What to Buy in Japan

What are the most popular and trendy things to shop in Japan? If you are planning a trip to Japan and need a bit of help to decide what to buy in Japan while visiting, here is a complete list of must-buy Japanese souvenirs including traditional Japanese handicrafts, delicious Matcha snacks, beauty products, and inexpensive clothes. Let’s check out the best things to buy in Japan to bring home 🙂

*Please note that this article contains affiliate links.

1. Japanese Cosmetics Products

Japanese beauty products are renowned across the globe for their exceptional quality, innovative formulas, and surprisingly affordable prices. If you’re building a new skincare routine or looking for fun makeup souvenirs, Japanese beauty products are a prefect choice as they offer both reliability and excitement in equal measure.

Where to Shop:

• Drugstores (Matsumoto Kiyoshi, Sundrug, Welcia, etc) — Great for discounted prices and wide variety.
• @cosme STORE — Curated selections of top-rated items, especially award winners.
• Don Quijote — Perfect for budget-friendly shopping and quirky beauty finds.
• Department stores (Takashimaya, Isetan, etc) — For luxury cosmetics and exclusive collections.

Don’t Miss: 

• Japanese sunscreens — Lightweight, cult-favourites like Biore, Anessa and Skin Aqua
• Inexpensive makeup brands — budget-friendly makeup products like CANMAKE face powder, CEZANNE primer and KATE eyeshadow
• Skin care must-haves: Hada Labo Gokujyun Lotion, DHC Cleansing Oil and sheet masks
• Luxury bestsellers in Japan’s beauty world — Shiseido, SK-II and DECORTE

Tips: If you’re overwhelmed by the sheer number of options, check out the Best Cosmetics Awards by @cosme, Japan’s most trusted beauty portal. This annual award highlights the top-rated beauty products of the year, based on thousands of real user reviews. It’s a great way to find everything from trending new launches to timeless best-sellers.

Related articles
▶ Best Beauty Products in Japan: Japanese Cosmetics Ranking
▶ Best of Beauty: Award Winning Japanese Cosmetics

>>Shop Japanese Cosmetics Products Online with FREE Global Shipping!<<

2. Cutting-Edge Electronics and Gadgets

Japan is a global leader in innovation and technology, making it one of the best places on earth to shop for electronics. From precision-engineered gadgets to smart home appliances, Japanese electronics are known for their high quality, durability, and often lower prices compared to other countries.

Where to Shop: 

• Electronics Stores — chains like Yodobashi Camera, Bic Camera and Yamada Denki have their outlets in major cities and offer a wide range of products with great deals.
• Akihabara (Tokyo) — Known as the ultimate destination for electronics shopping as it’s home to stores ranging from tiny specialist shops to mega-malls.
• Don Quijote — Good for budget-friendly gadgets, travel accessories, and quirky electronics.

Budget:

• Digital cameras: ¥30,000–¥200,000+
• Rice cookers: ¥10,000–¥50,000
• Electronic toilet seats: ¥20,000–¥70,000
• Headphones: ¥5,000–¥30,000+
• Small gadgets & accessories: ¥1,000–¥5,000

Tips: Use your passport for tax-free shopping, and double-check voltage compatibility if you plan to use electronics outside Japan (especially for appliances)

3. Trendy and Affordable Fashion Finds

Japan is a fashion lover’s paradise, especially if you’re into style that blends trendiness, individuality, and high-quality design, moreover, many items are often sold at very budget-friendly prices. Tokyo in particular is home to some of the world’s most fashion-forward districts, such as Ginza, Shibuya and Harajuku, where you can find literally anything including luxury couture, quirky streetwear, affordable basics and chic vintage pieces.

Don’t Miss:

• UNIQLO’s flagship store in Ginza — Multiple floors of stylish basics, techwear, and limited-edition collabs.
• GU’s seasonal collections — Trendy and ultra-affordable, especially for women’s and casual wear.
• WEGO in Harajuku — Youthful streetwear that’s fun, colorful, and playful.

Budget: 

• Fast fashion (UNIQLO, GU, WEGO): ¥500–¥5,000 per item
• Mid-range designer or streetwear (BEAMS, United Arrows): ¥5,000–¥20,000
• Luxury fashion (Ginza boutiques): ¥30,000–¥100,000+
• Vintage and secondhand stores: ¥1,000–¥10,000

Related articles
▶ 5 Popular Japanese Clothing Brands
▶ Most Popular Clothing Stores in Tokyo
▶ Japanese Street Fashion: Popular Brands in Japan

4. Japanese Snacks, Sweets and Flavours

Japanese food is a highlight for most travelers, and luckily, you can bring a taste of Japan home with you. From mouthwatering snacks and unique sweets to savory dried foods, Japan offers a delightful variety of affordable, gift-worthy treats that are perfect for yourself or to share with friends and family.

