Visitors must present their passport and Tax-Free Shopping Certificate to receive this benefit. To purchase items tax-free, shoppers must spend more than ¥5,000 (about $50) in one store or shop before making their purchases.

The 8 Shopping Districts in Tokyo

1. Ginza

Ginza is renowned as the most expensive area in Tokyo, with land prices reaching as high as 30 million yen per square meter and even higher for commercial properties. It is also famous as the city’s most high-end shopping destination, with luxurious boutiques and cafés which offer expensive goods and services. However, Ginza has something for everyone, with an increasing number of stores, restaurants, and cafés offering various products at different price points.

Ginza’s main street, Chuo Dori, is approximately one kilometer long and is closed to traffic on the weekends, allowing pedestrians the freedom to walk in the street. Here, you can find a wide range of stores, from high-end fashion boutiques such as Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Gucci, to more cheap shopping in Tokyo like Uniqlo, H&M, Zara, GU, and GAP. You can also explore electronic department stores such as Big Camera, Sony showroom, and the Apple Store.

If you plan to visit Ginza for shopping, here are some of the best shops you should consider below.

Where to Shop in Ginza

Chuo Dori

If you are looking for where to shop in Tokyo for unique items, then look no further than Chuo Dori.

Located in Tokyo’s Ginza shopping district, is one of the most iconic shopping streets in Tokyo. Famed for its luxury and high-end stores featuring the latest fashion trends, Chuo Dori is lined with everything from famous flagship stores to designer boutiques to traditional Japanese artisans. With a vibrant atmosphere and plenty of beautifully decorated shops and eateries, Chuo Dori offers an unforgettable shopping experience that is perfect for tourists and locals.

Harumi Dori

This area is a luxurious shopping street in the Ginza shopping area of Tokyo. It is known for its designer boutiques, upscale restaurants, cafes, high-end jewelry stores, and specialty shops. Shopping at Harumi Dori offers a unique experience, with many stores featuring intricate window displays filled with the latest trends and exclusive items. You can find everything from designer clothing and accessories to traditional Japanese crafts and antiques.

This street is some of the best Tokyo shopping that allows visitors to enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine at one of the many elegant restaurants or sip a cup of tea at one of the cozy cafes. With its sophisticated yet friendly atmosphere, shopping at Harumi Dori will give you an unforgettable experience in Tokyo.

Ginza SIX

Ginza SIX is a newly opened shopping complex located in Ginza, Tokyo, Japan. Opened in 2017, it is the biggest complex in the district today. With over 240 fashionable and trendy stores, Ginza SIX provides an unbeatable selection of clothing, accessories, beauty products, and more. It also features a variety of restaurants and cafés, offering both international and local cuisines. In addition, Ginza SIX also has a large number of art galleries, theaters, and entertainment venues, making it a one-stop destination for all your shopping, dining, and entertainment needs.

Ginza Mitsukoshi

Ginza Mitsukoshi (銀座三越) is truly a unique shopping experience. It’s a long-established department store that opened in 1930 and is located at the junction of Ginza 4-chome. This 12-storied building offers a modern yet traditional Japanese style “trust-worthy” hospitality and services that has made it the oldest surviving department store chain in Japan.

The department store is quite large and offers many different items. Customers can find menswear, womenswear, accessories, children’s wear, toys, and household goods. Additionally, the store is popular for its large food hall.

Ginza Mitsukoshi is an experience like no other. By combining the traditional Japanese style of hospitality with the modern amenities of a large department store, customers will be sure to have an enjoyable time.

Ginza Matsuya

Ginza Matsuya (銀座松屋) is an iconic department store in the Ginza district of Tokyo. It is renowned for offering an extensive selection of world-famous brands, jewelry stores, and more. As the first-ever department store in Ginza, it is one of the most popular destinations in the area.

Ginza Matsuya is the ideal place to explore premium fashion, beauty, and homeware brands. It also houses an exhibition hall on the 8th floor. The basement level is home to an impressive two-level food hall, which offers an array of delicious delicacies from all over the world. With its wide array of products and services, Ginza Matsuya is a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.

2. Harajuku

Harajuku is a district in Shibuya. It is home to the famous Takeshita Street and other shops that sell the latest fashion trends and unique items that cater to its eccentric and eclectic culture. Shopping in Harajuku is an unforgettable experience, with many stores offering exclusive and one-of-a-kind items.

