What to Buy in Japan: 13 Souvenirs You’ll Actually Want!

So, you're almost done preparing for your trip to Japan. You've planned out your entire Japanese adventure, from purchasing the airline tickets to budgeted your time and money—congratulations, that's a huge part of the planning process out of the way!

But, have you remembered to plan for all the Japanese souvenirs you'll want to bring home? Trust me, this is something you'll want to prepare for in advance!

Aside from spending money on delicious foods and memorable experiences, I highly recommend budgeting for souvenirs and gifts you'll want to take home.

So, what are the best unique items to buy in Japan?

Japan is a shopper's paradise, but with so many options, it's normal to feel a bit overwhelmed. Don't worry, I'm here to help! This guide is the only one you'll need to ensure you know what to buy in Japan and have have a stress-free and enjoyable experience while you're shopping for the goods.

By the time you finish this article, you'll have everything you need. You'll know what to buy and where to buy it. You'll have some ideas on how to save yourself money.

I'll even share some of the best foods you can try to keep your energy up while your picking up all your Japanese goodies!

Time to get out a pen and paper, or a writing app on your phone. You'll want to take notes...

Before You Shop: You Can Avoid Taxes

Unless you're doing research because you're moving to Japan, I'd consider you a tourist. Not that us avid traveler always like to be called tourists...

But, in this case it's a good thing! As a tourist in Japan, you may be eligible for tax-free shopping on certain items. That's right, you can save some serious yen on your shopping by taking advantage of this benefit.

Here's what you need to qualify for tax-free shopping:

• Must be a foreign tourist
• Your purchases is over ¥5,000 (excluding tax) at a single store on the same day

Make sure to bring your passport with you as you'll need it to claim your tax exemption.

Many department stores, electronics shops, and other retailers participate in the tax-free shopping program, so you'll have plenty of options to choose from.

Some of the major shopping areas also have tourist information centers where you can get more information on where to shop tax-free. Now that you know how you can save money on your purchases, let's talk about what to buy in Japan!

10 Unique Japanese Things to Buy

There are so many things to buy, especially if you're visiting different Japanese cities. I can't fit everything I'd like to bring back in a suitcase, and I definitely can't fit it all into one blog. But here's my list of the best things to buy in Japan.

I made it so that no matter your interests, you're probably going to find something you'll want to search for and bring home! Whether you're trying to get gifts from Japan for all your friends and family, or you're just looking to stock up for yourself, go through my in-depth list. And stick around to find out where to find too!

10. Japanese Teas

Consider dedicating a portion of your suitcase for a souvenir that's steeped in history, culture, and flavor: Japanese tea. Trust me, it's not just about sipping a comforting warm drink—it's like taking a little piece of Japan's culture and history home with you.

You've probably heard about the amazing variety of teas Japan has to offer. Here are some of my favorites...

• Sencha: Your everyday green tea with a twist—a beautiful mix of sweet and bitter flavors.
• Genmaicha: Like no tea you've ever tasted before, it's green tea mixed with roasted brown rice, and it's got a unique, nutty flavor that's absolutely delicious!
• Matcha: The superstar of Japanese teas. It's a super fine powder that gives you a sweet, creamy cup of goodness. It's also the tea used in those cool Japanese tea ceremonies you've heard about.

So, when you're wandering around the buzzing streets of Tokyo, or exploring the serene beauty of Kyoto, don't forget to drop by a local tea shop. You'll be to find a variety of options, including loose tea leaves and green tea powder.

In my opinion, this is one of the best Japanese souvenirs you can get. Lots of people toot the health benefits of drinking tea, so you'll be giving culture and health in one gift!

And believe me, once you've tasted Japanese tea, your morning cup will never be the same again.

9. Japanese Clothing

Do you love Japanese fashion? Then why not pack only the essentials for your trip and leave room in your suitcase to bring home some Japanese clothing.

Whether you're taking part in fun activities in Tokyo or trying food in Osaka, you can find unique clothing designers all around Japan. The best place to find high-quality brands? The numerous department stores in Japan are great places to go instead of stand-alone brand name stores.

