Japan’s department stores (depāto) are legendary for their elegance, variety, and exceptional customer service.

Chains like Mitsukoshi, Isetan, and Takashimaya are found in every major city, often located near major train stations. These institutions remain vibrant cultural landmarks even as department stores have declined elsewhere.

Many stores have deep historical roots – Mitsukoshi and Matsuzakaya began as kimono merchants centuries ago. Others, like Tokyu, Odakyu, and Keio, were founded by railway companies after World War II.

This mix of tradition and innovation gives each chain a unique atmosphere, from stately heritage to contemporary chic.

Japanese department stores typically span multiple floors, with high fashion, cosmetics, household goods, and art all under one roof.

The basement level, known as the depachika, is a gourmet food hall filled with sweets, bentos, regional specialties, and luxury groceries. At the top, many stores have restaurants or cafes, often with great views.

Service is meticulous – expect uniformed staff, elevator attendants, and beautifully wrapped purchases.

Tax-free shopping is standard for foreign visitors who spend 5,000 yen or more in a single day, and many stores offer tourist discount coupons at their information counters.

Top national department store groups include:
・Mitsukoshi-Isetan
・Takashimaya
・Daimaru-Matsuzakaya
・Sogo-Seibu
・Marui (OIOI)

Each chain offers a distinctive selection of brands and store experiences, from luxury designer labels to traditional craft boutiques.

Regional chains also provide unique flavor. For example, Hankyu in the Kansai region is a local favorite.

The massive Hankyu Umeda main store in Osaka feels like a hybrid of a high-end department store and a full-scale shopping mall, combining luxury retail with convenience and variety.

Look for “Tax Free” signage or dedicated counters for easy refund processing. Staff may speak English or provide multilingual brochures to guide you.

A good strategy: start at the basement food floor, work your way up through fashion and lifestyle goods, then enjoy a top-floor meal to end your visit.

One of the must-see features of Japanese department stores lies underground: the depachika (short for depato + chika, meaning “basement”).

These basement food halls are a feast for the senses, often resembling a high-end gourmet market filled with rows of exquisite food displays.

Expect everything from elegant pâtisserie cakes, sushi and sashimi counters, freshly packed bento boxes, regional sweets, and imported cheeses and wines, to an array of premium snacks and condiments.

A depachika isn’t just a grocery store – it’s a curated showcase of top-quality Japanese and international cuisine, including fine wine, sake, and spirits.

You can buy both fresh ingredients for cooking and ready-to-eat meals, along with beautifully packaged items ideal for souvenirs or gifts.

Most depachika are located in department store basements directly connected to train stations or subway lines, making them easy to access – especially on rainy days.

They tend to get busy during lunch and evening rush hours, as both office workers and tourists stop by for quick, high-quality meals.

Many vendors offer free samples, allowing you to graze your way through and discover new flavors without committing to a full purchase.

Notable examples include the Nihombashi Mitsukoshi food floor, renowned for its luxury confectionery selection from across Japan.

Another favorite is Isetan Shinjuku’s depachika, which features fresh produce, a French bakery, and even a café by a world-famous chocolatier.

These spaces blend gastronomic variety with stunning presentation, making them a destination in their own right.

While there’s an incredible variety of food on offer, most depachika do not have seating – they are designed for take-out.

A few department stores may provide standing tables or small dining corners, but these are the exception rather than the rule.

If you’re planning a picnic or need a meal for the train, depachika are perfect for picking up ready-made bentos, tempura, gyoza, or sweet treats.

Beyond department stores, Japan is filled with shopping malls and mixed-use complexes that range from ultra-modern city centers to family-friendly suburban destinations.

In urban areas, expect sleek vertical malls and multi-level fashion buildings. In the suburbs, sprawling mega-malls dominate the landscape, offering everything from fashion to food to entertainment in one place.

Mitsui LaLaport malls are among the largest in Japan, with each location housing hundreds of stores.

These malls combine international and Japanese brands, offering fashion, homeware, character goods, and more. They're especially popular with families and casual shoppers thanks to their accessible layout and varied offerings.

