Brace Yourselves, Shopaholics, for Tokyo's Best Shopping Streets

Whether you're hunting for the latest fashion trends, cutting-edge gadgets, or just a curious window-shopper, Tokyo's shopping scene is a joyride. We've shortlisted the 13 best shopping streets in Tokyo. Are you ready to shop till you drop?

Ginza

Tokyo's most famous shopping street, although frequented mainly by the rich, is highly recommended, no matter your budget.

You can easily spend an entire day here, trying the designer labels, high-end boutiques, gardens, tea rooms, and fine-dine restaurants.

Don't miss: The iconic 1881 Ginza Wako store and its Seiko Clock Tower. This landmark, with its curved facade, has survived WWII.

Address: 6 Chome-10-1 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061, Japan (map)

Best Commute: Metro Ginza Station - Red, Silver, and Orange lines.

Timings: Varies according to store

Takeshita

Takeshita shopping street represents Tokyo's trendy and "weird" side; the distinct vibe attracts fashion-forward youngsters.

Takeshita is often called the centre of Japanese youth culture and is lined with an array of quirky fashion & accessory boutiques, vintage clothing stores, and unique, cutesy cafes.

And what's cool is that there's something trendier popping up here every other day!

Don't miss: Chowing down on delicious Japanese crepes! You'll find dozens of crepe vendors all through the street with flavours from cheesecake to brownies.

Address: 1 Chome-16-4 Jingumae, 渋谷区 Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0001, Japan (map)

Best Commute: Metro Takeshita exit at Harajuku Station - JR Yamanote line.

Timings: Open Daily, 10:30am to 8pm

Ueno-Ameyoko

The lively atmosphere at Ueno Ameyoko is unmissable; that's what makes it different from Tokyo's other shopping streets.

It's an absolute street shopping wonderland. You'll see shops, stalls, and vendors selling a variety of clothes, shoes, accessories, even fresh seafood, spices, snacks, and more.

Don't Miss: Lots of guilt-free bargaining.

Address: 6 Chome-10 Ueno, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0005, Japan (map)

Best Commute: For the metro, take the JR Yamanote line. For the Subway, take the Ginza, Hibiya, Oedo, and Keisei lines.

Timings: Varies according to store

Shibuya

One of the best shopping places in Tokyo, Shibuya is loved for its myriad of recreation options, like karaoke bars, restaurants, pubs, theatres, etc. when you wish to take a shopping break.

Also, you'll get every little thing here - make-up, trendy clothing, gadgets, movie merchandise, cosplay stuff, and much more.

First-time visitors often pick Shibuya to start their shopping adventure. Or if you're feeling peckish after shopping, you can even join a food tour as well! The choices are endless here.

Don't Miss: Shibuya Sky on the Shibuya Scramble Square rooftop for a 360-degree view of Tokyo.

Address: 12-3 Udagawacho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0042, Japan (map)

Best Commute: Shibuya Station - Accessible from almost all major metro lines.

Timings: Varies according to store

Yanaka Ginza

Shopaholic or not, this is a treasure trove of off-the-beaten-path experiences.

The pedestrian-friendly street takes you back to the 1950s the moment you enter.

Wooden houses, quirky boutiques, cosy cafes, and an array of traditional Japanese art and crafts - you're spoilt for choice!

Don't Miss: This may sound odd but go for a stroll in Yanaka Cemetery. Surprisingly, it is rather serene, and not sad/spooky. Just remember to be respectful.

Address: 3 Chome-13-1 Yanaka, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0001, Japan (map)

Best Commute: Nippori Station -JR Yamanote, Keihin-Tohoku , and Nippori-Toneri lines.

Timings: Open Daily, 9:30am to 12am

Sunamachi Ginza

One of Tokyo's oldest shopping streets (it's been around since 1932), it has retained its old-fashioned charm and a distinct local character with more locals than tourists.

That's why you'll find family-owned stores passed down through generations - mostly traditional Japanese snacks or crafts.

Don't Miss: Wagashi is a must-try - a delicate, plant-based sweet, usually served with green tea.

Address: Kitasuna, Koto City, Tokyo 136-0073, Japan (map)

Best Commute: Funabori Station - Toyoko or Toei Shinjuku lines.

Timings: Varies according to store

Nakamise

Nakamise in Asakusa can easily be called the most beautiful shopping street in Tokyo.

Old-fashioned colourful architecture (machiya), small stores with classic Japanese snacks and crafts on display, and lanterns, flags and seasonal decorations hung outside, make this street stand out.

Can't Miss: Marvel at time-honoured Japanese souvenirs like uchiwa (folding fans), kimonos, or daruma (papier-mache) dolls that symbolise good luck.

Address: Chome-36-3 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan (map)

Best Commute: Asakusa Station - Ginza line.

Timings: Varies according to store

Sugamo Jizodori

Sugamo Jizodori is a favourite of the elderly, and for good reason too.

The street is particularly elderly-friendly, meaning it has textured bricks to prevent slipping; most shops are barrier-free and accessible with wheelchairs.

