Shopping in Tokyo - A Paradise Waiting to Be Explored
Tokyo is a shopping paradise waiting to be explored. From the busy streets of Shibuya to the tranquil temples of Meiji Jingu Shrine, each neighbourhood tells its own unique story through its shops and boutiques.
Whether you're a history buff discovering traditional crafts in Asakusa, a traveller searching for mementos to cherish, a fashionista scouting the latest styles in Ginza, or a culinary enthusiast searching for the best kitchenware in Kappabashi, Tokyo offers an endless array of shopping experiences to suit every taste.
Shopping in Tokyo will leave you enchanted long after your visit. Here's a guide to the 11 best shopping experiences in this vibrant city:
Kappabashi Kitchenware Shopping
Discover the culinary world of Kappabashi Street, Tokyo's famous kitchenware shopping district that is a haven for those seeking top-quality knives, ceramics, souvenir-worthy chopsticks, and cookware. Explore over 170 shopsoffering unique, handcrafted items, including custom-made products with personalised engravings. Admire the artistry of Japanese knives and traditional blacksmithing techniques passed down for generations.
Don't miss the lifelike plastic food samples, perfect for bringing a touch of Japan home. Immerse yourself in the craftsmanship and history of Kappabashi Kitchen Town, where each store boasts a rich culinary legacy. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a curious traveller, Kappabashi promises the best shopping experience in Tokyo.
Kappabashi Knife Shopping Tour
Kappabashi Street in Tokyo, also known as Kappabashi Kitchen Town, is renowned for its exceptional selection of traditional Japanese knives. These knives, crafted with centuries-old techniques, epitomise precision and functionality. Among the iconic styles is the Wa-bocho, known for its single-bevel edge and high-carbon steel durability. Equally popular is the versatile Santoku, perfect for diverse kitchen tasks.
Beyond these classics, Kappabashi offers knives tailored to specific culinary needs, like Deba knives for fish filleting to Yanagiba knives for sashimi slicing. Whether you're a professional chef or an enthusiastic home cook, knife shops in Kappabashi cater to all, offering personalised engravings and reasonable prices.
Cookware and Tableware Shopping in Kappabashi
Indulge your culinary passions with a visit to Kappabashi, the iconic shopping district in Tokyo. Browse an extensive array of Japanese cookware and tableware. Admire the meticulous attention to detail and traditional skills of the artists. From ceramics and handmade glassware to intricate cookie cutters and food branding irons, Kappabashi Street has everything you need to revamp your kitchen.
Highlights include renowned knife makers like Jikko, known for their exquisite knives with Damascus steel blades and distinctive designs. Also, visit shops specialising in plastic display food, providing a quirky yet fascinating glimpse into Japan's restaurant culture.
Private Tokyo Shopping Tour
Experience luxury shopping with the Luxury Shopper's Dream tour offered by Pelago. Drive through bustling streets in a luxurious SUV as an expert guide leads you on a personalised journey through Tokyo's premier shopping destinations, from the upscale boutiques of Ginza to the vibrant streets of Shibuya.
Wander along Chuo Dori Street, Ginza's main boulevard, where high-end fashion thrives. Continue to Ginza Mitsukoshi, an opulent shopping mall boasting tailored suits and exquisite Japanese ceramics. Visit Roppongi and Tokyo Midtown for luxury brands and cultural experiences. Explore upscale fashion at Shibuya Hikarie and chic boutiques at Shibuya Stream. Finally, head to Kappabashi Street to discover masterfully crafted blades and traditional ceramics.
Local Fashion Designers Shopping Tour with a Stylist
Dive into Tokyo's fashion scene and discover the latest trends with a Pelago tour led by an expert stylist. Explore the studios of local designers and discover unique pieces that capture the essence of Japanese style and craftsmanship. The stylist will also provide personalised recommendations and styling advice to help you find the perfect pieces to add to your wardrobe.
Begin in Shibuya for a mini style consultation and boutique visits based on your preferences. Explore Harajuku's creative enclave, discovering authentic Mexican pieces and local designers handpicked to match your style and budget. Conclude your shopping tour at Aoyama Square, where you get to interact with boutique owners.
Souvenir & Traditional Japanese Goods Shopping Tour
Embrace the rich cultural legacy of Japan by going on a shopping excursion in Tokyo that focuses on traditional crafts and trinkets. Explore stores and artisanal workshops to find items such as calligraphy supplies and kimono fabrics, as well as handcrafted woodwork and pottery.
Take a cultural tour of Ningyocho, a charming neighbourhood known for its authentic Japanese handicrafts and delectable food. Discover Itakuraya, one of the oldest Ningyoyaki cake bakeries, and indulge in freshly baked goods. Next, proceed to Amazake Yokocho for reviving rice-based drinks. Stroll down centuries-old lanes to find family-owned shops and savour regional fare, before ending your trip at the Mitsukoshi department store.
Private Premium Outlets Shopping Tour in Tokyo
Wondering where to shop in Tokyo without burning a hole in your pocket? We have something for you! Explore outlet shopping in Tokyo with a trip to Gotemba Premium Outlets.