Budget:

• Snacks & sweets: ¥100–¥500 each (for single or small packs)
• Gift boxes or regional sets: ¥600–¥2,000
• Premium items (green tea, wagashi, etc): ¥1,000–¥5,000+
• Dried foods (instant ramen, seaweed, miso soup packs, etc): ¥300–¥1,500

Where to Shop:

• Convenience stores (7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart) — Quick and easy access to snacks, sweets and dried food, often with exclusive items.
• Supermarkets (Aeon, Ito-Yokado) — Wider selection, especially for dried foods and local favorites.
• Don Quijote — A treasure trove of snacks, often in large or discounted packs.
• Department stores — Premium sweets, wagashi, tea, and regional delicacies.
• Airports — Great for last-minute souvenir boxes of regional snacks.

Don’t Miss:

• KitKat — Try matcha, sake, strawberry cheesecake, hojicha, purple sweet potato, and regional exclusives!
• Pocky — Look for almond crush, milk cocoa, sakura, and regional luxury lines.
• Jagariko — Addictive crunchy potato snacks in cup form with various unique flavors
• Senbei (rice crackers) — A classic Japanese snack, both sweet and savory.
• Cup ramen and instant noodles — Bring your favourite Japanese noodles back home

5. Anime, Manga and Game Merchandise

Japan is a dream place for anime, manga, and video game fans. These pop culture icons are deeply woven into modern Japanese life, and the country offers an overwhelming variety of official and rare merchandise that can be hard to find abroad. From adorable plushies and keychains to high-end figurines, artbooks, and limited-edition games, Japan is the ultimate destination for collectors and casual fans alike.

Where to Shop:

• Akihabara (Tokyo) — The legendary “geek paradise” with stores like Animate, Mandarake, Super Potato, and Kotobukiya.
• Shibuya PARCO (Tokyo) — Home to Nintendo Tokyo, Pokemon Center Shibuya, Capcom Store, and Jump Shop.
• Nakano Broadway (Tokyo) — A treasure trove for rare and vintage collectibles.
• Osaka Nipponbashi (Den Den Town) — The Kansai version of Akihabara.
• Animate — A nationwide chain focused on anime and manga goods, found in most major cities.
• Mandarake —A secondhand store selling rare, vintage, and collectible anime/manga goods.
• Donguri — Studio Ghibli’s official merchandise chain located across Japan

 Don’t Miss:

• Gacha capsule machines — Cheap, fun, and highly addictive. Great for small surprises or souvenirs.
• Exclusive Pokemon Center items — Japan-only plushies, collabs, and seasonal merch.
• Nintendo Store— Official gear and games, some items are only available at this store.

6. Starbucks Japan Exclusive Merchandise

Starbucks in Japan is not only about coffee but it’s also a must-visit stop for stylish and limited-edition merchandise. From beautifully designed city tumblers and mugs to adorable seasonal collections, Starbucks Japan offers exclusive products you can’t find anywhere else in the world. Starbucks Japan’s photogenic drinkware collections are highly collectible and often sell out quickly.

 Budget:

• Regular tumblers and mugs: ¥1,800–¥4,000
• Limited-edition items (Sakura, Christmas, city-exclusive): ¥2,000–¥5,000+
• Accessories (eco bags, coasters, etc.): ¥1,000–¥3,000

Don’t Miss:

• Sakura Collection (Spring) — Think pink blossoms, delicate florals, and elegant gold accents.
• Christmas & New Year Collection (Winter) — Red, cozy designs with festive vibes.
• Geography Series — Tumblers and mugs featuring artful illustrations of Japanese cities and landmarks such as Tokyo, Kyoto, Hokkaido and Okinawa.
• Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo (in Nakameguro) — Offers premium items and exclusive merchandise.

Tips: Check the release calendar for seasonal drops, and especially for the Sakura collection (usually Feb–March), plan to go to a Starbucks store early in the morning as the most popular designs often sell out by midday!

Related articles ▶ Best Starbucks Japan Tumblers

7. Matcha and Japanese Tea Products

Japan is one of the world’s greatest tea cultures and the true home to matcha and green tea, both in tradition and production. In Japan, you can find not only high-quality matcha powder, but also a wide variety of green tea as well as matcha-flavoured products such as snacks, sweets, desserts, and even skincare products.