Where to Shop in Harajuku

Takeshita Street

One of the famous shopping streets in Tokyo is also known as “Takeshita-dori.” Shopping at Takeshita Street will give visitors a unique experience, as it offers a vibrant and eclectic mix of Japanese street fashion, fast food outlets, trendy cafes, and small boutiques. The shopping street is well-known for its colorful shops and restaurants that feature the latest fashion trends, such as lolita fashion, kawaii culture, and cosplay costumes. In addition, numerous stores sell traditional Japanese souvenirs such as handcrafted fans, kokeshi dolls, and yukata robes.

Laforet Shopping Mall

This mall is home to many renowned fashion brands, such as the gothic Lolita Wunderwelt boutique and Candy Stripper vintage store. Shopping at Laforet Shopping Mall will offer an unforgettable experience where you can find various clothing items from international brands alongside domestic ones.

You can also find a range of accessories such as jewelry and hats, making Laforet Shopping Mall the perfect spot for fashionistas looking to update their wardrobe.

In addition to these two famous shopping streets, Harajuku has many smaller stores scattered throughout the area that offer unique products such as vintage clothing and handmade items like pottery and paper craft goods that cannot be found anywhere else. Shopping in Harajuku allows one to explore some of Japan’s most vibrant subcultures while getting great deals on unique items that make perfect souvenirs or gifts for friends back home.

DAISO

The DAISO Harajuku branch is located in Takeshita Street and is the king of 100 yen shops. As we know, most items in DAISO cost only 108 yen, including Value-Added Tax. The Harajuku branch, however, is a particularly great place to shop, as it is a huge three-storied store. Furthermore, the English-speaking shop assistants are available to help you with any questions you may have. Finally, the Harajuku branch offers a wide variety of Japanese souvenirs, making it the perfect place to shop for give-away souvenirs for a large number of friends.

Kiddy Land

Japan is a country that is renowned for its popular cartoon characters. From Hello Kitty to Pikachu and Totoro to Rirakkuma, there are a multitude of beloved characters that have become a part of Japan’s culture. If you’re looking to buy merchandise featuring these characters, Kiddy Land is the place to go. The Harajuku branch of Kiddy Land is located on Omotesando Street and is a five-story shop dedicated to thousands of character goods from all over the world. It’s easy to get lost in the store for 1-2 hours, so be sure to set aside plenty of time to explore its many wonders. Whether you’re looking for a souvenir or something special to take home, Kiddy Land has something for everyone.

3. Ikebukuro

Ikebukuro is home to a variety of famous shopping streets in Tokyo, offering everything from international brands to unique specialty stores. This shopping area in Tokyo has long been a popular shopping destination in Tokyo, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and a vast selection of items. Shopping in Ikebukuro offers something for everyone, with the district boasting a mix of department stores, malls, and smaller specialty shops that sell everything from electronics to clothing and jewelry and its numerous arcades, which are a favorite among video game enthusiasts.

WHERE TO SHOP IN IKEBUKURO

East Shopping District

One of Tokyo’s most prominent shopping areas is located just outside the JR Ikebukuro Station. This bustling area is lined with numerous department stores and malls, including Seibu Department Store, Tobu Department Store, and Mylord Shopping Center. Shopping here provides an almost overwhelming selection of products from different brands and stores, with everything from clothes and shoes to electronics, jewelry, and cosmetics available.

The East Shopping District is also home to many restaurants serving both traditional Japanese food as well as various international cuisines – making it a popular spot for travelers looking for somewhere to grab a bite to eat while they shop.

West Shopping District

Another critical shopping area in Ikebukuro. Situated near the west exit of Ikebukuro Station, this district houses a wide range of shops ranging from well-known brands such as Muji and Uniqlo to independent boutiques offering unique items such as vintage clothing or handmade goods. This shopping district also has several arcades where you can take part in tournaments or test out the latest video games before purchasing them.

Akiba Shopping Town

This shopping area is located on the outskirts of Ikebukuro Station. It offers an array of rare items, such as anime collectibles, figures, and vintage video game consoles exclusive to this district. Shopping at Akiba Shopping Town allows visitors to explore some of Japan’s most vibrant subcultures while getting great deals simultaneously!

