Ginza Shopping Guide: 15 Best Shops in Ginza
Where to Shop and What to Buy at Ginza Shopping High-Street
Ginza (銀座) is the most expensive area in Tokyo. Apparently, one square meter of land in Ginza is worth over 30 million yen and even over 40 million for commercial properties! Ginza is best known as Tokyo’s most high-end shopping district. Although only a few of us can afford to shop at high-brand boutiques and have a cup of coffee for 10$, nowadays Ginza has more and more shops, restaurants, and cafes in various price ranges for everyone to enjoy.
Ginza’s main street called “Chuo Dori” is approx 1 km long and the street is closed to traffic for pedestrians to walk freely on weekends. The street is lined up with massive department stores, boutiques, and souvenir stores so it’s the best place to shop both Japanese and international brands.
Along with luxury stores like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Bvlgari, and more, there are also affordable shops like Uniqlo, H&M, Zara, GU, GAP, and electronic gadgets shops like Bic Camera (electronic department store), Sony showroom, and Apple Store.
Today, I’d like to introduce some of the best shops in the Ginza area, which you should definitely consider visiting.
For those of you looking for a comprehensive area guide, look no further: An All‑in‑One Guide for Ginza
Shopping in Ginza: A Timeless Retail Paradise
A Brief History of Ginza
Ginza has long been synonymous with luxury shopping, high-end brands, and cutting-edge fashion. This prestigious district, located in the heart of Tokyo, has a rich history dating back to the Edo period when it was home to silver coin minting, from which it derives its name. Over the years, Ginza has transformed into Japan’s premier shopping destination, attracting both locals and international visitors seeking the latest trends, top-tier craftsmanship, and exclusive items.
What Makes Ginza so Popular
What makes Ginza so special is its seamless blend of tradition and modernity. While global luxury brands like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Gucci dominate the grand boulevards, historical establishments such as century-old kimono shops and artisanal confectioneries preserve the area’s cultural essence. The district is also home to iconic department stores like Mitsukoshi and Matsuya, offering an unparalleled shopping experience under one roof.
Beyond fashion and retail, Ginza’s appeal extends to its vibrant café culture, Michelin-starred restaurants, and architectural marvels, making it a must-visit destination for travelers.
Popular Shopping Areas in Ginza
Chuo-dori Avenue
This is Ginza’s main street, renowned for its concentration of luxury brand flagship stores and prominent department stores. On weekends, Chuo-dori transforms into a pedestrian paradise, allowing visitors to stroll freely and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Namiki-dori and Miyuki-dori Streets
Parallel to Chuo-dori, these streets offer a more intimate shopping experience, featuring high-end boutiques, art galleries, and exclusive jewelry stores. The tree-lined ambiance provides a serene backdrop for leisurely shopping, attracting those seeking unique and sophisticated items.
Showa-dori Avenue
Located on the eastern side of Ginza, Showa-dori hosts a mix of electronic retailers and specialty shops. It’s less crowded than Chuo-dori, offering a more relaxed shopping environment.
Harumi-dori Avenue
Intersecting Ginza from east to west, Harumi-dori is home to a blend of traditional establishments and modern retailers. Shoppers can explore a variety of stores, from classic kimono shops to contemporary fashion outlets.
Best Shops and Department Stores in Ginza
1. Ginza SIX
Newly opened in 2017, Ginza SIX is the biggest shopping complex in the district today, offering over 240 of the most fashionable stores. For the convenience of international shoppers, there’s a Tourist Service Centre on the 1st floor with local sightseeing information in English, currency exchange services as well as a tax-free counter. You can check all the special services in this link.
5-min walk from Ginza Station or Higashi-Ginza Station | |
Everyday 10:30 AM–8:30 PM | |
https://ginza6.tokyo/ |
2. Ginza Mitsukoshi
Ginza Mitsukoshi (銀座三越) is a long-established department store which opened in 1930. It’s located at the junction of Ginza 4-chome. The 12-story building offers a modern yet traditional and trustworthy Japanese-style hospitality and services.
