5 Must-Buys in Japan

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If you have been around Asia then you would know that Japan shopping is an experience no one should miss because you do not just get your money’s worth but the vendors are exceptionally courteous that you would be amazed at their culture as well. The one golden rule in shopping in foreign countries would be to bargain however, this does not apply in Japan shopping because marked prices are never lessen.

The unique culture in Japan is one of the many among the Asian countries that would fascinate many therefore an item you should purchase here would be the traditional clothing’s or the many handmade souvenirs that are special to the country of the rising sun.

Known for its boom in the electronics and fashion industry, shopping in Japan is a must as a memoir of your stay there. In Japan, the clothing’s are not just cheap but designer labels as well. If you are thinking of shopping for clothes that Japan is your heaven. Besides the various designs to accommodate fashion choices such as hip-hop and Goth, you can purchase almost all of the top line designer label clothes here.

Other item that has to be given consideration in Japan has to be the ultra-modern gadgets that are futuristic and latest in technology. The broad range of gadgets available here would just have you dumbstruck and spoilt for choices. Phones of all shapes and types can be available for you but be cautious that the system has allocations for English language or you might not be able to use it after purchase.

Hello Kitty is a famous Japanese icon that a tourist has to purchase while shopping in the country. Although the brand range has traveled far and wide, nothing says original more than Hello Kitty merchandise from Japan itself.

Besides these evident shopping, if you are at Japan then get into an anime store because the extensive range of comic and manga characters are creations of the Japanese that has reached every corner of the world. Along the streets you may witness cosplay, where adults or youngsters dressed as these anime characters. Get an anime figure or a manga comic to remember this unique experience in Japan.

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Shopping for Software in Japan

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Japan has always been known for its hi-tech creations and excellent technology development however the language usage to create its system offers a barrier amongst the creators and users. Often excel comparison between the Japanese software and the West created software results in conflict of choice for users. Even if the software produced is high in quality, the limitation provided by the Japanese language based system creates problems for worldwide users. Excel comparison does hold a higher standard for software in Japan but only if users are willing to overlook the obvious and learn the language to utilize the technology.

Even though the software may be tricky to master immediately, tech enthusiasts should not miss the opportunity to shop for software’s in Japan. The country is not just known for the technology but it is also offers a multitude of shops that would be able to offer you their software for the best price you can imagine. It is not necessary for you to just visit multiplexes for your software or electronics because there are credible shops right on the street with retailers that would provide you with extensive choice of products that you may want to purchase. On the main street of Chou Dori and along the side streets of Akihbara, you can expect to be hunting for all the types of software and electronics you were looking to buy in Japan.

Software’s offered in Japan are or centrally specialized for computers only because you can purchase software components for almost all types of electronic good such as cameras, mobile phones and even computerized home appliances. Besides the famous software shopping streets, if you are looking for more choices then visit the chain stores such as Yodobashi, Ishimaru and Laox for a much more options than what has been offered to you downtown. Although the software’s are bought under credible dealers, it is important for you to check out certain specifics before purchasing.

Note that Japan is a country very much self-sufficient in the electronic and software industry therefore there are difference in the technical use of the products purchased. It is very much important to ask about the specifications and whether or not they adhere to the international standards so that they may be used anywhere around the world.

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Places to Shop for Crafts in Japan

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One of the most useful crafts you can learn to make in Japan is the Kinchaku. The kinchaku is a pouch bag made from traditional Japanese cloth with a rope handle. It is also one of the easiest Japanese crafts to make. All you need are 2 pieces of Japanese cloth measuring 30 cm by 60 cm. You can add 2 more pieces for your inner bag lining. However, as a first time kinchaku maker, let’s just stick with the 2 pieces. You will need to stitch tabs where you can insert your cord. Pull to close the material, and you have a pouch bag!