In addition to the traditional shopping areas, Ikebukuro also offers several small shopping streets dotted with independent boutique stores offering fashionable clothes, accessories, and even handmade crafts that add a touch of individual flair to your wardrobe. Shopping at these small boutiques allows you to discover hidden gems while supporting local businesses simultaneously.

Seibu Ikebukuro

The Seibu Ikebukuro Line is one of the many lines of the Seibu group and is located right above the station. The Seibu Department Store of Ikebukuro is the company’s flagship store and is one of the biggest department stores in Tokyo. This department store is extremely large and offers a wide variety of items.

Cosmetics, clothing, jewelry, furniture, stationery, and many other items can all be found in the Seibu Department Store of Ikebukuro. Many famous brands, such as Shiseido, Chanel, Nike, and Adidas, are also available. There is truly something for everyone at this department store. It is a great place to find the perfect item or outfit for any occasion.

Parco

Located in the heart of Tokyo, right next to the iconic Seibu department store, is the Ikebukuro Parco. This is the flagship store of the Parco company and was one of the first shopping centers of its kind, starting out as a small store. It is significantly larger than the Shibuya Parco, and while it doesn’t have an official Nintendo Store or a restaurant that serves insects, it still has many interesting things to offer. It is a popular destination for visitors and locals alike, and a great place to explore and discover something new.

Tobu Department Store Ikebukuro

The Tobu department is located on the opposite side of the station. It is linked to the Tobu Toju Line and therefore, the entrance to the department is on the side of the station where the Tobu Toju trains have their entrance. Even though it’s not as obvious as the Seibu or the Parco, with their large posters announcing them, it is a massive department store with over 15 floors. Inside, you can find an array of clothing stores, accessories, restaurants, and more.

4. Roppongi Hills

Roppongi Hills is a major commercial and business center in Tokyo, Japan, in the district of Minato. Its most prominent feature is the Mori Tower, featuring modern hotels, restaurants, art galleries, and theatres, as well as shopping complexes like Tokyo Midtown Shopping Mall, which has over 160 shops selling luxury brands from Tokyo and around the world.

Where to shop in Roppongi Hills

Tokyo Midtown Shopping Mall

Located in Roppongi Hills, it is a popular destination for luxury shoppers. It offers over 160 shops selling designer labels and upscale boutiques from all around the world. The mall features a wide array of fashion trends and accessories, catering to both men and women. Additionally, it showcases luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Prada, Balenciaga, and Hermes.

Hiroo Plaza Shopping Mall

This place is in a shopping hotspot at Roppongi Hills, offering a range of luxury brand stores. Here you can find exclusive designer items from top fashion houses like Chanel, Alexander McQueen, and Valentino and high-end Japanese brands such as Issey Miyake, Yohji Yamamoto, and Comme des Garcons. Aside from its selection of luxury retail stores, Hiroo Plaza Shopping Mall also features several restaurants offering international cuisines and cafes serving up desserts or coffee for visitors to enjoy after their shopping spree.

The Keyakizaka Shopping District at Roppongi Hills

This shopping area in Tokyo offers an exciting mix of international luxury brands such as Dior, Armani Exchange, and Coach, as well as local Japanese designers like Atsuro Tayama and TAKAHIROMIYASHITA The Soloist. This district boasts some of the best luxury shopping spots in Tokyo, so if you’re looking for exclusive items or cutting-edge fashion designs, this is the place to go!

Starlight Plaza Shopping Center

This place contains many affordable and high-end stores, such as Burberry and ZARA, that offer unique clothing items not found anywhere else in Tokyo. This plaza also has an extensive selection of specialty shops where you can find antiques or rare collectibles that are perfect for any collector’s home décor collection.

5. Akihabara

Akihabara Shopping Town is known for being a vibrant and electrifying shopping district in Tokyo, offering a unique blend of cutting-edge electronics, gadgets, and technology alongside fashion boutiques, game arcades, anime stores, and maid cafes. Shopping enthusiasts can enjoy a wide selection of items at the many department stores and specialty shops, as well as a variety of creative items only found in Japan. With its lively atmosphere and myriad choice, Akihabara Shopping Town is sure to fulfill any shopper’s desires!

Where to Shop in Akihabara

Yodobashi Akiba

Yodobashi Akiba is one of the largest electronics stores in Akihabara Shopping Town. This store offers a wide selection of electronics, appliances, and tools. It also carries cameras, video game consoles, mobile phones, computers and parts, televisions, and audio components. Visitors can also find a range of anime merchandise and figurines here.