But, if you're into less expensive clothing, you'll find tons of options as well. Stick with me because I'll include some shopping spot suggestions later in the guide.

Traditional Clothing

Some uniquely Japanese clothing you should consider buying are kimonos and yukatas! Both are traditional clothing pieces and make wonderful souvenirs if you're looking to bring home a bit of Japanese culture.

Keep in mind kimonos, especially the overly intricate ones, can get very pricey. Go for yukatas if you're looking to stay within a tighter budget. They're more casual, but still beautiful examples of Japanese artistry!

Now you may not have enough room at home, or in your suitcase, to purchase a kimono. In that case, you can buy an experience instead! If you visit Kyoto, you can wear a kimono and participate in a traditional tea ceremony.

8. Cosmetics

If you're a fan of cosmetics, you've probably followed the Korean beauty trends that have hit global popularity recently. But it would be a mistake to stick solely to K-beauty brands and forget about the high-quality Japanese skincare and makeup brands.

You probably already know famous brands like Shiseido, Shu Uemura, or Biore. In fact, there are many popular Japanese products that made it into mainstream North American and European markets.

Aside from finding these brands to be more affordable and available in Japan, you'll also want to dig into the brands that aren't as accessible overseas!

Japanese cosmetics brands focus on simplicity and preservation of natural beauty through gentle ingredients. If you love high-quality cosmetics at affordable prices, it's worth spending time and money in a Japanese beauty or department store.

From face masks to sunscreens to products made with green tea, you'll find cosmetic products that work for your skin type! I've made a list of some of my favorite, highly-recommended cosmetics items:

• The Serum Stick from Tatcha
• K-Palette 24 HR Real Lasting Eyeliner
• Kose Clear Turn Vitamin C Sheet Mask
• HAIR SOAP & MASKs by La CASTA
• DHC Deep Cleansing Oil
• Kao Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Gel Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++

7. Chopsticks

Yes, you can get chopsticks for a dollar, a pound, or a Euro in your own country, but the materials these chopsticks are made from are not the best.

Nothing compares to a pair of chopsticks made in Japan! Not only are they wallet-friendly, but they'll also last you a long time. You can find some nice-looking, intricate designs or choose a simple style that will suit any occasion.

Once you pick up a pair of Japanese chopsticks, you'll feel the difference, and they won't even take up much space in your luggage.

Tip: Chopsticks with some fancier designs make great, easy gifts from Japan!

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6. Japanese Art Prints

Almost everyone is familiar with the painting of the great wave. You can find copies of this artwork in many places, either as a small print, or as a woodblock print (ukiyo-e) for your living room wall.

Of course, not everyone likes the same type of art. Fortunately, Japanese art has a lot to offer. I wouldn't buy the great wave, personally, but I'd love to add some beautiful Sailor Moon lithographs to my collection.

If you're an anime or manga fan, you can find some incredible art pieces to hang on your walls. Of course, you can buy these overseas, but they're much more affordable if you get them at the source.

For all my fellow anime, manga, or gamer enthusiasts, I recommend making stops in places like Akihabara or the Pokemon Center in Tokyo. You can even sign up for an anime and gaming guided tour to get insider info from an expert!

5. Sake (and Other Japanese Liquors)

Sake is the most famous Japanese alcoholic drink. It's a traditional rice wine that's enjoyed at many different occasions. I recommend going on a tour of a sake brewery and buying some sake there.

Japan also produces other types of liquors, including gin, whiskey, and some interesting blends. Be sure to look for the Japanese version of your favorite drink!

4. Stationery

Do you love journals, scrapbooking, or writing letters? Then you must visit a store that specializes in Japanese stationery. You'll feel like you're in a special kind of paradise.

Japan is well known for producing the highest quality markers, pens, and pencils. Buying some of these is a must for artists. People who love drawing in the manga style will feel like they've arrived in an artist's paradise when they visit Japan!

On my last trip to Japan, I was even able to find scented highlighters... safe to say they're some of my favorite stationery. In fact, they're close to dead so maybe I need to be planning my next trip to Japan...

