Snacks and confectioneries make for some particularly popular souvenir choices when visiting Japan. There are all kinds of treats, from chocolate, candies, and other snacks readily available at supermarkets and convenience stores to famous Japanese sweets and regional specialties.

Among the standout favorites, KitKat hold a special place in the heart of travelers for their widespread appeal and convenience.

And although this treat is indeed sold overseas, Japan’s KitKats are renowned for their astonishing array of flavors, like Matcha and Strawberry. KitKats are available at convenience stores, supermarkets, Don Quijote, and airports. There’s also the beloved chocolate delight unique to Japan called Pocky, a slender, stick-shaped, chocolate-coated biscuit.

Another classic souvenir confection is Tokyo Banana, a banana-shaped confectionary filled with banana custard and wrapped in fluffy sponge dough. Available at Tokyo stations, airports, souvenir stores, department stores, and some convenience stores. You may also want to try KitKat Mini Tokyo Banana, a unique collaboration product wrapped in KitKat chocolate!

Ningyo-yaki is another Japanese confectionery popular as a Tokyo souvenir, a baked sponge cake filled with red bean paste. Some shops along the approach to Sensoji Temple bake and sell Ningyo-yaki on the spot. Regarding the shelf life of these famous confections, Tokyo Banana holds for about a week, while Ningyo-yaki is good for 3-7 days.

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Japanese tea is derived from the leaves of the chanoki tree, and although the ingredients are similar, there are many different types depending on how it’s made. Green teas can be steamed or kettle roasted. Steamed varieties include sencha, gyokuro, bancha, and hojicha, amongst others. And even though they are all indeed teas, each one boasts its own distinct taste and aroma, making it a pleasure to try and compare each one.

Matcha is amongst the most popular tea selection with visitors to Japan. This powdered tea, ground from the leaves of the green tea plant, is often incorporated into chocolate confections and ice cream, contributing to its recognition internationally, as well. It is prepared by dissolving it in hot water with no need for a tea infuser, making it a convenient option for home consumption.

Soba-cha, or buckwheat tea, is crafted from buckwheat seeds, and popular for its distinct aroma. Genmaicha is a blend of equal parts green tea and roasted rice, and holds a special appeal for health-conscious individuals. All of these teas can be easily found at supermarkets, convenience stores, and department stores.

Recently, drip-type and tea bag types have also become available, making for even more effortless preparation by simply adding hot water, doing away with the need for traditional tea utensils, making for a hassle-free tea-tasting experience.

One of the most famous specialty tea shops in Japan is the long-established Ippodo Tea Shop, founded in Kyoto in 1717. In addition to its main Kyoto branch, it has also extended its presence to department stores in Ginza Mitsukoshi and Isetan Shinjuku.

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Japanese sake, crafted from rice, koji, and water, is widely known overseas. Recently, the amount of sake exported to foreign countries has surged, with more and more visitors to Japan seeking to purchase this traditional alcoholic beverage. Popular sake brands include Dassai, previously known for its scarcity due to high demand, Hakkaisan, with its smooth, invigorating flavor, and Kubota, with its light and refreshing profile.

They are available at supermarkets, convenience stores, and major retailers like Don Quijote. However, please note that sake bottles are heavy and fragile, so be sure to handle them with care. If carrying them around is a concern, one alternative is to purchase them at the airport right before your departure. For those seeking a more casual way to enjoy sake, you can also try options like sake-flavored KitKat and similar products.

Whiskey produced in Japan has also gained a reputation around the world. In comparison to whiskies from other countries, many Japanese brands exhibit delicate and intricate aromas and tastes, contributing to their international acclaim, while causing some brands to skyrocket in price and become scarce in supply. Notable brands include Suntory's Single Malt Whisky Yamazaki and Hibiki, and Nikka Whisky's Taketsuru Pure Malt.

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Japanese cosmetics, such as Shiseido and Kose, have achieved global recognition, making them particularly popular amongst international visitors. Favorite brands include Shiseido's Clé de Peau Beauté, Max Factor's SK-II, and Kose's Seikkisei and DECORTÉ. Fancl and DHC are also widely known.

Alongside these standard brands are other emerging favorites, such as “&be,” curated by famous Japanese hair and makeup artist Yusuke Kawakita. There’s also eye shadow from Excel and beauty essences from skincare brand Obagi. (Based on survey data from the tax-free counter at LOFT; results as of March 2023.)

In addition to Japan’s numerous brands, there’s also a wide selection of product lines catering to various needs, including essential skincare, makeup, and UV protection. Another reason for their popularity is the ability to select them according to personal preferences, including budget, purpose, and aesthetically appealing packaging.