Many LaLaport malls host seasonal events, children’s play areas, and entertainment zones. Notable examples include LaLaport Tokyo Bay and LaLaport Expocity in Osaka, both of which offer a full-day outing experience.

If you’re traveling with kids or simply want a relaxed one-stop shopping experience, LaLaport is a top pick.

Aeon Mall is Japan’s largest mall operator, with locations across the country.

While generally a bit smaller than LaLaport, Aeon Malls are highly convenient and locally focused, designed to serve daily needs as well as leisure.

A typical Aeon Mall includes an Aeon department store or supermarket, clothing shops, food courts, bookstores, arcades, and more. They’re ideal for grabbing a bite, browsing local products, or simply enjoying a slice of everyday Japanese life.

One standout is Aeon Mall LakeTown in Saitama – one of Japan’s largest, featuring over 350 stores and even its own dedicated train station.

In major cities, look for "fashion buildings" like PARCO, Lumine, and Shibuya 109.

These stylish complexes are stacked with trend-driven boutiques, youth fashion brands, and cafes that appeal to younger shoppers.

For example, Shibuya PARCO blends high fashion with pop culture, housing both a Nintendo official store and a Pokémon Center — making it a must-visit for fans and trendsetters alike.

Many large train stations in Japan double as shopping hubs, with entire malls built into or adjacent to the station complex.

You’ll find malls like GRANSTA and Ecute at Tokyo Station, or Lumine atop Shinjuku Station. These are perfect for grabbing last-minute gifts, snacks, or bentos before boarding your train.

If you’re hunting for discounted brand goods, Japan’s outlet malls are worth the trip.

Popular options include Mitsui Outlet Parks and Premium Outlets, located on the outskirts of major cities. These open-air complexes feature big-name brands at reduced prices, often in scenic settings perfect for a leisurely shopping day.

Supermarkets in Japan are where locals do their daily grocery runs—and they’re a goldmine for travelers seeking local flavors, snacks, or practical items. Unlike 24-hour konbini, most supermarkets are open from around 9 or 10 AM to 9 or 10 PM and offer wider selections at lower prices.

Expect fresh produce, meats, seafood, ready-to-eat meals (sushi, fried foods, bento), and evening discounts on prepared foods after 7 PM. Shopping here is self-service: bag your groceries at a separate counter and bring a reusable bag (plastic bags cost a few yen). Some offer tax-free shopping for tourists.

・AEON – Huge selection, great prices, often located in malls. Look for the purple logo.
・Ito-Yokado – Part of the 7-Eleven group. Large multi-floor stores with groceries, clothing, and household goods.
・Seiyu – Budget-friendly chain (formerly Walmart-owned) with imported goods and 24-hour locations in some areas.
・Daiei – Now part of AEON, with strong presence in Kansai and solid discounts.
・Maruetsu – Mostly in Tokyo; good balance of fresh foods and imported gourmet items.
・Izumiya – Kansai-based chain with a traditional local feel and Kansai specialties.
・Life – Bright, clean stores with great produce and regional food fairs, mainly in Tokyo and Osaka.
・Tobu Store & Inageya – Regional chains around Tokyo with convenient station locations and a friendly neighborhood vibe.

・Kaldi Coffee Farm – Popular for imported snacks, global spices, and Japanese craft foods.
・Seijo Ishii – Upscale gourmet chain with high-quality deli items and exclusive imports.
・Jupiter Import Foods – Coffee-focused import store with a broad range of foreign groceries.
・Kinokuniya International – Premium Tokyo-based supermarket with luxury imports and gift items.
・National Azabu (Tokyo) – Expat-favorite in Hiroo offering a wide range of global brands.
・Costco – U.S.-style bulk shopping with a Japanese twist (membership required; food court worth visiting).

Japan’s drugstores (kusuriya) are a beloved resource for both locals and tourists.

These brightly signed shops – often color-coded by chain, like the yellow and blue of Matsumoto Kiyoshi or the red of Tsuruha – carry a surprisingly vast range of items.

They offer not only medicines and health supplements, but also cosmetics, skincare, toiletries, snacks, and even household goods.

For travelers, drugstores are among the best places to stock up on Japanese beauty products at good prices.