Visiting Japan would never be complete without going to the Japanese craft stores. These are items that carry strong traditions. If you are going to be in Japan in May, try to attend the annual hobby show in Tokyo. You will see every kind of craft to make from dolls to clothing and of course, paper art or origami. You will be also be able to buy craft material in every color and design possible. It’s a magnificent show that will fascinate tourists and temporary residents.


Yuzawaya is a very popular place to go to if you are looking for Japanese fabric and dress supplies. Kincado also used to be another craft store, but unfortunately the business closed down, and so all their stores are no longer operational.

You could try Tokyu Hands and the side streets of Asakusa for affordable material. If you are anywhere near Kamata City, you will also find a chain of craft stores with many exciting Japanese craft ideas to try. The 100 Yen Store, which can be found all over Japan has some simple craft kits on sale. They are cheap and easy to work on. For your first time, you could have a go with these kits.

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5 Interesting Shopping Malls in Tokyo

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People in Tokyo and all across Japan love shopping. In fact, Tokyo has one of the finest shopping malls where you can buy latest designer clothes and show them to your friends and neighbors. But shopping in Tokyo can be sometimes pricey. Tokyo is a one stop shop for all the fashion freaks and shopaholics. You will find merchandises spread over several floors of departmental stores to keep you busy throughout the day. However, stores are often expensive and the best time to invade switch places is during season sale. Tokyo is also a great hub for antiquities and priceless souvenirs. You can find range of affordable gifts, dresses and ceramics. For those who are looking for shopping and are gaining, Tokyo is a great experience. Not only shoppers but also families and friends can have a great time in Tokyo malls and shopping outlets. Let’s check out some of the coolest places to shop in Tokyo.

1. La Fete Tama Minami Osawa

The spacing is famous for shopping, walk around different restaurants and cafes. You may also watch a movie in a theater nearby. Variety includes sporting, fashion clothing, lifestyle stores, furniture etc. The mall is quite spacious and also has greenery inside to make the day more relaxing.

2. Grandberrry mall

The Grandberry mall is spread over a wide area and the mall itself boasts of one of the best mall in the country. It includes shops of all kinds such as merchandise outlets, pet stores, hairdressers, lifestyle stores, fashion shops and many more. The mall itself is divided into four different regions: one for families and friends, another serves as an outlet mall, third has a food court, and the fourth is a communication and entertainment zone.

grandberrymall

3. Lala Port

Lala Port was opened to the general public in 1981. Since then has continued to grow and now houses more than 540 stores including international brands, fashion stops, and a movie theater. It is also one of the largest malls in Japan.

4. Premium Outlet Mall at Gotenba

Premium outlet mall is less expensive and more expansive. On a clear day you can also see Mount Fuji from this mall. You will find all types of fashion whether traditional or branded. It also has a huge food court to quench all your thirst and fill your stomach. It probably is one of their favorites of all children as it also has a wide playing field for kids. This mall is usually wrong very crowded especially during the holidays and sales.

5. Mitsui Outlet Park Iruma

Mitsui Outlet Park has over 200 store out of which when hit the stores are exclusive outlets. The main thing you’ll find out here is fashion and related accessories. There’s also a food court, adjacent restaurants and cafes. Additional facilities like baby cart are also available.

Image Source: http://bartman905.wordpress.com/2010/03/21/grandberry-mall/

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Japan Travel: Odaiba

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Odaiba is a very popular shopping and entertainment district of Tokyo. It was constructed on a man-made island in Tokyo bay. Originally built by the Tokugawa shogunate to house defensive forts to protect Edo (Tokyo’s previous name) from sea-based attacks. More than a century after their construction, the 6 small islands were joined together, marking the beginning of a development program designed to create a futuristic residential and business district, but the after the bubble economy burst in the early 1990′s development slowed to a crawl.
Odaiba remained largely empty until the latter half of the 90′s, when the area was given the kiss of life by the opening of several hotels, shopping malls and once the Yurikamome train line opened. It allowed Odaiba to become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Tokyo, also now a well known date spot for couples, with a large number of shipping, leisure and dining options available.
Even though Odaiba got off to a slow start, there are now several very impressive architectural structures and lucrative developments in the area, like the Fuji TV building, Telecom Centre and Tokyo Big site. Because Odaiba is a modern construction, it has very different city planning compared to other parts of Tokyo, it has plenty of green space and a clear separation of cars and pedestrians.
Here are a handful of highlights in Odaiba