If there's only a small amount of space left in your bags, this is one of THE things to get in Japan—I promise you won't regret it if you're a stationery lover like me!

3. Accessories

Don't know what to buy in Japan for friends and family? Hair accessories are one of the best souvenirs you can bring home to your loved ones.

Japan has some unique products for styling your hair, and whether you decide to grab some for yourself or your friends, it'll likely be something you can't get easily elsewhere.

If you like to do your hair up in a variety of cute styles, or know a friend who does, look for some uniquely Japanese hair accessories to take home. From adorable hair bobbles to intricate hair decorations, you won't be disappointed since Japan has it all!

2. Daruma Dolls

They might look creepy, but daruma dolls are a great souvenir to remind you of Japan. These round dolls always prop themselves back up when you rock them. This is a symbol of perseverance.

The dolls come with blank eyes, and the idea is to paint one in when you set a goal or intention. For example, it can be as simple as you setting yourself the goal of finishing a novel.

Once you accomplish your goal, you can paint in the second eye to show your achievement. Until you complete your goal, place the daruma doll where you'll see it all the time. The single blank eye is quite a motivation!

Daruma dolls come in a variety of sizes, so you don't have to worry about needing too much space in your bags.

1. Japanese Fans

Fans are a popular Japanese souvenir that can be useful during hot summers. You can find Japanese fans in dollar stores, tourist shops, and specialized shops.

Buying a cheap fan is tempting, but I recommend spending a little more to get a quality fan.

After all, you want your souvenir to last a while. The cheap fans tear easily, so it's worth spending a bit more.

3 Cool Things You Can Only Buy In Japan

Aside from the above, there are some cool things to buy in Japan you won't easily find in other countries—or you'll have to pay a fortune to get your hands on them.

These are also great options if you're trying to figure out what souvenirs to buy in Japan. I can't think of a better type of gift to bring home to friends or family—i.e. one that's hard to find unless you're in Japan!

It's worth considering buying these 3 items in Japan if you still have some space in your luggage. Better to get them in Japan than risking disappointment once you get home...

3. Handmade Japanese Ceramics

Japan has a long tradition of producing high-quality ceramics. If you need a new teapot—to make some great Matcha, maybe?—Japan's the place to get it.

If you don't have much space in your luggage, go for some quality ceramic chopstick rests to go with your Japanese chopsticks.

2. Unique KitKat Flavors

I can hear you thinking, "She's telling me to buy KitKat in Japan? I can get that in every grocery store at home!" But does your local grocery store offer dozens of KitKat flavors? I don't think so.

Cool Japanese stuff exists in every corner of the country, but as a chocolate lover, unique KitKat flavors are right up my alley. And in Japan, KitKat is very popular. Not only does it taste nice, but it also stands for good luck.

In addition to the classic KitKat flavor, you can find these unique types of KitKat in Japanese stores:

• Matcha
• Milk Coffee
• Strawberry
• Soy Sauce
• Chocolate Banana
• Fruit Parfait
• Cherry Blossom

Nothing that calls to you in this list? Don't worry... I've only listed a small selection from over unique 200 KitKat flavors.

1. Omamori Charms

Sticking with the good luck theme, you should pick up omamori charms. Omamori charms can be found in many places in Japan. They're also inexpensive, making them an good souvenirs for many people!

To keep it simple: Omamori are lucky charms that protect you from evil spirits and bring you good fortune. I recommend buying them from a proper shrine or temple, not a dollar store.

Is Buying Japanese Stuff Expensive?

Many people believe that visiting Japan and buying cool things in Japan is expensive. And yes, it can be—but it's the same in most countries. However, it is possible to travel to Japan without breaking the bank.

My recommendation: Check out the Japanese equivalent of "dollar" stores. You can find some great souvenirs there, like cheap Japanese fans, stationery, and some unique things you can only find in Japan.

Also, don't be afraid to go into the same stores Japanese locals use. Souvenir shops are fine, and you can find some nice stuff in them, but remember, you might find the same thing in a local store that is not aimed at tourists, and for half the price.

