Best Other Shopping around Tokyo and Surroundings Spot List

Gekkoso is an art supply store with a retro atmosphere located along the Hanatsubaki Street in Ginza 8-chome. It was established in 1917. A lot of foreign people come here, too. There are about 90 kinds of cute picture post cards with paintings and poems of modern artists in the basement floor. You write an address and your message on the card and then post it in Gekkoso in-store post. Afterward, the store will have it mailed. You can also use Gekkoso's original watercolor paints to write your post card. Why not send your message with your memory of Ginza from Gekkosho to an important person in your country?

Échiré Maison du Beurre is the world's first speciality store of Échiré butter which was opened in the Marunouchi Brick Square. Échiré butter is the fermented butter which is made in the traditional methods in the town of Échiré in France. At the store, they sell products such as the pastries which is made with Échiré butter. The butter cake and the croissant are the popular products which are often sold out in early hours. For souvenirs, Sable Échiré and Galette Échiré are recommended.

Among other clothing stores, Sugamo Maruji became very popular for its red underwear and it is always busy with people looking to get their hands on the famous garment. The 4th branch store of the world's first red underwear shop has an outstanding signboard indicating ”Japan's best red underwear” in the front so it can't be missed. The red color is considered to symbolize vitality and happiness. Thus people buy it for a gift for seniors as well as for their own daily use. Aside from underwear, a lot of red colored items, such as shirts, belly-warmers, and socks, are available as well. Sugamo's famous red clothing makes a great unique souvenir for friends and family, senior or not!

Colorful plastic samples are displayed at Ganso Shokuhin Sample-ya. On the second floor of the Kappabashi Showroom, you can experience making food replicas using wax. Based on a program designed by artisans, the staff will teach you the traditional techniques. You will make two kinds of plastic tempura and a head of lettuce in approximately one hour. A reservation by phone is required. Please note that the instruction is available only in Japanese.

Located in Keyaki-zaka, a bookstore called TSUTAYA TOKYO ROPPONGI carries not only Japanese books and magazines, but also many art books and magazines from across the world. There is also a Starbucks inside, so you can relax on a sofa and choose an art book to peruse. CDs and DVDs are available on the 2nd floor. The great thing about this store is that it is open until 4:00 a.m.