Affordable products are readily available at drugstore chains like Matsumoto Kiyoshi and Tsuruha Drug, as well as mass retailers like Don Quijote and BicCamera. For more high-end brands, you can find them at most department stores.

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Japanese medicines have gained a reputation for superior quality, affordability, and effectiveness, with a diverse range of unique goods not usually available in many travelers’ home countries, resulting in more and more visitors flocking to Japan to get their hands on them. In fact, visitors from China even have a nickname for the medicinal goods they specifically seek out during their Japan travels: "divine medicines."

The term “pharmaceutical” encompasses a broad range of products, from pills and patches to eye drops and ointments, many of which are readily available at drugstores and other general retailers. Notable medications include the fast-acting ibu-quick headache medicine, Ota Gastroprokinetic, which effectively addresses stomach discomfort from alcohol, heartburn, and indigestion, and HiTiol C, a proven remedy for blemishes on the skin. Alinamin, an overseas product, is also favored for its efficacy in alleviating stiff shoulders, back pain, and fatigue, available in both tablet and liquid forms.

Favorite eye drop products include Sante Beautéye, with its stylish perfume bottle-inspired packaging, and Sante FX, known for its invigorating sensation. Others include Liquid Muhi S2a for itching and insect bites, as well as Salonpas Ae patches. Also, although technically not medications, there’s also the compress-like Netsusama fever sheets, designed to provide cooling relief for those suffering from a fever.

These pharmaceutical goods can be found at Japanese drugstores like Matsumoto Kiyoshi, Wellcia Pharmacy, Sugi Pharmacy, and Tsuruha Drug, as well as discount stores like Don Quijote and electronics retailers like BicCamera.

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Japanese-made electrical appliances are also preferred overseas for their sturdiness, durability, and outstanding performance. In downtown home electronics stores, hardly a day goes by without witnessing foreign travelers diligently seeking appliances to bring back home.

Rice cookers are especially popular in countries like China and Taiwan, where rice is a staple ingredient. Japanese rice cookers are highly regarded for their ability to transform even ordinary rice into deliciously glossy grains. Some models even have international versions with LCD displays and instruction manuals in other languages, including English, Chinese, and Korean.

Digital cameras from manufacturers like Canon, Nikon, and Sony are other favorites. Recently, instant cameras like the Cheki Instax Mini have also garnered the attention of young travelers in particular. Other highly sought-after items include beauty appliances like hair dryers, facial steamers, and shavers, along with gaming consoles such as the Nintendo DS. Another surprising favorite includes Japan’s famous bidet toilet seats!

You’ll find lots of home electronics stores conveniently located near major Tokyo stations in Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Ikebukuro, many of which are open until around 9-10 p.m. You’ll also find Laox and Air BicCamera outlets in Narita Airport Terminal 2, allowing you to make last-minute purchases right before your departure!

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Japanese stationery goods, renowned for their superior quality and diverse designs, have captured the attention of individuals all around the world. Not only are they reasonably priced, they’re also compact, making them ideal choices for souvenirs. Many people prefer specific brands for their functionality, such as Frixion, a pen with a built-in eraser. You’ll also find tons of adorably-shaped erasers shaped in designs ranging from vegetables and animals, to even Mount Fuji!

Masking tapes are another unique Japanese souvenir, which are used to write on surfaces without leaving permanent marks. Masking tape was originally used to prevent stains, as well as safeguard from paint and caulking from sticking to unwanted areas. But now, its utility has extended to the stationary department, where it is used for writing, and even for wrapping. This tape is sold in a wide range of designs to suit a variety of needs, including types for walls and furniture, and those with perforations.

Japanese stationery can be purchased at specialty shops, as well as household stores like LOFT and Tokyu Hands. You can even find some at convenience stores and supermarkets in the miscellaneous and daily goods sections, although the selection may be more limited.

There’s also Ginza Ito-ya, a long-established stationery shop founded in 1904. In fact, the entire first through sixth floors of their Ginza 2-chome location is completely devoted to stationery goods! There you’ll find premium fountain pens and other writing tools crafted for comfort, making them ideal gifts for your loved ones back home.

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nime is one of the most universally-adored parts of Japanese culture. Beloved series like Chibi Maruko-chan, Doraemon, Dragon Ball, Slam Dunk, Pokemon, One Piece, and Demon Slayer have achieved global acclaim, leading to a treasure trove of anime-themed merchandise just waiting to be discovered. You’ll find an impressive array of goods from trading cards, pins, and keychains to plushies, action figures, and even T-shirts!

Prime spots for finding these treasures include Animate, a nationwide retailer of anime and manga goods, as well as the toy sections of most electronics retailers.