Things to Consider When Buying Japanese Items

Import Taxes and Customs

Your home country may charge you an import tax if you have bought too many things overseas, or a high-value product. It might still work out cheaper than buying the same product in your home country.

Either way, it is important to plan big purchases in advance. Do some calculations to determine whether buying in Japan is more affordable than buying at home.

Differences in Electronic Outlets

When you buy electronics in Japan, you may return to a country where the plugs are different. Be sure to check the plug connections of your new devices and buy an adaptor if necessary.

Remember, there are certain things where it's a bad idea to always run them on adapter. Think hair dryers or even laptops. Consider this before you buy!

Warranties

Warranties and guarantees for products you buy in Japan will likely not carry over to your home destination, and shipping the product back to Japan for repairs or replacement may not be affordable.

Definitely important for you to consider if you're planning on more expensive purchases while in Japan!

The Weight of Your Luggage

You carefully packed your favorite and most reliable luggage at home. On the way to Japan, you may have used a toiletry bag to keep apart your cosmetics or organized all your clothes with packing cubes.

Unfortunately, all your hard work can be for nothing if you end up picking too many souvenirs or other Japanese stuff while you adventure through Japan. If you plan on shopping in Japan, make sure you plan a trip to Japan with a packing list so you know how much storage space you have!

Airlines restrict how much you can carry with you for free. Once you hit a certain limit, you must pay an extra baggage charge. This can quickly outweigh any potential savings from buying certain products in Japan.

Make sure you've prepared for this with a packing list that takes into account purchases in Japan. Or you could coordinate with your travel buddies to make sure everyone is under weight restrictions.

Depending on where you call home, your flight may offer you 2 free checked bags. This is especially true if your flight is a long-haul flight! Remember to check with your airline.

Top Areas for Shopping in Japan

You're on the lookout for the best souvenirs from Japan, but where to find them depends on what city you visit. There are lots of beautiful and memorable spots to see in Japan, but I'll focus on the 3 hotspots: Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto.

Remember to bring a comfortable backpack to carry around daily essentials

Shopping in Tokyo

Ginza District - Best High-End Shopping

The Ginza District in Tokyo is a wonderland for shoppers who love glam!

It's a glitzy shopping area filled with high-end luxury brands and flagship stores, making it the perfect spot for those looking for designer goods. You may not need to spend too much time here if you're more of a budget shopper.

But if you do make a stop to the Ginza District, stop into the famous department stores located here, Mitsukoshi and Matsuya.

Harajuku Takeshita Street - For the Trendy Traveler

Harajuku Takeshita Street is a must-visit shopping destination for those looking for quirky and trendy fashion finds. The street is lined with shops selling unique clothing items, accessories, and souvenirs.

What do I mean by unique? Well, if you're into cosplaying, this should be your number 1 shopping stop!

I would also suggest indulging in some of the famous crepes and other sweet treats while you shop. If you have enough time, consider taking the "kawaii" tour to find the best cute cafes and colorful fashion stops!

Akihabara - Electronics Hub

Akihabara is the place to go for all your electronics needs. The area is filled with shops selling the latest gadgets, video games, and computer hardware.

As I mentioned before, you can also find a wide range of anime and manga merchandise in the shops here.

Shopping in Osaka

Shinsaibashi - Go-to Shopping Spot in Osaka

Shinsaibashi is a bustling shopping district in Osaka. It's home to many shops selling everything from high-end fashion brands to traditional Japanese souvenirs.

This is a great area to go if you're traveling as a group. I bet everyone you're traveling with will find something thanks to the variety at Shinsaibashi.

Don't forget to stop to enjoy street performers and food vendors while you shop.

Namba Parks - A Unique Shopping Experience

Namba Parks is a shopping mall like no other. It features a rooftop garden and a unique design that allows visitors to shop while surrounded by greenery.

The mall is home to many stores selling fashion, accessories, and home goods.

Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street - Japan's Longest Shopping Street

Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street is Japan's longest shopping street, spanning over 2.6 kilometers. It's filled with shops selling a variety of goods, including clothing, food, and more.

