Probably one of the best things to do in Japan is shopping. You can end up being bankrupt just by dropping by a store to buy food or souvenir. Here’s a guide to the types of stores you may want to discover on your trip to Japan.
Department Stores
Large department stores can be found at almost every major city around Japan. They are usually found near train stations and sell a variety of goods from different brands. Groceries and food are placed at the basement floor while cosmetics can be found at the first floor. Garments may be found at the upper floors and the gourmet restaurants on the top-most floors.
Electronics Stores
A must-go for techie people, electronics stores are also widespread in Japan. Tokyo’s Akihabara and Shinjuku, and Osaka’s Den Den Town are the top spots for electronics shopping. From appliances to gadgets to accessories, you can immediately find them when you enter such store. You can also haggle the prices and negotiate for a much lesser value for your purchase.
Shopping Arcades
Prepare your feet when entering a shopping arcade as it length may reach up to hundreds of meters. It can be found at most towns in Japan. Shops in the arcade are privately owned by the locals. You can easily spot bargains, cafes, and souvenir shops along the arcade.
Public Markets
Public markets are the place to go when you want fresh meat or seafood. If you want to try out Japanese food by cooking on your own, Japanese markets are the best place to buy ingredients. Shops also usually supply nearby restaurants which you can probably try out.
Supermarkets
Compared to public markets, supermarkets are more convenient. Some supermarkets tend to give discounts and promos for frequent customers. This type of store targets to sell daily necessities for the family and true enough, most families spend their evening shopping for the food they will prepare.
Near Temples and Shrines
Temples and shrines are usually packed with pilgrims who are hungry along the way. They also tend to buy souvenirs and other lucky charms to keep. Restaurants and other shops are also common on the roads leading to temples and shrines.
Flea markets
Flea markets are also a hit in Japan, especially during the weekends in national parks. Here, you can buy used craft, clothing, porcelain, jewelry, weapons, and of course, food.
100 Yen Shops
For those looking for the best souvenir for a bargain price, 100 yen shops is the solution to your problem. You can buy almost anything at a 100 yen shop - cosmetics, containers, keychains, accessories, charms, and a whole lot more.
Convenience Stores
Coming from their name, is very convenient especially when you need something in the middle of the night. They are open 24/7 and ready to offer you any kind of service and product you want to avail.
So if you want to spend your last days in Japan shopping for yourself or your friends, try checking out some of these stores and you might find what you’re looking for!
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