Today, we visit BicCamera AKIBA in Akihabara, an internationally known area, famous as a haven of subcultures like anime, manga, and video games, as well as a bustling hub for electronics shops.

With a significant influx of international tourists, this shop caters to overseas visitors by stocking popular, cutting-edge products. With its wide selection of goods that can be easily used abroad without needing power converters, this is a must-visit spot for anyone looking for Japanese home electronics.

Some of the popular products also include product materials in multiple languages as well as informative point-of-purchase materials (POPs), ensuring that all customers can shop with confidence and fully understand the functionality and features of whatever they may buy.

They also provide a host of services to facilitate the shopping experience for international guests, including duty-free shopping and multi-lingual customer support and consultation.

Voltage and plug types vary between Japan and other countries. Therefore, it's crucial to check whether your product is designed for international compatibility, and whether it can be used with an adapter plug before making a purchase.

In addition, even if it can be used with no such power concerns, if a product does not claim to be for overseas use, it has basically been designed for use in Japan. In many cases, for such products, it would be difficult to obtain a guarantee or get a repair in the event of malfunction back in your home country, so we strongly recommend bearing this in mind when making a purchase.

Without further ado, let us introduce the latest popular, cutting-edge goods as recommended by BicCamera, with a particular focus on items suitable for overseas use.

The EH-NA0J is a new series introduced by popular Japanese brand Panasonic in September 2022. This upgraded model boasts improvements across all boards, including enhanced moisture retention, drying capabilities, and prevention against hair color fading. Notably, it also features the greatest airflow in the history of the NanoCare series (*1), all while maintaining a more compact, user-friendly design.

The great thing about high-penetration Nanoe technology is that it benefits not only your hair, but also your skin. The SKIN Mode feature can be blown directly on your body to promote more moisture-retaining skin.

*As compared to EH-NA0G, released in 2021 (Panasonic research)

Dyson stands as another popular brand in the realm of hair dryers. Even the store staff gives it their stamp of approval, rating Dyson “the No. 1 brand in terms of air volume!”

This latest model comes equipped with all the functions you could want, including quick-drying capabilities and moisture retention, with a novel attachment designed to tame unruly, wavy hair. The result? Hair that gleams with salon-level shine!

Despite its sleek aesthetic, Dyson offers a range of magnetic attachments that can be easily affixed and removed with a single touch.

In 2022, Panasonic's Vitalift Cassa secured first place in various rankings of facial equipment systems, earning outstanding acclaim. Cassa is a folk remedy and beauty treatment practiced in China for centuries. It uses plate-like objects made of natural stone to massage the skin and apply steady pressure to improve blood flow and lymphatic drainage.

By incorporating their unique Dual Dynamic EMS technology into the Cassa beauty elements, it effectively targets the muscles, delivering beauty benefits such as skin tightening, improved makeup application, and lift (*1), resulting in a more beautiful facial appearance.

This versatile device can be used not only on the face but for the entire body, with a waterproof design allowing for safe usage in the bath (*2). Suitable for both domestic and international use, it also makes for an ideal souvenir or gift!

*1. Move the device in an upward direction.
*2. Do not use on areas submerged in water during bathing.

Panasonic's Vitalift RF secured the top spot in the 2023 @cosme Mid-Year Best Cosmetics Awards, along with the GOOD DESIGN award. This high-performance facial beauty appliance is designed for comprehensive anti-aging (*1) and lift care (*2), addressing nine different concerns in a single unit, including cheek firmness, skin texture, eye area dryness, fine lines, keratinization, dull skin, and age-related pore issues.

With four distinct modes, it accommodates a wide range of purposes, from daily maintenance to special treatments two or three times a week. It is also waterproof and suitable for use both in Japan and abroad.

As seen here (including English and Chinese), multilingual descriptions are also available. This device is amongst the latest and most highly recommended beauty appliances!

*1. Age-appropriate skin care involving the use of devices.
*2. A motion that lifts the skin upwards.

Electric shavers have gained popularity as a men’s grooming essential. The BRAUN Series 9 PRO+ 9586cc is ideal for those who prioritize aesthetics. This new electric shaver model is equipped with a facial head, offering a deep shave while being gentle on the skin.

It also includes an alcohol cleaner to ensure a consistent, freshly-shaved feeling. As one staff member explains, “BRAUN is the only one that includes an alcohol cleaning system and a facial cleanser. The compact head provides a precise shave for the results you want.”

Japanese-made shavers also enjoy considerable popularity. Panasonic's Lamdash PRO stands out with its maximum 6-blade system, providing a robust and efficient shaving experience. You can achieve a quick and thorough shave with a single stroke with thanks to the wide shaving surface. Hitting the market in June of 2023, this is one of the latest additions to Panasonic's lineup.

"With multiple blades, this Panasonic shaver is our top recommendation for those with thick facial hair and those who want to use it while charging or in the bath," suggests the staff. Another unique feature of this product is its availability in two types: one that can be used while charging and another designed for the bath, making it a truly unbeatable option!