2-min walk from Ginza Station or Higashio-Ginza Station | |
Everyday 10 AM–8 PM (some shops may have different hours) | |
https://www.mistore.jp/store/ginza.html |
3. Matsuya Ginza
Matsuya Ginza (銀座松屋) is a large department store offering world-famous brands, jewelry stores and more. There is an exhibition hall on its 8th floor.
3-min walk from Ginza Station and Higashi-Ginza Station | |
11 AM–8 PM, Sundays 11 AM–7:30 PM | |
http://www.matsuya.com/m_ginza/ |
4. Ginza Wako
Built in 1932, Ginza Wako (銀座和光) is a traditional Japanese-style department store, and best known for its clock tower, which is a symbol of the Ginza district. The store is located right in front of Ginza Station.
1-min walk from Ginza Station | |
11 AM–7 PM | |
https://www.wako.co.jp/ |
5. Ginza Place
Opened in 2016, Ginza Place (銀座プレイス) is a modern architectural complex building that features showrooms (Nissan and Sony), event spaces, and some restaurants.
2-min walk from Ginza Station | |
11 AM–8 PM | |
https://ginzaplace.jp/ |
6. Tokyu Plaza Ginza
Opened in 2016, Tokyu Plaza Ginza (東急プラザ銀座) is one of the most modern and coolest shopping complexes in the city, offering trendy shops, cafes, and restaurants and tax-free shopping for foreign travelers.
3-min walk from Ginza Station | |
11 AM–9 PM | |
https://ginza.tokyu-plaza.com/ |
7. Barneys New York Ginza
Barneys New York Ginza (バーニーズニューヨーク銀座) is one of the most sophisticated high-end shopping complexes in the area, offering luxury designer brand stores.
6-min walk from Ginza Station | |
11 AM–8 PM | |
https://www.barneys.co.jp/stores/ginza/ |
8. Marronier Gate Ginza
Marronier Gate Ginza (マロニエゲート銀座) is a shopping complex consisting of three buildings, offering a large number of stores and dining spots.
5-min walk from Ginza Station | |
11 AM–9 PM | |
https://www.marronniergate.com/ |
9. UNIQLO Ginza
UNIQLO Ginza Flagship Store (ユニクロ 銀座店) is the largest branch in the world belonging to the most popular clothing store in Japan. Do not pass up the opportunity to check out this 12-story impressive building located right in Ginza’s Main Street!
More info: 5 Must-Buy Items at UNIQLO GINZA!!
4-min walk from Ginza Station | |
11 AM–9 PM | |
https://map.uniqlo.com/jp/ja/detail/10101397 |
10. GU Ginza
GU Ginza Store (ジーユー 銀座店) is the local branch of this Japanese fast fashion retailer, offering casual and trendy fashion items at very affordable prices.
2-min walk from Ginza Station | |
11 AM–9 PM | |
https://map.gu-global.com/jp/ja/detail/104726 |
11. Hakuhinkan
Hakuhinkan Toy Park (博品館 TOY PARK) is the best toy store in Tokyo which can satisfy both kids and adults. The 9-story building offers a huge variety of toys, games, stationery, souvenirs and more.
9-min walk from Ginza Station or 5-min walk from Shimbashi Station | |
11 AM–8 PM | |
博品館 TOY PARK |
12. Ginza Itoya
Ginza Itoya (銀座・伊東屋) is a large stationery shop building with 18 floors in total. This prominent store was established over 100 years ago and offers an excellent selection of high-quality stationery products.
More info: Ginza Itoya: the Best Stationery Store in Tokyo
1-min walk from Ginza-itchome Station | |
10 AM–8 PM | |
http://www.ito-ya.co.jp/ginza/ |
13. Don Quijote
The most popular chain to shop for souvenirs among foreign travelers. Don Quijote (DONKI)‘s Ginza store offers a huge variety of goods as well as duty-free shopping. It stays open until 4AM so it’s a good option for some last-minute shopping.
More info: 10 Must-Buy Items at Don Quijote in Japan!