Radio Kaikan

Radio Kaikan is a shopping complex with over ten floors packed with shops selling everything from traditional Japanese souvenirs to the latest anime goods and figures. Aside from these products, this center also houses restaurants serving delicious Japanese cuisines such as sushi and ramen.

Mandarake Complex

The Mandarake complex is a popular destination for otaku culture enthusiasts looking for rare collectibles, vintage manga books, or used CDs and DVDs. This store has an extensive selection of secondhand items and new releases that satisfy any fan’s needs.

Kotobukiya Shopping Center

Kotobukiya Shopping Center is Akihabara Shopping Town’s top destination for model kits and plastic figures fans. Visitors can find model kits ranging from Gundam to Star Wars characters and vintage toys from classic video game series like Super Mario Bros., Street Fighter II, and more!

Animate Shopping Center

Animate Shopping Center offers one of the best selections of anime goods in Tokyo. This shop has everything from plushies to fashion accessories to art prints! Also located within the same building are several cafes where visitors can take a break while enjoying snacks or drinks after their shopping spree.

Trading Card Game Centers

Trading card game centers are perfect for gamers looking for their favorite trading cards or board games. Several trading card game centers are scattered across Akihabara Shopping Town, offering both new releases and secondhand items, so no matter what type of gamer you are, there’s sure to be something for you!

Akihabara Electric Town

Akihabara Electric Town is a shopping district devoted primarily to electronics stores that offer both new gadgets as well as used ones at discounted prices, making it an excellent place for bargain hunters looking for deals on high-end electronics brands such as Sony, Panasonic, or Toshiba. It also has multiple buildings housing specialty stores that carry computer parts or household gadgets, so shoppers can pick up whatever they need here!

Akiba Culture Zone Shopping Street

Akiba Culture Zone Shopping Street combines retail stores with cafes offering patrons a unique shopping experience unlike anywhere else in Tokyo! This shopping street features boutiques carrying fashionable apparel such as streetwear, live music venues, and other entertainment spots, making it the perfect spot to spend your day in Akihabara Shopping Town!

6. Nihonbashi

Nihonbashi is a historic area located near the Imperial Palace, offering a unique shopping experience to visitors and locals alike. Shopping here means discovering traditional Japanese goods such as exquisite kimonos, handcrafted lacquerware, stunning pottery pieces, and much more. Shopping at Nihonbashi also means stepping into Japan’s grand old cultural heritage – from Edo period charm to modern luxury items – making it an unmissable destination for any shopper looking for something exceptional!

Where to Shop in Nihonbashi

Mitsukoshi Department Store

The iconic Mitsukoshi Department Store is one of Tokyo’s oldest and most luxurious department stores. Shopping here means discovering an extensive range of clothing items, beauty products, accessories, home decor, and gadgets. With its state-of-the-art amenities, modern design, welcoming atmosphere, and professional staff – Mitsukoshi offers an unparalleled shopping experience for everyone! Shopping at this grand old establishment is truly a must when visiting Tokyo!

Nihonbashi Souvenir Shopping Street

This area is an excellent destination for travelers looking to purchase traditional Japanese souvenirs, offering a wide variety of exquisite goods such as traditional kimonos, handcrafted lacquerware, beautiful pottery and other unique items that capture the essence of Japan. Shopping here means taking a step back in time and experiencing the grand old culture of Japan – from Edo period charm to modern luxury items – making it an unforgettable shopping experience!

7. Kanda

Kanda is one of the best places to shop in Tokyo. Shopping here offers a unique experience, as visitors can find rare books and publications worldwide. Whether you’re looking for a particular collector’s item, out-of-print editions, or books that can be difficult to find elsewhere, Kanda has something for everyone.

Where to shop in Kanda

Kanda Shopping Street

Shopping at Kanda Shopping Street means discovering a wide variety of stores and shops, ranging from secondhand bookstores specializing in antiques and vintage items to modern shops selling the latest publications. Visitors can find an array of rare books, out-of-print editions, and collector’s items from around the world, offering a truly unique shopping experience.

Kanda Myojin Shopping Arcade

This commercial district is home to Kanda Myojin Shopping Arcade, which is well known for its selection of traditional Japanese goods such as kimonos and lacquerware. Shopping here also means discovering some genuinely unique souvenirs that capture the history and culture of Japan – from Edo period charm to modern luxury items – making it an unforgettable experience!