When it comes to cooking appliances, voltage compatibility is one of the most crucial considerations to bear in mind. Luckily, this product is designed to function seamlessly overseas! Introducing the Zojirushi Pressure IH series rice cooker.

Rice cookers are popular overseas, especially in Asian countries with a strong rice culture. Japanese manufacturers often compete to produce the best rice cookers for cooking delicious rice. The result? A plethora of high-performance models!

We recommend the one-sho capacity type (approx. 1.5 kg or 20 cups of rice). While the 5.5-gou (approx. 800g of rice) size enjoys popularity in Japan, the overseas audience tends to appreciate sizes that more easily cater to large families.

The deciding factor in the deliciousness of the rice all comes down to heat power. Pressure IH-type rice cookers have the highest heat capacity, enhancing the flavor and sweetness of rice to the max!

Although technically not an appliance, Japanese-made stainless steel bottles are amongst the most popular products at BicCamera. One series that has recently gained attention for its stylish colors and user-friendly cleaning is Zojirushi's Seamless Sen. With capacities ranging from 0.25 to 0.72 liters, you can select your ideal size depending on the occasion.

The screw-type design incorporates the inner stopper and sealing gasket into a single unit, eliminating the need to take apart (and potentially misplace) any small parts when opening it. This hassle-free wash and maintenance make this the perfect bottle to pack for traveling and other on-the-go adventures!

BicCamera AKIBA offers an extensive range of stainless steel bottles and mugs alone, with a dedicated floor space showcasing a diverse selection of sizes, designs, types, and brands.

The Yakiniku Grill Yakimaru, made by the globally recognized Iwatani brand, is a butane gas grill that allows you to savor yakiniku at home with minimal release of smoke. It is amongst the most highly recommended appliances for those looking to enjoy Japanese cooking at home.

It’s also perfect for health-conscious individuals thanks to its efficient oil-draining design. The griddle is also easily detachable for effortless cleaning.

Being gas-powered, all you need is a butane gas cartridge (typically available at home improvement shops like Home Depot abroad) like the one pictured above, and you're good to go! And since it’s not electric, it’s especially handy in emergencies and disasters. Every household should consider having one on hand!

(*Note that gas cartridges cannot be brought aboard airplanes, so they must be obtained after returning to your home country.)

When you think of Japan’s world-class technology and exceptional hygiene standards, one item that immediately comes to mind is the bidet toilet seat. While many of these products are designed exclusively for domestic use, Panasonic's DL-RG31JP-WS warm-washing toilet seat is designed for overseas use, allowing you to bring it back to your home country easily!

Heated washlet toilet seats are widely popular in Japan; however, they are hard to come across abroad. These are perfect for individuals who became accustomed to using them in Japan and don’t want to go back! It’s also recommended for those who want their family back home to experience the same luxury. This is undeniably one of the most must-have household items to buy in Japan!

Japanese camera makers are known and loved throughout the world, but with so many options and brands available, it can be overwhelming to know which one to pick! Canon's EOS R50 is a beginner-friendly mirrorless camera that comes highly recommended by shop staff as an all-around model.

With a well-balanced mix of features, pricing, and capabilities, this camera is suitable for still photography and video recording. With the trustworthiness of the Canon brand and its outstanding performance, you can't go wrong with this one!

SONY's PlayStation 5 (PS5) was released in November 2020. However, due to a global semiconductor shortage, not to mention its immense popularity, this console remained in short supply for over two years, making it impossible to find in most stores! But finally, the PS5 has returned to grace the store shelves with its presence.

The PS5 is characterized by its remarkable enhancement in sound and visual quality. The visuals are so stunning it’s sometimes difficult to distinguish between CG and live-action! Its 3D sound space creates an auditory experience akin to real life, resulting in a level of gaming immersion that is truly out of this world!

In addition, the controller is equipped with new technology that allows players to feel the effects and impacts of the in-game action. With faster startup and load times, its evolution is evident. And now that they’re back in stores, there’s no better time to buy one than now!

LIVE JAPAN is currently offering discount coupons for use at BICCAMERA. In addition to the 10% tax exemption, buyers can enjoy 3-7% discounts on eligible items such as cameras, watches, home appliances, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, sake, and more (some exclusions may apply). Simply present the image below at checkout!

Japanese home appliances are a remarkable reflection of Japan's unique perspectives and sensibilities. As items that experience frequent daily use, it's only natural to desire those that offer convenience, top-notch performance, and exceptional effectiveness to enhance our daily lives.

So, if you find yourself in Japan in 2023, check out BicCamera AKIBA, and make some smart, budget-friendly purchases of Japan’s latest recommended home appliances!

*Information in article as of August 16, 2023. Product availability, prices and packaging may vary.
*The products sold at BicCamera are based on Japanese standards and not all may be usable overseas. Ask staff for details on which models can be used overseas.

English translation by: Krys Suzuki