Budget:

• Matcha powder: ¥500–¥5,000+
• Everyday green tea: ¥500–¥2,000
• Premium, Uji-grown matcha or artisan teas: ¥5,000–¥10,000+
• Matcha snacks (KitKat, cookies, etc.): ¥300–¥1,000
• Tea accessories (whisks, cups, tins): ¥500–¥5,000+

Where to Shop: 

• Supermarkets & Drugstores — For affordable green tea and matcha snacks.
• Don Quijote (DONKI) — Usually features a variety of matcha snacks and mid-grade tea products.
• Tea shops in Kyoto — Visit Tsujiri or Nakamura Tokichi for matcha powder and desserts, using premium grade tea from Kyoto’s famous Uji region.
• Souvenir shops & airports — Good for beautifully packaged matcha gift boxes.
• Department Store Food Halls — Takashimaya, Mitsukoshi, Daimaru have curated tea sections.

Don’t Miss:

• Matcha (抹茶) — Powdered green tea used in tea ceremonies and modern desserts. Look for Uji matcha (Kyoto) or Nishio matcha (Aichi) for top-tier quality.
• Sencha (煎茶) — Japan’s most common green tea. Light, refreshing, and packed with umami.
•  Genmaicha (玄米茶) — A mix of green tea and roasted brown rice — nutty, toasty, and comforting.
• Hojicha (ほうじ茶) — Roasted green tea with a reddish color and low caffeine, great for evenings.
• Bottled Cold Brew Teas —  Try Itoen or Oi Ocha brands widely available in vending machines and convenience stores.
• Matcha Snacks — Matcha KitKat, Pocky, cookies, and chocolates are sold in countless seasonal and regional varieties.

8. Traditional Crafts and Cultural Souvenirs

Japan is blessed with traditional craftsmanship and cultural beauty, offering countless opportunities to bring home souvenirs that reflect its rich history. These authentic items can be found not only in souvenir shops, but also in rural villages and historic towns where artisans have preserved their skills for generations. When you visit Japan, be sure to bring some of its traditions back home with you.

Budget:

• Small gifts (chopsticks, folding fans, charms, furoshiki, etc): ¥500–¥2,000
• Handcrafted pottery/glassware: ¥2,000–¥10,000+
• Textiles, yukata or kimono accessories: ¥1,500–¥30,000+

Don’t Miss:

• Omamori — Personal amulets for protection, love, health, studies, or safe travel.
• Daruma Dolls — Round, red dolls symbolizing perseverance and good luck.
• Furoshiki — Multi-use cloth for gift wrapping, bags, or home décor.
• Japanese ceramics — Especially from Arita, Kutani, or Mashiko regions.
• Lacquerware — Polished to perfection, found in Wajima or Yamanaka areas.

Related article ▶ 5 Most Praiseworthy Japanese Traditional Crafts

9. 100 Yen Products

Who doesn’t love the thrill of shopping where almost everything costs just 100 yen? Japan’s 100 yen shops are a national treasure, loved by locals and travelers alike. These stores are packed with everything from kitchen tools and beauty items to stationery, snacks, and even home decor, all at incredibly low prices and the quality is often surprisingly good. For slightly more stylish and practical items, also check 3COINS (300 yen shop).

Where to Shop:

• 100 yen shops — Chain stores like DAISO, Seria and Can★Do are often found around big train stations and inside shopping malls.
• 3 COINS — A nationwide variety store offering a wide rage of cute and stylish products that mostly cost 300 yen.

Don’t Miss:

• Travel items — Mini toiletry containers, neck pillows, luggage tags.
• Home items — Kitchenware, cleaning items, storage supplies
• Stationery —Masking tapes, pens, stickers, and planners.
• Beauty tools — Face masks, cleansing puffs, hair accessories.
• Cute souvenirs — Origami sets, traditional-print pouches, mini fans, character collab items

Tips: Almost everything is 100 yen (110 yen with 10% consumption tax), but some premium items cost 200–500 yen so check price tags.

Related articles
▶ 10 Best Things to Buy at DAISO
▶ 10 Best Beauty Products at DAISO

10. Sake and Japanese Alcoholic Beverage

Sake, or nihonshu, is a traditional Japanese alcoholic beverage made from rice, water, yeast, and koji mold. Sake varies widely in flavor depending on the water source, rice type, polishing ratio, and brewing style. Beyond sake, Japan also offers an impressive selection of unique liquors and seasonal or regional exclusives, such as shochu, umeshu, whisky and craft beer, which are great to try while staying in Japan or to take a few bottles home.

