Among the many exciting things to do in Shinjuku, shopping is definitely a top priority for many people!

Popular among international visitors, stores like Don Quijote, UNIQLO, GU, MUJI, and BicCamera have multiple locations throughout Shinjuku, offering endless shopping options. Department stores like Isetan, Takashimaya, and LUMINE also house numerous brand name shops, with many Japanese brands' flagship stores in Shinjuku.

When it comes to shopping, saving money is essential! We'll provide you with must-visit store information and have compiled details on tax-free shopping and discount coupons. Below, you'll find a comprehensive tax-free guide - a must-read for international tourists.

If you're unfamiliar with Shinjuku's attractions, check out our Shinjuku travel guide. Let's make the most of your time in Japan and shop smart in Shinjuku!

Shinjuku's department stores are primarily clustered around the station. On the east and west sides, you'll find Keio Department Store, Odakyu, and LUMINE. The south side features Takashimaya and NEWoMan, while Marui (0101) is located around Shinjuku Sanchome. It's nearly impossible to explore all these department stores in one day, so to make the most of your time, check in advance which stores are in each department store to avoid wandering aimlessly and missing what you're looking for.

Located in Shinjuku Sanchome, Isetan is a renowned department store that opened in 1933. It features ten floors, including B2 to 7F, and a rooftop garden, offering a vast shopping experience. Brands like CHANEL, BULGARI, and PRADA bring a touch of luxury, creating an upscale atmosphere. The basement floors house a variety of gourmet foods and souvenirs, such as Bunmeido's honey castella cakes and traditional Fukuoka sweets from Suzukake. These high-quality, beautifully packaged items make perfect gifts!

Located inside the Takashimaya Times Square complex, Takashimaya Shinjuku boasts a massive retail space covering 14 floors. On the 12th floor, you'll find UNIQLO, and on the 9th floor, there are stores like Disney Store, Sanrio, and the Japanese children's clothing brand MIKI HOUSE, all popular among tourists. For luxury seekers, brands such as HERMÈS, COACH, CHANEL, LV, and Issey Miyake's BAOBAO are also available. It's not just a hub for major international brands; it's also great for those looking to shop for practical Japanese goods!

LUMINE is a department store chain in Japan marketed towards young women, and in Shinjuku, there are three different branches: LUMINE 1, LUMINE 2, and LUMINE EST, each catering to distinct customer bases.

LUMINE 1 features Sarutahiko Coffee, yuzu ramen from AFURI, and Japanese fashion brands like COEL and UNITED TOKYO, which opened in February 2024.

LUMINE 2 includes MUJI, the Japanese bag brand Samantha Thavasa, which opened in March 2024, and popular Japanese loungewear gelato pique.

LUMINE EST is highly popular among young women and offers trendy Japanese fashion brands such as LOWRYS FARM, KBF, and JEANASIS. It also has affordable lifestyle goods from 3 COINS, as well as attractions for tourists like HARBS' mille-feuille cakes, Rikyu beef tongue, and Tokyo Milk Cheese Factory's Japanese souvenirs. It's a must-visit spot for those looking to explore Shinjuku.

NEWoMan Shinjuku, operated by the same company as LUMINE, offers a more avant-garde style. It features clothing, cosmetics, shoes, bags, local Japanese souvenirs, cafes, and gourmet dining options. Unlike traditional department stores, it also hosts international brands and new local Japanese brands. Plus, it's conveniently located adjacent to JR Shinjuku Station's New South Exit and the high-speed bus terminal BUSTA Shinjuku, making it extremely accessible.

Operated by Odakyu Shopping Center, Shinjuku Mylord stands out from typical department stores by catering to young urbanites. It features Japanese fashion and lifestyle brands like OLIVE des OLIVE, POU DOU DOU, and earth music＆ecology. On the 6th floor, you'll find the delightful Japanese chain store LOFT, known for its eclectic mix of goods. The 7th and 8th floors also offer a variety of dining options to satisfy your appetite.

Shinjuku is fantastic for its variety of stores where popular brands like GU and UNIQLO offer affordable Japanese fashion, along with lifestyle shops like LOFT and Tokyu Hands, which tempt visitors to shop till they drop. Here's a quick introduction to two must-visit stores beloved by tourists.

UNIQLO, a global brand that has expanded overseas, is surely familiar to many travers. In Shinjuku, there are four UNIQLO stores: Shinjuku Nishi-guchi Store, Shinjuku Takashimaya Store, Shinjuku Sanchome Store, and Shinjuku Flags Store. They often release exclusive limited-edition collaborative products and collections featuring Shinjuku specialties such as Nissin Foods, Bunmeido, Shinjuku Nakamuraya, as well as Ramen Nagi and Omoide Yokocho. Items and availability vary by store, so if you see something you like, be sure to seize the opportunity to bring home a memorable souvenir or a thoughtful gift!

