A department store is a large-scale retail store that has a variety of stores such as specialized stores, brand stores, and restaurants all in one building. Many people refer to them simply as "Department" as well.
The History of Department Stores
Today's Mitsukoshi started the first department store in Japan named the Mitsukoshi Gofukuya store in 1904.
A Department Store's Basement Food Floor
Department stores have a "depa chika", that means the basement of department where food, sweets, deli items, and fresh produce are sold. In particular, the showcases displaying sweets look so beautiful, you might mistake it for a jewelry store.
Local Product Exhibition
There are department stores that feature and sell Japanese specialties and lunches sold on trains categorized by area for a limited time in the basement of the department store and event places. This is a popular event where you can purchase specialties without going to a specific local area.
Elevator Attendants
Some department stores have female employees called "Elevator Girls" in the elevators of their department stores. The number of department stores placing these attendants have been decreasing recently, but they assist in stopping the elevator at your chosen floor and providing guidance service to all customers.
Restaurants on the Top Floor
Most of the top floors of departments are a restaurant floor that has restaurants and cafes. Their price can be a little pricy, but there are various restaurants such as Western, Japanese, and Chinese restaurants. It's also fun to choose where to eat. Please note that they may often be crowded with customers making a line during the lunch time.
Clean Toilets
Most of the toilets in department stores are very clean. Recently, many department stores consider the importance of toilets and their design. You will often see that there are water coolers and relaxation sofas around the toilet area.
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