You'll be able to find traditional Japanese crafts and pottery in the shops here. This is a place that you're bound to find fantastic souvenirs from Japan to bring home!

Shopping in Kyoto

Teramachi Street - Go Back in Time With Traditional Shopping

Teramachi Street is a historic shopping street in Kyoto, filled with traditional shops selling souvenirs, clothing, and crafts. The street is also home to many tea houses and restaurants, making it a great spot to take a break and relax.

If your trip coincides with cherry blossom, or sakura, season, then you're in luck. Between Teramachi Street and Karasuma Street, you'll find Kyoto Imperial Palace Park. This is a wonderful place to view the cherry blossoms!

Kyoto Station Building - The Modern Shopping Destination

The Kyoto Station Building is a modern shopping destination with a variety of stores selling fashion, accessories, and souvenirs.

But that's not the only reason you should make this a shopping stop!

Kyoto Station Building is one of the best places to enjoy the panoramic views of Kyoto. All you need to do is go up to the observation deck on the building's 15th floor.

Nishiki Market - A Food Lover's Paradise

Nishiki Market is lively covered market specializing in traditional foods. It's a great place to try some traditional Kyoto cuisine and to find unique food souvenirs. You'll find vendors selling a wide range of Japanese foods, snacks, and sweets.

You'll also find traditional kitchenware and utensils in the shops here.

Where to Shop in Japan: Department and Chain Stores

Don Quijote - Japan's Must-Visit Discount Store

Don Quijote, also known as "Donki," is a discount store that sells a wide range of products, including electronics, clothes, cosmetics, souvenirs, and more. The store has a quirky atmosphere and is open 24 hours a day, meaning you'll find it's a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.

Don Quijote is also known for its tax-free shopping service for tourists, which makes it a great option if you're looking to save some money on your purchases.

Uniqlo - Affordable and Stylish Fashion for All

Uniqlo is a popular chain store that specializes in affordable and stylish clothing for men, women, and children. In recent years it's expanded to multiple countries abroad, but it's still a great experience to visit the brand in its home country!

The brand is known for its high-quality basics, including T-shirts, jeans, and outerwear, as well as its collaborations with designers like Jil Sander and Alexander Wang. I admit I may have a little bit too much Uniqlo in my closet...

Uniqlo has locations throughout Japan and is a great option if you're to update your wardrobe without breaking the bank!

Isetan - Luxury Shopping in the Heart of Tokyo

Isetan is a high-end department store chain that can be found in many locations throughout Japan.

The flagship store in Shinjuku, Tokyo, is known for its extensive selection of luxury goods, including designer clothing, cosmetics, and home goods. Because there's so much to see, visiting is an experience in itself, even if you don't purchase anything!

The store also has a food hall with a wide variety of Japanese and international cuisine, making it a great spot to grab a bite to eat while shopping. Be sure to check out the rooftop garden for a stunning view of the city.

Loft - Haven for Stationery and Home Goods

Loft is a chain store that sells a variety of products, including stationery, home goods, beauty products, and electronics.

The store has a fun and playful atmosphere, with a wide range of unique and colorful items that make great souvenirs. Loft is also known for its selection of Japanese-style stationery, including washi tape, stickers, and pens.

If you're a lover of cute things and artistic goodies, make sure to bring a friend to keep you from buying out the store!

Muji – The Minimalist's Paradise

Muji is another Japanese store that's made a splash abroad! It's known for its minimalist designs and focus on functionality.

With a wide range of products including clothing, home goods, and stationary, Muji is a great option if you appreciate simplicity and clean lines. Plus, all their products are made with eco-friendly materials.

PARCO - Fashion and Lifestyle Destination

PARCO is a well-known chain of department stores that has locations throughout Japan. It features a mix of international and Japanese brands in fashion, beauty, and lifestyle.

Make a whole day out of these department stores. You'll find that many of PARCO's locations also have restaurants, cafes, and galleries!