They’re also essential for picking up over-the-counter medicine or personal care items during your trip.

Top nationwide drugstore chains include:
・Matsumoto Kiyoshi (aka MatsuKiyo)
・Welcia
・Tsuruha Drug
・Sundrug
・Cocokara Fine
・Sugi Pharmacy

Matsumoto Kiyoshi, founded over 90 years ago, is perhaps the best known. Its stores are especially common in tourist areas and often offer tax-free shopping for purchases over 5,000 yen.

In busy districts, you’ll often find foreign-language signage and staff who speak English or Chinese – helpful when buying health-related products.

Many Matsumoto Kiyoshi and Welcia stores operate 24 hours, so you can even shop late at night.

Welcia, part of the Aeon group, is especially pharmacy-focused. Over 85% of its stores have an in-house pharmacist counter.

Step into a Japanese drugstore and you’ll notice the brightly labeled, tightly packed aisles – filled to the brim with colorful products and special offers.

Popular sections for tourists include:
・Skincare (brands like Hada Labo, Shiseido, KOSE)
・Makeup (eyeliners, lip tints, false lashes – many with testers)
・Health goods (cooling gel sheets, vitamin drinks, pain relief patches, eye drops)
・Snacks and drinks, often including quirky flavors of KitKats and chips

If you’re unsure about a product or dosage, pharmacists can guide you – while most speak only Japanese, they’re experienced in helping non-Japanese customers.

Convenience stores (“konbini”) are everywhere in Japan—over 56,000 nationwide—and open 24/7. They offer everything from bento meals and snacks to toiletries, drinks, ATMs, and ticketing services. For travelers, they’re incredibly handy for quick meals, cash withdrawals, and late-night needs. Major chains like 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Lawson lead the scene, with regional players like Mini Stop, Circle K, and Seicomart adding local flavor.

Convenience stores (konbini) are essential to daily life in Japan. Open 24/7 and packed with everything from hot meals to ATMs, they’re a traveler’s best friend. The top chains—7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson—offer high-quality food, drinks, and services nationwide, while regional players like Mini Stop and Seicomart add unique local flair.

7-Eleven
The go-to konbini for many, 7-Eleven is known for its fresh onigiri, legendary egg salad sandwiches, and well-made bento. It pioneered useful services like international ATMs, free Wi-Fi, and multi-function copy machines. With consistently good food—from oden in winter to Seven Premium desserts—it’s a reliable one-stop shop for nearly everything.

FamilyMart
Famous for its hot food, especially the must-try Fami-Chiki fried chicken. FamilyMart also offers solid bento options, sweets, and frequent limited-edition snacks and collaborations. Merged with Circle K Sunkus in 2016, many of those legacy items still appear. You’ll also find ATMs, ticketing services, and luggage delivery options at most locations.

Lawson
Lawson stands out with its health-conscious selections, like fresh-cut fruit and yogurt, and its gourmet sweets line Uchi Café. Karaage-kun chicken nuggets and L-Chiki fried chicken are popular picks. Look out for Natural Lawson stores in cities for organic and wellness products, and don’t miss late-night discounts on bento and hot foods.

Mini Stop
Part konbini, part café, Mini Stop features a dine-in space and made-to-order treats like soft-serve ice cream and Halo-Halo (a shaved ice dessert). It’s less widespread than the Big Three but a great stop for a quick snack and rest—especially popular for their seasonal Hokkaido milk soft-serve.

Seicomart
A Hokkaido staple, Seicomart is beloved for its Hot Chef meals, cooked in-store—like katsudon, fried chicken, and onigiri. It also stocks plenty of Hokkaido-made goods, from dairy to snacks and the local favorite Guarana soda. Prices are generally lower than national chains, making it a budget-friendly and regional must-try.

Konbini offer an impressive range of services beyond shopping.

You can use ATMs that accept foreign cards (especially at 7-Eleven), send takkyubin luggage deliveries, pay utility bills, buy event or theme park tickets, print digital photos, or even use copy/fax machines.

This makes konbini genuinely indispensable for travelers on the move.

If you love bargains and cute knick-knacks, Japan’s 100-yen shops will be your happy place.