Shopkeepers are patient and speak slowly. Also, the Koganji Temple attracts many visitors.

Address: 4 Chome-22-8 Sugamo, Toshima City, Tokyo 170-0002, Japan (Map)

Best Commute: Sugamo Station - Marunouchi line. You can also take buses 71/76/77/69/42 (schedules change; check in advance).

Timings: Open Daily, 7am to 11pm

Jujo Ginza

If you want to have a shopping experience like a local, Jujo Ginza shopping street is a must-visit.

In the 400 metres of indoor space, you'll see traditional Japanese shops, boutiques, and izakayas, lining the arcade, and selling snacks, handicrafts, clothing, and household items.

Although what you can buy here isn't particularly unique, the vibe (authentic and unadulterated) certainly is.

Can't Miss: Stock up on Japanese snacks, especially rice crackers, red-bean pancakes, etc.

Address: 1 Chome-4-8 Jujonakahara, Kita City, Tokyo 114-0031, Japan (map)

Best Commute: Jujo Station - JR Keihin-Tohoku line. You can also take buses 45/72 (check schedules in advance).

Timings: Varies according to store

Akihabara

Akihabara has become a hangout paradise for anime and manga fans. This shopping arcade in Tokyo is the go-to spot for all things otaku (geek) culture.

Besides scoring electronic gadgets and household goodies, you'll stumble upon some quirky Japanese anime-style maid cafes here.

Can't Miss: Getting your hands on that gadget or electronic item you've been eyeing forever.

Address: 1 Chome-14-2 Sotokanda, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 101-0021, Japan (map)

Best Commute: Akihabara Station - JR Yamanote line.

Timings: Varies according to store

Kappabashi-dori

Often called 'Kitchen Town', this is a must-visit for any professional/aspiring chef, foodie or homemaker.

But even for others, it's almost only possible to leave this place by buying something!

Tea sets, sake sets, Tokyo-style pottery, Japanese knives, hundreds of chopsticks, and even those hyper-realistic plastic food samples.

Can't Miss: Without a doubt, kitchenware, Japanese utensils and specialised cooking tools.

Address: 3 Chome-3-4 Nishiasakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0035, Japan (map)

Best Commute: Minowa Station - Hibiya line.

Timings: Open Daily, 10am to 8pm

Hiroo

Hiroo Shopping Arcade is situated in a quiet, upscale neighbourhood that's between other well-known neighbourhoods like Roppongi, Shibuya, Ebisu and Shinagawa.

The district also has many embassies and consulates, making it a multi-lingual area with international vibes.

Also, the shoppers here are laid back, and the stores are high-end.

Address: 5 Chome-1-26 Hiroo, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0012, Japan (map)

Best Commute: Hiroo Station - Hibiya or Oedo line.

Timings: Varies according to store

Ikebukuro

This leading shopping and entertainment area is famous for its malls and anime-inspired businesses.

Ikebukuro has cosplay festivals, tonnes of anime and manga merchandise shops, and even the largest Pokémon store in Japan!

People dressed in their favourite cosplay costumes, shopping or simply hanging out with friends is a common sight here.

Address: 1 Chome-29-1 Minamiikebukuro, Toshima City, Tokyo 171-8532, Japan (map)

Best Commute: Ikebukuro Station - JR Yamanote, Saikyo, or Shonan-Shinjuku lines

Timings: Varies according to store

Tokyo Travel Essentials

There are some holiday must-haves that you cannot forget. Do you have these for your Tokyo holiday?

Tokyo eSIM

On landing, all you need is quick access to maps, call friends/family, or book a ride to the hotel, rather than looking for a local mobile data plan. With a special eSIM for Japan, you can activate your data pack immediately on landing, and plan the rest of your trip smoothly.

Pocket WiFi Rental

You can enjoy stable 4G WiFi even on the go because you can carry the router in your pocket! Depending on your use you can choose from the several options available. Once rented, you can collect/drop the device conveniently at the airport.

Tokyo Subway/Metro Pass

With the number of shopping streets on your list you'll need this for sure. Trust us. You can choose from a 24-hour, 48-hour or 72-hour pass, and enjoy unlimited rides on the Tokyo metro or subway until the pass is valid.

Shop Till You Drop!

That's right; Tokyo's famous shopping streets, let you appreciate what "shop till you drop" really means. You'll burn out energy and time way before you burn a hole in your pockets! But that's what will make true shopaholics come back for more.

Commonly Asked Questions

Are Tokyo's shopping streets easily accessible?

Yes, almost all are close to a bus/metro/subway station.

Is there enough parking available?

Yes, but it can be very expensive and almost always full. Metro/subway is a better option.

What currency/cards can I use?

Japan's official currency, the yen, and all international cards are accepted.

What's the best time to visit Tokyo?

The best time to visit Tokyo is between March to April or September to November. Cherry blossom trees will steal the show in full bloom during Spring, while Autumn will give you vibrant foliage and pleasant temperatures perfect for walking around.