Budget: 

• Standard sake: ¥500–¥1,500
• Premium sake (Junmai Daiginjo, aged, or seasonal): ¥2,000–¥8,000+
• Umeshu (plum wine): ¥800–¥3,000
• Shochu (distilled liquor): ¥800–¥4,000
• Japanese whisky: ¥1,500–¥20,000+
• Craft beer: ¥300–¥800 per bottle

Where to Shop: 

• Breweries — Visit one for a tour and tasting, then buy straight from the source.
• Specialty liquor shops— Offer wide selections, often including premium options.
• Convenience stores and supermarket— Great for trying small bottles or canned sake and cocktails.
• Duty-free shops at airports — Handy for last-minute gifts (often with beautiful packaging).

Don’t Miss:

• Junmai Daiginjo — The high grade of sake with delicate aroma and smooth taste.
• Sparkling sake — Light, fizzy, similar to champagne
• Nigori sake — Unfiltered and creamy with a sweeter profile.
• Umeshu (plum wine) — A delicious and sweet fruit-based drink.
• Yuzu liqueur — A refreshing citrus-based alcohol
• Limited edition Japanese whiskies — Especially at distilleries or duty-free counters.
• Canned highballs & chu-hi — Unique canned cocktails with flavors like lemon, ume, or peach.

Related articles
▶ Best Sake to Buy in Japan
▶ Best Japanese Shochu

11. Kitchenware

Japan’s kitchenware is globally respected for its outstanding craftsmanship, timeless design, and everyday practicality. From the razor-sharp precision of Japanese knives to the quiet beauty of ceramic teapots and handmade chopsticks, these items reflect Japan’s deep-rooted culinary culture and aesthetic values.

Budget:

• Japanese knives: ¥3,000–¥30,000+ (depending on type, brand, and craftsmanship)
• Bento boxes: ¥500–¥3,000
• Chopsticks (reusable): ¥300–¥1,500
• Ceramic bowls/plates: ¥500–¥5,000
• Tetsubin (iron teapots): ¥3,000–¥20,000
• Donabe (clay pots): ¥2,000–¥10,000
• Rice cookers: ¥5,000–¥50,000+
• Japanese style mugs: ¥1,000–¥3,000

Where to Shop:

• Kappabashi Street (Tokyo) — The ultimate “kitchen town,” packed with specialty stores for knives, ceramics, and more.
• Sennichimae Doguyasuji (Osaka) — Similar to Kappabashi, great for both professionals and casual shoppers.
• Tokyu Hands, LOFT, MUJI — Nationwide lifestyle stores with stylish kitchen tools and ceramics.
• Nitori — Japan’s IKEA equivalent, good for affordable home goods.
• Knife specialty shops — Try Tsukiji Masamoto or Aritsugu for professional-grade cutlery.

Tips: Japanese knives are available with various types for different culinary purposes such as Santoku: a versatile knife for chopping, slicing, and dicing, Gyuto: a chef’s knife for meat, vegetables, and fish, Deba: a thick-bladed knife for filleting fish and Yanagiba: a long, slender knife used for slicing raw fish for sushi.

Related articles
▶ Japanese Knife Guide
▶ Best Places to Buy Kitchen Tools and Dishes in Japan

12. Stationery

Japan is world-renowned for its exceptional stationery, combining the highest quality, innovative design and a touch of fun. You can find a wide range of stationery at various price range, including pens, pencils, paper, cards, notebooks, stickers and more, perfect for home, school, work or as gifts.

Budget

• Pens and pencils: ¥100–¥500
• Notebooks and journals: ¥200–¥1,500
• Stickers and washi tapes: ¥100–¥800
• Luxury stationery items: ¥2,000–¥10,000+
• Food-shaped erasers: ¥100–¥500

Where to Shop:

• Ginza Itoya (Tokyo) — The legendary flagship store with 8 beautifully curated floors of stationery and lifestyle goods.
• LOFT — Trendy and colorful items perfect for journaling and gifting.
• Hands — Formerly known as Tokyu Hands, offering creative, practical, and high-end stationery.
• MUJI— Stylish, minimalistic stationery
• DAISO, Seria, 3COINS — Great for super affordable yet surprisingly good-quality options.

Related article ▶ Best Stationery Stores in Japan

13. Sneakers

Japan is home to some of the trendiest sneaker scenes in the world, where global brands drop Japan-exclusive models, and prices are often cheaper than in other countries. If you’re hunting for rare editions or simply want a new pair of comfortable shoes, Japan is a paradise for sneaker shopping.