These are Japan’s version of dollar stores – but with far better quality and variety than you might expect.

The concept is simple: most items are priced at 100 yen (110 yen after tax), making it an easy and fun way to shop without breaking the bank.

The three leading 100-yen chains are Daiso, Seria, and Can Do, each with hundreds of outlets nationwide.

Daiso is the largest and most famous, operating over 3,300 stores in Japan (plus thousands more overseas).

For many foreign visitors, a trip to Daiso is a must-do for budget souvenir shopping. The chain's Harajuku and Ginza branches are especially popular with tourists.

Seria is known for its more stylish, “zakka”-style (miscellaneous lifestyle goods) selection.

It’s a great place to find DIY supplies, cafe-style tableware, and cute gift wrap, all at the same 100-yen price.

Can Do offers a broad product range and is often found in convenient locations, such as train stations or shopping streets.

Each chain has its own product lines, so it’s worth visiting multiple 100-yen shops if you have the time.

The short answer: almost everything.

You’ll find:
・Kitchenware (ceramic bowls, chopsticks, tea cups)
・Stationery (pens, notebooks, stickers)
・Craft supplies, cleaning goods, organizers, cosmetics, snacks, toys, and more

Tourists are often amazed by how elegant and well-designed the items are – even at such a low price point.

Think origami paper sets, tenugui cloths, character keychains, or sushi-shaped erasers. You might even discover something quirky you didn’t know you needed – like a magnetic hourglass or a pet kimono costume.

100-yen stores are a goldmine not just for gifts, but also for on-the-go travel solutions.

Forgot something? Grab an umbrella, phone charger, hand sanitizer, or even basic clothing.

Need to organize your suitcase? Pick up vacuum storage bags or pouches.

Craving Japanese snacks? Try regional candies or instant matcha packets, all for 100 yen.

Note that some items may cost 200 or 300 yen, but these are clearly marked – about 90% of stock remains at the base 100-yen price.

At checkout, tax is added, bringing most items to 110 yen.

If you spend over 5,000 yen, some stores offer tax-free shopping – just show your passport.

For a shopping experience that’s chaotic in the best possible way, head to one of Japan’s discount megastores.

These are the places to go when you want a bit of everything at bargain prices – from electronics and beauty products to souvenirs and snacks – often open late into the night.

The king of discount stores is undoubtedly Don Quijote, affectionately nicknamed Donki.

Imagine a multi-floor bazaar crammed floor-to-ceiling with goods: one aisle has cosmetics and costumes, the next has breakfast cereals, another offers electronics and watches, while luxury handbags sit behind glass in yet another section.

Donki carries almost everything under one roof, often at discounted prices. It’s a one-stop shop for tourists seeking snacks, beauty goods, toys, anime merchandise, T-shirts, or even high-end items like cameras and Montblanc pens.

The atmosphere is famously loud and vibrant – expect pop music or Donki’s own jingle, colorful signs, Donpen the blue penguin mascot, and narrow aisles stacked with merchandise.

It’s a bit of a maze, but that’s part of the charm. You might spot dozens of tourists loading up their baskets in popular locations like Shibuya or Akihabara.

Many Donki stores in big cities are open 24 hours, making them perfect for late-night shopping.

Founded in the 1980s, the chain has expanded across Japan – and even into Hawaii and Singapore.

Donki’s appeal lies in its unique deals and late-night convenience. Where else can you buy a box of KitKats, a bottle of sake, a kimono costume, and a heated toilet seat at 2 AM?

Look out for branches labeled “MEGA Donki” – these are even larger, with expanded selection.

Always bring your passport for tax-free shopping, and give yourself plenty of time – it’s easy to get carried away in Don Quijote’s wild wonderland.

If you’re looking for a slightly quieter but still impressive alternative, head to Takeya in Tokyo’s Ueno district.

Often called the “Purple Tower” for its cluster of bright purple buildings, Takeya is one of Tokyo’s oldest discount retailers, dating back to 1947.

Located a short walk from Okachimachi Station, it’s off the typical tourist path but well worth a visit for bargain hunters.

