If you are in the process of planning a trip to Japan, you’re likely dreaming of the food, the temples, the cherry blossoms, the bullet trains or anything except for the Olympics. But there’s another thing about Japan that is unforgettable: the shopping! Whether you like eccentric souvenirs, classic crafts, high-tech goods or just tasty snacks, Japan has something to offer to you in the shopping department. In this post, we’ll walk you through Japanese top 10 things to buy in Japan with tips for what to buy in each category, as well as where to shop and deal-hunting advice.
1. Japanese Snacks and Candy
There are lots of unique and sometimes weird snacks in Japan. With wasabi-flavored KitKats, crunchy rice crackers and chewy mochi, there’s something here for everyone.
What to look for:
- KitKat in local flavors like matcha, sake, sweet potato, or strawberry cheesecake
- Pocky in limited-edition flavors
- Senbei (rice crackers)
- Japanese instant noodles (some are so fancy they look like a gourmet meal!)
- Mochi and traditional sweets (wagashi)
These make great gifts and are fun to share with friends when you get back home.
2. Beauty Products and Skincare
We all know how good Japanese beauty products are and how innovative they can be. Even if you’re not much of a beauty product person, it’s worth exploring.
Popular items:
- Sheet masks
- Cleansing oils
- Sunscreens (Japanese formulas are light and effective)
- Eyelash curlers
- Lip balms and hand creams with cute packaging
These can be picked up at drugstores such as Matsumoto Kiyoshi or Don Quijote.
3. Electronics and Gadgets
While Japan isn’t always the cheapest place for electronics, it offers many gadgets you might not find elsewhere.
Cool things to buy:
- Noise-cancelling earphones
- Japanese kitchen gadgets (like rice cookers and bento makers)
- Portable fans
- Pocket translators
- Retro gaming consoles
The bustling streets of Akihabara in Tokyo are where to find every variety of electronical device.
4. Traditional Crafts and Souvenirs
Take a memento of Japan’s deep cultural roots when you return home with traditional crafts..
Souvenirs with meaning:
- Maneki Neko (lucky cat)
- Daruma dolls
- Origami paper
- Kokeshi dolls
- Japanese tea sets or sake cups
- Sensu (folding fans)
These are usually handmade and make heartfelt gifts.
5. Japanese Stationery
If you enjoy pens, notebooks or cute stickers, you’re going to love Japan’s stationery shops.
Must-haves:
- Gel pens with smooth ink
- Washi tape (colorful masking tape)
- Notebooks with cute or minimalist designs
- Stickers and memo pads
- Calligraphy supplies
Stores like Loft, Tokyu Hands, and Itoya are like heaven for stationery lovers.
6. Fashion and Accessories
Japanese fashion is stylish, inventive and sometimes wild. It is a place where you can find everything from high-end streetwear to adorable “kawaii” (cute) clothes.
Things to look for:
- Unique t-shirts and hoodies with cool prints
- Traditional wear like yukata or jinbei
- Socks with fun designs (yes, socks!)
- Bags and wallets with anime or pop culture designs
- Handmade jewelry or hair accessories
You must check out the cool fashion in Harajuku.
When is the Best Time to Visit Japan – A Month-by-Month Guide >>
7. Anime and Manga Merchandise
Japan is a wonderland if you’re a fan of anime or manga. You will find everything from figures and posters to limited-edition items.
Fan favorites:
- Action figures and statues
- Manga books in Japanese (even if you can’t read them, they look cool)
- Anime DVDs and Blu-rays
- Character goods like keychains, T-shirts, or pillows
- Gacha capsule toys (cheap, fun, and addictive!)
Tokyo’s Akihabara and Nakano Broadway are some of the best destinations for shopping for anime goods.
8. Local Food and Drinks
Besides snacks, there are many food items that are worth bringing home.
Tasty souvenirs:
- Japanese green tea or matcha powder
- Instant miso soup packs
- Furikake (rice seasoning)
- Japanese curry roux
- Local sake or umeshu (plum wine)
Just make sure you check customs rules in your country before packing food and alcohol.
9. Lucky Charms and Omamori
Omamori are traditional Japanese charms sold at shrines and temples. Each one is believed to bring good luck or protection.
Different types include:
- Health
- Safe travel
- Love
- Success in studies or business
They’re affordable, lightweight, and carry spiritual meaning. A beautiful keepsake from your trip.
10. Unique Umbrellas
Japanese umbrellas are often beautiful and practical. Many are see-through, compact, or have UV protection.
Options include:
- Transparent umbrellas (popular and cheap)
- Folding umbrellas with cute prints
- UV-cut parasols for summer
You can even find umbrellas with designs that appear when wet!
Bonus Tips for Things to Buy in Japan
- Bring cash: Many small shops only take cash.
- Use a coin purse: You’ll get a lot of coins in change.
- Tax-free shopping: Tourists can get tax-free deals in many stores, especially for purchases over 5,000 yen. Bring your passport.
- Be polite: Say “Arigatou gozaimasu” (thank you) and bow a little. Politeness goes a long way!
Final Thoughts of Things to Buy in Japan
Things to Buy in Japan: Japanese shopping is an adventure in and of itself. You’ll encounter all sorts of surprises, and the quality and packaging of stuff can be top-notch. Whether you’re after something practical, something adorably cute or something full of meaning, Japan has a little bit of magic in every shop. Make sure there is extra space in your suitcase you are going to need it!
Let me know what you’re most excited to buy in Japan. And if you’ve already been, share your favorite finds in the comments!