4-min walk from Shimbashi Station | |
7 AM–4 AM | |
http://www.donki.com/en/store/shop_detail.php?shop_id=92 |
14. Onitsuka Tiger Ginza
Onitsuka Tiger (オニツカタイガー ) is a popular shoe retailer and its Ginza Branch is no exception. This 3-story shop offers footwear, apparel, accessories, and some limited edition items.
6-min walk from Ginza Station | |
11 AM–8 PM | |
https://www.onitsukatiger.com/jp/ja-jp |
15. Atmos Ginza
Atmos Ginza (アトモス 銀座店) is the place to be for those who are looking for Tokyo’s most trendy sneakers. In this shop, you are guaranteed to find a wide selection of cool and edgy footwear.
3-min walk from Ginza Station | |
11 AM–8 PM | |
https://www.atmos-tokyo.com/shop/store/shoplist/17 |
Shopping Tips for Ginza
Bring Your Passport
Many stores offer tax-free shopping for eligible international visitors. Don’t forget your passport to take full advantage of these benefits.
Plan Your Visit for Off-Peak Hours
Weekdays or early afternoons tend to be less crowded than weekends, especially when Chuo Dori becomes a pedestrian zone on Saturdays and Sundays.
Use Multilingual Assistance
Most high-end boutiques and department stores in Ginza have staff who speak English (and other languages), so feel free to ask for help or product details.
Compare Prices and Quality
While Ginza is known for luxury, it’s wise to compare similar items across different stores. Flagship boutiques often offer exclusive collections that differ from those in department stores.
Reserve Appointments
For exclusive or limited-edition items, some upscale stores require reservations. Check ahead via their websites or ask your hotel concierge to help secure an appointment.
Embrace the Experience
Enjoy the architectural beauty and art installations in and around Ginza as you shop. The district is as much about the ambiance and cultural experience as it is about the products.
Cash and Card Options
While many shops accept credit cards, carrying some cash (yen) is useful for smaller boutiques or traditional stores that may be cash-only.
Explore Beyond the Main Street
Venture into side streets and back alleys to discover traditional craft shops and unique finds that offer a more intimate look at Japanese craftsmanship.
How to Get to Shinjuku
Ginza is conveniently located in central Tokyo and is easily accessible via multiple transportation options. Below is a guide on how to get to Ginza from major airports and nearby popular districts like Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Tokyo Station.
From Narita Airport (NRT) to Ginza
Route | Train Line | Travel Time | Approx. Cost |
---|---|---|---|
Fastest Option | Narita Express (to Tokyo Station) → Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line to Ginza Station | ~75–90 min | ¥3,300 |
Budget Option | Keisei Skyliner (to Ueno) → Tokyo Metro Ginza Line to Ginza Station | ~70–80 min | ¥2,700 |
Bus Option | Airport Limousine Bus (to Ginza/Tokyo Station area) | ~90–120 min (traffic dependent) | ¥3,200 |
Tip: If you have large luggage or prefer less transfer, the Airport Limousine Bus is convenient and drops you near major hotels in Ginza.
From Haneda Airport (HND) to Ginza
Route | Train Line | Travel Time | Approx. Cost |
---|---|---|---|
Fastest Option | Keikyu Line (to Shinagawa) → JR Yamanote Line to Shimbashi → Tokyo Metro Ginza Line to Ginza Station | ~30–40 min | ¥600–¥700 |
Direct Option | Airport Limousine Bus to Ginza | ~40–60 min | ¥1,000–¥1,200 |
Tip: Keikyu Line offers through service during certain hours that connects directly to Toei Asakusa Line, which also stops at Higashi-Ginza Station.
From Tokyo Station to Ginza
Route | Train Line | Travel Time | Approx. Cost |
---|---|---|---|
Subway | Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line → Ginza Station | ~2–3 min | ¥180 |
Walk | — | ~15 min | Free |
Tip: Ginza is within walking distance from Tokyo Station. Follow signs for Yaesu Exit and walk south.