“Takeya Town” consists of about seven adjacent buildings, each focusing on a different category: snacks and food, cosmetics and medicines, electronics and home goods, furniture, and more.

Prices are very competitive, and tax-free shopping is available for purchases over 5,000 yen.

They also offer an additional 5–7% discount for duty-free shoppers and accept UnionPay and other foreign credit cards.

Foreign tourists now make up around 20% of customers, and many stores have multilingual signage and staff, especially helpful for shoppers from China, Thailand, and beyond.

Takeya is a great option for bulk souvenir shopping, and while it’s less flashy than Donki, it can often be cheaper for similar items.

Just note that Takeya keeps more regular hours – most stores close by early evening, unlike Donki’s all-night operations.

Beyond Donki and Takeya, Japan has a number of other discount chains worth checking out.

Daikoku Drug is a discount drugstore chain that often carries cheap snacks and toiletries.

For clothing, consider Shimamura or GU (Uniqlo’s budget brand), both offering affordable fashion.

And don’t forget that 100-yen shops (like Daiso, Seria, and Can Do) fall into this category too – ideal for quirky souvenirs and everyday items on the cheap.

Japan is renowned for its electronics, and for tech enthusiasts, visiting a big electronics store is often a highlight.

Even if you’re not looking to buy, these stores are fascinating to browse — a glimpse into the latest gadgets and innovations.

Major electronics chains include BicCamera, Yodobashi Camera, and Yamada Denki (LABI).

These are typically multi-story megastores filled with everything from cameras and laptops to rice cookers, beauty electronics, and smart home devices.

BicCamera and Yodobashi Camera are especially dominant in cities like Tokyo and Osaka.

Their flagships — such as BicCamera’s in Ikebukuro or Yodobashi’s 9-floor complex in Akihabara — are major attractions in their own right.

Other chains include Edion, K’s Denki, and Joshin, especially in the Kansai and Chugoku regions.

Expect to find:
・Cameras, laptops, phones, TVs
・Gaming consoles, toys, home appliances
・Rice cookers and electronic toilet seats
・Beauty gadgets, like heated eyelash curlers and face steamers
・Luxury pens and high-end watches

Many tourists specifically visit to buy Seiko watches or Japan-exclusive electronics, and you’ll often see them crowding the camera and watch sections in Ginza or Akihabara.

Prices can be especially attractive due to the weaker yen, and purchases typically come with an official warranty — though check whether it’s Japan-only or international.

These stores are very accessible to visitors.

Most have tax-free counters (often right at the register), and multilingual staff or product guides in English and Chinese.

You’ll also find signage marking popular items, making it easy to spot the best buys.

・Compare prices — BicCamera and Yodobashi often price-match
・Look out for point systems — most give 5–10% of your purchase back in store points
・Search for bundle deals on cameras or appliances
・Check the outlet/clearance sections for last year's models at great prices

You’ll also find 100V appliances that many foreign shoppers love — from Zojirushi and Tiger rice cookers to TOTO Washlet bidet seats.

Just be sure your home voltage is compatible, or plan to use a transformer.

Beyond the store types, what are some iconic Japanese brands or products you should look for? Here’s a quick rundown by category – items either exclusive to Japan or simply a better deal/more variety when bought here.

Japan offers everything from unique street fashion to global casual staples.

Uniqlo, Japan’s most famous apparel brand, is a must-visit for its Heattech innerwear, limited-edition T-shirts, and Japan-exclusive collaborations. Its Ginza flagship and Shinjuku multi-floor store are especially popular.

GU, Uniqlo’s trendier sister brand, offers even cheaper, fast-fashion styles.

For footwear, Onitsuka Tiger sneakers — especially the Mexico 66 design — are a stylish heritage choice.

High fashion fans might gravitate toward Comme des Garçons or Issey Miyake boutiques for bold, uniquely Japanese design.

The Harajuku area is ground zero for youth and subculture fashion, offering everything from lolita dresses to vintage Americana on Cat Street.

Even if you’re not shopping high fashion, picking up a quirky T-shirt or character socks makes for a fun, inexpensive souvenir.

For something more traditional, consider a lightweight yukata or a pair of tabi socks — often sold at department stores and specialty shops.