Kanda Jimbocho Shopping District

Shopping in this bustling district means exploring dozens of secondhand bookstores selling rare publications from around the world. Stroll through over 200 shops that offer everything from used books to antique cards, postcards, prints, and other collectibles – making it an excellent spot for any shopper.

Shosen Book Tower

Located within the Jimbocho Shopping District is Shosen Book Tower – one of Tokyo’s largest bookstores carrying millions of titles in both English and Japanese. It offers a vast selection of literature from all genres, so no matter what you’re looking for, there’s sure to be something here for everyone – making it a must-visit destination for any bibliophile!

Maruzen Bookstore

Maruzen Bookstore is another popular spot in the Jimbocho Shopping District. This store carries a comprehensive range of foreign books, stationery, art supplies, and other educational materials. With its friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere, Maruzen offers an enjoyable shopping experience for everyone!

Kanda also boasts a wide selection of cafes and restaurants, making it a great place to grab a bite after an afternoon spent browsing through bookstores. Shopping here offers everything from traditional Japanese desserts such as matcha cake and mochi to international dishes like pizza and ramen noodles, so there is something for every taste!

Finally, Kanda is home to various attractions, including shrines, temples, and other historical sites. These offer visitors an opportunity to explore Japan’s rich cultural heritage while enjoying the many shops and cafés this area has to offer. Shopping in Kanda is sure to be an unforgettable experience – from finding rare books and publications from around the world, sampling delicious international dishes, or exploring Japan’s cultural heritage – this area has something for everyone!

What to Buy in Tokyo

Traveling in Tokyo is an amazing experience that any traveler should have. There is so much to see and do, but one thing you should consider is what to buy for your friends and yourself as souvenirs. Japan is a gift paradise – you are spoilt for choice! Whether you are looking for something classic or contemporary, high-end or kitschy, you can find the perfect item with a bit of searching. From traditional handicrafts to modern technology, you can find something to suit every taste.

1. Kokeshi Dolls

Kokeshi dolls are traditional handcrafted wooden dolls made in the Tohoku region of northeastern Japan. They are usually made from Dogwood and pear trees (mizuki and nashi in Japanese) and are created by hand using the original designs. As the wood matures, the Kokeshi dolls become more “ripened” and acquire a distinctive look. Depending on the age and condition, the dolls can range from $30 to $1,000 or more.

The Timeline Trading Co. in Sendai-shi, Miyagi, Japan crafts and sells these dolls from 10AM to 7PM. The company is an excellent resource for anyone wishing to purchase a Kokeshi doll. They offer a wide variety of styles, sizes, and prices, so buyers can find the perfect doll for their home.

2. Japanese Calligraphy Set

Calligraphy is a type of visual art that has been appreciated throughout the island of Japan since ancient times. It involves giving form to signs in an expressive, harmonious and skillful manner. The quality of a calligraphy pen is determined by its shape, size and the material of the brush. Although the practice of calligraphy may have died out in recent generations, the market for calligraphy pens remains very much alive.

Calligraphy has had a significant influence on ink and wash painting, contributing to its continued popularity in both western and eastern Japan. In Japan, this art is taught to elementary school children and has its roots linked to Buddhism.

Oriental Bazaar or Village 107, located in Tokyo, is a great place to find quality calligraphy sets. They range in brush styles from horse hair to bamboo and are open from 10:00AM to 9:00PM. Prices for these sets vary between $100 and $300, depending on the manufacturer. For those who want to purchase a custom-ordered calligraphy set, it may cost a bit more.

3. Wagashi

Wagashi is a traditional Japanese pastry composed of mochi, azuku bean paste and various fruits. This exquisite treat has been around since the early 720s, when tea was first introduced to Japan. At that time, the country also discovered powders and mochi, which became the perfect additions to the pastry.

The types of wagashi pastries are highly varied, and include Animitsu (gelatinous cubes made of fruit), Dango (small, sticky and sweet mochi, commonly skewed on a stick) and Imagawayaki (pastry covered in fried dough). Additionally, wagashi is classified by its moisture content. Depending on the season, certain types of wagashi are produced and sold. For instance, namagashi contains 30% more moisture and, therefore, varies in size between the cool and warm seasons.