Hankyu Department Store - Cosmetics and Beauty Galore

With locations in Osaka, Kobe, and Kyoto, Hankyu is one of Japan's oldest and most established department stores. Its beauty and cosmetics sections are particularly noteworthy, featuring a wide range of international and Japanese brands.

What About Japanese Convenience Stores?

Are you ready to hear about one of the most convenient ways to shop in Japan? Yep, I'm talking about Japanese convenience stores, or "konbini" as they're called in Japanese.

You may think this is crazy... Why would you put convenience stores on your list of great places to shop!? But let me explain—I promise I'll win you over.

These stores are located all over the country and are open 24/7, making them more convenient than most shopping stops! Yes, it makes sense they're good spots to stock up on snacks, drinks, and other essentials you may have forgotten while packing.

But did you know that convenience stores in Japan also have a great selection of souvenirs and unique goodies?

First, this is where you can easily find the unique Japanese KitKat flavors I mentioned before! You'll also be able to pick up popular Japanese sweets and general snacks that'll make your friends envious at home. Unless you decide to share!

I would suggest making room in your luggage for Japanese Pocky, Hi-Chew, and mochi.

But that's not all, convenience stores also have a great selection of drinks that make for perfect souvenirs, such as canned coffee, tea, and even Japanese sake.

If you're looking for something more unique, you can also find beauty products, stationary, and even traditional Japanese souvenirs like fans and chopsticks. Take about a one stop shop to all of the goodies I've mentioned.

I still recommend going and exploring a variety of shopping spots in Japan, but these konbini are great if you run out of time or aren't able to find smaller goodies in the other places you've tried.

Plus, stop by a convenience store before your flight. Most of you will probably be preparing for a long-haul flight home, so pick up some Japanese snacks to make your flight more enjoyable. Some popular options include rice crackers, dried squid, and wasabi peas.

Buying Japanese Souvenirs at Yen Shops

You definitely can't miss out on Japan's yen shops.

These are small shops that offer a huge variety of goods at extremely affordable prices, usually starting from 100 yen (about $1 USD). While the quality may not always be the best, yen shops are a great option for finding inexpensive souvenirs to bring home.

They're also a great convenience store alternative for picking up travel essentials like snacks, toiletries, and even small electronics.

Similar to convenience stores, you can find everything from traditional Japanese souvenirs like folding fans, chopsticks, and keychains in yen shops. You can also grab more quirky items like face masks with cute animal designs or humorous English phrases.

Some delicious items to look out for include matcha snacks and candies, Japanese-style socks, and stationary items like washi tape and cute memo pads.

Be sure to stop by a yen shop during your travels in Japan and see what treasures you can find!

Foods to Buy and Try In Japan

So, you've literally spent most of the day shopping. I bet you're tired and hungry! Make sure that you stop for drinks, snack, and meals during your days of shopping in Japan.

Sure, sushi may be the first thing that comes to mind, but there is much more to Japanese food than just sushi. Whether you go for some inexpensive "fast" food or to a luxury restaurant, the presentation of the food is immaculate.

Many restaurants in Japan display pictures beside the name of the dish on their menus. This makes ordering easy, even if you don't speak Japanese. Take a photo of what you ordered, then take a photo of what you got, and compare the two. It's amazing!

Some foods you should try while in Japan include the following:

• Yakitori: Skewered chicken
• Udon and Soba (Japanese noodles): Udon are the thicker ones and soba are the thinner, darker ones
• Sashimi: Thinly sliced, raw meat or fish
• Okonomiyaki: I love this... It's a savory pancake that can be made with various ingredients
• Takoyaki: Weeat batter balls filled with octopus
• Onigiri: the famous rice balls
• Wagashi: Traditional Japanese sweets, e.g., mochi, which is a small, sticky, sweet, glutinous ricecake

Shop Till You Drop While in Japan!

Now that you have your head full of ideas about what to buy in Japan, it's time to think about your general plans. Bear in mind: bags become heavier when you buy loads of stuff.

It would be best if you did your shopping during the last few days of your stay in Japan. But you can plan out your entire trip with ease if you use a trip planner!