Fuji TV Building

Hours: 10:00 to 18:00 (some restaurants until 19:00)
Closed: Mondays (or Tuesday if Monday is a national holiday).
Admission: Free (observation deck: 500 yen)
Within this striking looking build is the headquarters of Fuji Television. There are exhibits from popular TV shows. There is also a observation deck and upper class French restaurant inside the giant sphere section of the building.

Decks Tokyo Beach

Hours: 11:00 to 21:00 (Joypolis 10:00 to 23:00)

Restaurants: 11:00 to 20:00 (some restaurants until 24:00)
Closed: No closing days
Admission: Free (Joypolis: 500 yen)
This shopping mall features many stores, cafe , boutiques and restaurants. Also you’ll find the Muscle Park sports theme park, Tokyo Joypolis, a three story arcade and Daiba Little Hong Kong food theme park.

Oedo Onsen Monogatari

Open: 11:00 to 9:00 (last entry 8:00, no entry from 2:00 to 5:00)
Closed: One evening per month for cleaning
Admission: 2900 yen (2000 yen from 18:00 to 2:00, 1900 yen from 5:00 to 8:00). A 1700 yen overnight fee applies if you stay after 2:00.
This is a hot spring theme park, that is designed to give the atmosphere of the Edo Period. There are a large number of indoor and outdoor baths to relax in. It is even possible for you to stay overnight.

Venus Fort

Hours: 11:00 to 21:00
Restaurants: 11:00 to 23:00
Closed: No closing days
Admission: Free
Built to look like a 18th century South European town. This mall has over a hundred different shops, cafes and restaurants to explore.

Tokyo Big Sight

Hours and admission fees depend on the specific events.
Home to many large exhibition events, including the Tokyo International Anime Fair and the Tokyo Motor Show. The building itself is impressive piece of architecture that is worth seeing even if you aren’t going to see an exhibit.

Sources: http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3008.html

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Yokohama Sightseeing Ideas

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Shin Yokohama Ramen Museum

yokohama

Japan is a country full of ramen enthusiasts, some people travel far and wide to discover the perfect bowl of Chinese noodles delicious soup. The Ramen Museum is on three floors, the first is the shop and museum, featuring displays unsurprisingly about ramen. This is all very interesting, but the really exciting part of the museum, is to be found on the two basement floors. Here you will find a full scale, representation of some Japanese streets during the post-war Showa era, which is fondly regarded as a golden era in modern day Japan.

Amongst this heart-warming recreation you will find a number of ramen shops from all over Japan, selling the specialty ramen of the shop they represent. It is possible to buy “mini” portions of ramen, if you feel like trying several kinds in one visit.

Besides the ramen restaurants, there is a bar called the 35 Knots, which is decorated to fit the time period. There are also a few other shops selling traditional snacks and other foods. On the ground floor you will find a souvenir store, where you can buy ramen bowls, utensils for cooking and a large variety of instant-ramen packages.

Along with restaurants there is an old style bar called the 35 Knots, where visitors can smoke and a few other places to buy traditional snacks and food. On the ground floor level there is a souvenir shop selling ramen bowls, cooking utilities and instant-ramen packages.

A really fun option to be found in the museum, allows visitors to create their own, Nissin Cup Noodles, you can design the packaging, the flavor and pick up to the four ingredients.

If you find yourself enjoying the Yokohama area enough that you might want to live there for a while, allow me to suggested taking a look at Yokohama guesthouse.

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