Japanese beauty products are world-famous for their innovation and gentle formulas.

Tourists often stock up on skincare essentials like Hada Labo’s hydrating lotions or SK-II’s facial essence, which tends to be cheaper in Japan than overseas.

Sunscreen is a top seller — favorites include Biore UV, Shiseido Anessa, and Skin Aqua, known for their light textures and high effectiveness.

Sheet masks like Lululun and Saborino are sold in bulk at drugstores, making them perfect for souvenirs or travel use.

Makeup shoppers seek out Heroine Make and Dolly Wink for mascaras and liners, as well as lightweight foundations made for Japan’s humid climate.

Don’t miss hair care brands like Shiseido Tsubaki and Ichikami, which often come in decorative bottles.

Even everyday items like Senka face wash or Cow Brand soap can feel fresh and novel to bring home.

Pro tip: Look for “@cosme” award tags in drugstores. These mark top-rated products on Japan’s most trusted beauty review platform.

Japanese electronics are a global draw — and some gadgets are only available domestically.

If you're in the market for big-ticket items, consider cameras from Canon, Nikon, or Sony — sometimes priced more competitively in Japan.

Popular gadgets include electronic dictionaries (denshi jisho), portable translators, pocket Wi-Fi devices, and Omron pulse massagers.

Smart toilet seats (Washlets) are surprisingly popular among visitors — just remember to check voltage compatibility before bringing one home.

Japan’s kitchen appliances are also well-loved. A Zojirushi travel thermos or Tiger rice cooker makes a practical souvenir.

Photography fans can explore secondhand camera gear shops in Nakano or Ginza for vintage film cameras in excellent condition.

Gamers may want to look for Japan-exclusive editions of consoles or accessories (check for region-locking before you buy).

Even fun USB-powered gadgets — from mini fans to anime-themed flash drives — make for light, quirky gifts.

Japanese food souvenirs are delicious, beautifully packaged, and easy to pack.

The most iconic? KitKats in Japan-only flavors like matcha, wasabi, strawberry cheesecake, or sake. It’s practically a tourist sport to collect them all.

Other favorites include:
・Tokyo Banana (banana custard cake)
・Shiroi Koibito (white chocolate cookies from Hokkaido)
・Yatsuhashi (cinnamon mochi sweets from Kyoto)
・Takoyaki-flavored snacks or Pocky Glico goods from Osaka

Most can be found at donki stores, airports, and depachikas (department store food basements).

Instant ramen is another lightweight favorite — especially premium regional or restaurant-inspired packs from brands like Nissin.

Matcha items (powder, cookies, candy) are perennially popular. For a more upscale gift, pick up Japanese whisky like Yamazaki, Hibiki, or Nikka — global award winners that are increasingly hard to find.

Umeshu (plum wine) or regional sake also make excellent gifts — just be mindful of duty limits.

For foodies who love to cook, consider bottles of soy sauce, yuzu seasoning, or shichimi chili powder to bring home the flavors of Japan.

Looking for souvenirs with cultural depth? Japanese traditional crafts are thoughtful and beautiful.

Common finds include:
・Handmade chopsticks
・Furoshiki wrapping cloths
・Fans (sensu)
・Ceramic tea cups and sake sets
・Daruma dolls and wind chimes
・Indigo-dyed textiles
・Kiriko cut glassware
・Woodblock prints

These are widely available at department stores, specialty shops, and craft markets in places like Nakamise Street (Asakusa) or Kyoto’s artisan districts.

They make meaningful keepsakes and capture the essence of Japanese design and craftsmanship.

Shopping in Japan is more than just buying things—it’s a cultural experience.

Expect warm greetings, immaculate stores, and attentive service (like free gift wrapping or staff chasing you down if you forget something).

Bring your passport for tax-free shopping, and while most places accept credit cards, some cash is handy for small vendors.

Larger stores are open from around 10 AM to 8–9 PM, with convenience and discount stores often open later.

Weekdays are less crowded, and staff often go out of their way to help—even using translation apps if needed.

From Ginza’s upscale department stores to Don Quijote’s bargain chaos, there’s something for every taste and budget. Happy shopping!