As the epicenter of anime culture, Akihabara is brimming with an abundance of official merchandise outlets. For those seeking official merch, dedicated stores like the One Piece Mugiwara Store cater to devotees of the series, while the Pokemon Store and Pokemon Center are shopping havens for Pokemon fans. Other shops include Akihabara Radio Kaikan, Otachu.Akihabara, Animate, and X Akihabara Ekimae, which specializes in figures of popular bishojo and robot characters. If you’re seeking goods featuring your favorite characters, look no further than Akihabara!

Other world-famous characters like Rilakkuma, Kumamon, Hello Kitty, and Gudetama, as well as Ghibli characters, are also available in a wide range of goods. From towels, t-shirts, and plush toys to keychains, stationery, cutlery, and beyond, these character goods find their place in a variety of outlets. Many of them can also be found at mass merchandisers such as Don Quijote, Daiso, Village Vanguard, Sanrio Shop, LOFT, Tokyu Hands, and the Kiddy Land branches of Harajuku and Umeda.

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Incense is made from natural aromatic woods like aloes wood, agarwood, and sandalwood. Its fragrance, which wafts up after the fire dies out, provides a sense of healing and comfort. Sandalwood and agarwood in particular are traditional Japanese scents that evoke a sense of harmony, making them ideal souvenirs to bring a sense of Japanese spirit to your home.

Incense comes in a variety of types, including the stick type, the compact and ash-free cone type, and the whirlpool type, which offers a longer burn time.

You can purchase incense at variety stores such as Loft and Tokyu Hands. There are also a number of specialty incense stores in the Ginza area, including Kogen Ginza, Koju, Shoeido Ginza Store, and Kyukyodo.

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Chopsticks make popular Japanese souvenirs for their compactness and Japanese-inspired design and materials.

There are two types of chopsticks: wooden chopsticks, made with a lacquer finish that brings out the grain of the wood, and lacquered chopsticks, which are coated with layers of lacquer mixed with dyes and other materials. The former provides a sense of wooden warmth while being non-slip and easy to use, while the latter has a smooth surface that is long-lasting and pleasant to the touch.

They also come in a variety of shapes, including round, triangular, square, and carved, as well as a variety of weights. A rich selection of patterns and colors is also available, so you can choose the one that best suits your preference. Affordable pieces can be found at general and 100-yen shops, while more premium goods can be found at specialty stores such as Hyozaemon (located in Shibuya Scramble Square East Wing 14F and Asakusa), as well as at Ginza Natsuno.

You don’t have come from a country where using chopsticks is customary to purchase these as souvenirs. Simply placing a pair in a your cutlery case alongside the forks and knives is a great way to bring a little bit of Japan back to your kitchen!

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Japanese swords have become increasingly popular overseas thanks to anime and manga. And if you visit Japan, you can even acquire a real, genuine Japanese sword for yourself!

Specialized sword dealers not only sell Japanese swords, they have in-depth expertise in and experience. Swords come in various ranks and prices, ranging from anywhere from 100,000 yen to over 10 million yen!

But keep in mind, a Firearms and Swords Registration Certificate (銃砲刀剣類登録証) is required in order to purchase one, although if your purchase already has an accompanying registration certificate, you may only need to submit a Notification of Change of Ownership (所有者変更届出書) to the board of education of the respective prefecture afterwards.

Certain rules and regulations also apply when bringing antiques abroad, including applying to the Agency for Cultural Affairs for a Certificate of Export Appraisal of Antique Art Objects (古美術品輸出鑑査証明). For details, please check with the shop when purchasing your item. Some shops may be able to complete this process on your behalf.

If you want to skip the hassle that comes with acquiring a real sword, you can always opt for an imitation. These are made of different materials, and are crafted in a way that makes them unable to cut, while offering the same warp, length, weight, and other details as a real Japanese sword. Prices start at around 1,000 yen, and no special permissions or qualifications are necessary to buy them.

Some sword dealers carry these replicas alongside their authentic counterparts. You may even find them in some souvenir shops, especially in the Nakamise district of Asakusa. Ginza is also home to one of the largest Japanese sword specialty stores in Japan, Ginza Seiyudo. This shop has over 200 swords for both display and purchase, as well as tsuba (sword guards) and other props, including 10 pieces of armor. For those interested in this traditional part of Japanese culture, these shops are absolutely worth a visit!

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The term “kimono accessories” is a generic term that refers to any items worn together with a kimono. In addition to those normally on display as part of the outfit, such as obi belts, haori cords, hair ornaments, fans, and netsuke (ornamental toggles affixed to the belt), there are a variety of other essential articles like undergarments and dressing aids. Many of these feature vibrant patterns and hues that evoke a sense of "wa" (harmony), making rendering especially appealing gifts for enthusiasts of Japanese culture.