You can find these delectable pastries at the Ginza station entrance in Chuo, Tokyo, located at the intersection of the Ginza main street and the Sanai Building. The station is open from 7AM to 10PM daily, and wagashi is sold for a relatively low price of $5-10 (500-1,000 Japanese yen). This sweet pastry is highly popular in Tokyo, and can be found both inside and outside the station.

4. Sake Set

A sake set is a generic term for a set of ceramic vessels used to serve the popular Japanese alcoholic beverage, Sake. It typically includes a tokkuri – a sake “server” traditionally shaped like a vase with a narrow neck to prevent heat from escaping – and various cups, such as sakazuki – a saucer-like cup – and ochoko – a small cylindrical cup. A wooden box, called masu, is also included in the set. Used for additional sake liquor, the masu acts as a “spill-over” dish. To chill sake, choiori is used.

Sake is quite popular among tourists in Japan, and can be found in Tokyo at Oriental Bazaar or Village 107, 1-19-24 Jingu-mae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo from 10:00AM to 9:00PM. Sake sets vary greatly in price, depending on the intricacy and quality of the materials used. For example, more expensive and finely crafted sets range in price between $100 and $200.

5. Obento Boxes

Obento boxes are a popular way of serving lunch in Japan. These boxes are filled with pickled vegetables, rice, beans, and curd. To make them more environmentally friendly, many of the boxes are made from recycled laquerware. Japanese homemakers take great pride in preparing beautiful and delicious lunch boxes for their children. Designs vary greatly, from panda bear faces to popular Anime characters to scenic views of the Tokyo skyline.

Obento boxes can be found in many stores, train stations, and even at Omote-sando Dori in Shibuya-Ku, Tokyo 150-0001. The store is open between 9:00AM and 9:00PM and the Obento boxes range in price from $15-30. With so many options available, every child can have a unique and interesting lunch box.

6. Traditional Fan (Uchiwa)

The hand-fan, better known as a traditional Japanese fan, is an essential accessory during the summer months in Japan. It induces airflow while displaying intricate art, such as a poem or Japanese calligraphy.

The fan originated in China, and the first Japanese fans were made of bamboo and typically seen as part of a Geisha’s outfit. Now, the fan symbolizes friendship, respect, and good wishes, and they are often gifted on special occasions or used as props in Japanese plays at Kabuki Theater. Additionally, the war fan, made of lacquer, became prominent during the Edo period of the Samurai era.

Oriental Bazaar in Tokyo’s Shibuya-ku district sells traditional fans year round. They are open from 10:00AM to 6:00PM, and the typical price range for fans is between $50-80 U.S. dollars or 5,000 to 8,000 Yen. Prices can increase depending on the manufacturer or period of manufacture.

7. Hashi (Chopsticks)

Chopsticks, known as hashi in Japanese, are a popular utensil in many Asian cultures, particularly Japanese and Chinese. Traditionally, hashi have been made from wood and lacquered, but in Japan, many other materials are used to make chopsticks, such as bamboo, plastic, metal, porcelain, animal bone, ivory, jade, agate, gold, brass, and coral. Bamboo is especially popular as it is abundant on the island and is resistant to cracking. Ivory chopsticks are especially prevalent and can be found at a variety of prices in Japan’s capital, Tokyo. In Japanese restaurants, it is common to find disposable chopsticks on the tables, but ivory chopsticks are long lasting and make great gifts.

For those looking to purchase hashi and other items related to Japanese culture, Oriental Bazaar in Omote-sando, Tokyo is the perfect spot. This shop is located at 9-13 5-chome Jingumae Shibuya-ku Tokyo,
 150-0001 and is open between 10:00AM and 6:00PM.

8. Manekineko

The Manekineko, or “Welcoming Cat,” is a beloved figure throughout Japan. Thought to have originated during the Edo period (1603–1867), it is often seen in front of restaurants, bars, and shops throughout the country, with its upright paw extended as a symbol of good luck.

The Manekineko is a popular item today, and can be found in many places in Japan. However, the earliest documented evidence of this sculpture dates from the Meiji period (1870s). Handcrafted and durable, the Manekineko is rather expensive, costing between $70-90 U.S. dollars, or about 7,000-9,000 Yen.

The Omote-Sando district of Tokyo, in conjunction with the Choyda Line, is known for selling Manekineko in a large variety. It is thought that the sculpture can be found with either its left or right paw raised, both of which are said to be of significance.