Browse over 200 stores offering unbeatable deals on luxury brands while enjoying scenic views of Mount Fuji in the distance. Explore a vast selection of clothes, accessories, cosmetics, and home essentials from prestigious designers, all at reasonable (dirt cheap!) rates.
Dashi Drinking and Shopping Tour at Nihonbashi
Explore the historic Nihonbashi district, known for its traditional shops and artisanal products, while sipping on flavourful dashi broth and sampling local delicacies. Discover hidden treasures in the shopping district’s eclectic shops and immerse yourself in Tokyo's culinary culture. If you're eager to explore the essence of Japanese cuisine, don't miss the opportunity to delve into the world of Dashi and Washoku on this guided tour!
Learn about the art of dashi-making and its importance in Japanese cuisine. For the unaware, dashiis a vital component found in staples like miso soup and Soba noodles. Indulge in tastings of this savoury broth and relish a Dashimaki omelette, infused with dashi. Discover how incorporating it into your cooking can enhance the flavour of your dishes and unlock the unique taste of umami.
Sweets and Kimono Shopping
Experience the elegance of the kimono, a traditional Japanese attire with a tour in Asakusa shopping street, a popular destination for traditional souvenirs. This tour combines exquisite kimono fabrics with delectable sweets from local confectioneries, creating memories in Tokyo that will last a lifetime.
There are so many things to do in Asakusa. Visit a variety of shops, sampling delicious confections ranging from doll-shaped pancakes to steamed buns and strawberry candies and browsing colourful kimono patterns to find the perfect piece to take home. Don't forget to gorge on street food in Asakusa!
Red Ink Stamp Experience & Shopping
Embark on a journey of spiritual discovery at Meiji Jingu Shrine, where you can receive a Goshuin, a traditional red ink stamp (a Japanese art form) as a souvenir of your visit. Each shrine boasts its unique Goshuin design, making the collection of these stamps a cherished tradition. Explore the shrine's serene grounds and browse nearby shops for unique gifts and memorabilia. From traditional crafts to modern souvenirs, there's something for everyone to bring a piece of Japan home.
For the unaware, the Meiji Jingu Shrine is renowned for its New Year's visits and stands as Japan's most frequented shrine for Hatsumode. Nestled amidst Tokyo's urban hustle, it surprises with its vastness and natural beauty, offering a peaceful retreat steeped in history and culture.
Shimokitazawa Private Vintage Shopping Tour in Tokyo
Want to explore vintage shopping in Tokyo? Then, head to Shimokitazawa, known for its abundance of secondhand shops, where you can uncover unique and affordable clothing, accessories, and home goods from bygone eras. Explore quirky boutiques and retro stores filled with one-of-a-kind fashion finds, perfect for adding a touch of nostalgia to your wardrobe.
This tour lets you explore the world of vintage shopping in Tokyo, led by an expert guide. From the eclectic collection at Flamingo to the quirky stickers and Japanese souvenirs at B-Side Label, each store promises a treasure trove of delights.
The Ultimate Shopping Adventure Awaits!
Tokyo's diverse shopping landscape offers a treasure trove of experiences to suit every taste and interest. Whether you're hunting for unique kitchenware in Kappabashi, exploring the vibrant fashion scene, or seeking out traditional Japanese souvenirs, Tokyo's shopping streets have something for everyone. Embrace the city's rich culture, indulge in its culinary delights, and immerse yourself in the city’s bustling shopping scene.
Let Tokyo be your retail playground, where every purchase tells a story and every shop holds a new adventure waiting to be discovered. Check out the different shopping tours offered by Pelago by Singapore Airlines for the most unique experience.
So, pack your bags, lace up your walking shoes, and get ready to "shop 'til you drop" in the captivating shopping streets of Tokyo!
Commonly Asked Questions
Is it expensive to shop in Tokyo?
Shopping in Tokyo can range from affordable to luxurious, depending on where you shop and what you're buying. There are options for every budget, from high-end luxury stores and brands to budget-friendly thrift stores, street markets, and discount outlets.
Is Tokyo good for clothes shopping?
Absolutely! Tokyo is a fashion mecca with a wide range of clothing options catering to diverse tastes. From avant-garde designer boutiques in Shibuya to vintage treasures in Harajuku, there's something for everyone. You’ll also find cutting-edge streetwear and traditional Japanese designs. The shopping malls in Tokyo are worth visiting too. The city is also home to numerous shopping districts, each with its own distinct style and offerings.
Does Tokyo have tax-free shopping?
Yes, Tokyo offers tax-free shopping for eligible international visitors. Many stores, including department stores and specialty shops, participate in the tax-free program, allowing shoppers to save on their purchases. Bring your passport to qualify for the exemption.
Which shopping district is expensive in Tokyo?
Ginza is renowned as one of the most upscale shopping districts in Tokyo, featuring luxury boutiques, designer brands, and high-end department stores.
What is the longest shopping street in Tokyo?
Sprawled across 1.3 kilometres, Togoshi Ginza, located in the Shinagawa Ward, is the longest shopping street in Tokyo.