Fans are amongst the most recommended of these accessories. Uchiwa fans are preferred for their lightweight nature and practicality, offering a refreshing breeze on sweltering days. You can find them at various outlets including LOFT, Tokyu Hands, Kyukyodo, and even Daiso!

For those with long hair, we also recommend the kanzashi, a traditional Japanese hair ornament used to keep one’s hair in place. Some individuals even purchase kimono obi to repurpose as decorative table centerpieces! Fans and kanzashi are available at most stores specializing in Japanese goods.

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Japan boasts a number of globally-acclaimed watch brands, including Seiko, Citizen, Casio, and more, all renowned for their accuracy and dependability. You’ll also find that when purchased tax-free, luxury watches, such as Rolex, Omega, Franck Muller, are available at a more appealing price point in comparison to other countries due to the weaker yen. You can purchase these watches at each respective brands’ stores.

The best places to find such luxury watches include department stores with brand outlets, and electronics retailers like BicCamera. Ginza also has a relatively large number of boutiques that specialize in luxury watches.

TiCTAC, a select shop for wristwatches, offers an extensive range that includes everything from famous Japanese brands to authentic mechanical marvels, as well as the latest domestic and international offerings. You’ll find branches in Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, Sapporo, and Sendai, amongst others.

Many specialty watch boutiques have their own distinctive attributes. Watch Specialty Shop Jackroad boasts a selection of over 6,000 watches at all times, complete with multilingual services including English, Chinese, Korean, German, and Thai. Meanwhile, Grand Seiko Boutique Ginza is located in the very birthplace of Seiko, offering a refined experience for those with their sights set specifically on timepieces of this brand.

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‘Vintage’ refers to items for which 30 to 99 years have passed since their manufacture. These articles, even those that were mass-produced at the time, often possess distinct characteristics setting them apart from their newer counterparts, reflecting the lifestyles and preferences of previous owners over the years.

Vintage items encompass a wide selection of categories beyond clothing, including ceramics, glassware, lacquerware, accessories, figurines, furniture, and watches.

Fashion enthusiasts will especially love AMORE Vintage in Omotesando, standing amongst Japan's largest vintage stores. It boasts an extensive collection of vintage pieces from luxury brands including Hermès, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Celine. DECOUVERTE, located in Aoyama, is another treasure trove of authentic finds of yet-undiscovered value. And as a tourist hot-spot, many of these specialty shops also cater to international visitors, offering multilingual services including English, Chinese, and Thai.

Vintage watches are another category worth exploring. Tokyo boasts a variety of shops for those seeking watches, including Ishida Shinjuku with their wide range of brands, from the ever-popular Rolex to timepieces no longer in production.

You’ll discover a number of great vintage shops in many of Tokyo’s prime fashion destinations, including Omotesando, Aoyama, Harajuku, Daikanyama, and Shimokitazawa. Vintage items offer all sorts of one-of-a-kind gems, adding to the allure of the shopping journey as you seek out your perfect find.

Tokyo boasts an array of traditional crafts that uphold the legacy of skilled artisans to this day. These crafts encompass a wide spectrum of processes, techniques, materials, and colors, resulting in an assortment of unique creations bursting with individuality.

Some of these include Edo handmade glass and Edo Kiriko (cut glass with designed etched into the surface), cloisonné ware (achieved by glazing colored glass powder over a metal base and baking at high temperatures), and Edo lacquerware (made by applying layers of lacquer onto materials like wood and paper).

Edo glass and Edo Kiriko are especially popular amongst international visitors, with many of them adorned in Japanese motifs like cherry blossoms and Mt. Fuji, making them wonderful gift items you’ll want to put on display. They come in a diverse assortment of products, from wine glasses to wind chimes.

These treasures are available in Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square, a gallery and shop featuring traditional crafts from all over Japan in the form of permanent displays and special exhibitions highlighting individual regions or crafts. There’s also an Artisans’ Corner, where visitors can watch skilled craftspeople at work, as well as limited-time workshops.

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BicCamera

Tokyo is brimming with all kinds of items that make great souvenirs. One of the best parts of a Tokyo trip is the time spent deciding which ones to buy! Whether looking for sweets to share with loved ones, or a luxury watch or traditional handicraft to keep as a memento of your own, we hope this article will help you find the perfect souvenirs by which to remember your visit to Japan.

*Information in article as of July 2023. Please see official websites for the latest updates & information.

English translation by: Krys Suzuki

Tsuruha Drug Store