Flying Tiger is a budget-friendly variety store from Denmark, often described as a mix between IKEA and a dollar store. It offers a wide range of quirky, amusing goods sure bring smiles, with designs influenced by appealing Scandinavian style. The affordable prices make it easy to shop without hesitation. It's a must-visit for many travelers in Tokyo, especially for those who enjoy buying household items and fun trinkets!

In Shinjuku, there are numerous electronics and variety stores, mostly concentrated near the station, particularly around the west exit. Many large-scale electronics retailers are located here, contributing to the area's reputation as "Shinjuku Electronics Street."

It's worth noting that most electronics stores in Shinjuku span multiple floors and sometimes have different themed departments. If you already know what you're looking for, checking out floor plans beforehand can make your shopping experience more efficient!

BicCamera, the leading electronics retailer in Japan, is a top choice for shoppers looking for cosmetics and electronics. It's known for offering the latest Japanese appliances like hair dryers, microwaves, and electric cookers, which are highly sought after. Their cosmetics section is well-stocked, and they also carry a wide range of popular items such as snacks, toys, and thermoses. BicCamera provides assistance from professional pharmacists and multilingual staff, making shopping easier. With its bright, spacious layout, it's a great place for families to shop together!

Yodobashi Camera, a chain of electronics stores in Japan, has two locations in Shinjuku: the main store at Nishiguchi (West Exit) and a branch at Higashiguchi (East Exit). The Nishiguchi main store serves as their flagship store, divided into various sections by product.

Tourists often visit sections like the Multimedia Pavilion, Camera Comprehensive Pavilion, Travel Pavilion, Gachapon Pavilion, and Collectibles & Toys Pavilion. It's efficient to plan your visit by choosing sections you want to visit beforehand to minimize time spent wandering around!

For many, shopping for cosmetics and skincare products is a must in Japan! In Shinjuku, from the West Exit to the East Exit, and areas like Shinjuku Sanchome and Kabukicho, you'll find a plethora of drugstores big and small. Most offer tax-free shopping, and many open early and close late, so there's no shortage of places to shop for cosmetics in Shinjuku!

Matsumoto Kiyoshi, which has expanded outside Japan, is well-known for offering a wide range of products including Japanese pharmaceuticals, health supplements, cosmetics, snacks, masks, and personal care items. In the Shinjuku area alone, there are nine Matsumoto Kiyoshi stores, located in West Shinjuku, Shinjuku Nishiguchi (West Exit), Minami-guchi (South Exit), Higashi-guchi (East Exit), Kabukicho, and Shinjuku Sanchome. You can practically find a store wherever you go in Shinjuku!

Daikoku Drugstore is known for its budget-friendly prices and claims to be the cheapest drugstore chain in Japan, making it a must-visit shopping destination. It has branches throughout Shinjuku such as East Exit, West Exit, and Kabukicho.

Tomod's is a drugstore chain common throughout the Tokyo metropolitan area. Unlike many drugstores that target international tourists, Tomod's mainly serves the local Japanese population. For instance, the newly renovated Nishi-Shinjuku 5-chome store, reopened in February 2024, sells light meals such as rice balls and sandwiches, as well as common groceries like eggs and milk. It has a mini-supermarket or convenience store vibe. The majority of customers are locals, making it a good choice for those who prefer shopping without the crowds typically found in tourist-heavy areas.

Welcia may not be as familiar to tourists, but it's actually one of Japan's leading drugstore chains with annual sales surpassing Matsumoto Kiyoshi. You can find a wide range of products including medicine, cosmetics, daily necessities, and food and beverages. Many stores even have prescription counters, making it a popular choice among Japanese consumers for their diverse product offerings.

PLAZA is a Japanese beauty chain specializing in cosmetics, skincare, body care products, and lifestyle goods. They also sell snacks and sweets, although they don't typically carry pharmaceutical products. The items sold in PLAZA are known for their high quality and cute designs. They feature the latest Japanese beauty trends and often have merchandise featuring popular characters like SNOOPY and DISNEY. Once you step inside, you might find it hard to leave — definitely worth a visit!

Don Quijote is a Japanese discount chain store that offers a wide array of products ranging from electronics, international brands, clothing, shoes, snacks, instant noodles, and more. Its crowded aisles and packed shelves create a unique spectacle. You can find almost anything here, enjoy tax-free shopping, and some stores even have restrooms available. It's a favorite shopping destination for international tourists!

Shinjuku is truly a fantastic place to explore, shop, and have fun. Personally, I can spend a whole day there whenever I visit. I recommend everyone to allocate more time for sightseeing in Shinjuku. Don't forget to check out the tax-free options and use coupons at checkout to save some money for your next shopping spree at the next store!

(*Please note that the information in this article is accurate as of May 2024 and may differ from current circumstances. For the latest updates, please refer to the official websites of each facility.)