Tired of the same old souvenir shops?
Looking for something unique, useful, and truly Japanese?
Tokyo has a treasure trove of amazing stores where locals actually shop—and trust me, you’re going to love exploring them.
Whether you’re after quirky gifts, affordable finds, or cool snacks, these spots have you covered. Let’s dive in!
100 Yen Shops (Hyakkin)
Japan’s version of the dollar store—but way more impressive.
Unlike what you might expect, Japanese 100 yen shops are packed with surprisingly high-quality products—from daily goods to cute stationery, beauty items, snacks, and more.
Popular chains: Daiso, Seria, Can Do
Don Quijote (Donki)
This is chaotic shopping heaven.
Donki sells just about everything: snacks, cosmetics, electronics, clothes, cosplay outfits, souvenirs… you name it.
The prices are low, and the selection is wild.
Great place to grab souvenirs for friends.
KALDI Coffee Farm
An international food store that’s super popular with locals.
You’ll find snacks, seasonings, sauces, and drinks from all over the world—plus KALDI’s own original items with a Japanese twist.
A little more expensive than other shops, but definitely worth a browse
3COINS
Think of this as the big sister of the 100 yen store.
At 300 yen and more, you’ll get better design, better quality, and super stylish items—from homeware to fashion accessories.
It’s trendy, affordable, and really popular right now.
Convenience Stores (Konbini)
Japanese convenience stores are on another level.
Please don’t compare them to the ones back in the US or Canada
Try the onigiri (rice balls), hot snacks, sweets, and even full meals.
And yes, they also have amazing seasonal items and character goods.
Famous chains: 7-Eleven, Lawson, Family Mart, Mini Stop
Loft
A stylish lifestyle store filled with everything from stationery to cosmetics to home decor.
You’ll find cute, functional, and very Japanese products with great design.
Perfect for gifts (and for yourself).
Tokyu Hands
This is the store you go to when you’re not sure what you want—but you’ll always leave with something amazing.
They’ve got stationery, travel goods, DIY kits, household items, and even quirky inventions.
One time I even bought a model kit of a Japanese castle here for my friend from US —it was a hit.
Animate
The ultimate shop for anime lovers.
This place is a dream come true for fans of Japanese anime, manga, and games.
From figures to Blu-rays to exclusive goods, Animate has it all.
The main branch in Ikebukuro is especially big—don’t miss it.
Pokémon Center
Yes, it’s real. And yes, it’s magical.
Everything Pokémon is here—stuffed, games, stationery, snacks, clothes, and even limited-edition goods.
Even if you’re not a hardcore fan, it’s worth visiting just for the experience.
Jump Shop
If you’re into One Piece, Naruto, My Hero Academia, or other Shonen Jump titles, this is your paradise.
The Jump Shop is full of exclusive merchandise, and some items are only sold here.
Great for anime fans or as cool gifts to bring home.
Ghibli Shop(Donguri kyowa koku)
Can’t make it to Ghibli Park? No worries.
There are official Ghibli stores in Tokyo where you can find original goods.
It’s full of dreamy items that will bring out your inner kid.
Tokyo’s shopping scene is full of surprises.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a returning fan of Japan, exploring these places will give you a deeper look into local life—and you’ll probably leave with a few (or many) things you didn’t expect to buy.
Let me know which shop you’re most excited to visit!
And maybe… I’ll write a part 2 soon 😏
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