From Shinjuku to Ginza
Route | Train Line | Travel Time | Approx. Cost |
---|---|---|---|
Direct Subway | Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line (Shinjuku → Ginza) | ~16 min | ¥200 |
JR Option | JR Yamanote Line (to Tokyo) → Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line to Ginza | ~25 min | ¥310 total |
From Shibuya to Ginza
Route | Train Line | Travel Time | Approx. Cost |
---|---|---|---|
Direct Subway | Tokyo Metro Ginza Line (Shibuya → Ginza) | ~16 min | ¥200 |
Tip: The Ginza Line is the most direct route from Shibuya and offers a smooth ride through key districts like Omotesando and Aoyama.
Things to Do in Ginza After Shopping
Ginza is a paradise for retail therapy but let’s not forget there are many more things you can do around the area:
Explore Museums and Galleries in Ginza
Ginza is also a very interesting cultural hotspot in Tokyo, with exhibitions of both traditional and contemporary art. Check our guide for more details:
Wind Down Over a Cup of Coffee
Ginza has a great selection of coffee shops where you can take a small coffee-break from shopping. Check out our recommendations:
Enjoy an Act of Kabuki
For a meaningful piece of traditional culture, what about stopping for a moment at Ginza’s Kabukiza? If you don’t have time to watch an entire play, you can also get tickets for a single act. More details on our dedicated article:
Summary – Key Points for Shopping in Ginza
-
Blend of Luxury and Accessibility: Ginza seamlessly combines high-end luxury boutiques with more affordable retail options, catering to a diverse range of shoppers.
-
Pedestrian-Friendly Environment: On weekends, the main street, Chuo Dori, is closed to vehicular traffic, transforming into a pedestrian paradise that enhances the shopping experience.
-
Diverse Retail Offerings: The district hosts a mix of international luxury brands, Japanese fashion retailers, electronic stores, and specialty shops, providing a comprehensive shopping experience.
-
Cultural and Historical Significance: Ginza’s rich history is reflected in its architecture and long-standing establishments, offering shoppers a glimpse into Tokyo’s cultural heritage alongside modern retail options.
More shopping information in Tokyo
Check more shopping information in Tokyo
▶︎Best Shopping Areas in Tokyo
▶ 10 Best Shopping Streets in Tokyo
Best Shops in Tokyo by Area
▶︎Shibuya Shopping Guide
▶︎Shinjuku Shopping Guide
▶︎Harajuku Shopping Guide
▶︎Akihabara Shopping Guide
How did you enjoy my list of best shops and department stores in Ginza, Tokyo?? Next to Ginza, there is also a bustling shopping district called Yurakucho where you will find many more shops! Ginza Station and Yurakucho Station are within walking distance and it only takes about 3 minutes on foot.
For more information, please check my Yurakucho Area Guide below!
For more info about Ginza area, please check out these articles,too!
Written by
"The world is my oyster." As a dedicated globetrotter and hammock enthusiast, I’ve spent years chasing new experiences, collecting stories, and discovering the world’s most incredible destinations. Born and raised in Japan, I’ve always had a deep connection to my roots, but my love for adventure has led me to spend over a decade exploring countries across the globe—from culture-rich cities to remote hideaways.
Travel isn't just a hobby for me; it's a lifestyle. I'm constantly searching for new ways to fuel my wanderlust. Over the years, I’ve developed a wealth of knowledge and a treasure trove of tips that make traveling more enjoyable, practical, and meaningful.
Through my experiences, I've come to appreciate not only the beauty of travel but also the importance of understanding diverse cultures, embracing the unfamiliar, and stepping out of my comfort zone. My travels have shaped who I am today, and I’m excited to share those lessons with others.
With Japan Web Magazine, I aim to offer practical advice, insider tips, and firsthand stories that help travelers navigate their journeys to Japan or setting off on a global adventure. From hidden gems in Japan to travel hacks that make any trip smoother, I hope my insights inspire you to embark on your own adventures and make the most of every moment. Let’s explore the world together!
My other interests besides travelling include music, movies, food, hiking, fishing, camping.
You can also find my stories here ▶ https://medium.com/@nahobm