Don’t Miss:

• Onitsuka Tiger — Stylish retro sneakers born in Japan — iconic and often cheaper at the source.
• Japan-exclusive colorways — Nike and Adidas often release Japan-only styles.
• Collaboration kicks — Look out for Atmos, BAPE, Fragment Design, and other Japanese collabs.
• Converse Made in Japan — Higher quality, exclusive to the Japanese market.
• Seasonal sales — Especially during summer and New Year sales (June–July, December–January).

Where to Shop:

• ABC-Mart — The largest chain with branches all over Japan; often has good discounts and exclusives.
• Atmos— One of Japan’s most iconic sneaker boutiques, known for collabs and rare drops.
• Harajuku (Tokyo) — Home to multiple sneaker shops including Nike flagship store, Adidas flagship store, Atmos Pink flagship store and Kicks Lab.

Related article ▶ 10 Best Sneaker Stores in Tokyo

14. Regional Specialties

Beyond what you’ll find in national chains and department stores, Japan offers an incredible array of regional specialties, that are only available in specific cities or prefectures. These local delicacies and cultural items are popular not just with tourists, but also among Japanese domestic travelers, who often bring them home as omiyage for family, friends, or colleagues.

Where to Shop:

• Regional souvenir shops — Found in tourist areas, shopping streets, and local attractions.
• Train stations (especially JR stations) — Often have specialty stores inside or nearby.
• Airports — Great for last-minute shopping before flying.
• Highway rest areas (Service Areas) — If you’re driving, these often have excellent regional selections.
• Don Quijote or department stores in the region — Sometimes carry limited local editions.

Don’t Miss: Here are just a few of Japan’s most beloved regional specialties

• Tokyo Banana (Tokyo) — A banana-shaped sponge cake filled with banana custard.
• Yatsuhashi (Kyoto) — Sweet mochi with cinnamon or red bean filling; available baked or raw.
• Shiroi Koibito (Hokkaido) — Butter cookies with white chocolate; beautifully packaged.
• Shisa statues (Okinawa) — Traditional lion-dog guardians, often sold as pairs.
• Momiji Manju (Hiroshima) — Maple-leaf shaped cakes filled with red bean paste.
• Kumamon goods (Kumamoto) — Featuring the beloved regional bear mascot.
• Gotochi Kitty (All 47 Prefectures) — Hello Kitty dressed in local costumes or surrounded by regional foods/icons.
• Mt Fuji-themed items — Available in Shizuoka, Yamanashi, and surrounding areas.

Related article ▶ Best Regional Souvenirs in Japan

15. Unique Souvenirs and Mentionables

Before closing, here is a dedicated section for souvenirs that are often overlooked or very much worth mentioning. This is perfect for adding to your “What to Buy in Japan” guide, especially for travelers who want to bring home something niche but exceptionally well-made.

• Maneki Neko (Beckoning Cat)—A symbol of good luck and fortune in Japan. Available in many colors and sizes, with each variation symbolizing a different kind of luck. Found at souvenir stores, temples, and even ¥100 shops.
• Japanese Watches—Known for reliable craftsmanship at a great value. Casio (G-Shock, retro digital), Seiko, and Citizen offer great functionality and style. Some models are Japan-exclusive or hard to find overseas.
• Nail Clippers—A surprisingly popular souvenir, Japanese nail clippers are sharp, durable, and often come with built-in nail catchers and files. Brands like Kai or Green Bell are renowned for quality.
• Japanese Umbrellas—Both plastic clear umbrellas (iconic in Japan) and foldable designer versions are popular. Look for UV-blocking, wind-resistant, or compact travel umbrellas with beautiful prints or traditional patterns.
• Hanko—A personal seal or stamp used in Japan to sign documents. You can translate your name in Japanese and personalize your own hanko to take home.
• Japanese Denim—Globally recognized as some of the finest and most coveted in the world, thanks to its meticulous craftsmanship, vintage-inspired selvedge construction, and high-quality raw materials.
• Kumano Makeup Brushes—Handmade, high-quality brushes from Hiroshima’s famous brush town.
• Regional Mascots (Yuru-Kyara) Goods—Plush toys, stationery, and snacks featuring characters like Kumamon, Gunma-chan, or Funassyi.

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Thanks for reading! I hope you have enjoyed my list of the best things to buy in Japan! If you are planning to buy souvenirs from Japan, you can get more ideas about Japanese souvenirs from the article below, introducing a variety of souvenirs from traditional crafts to modern products!

▷ 20 Best Souvenirs from Japan

For more idea about shopping and traveling in Japan, you may wanna check out these articles, too!

▶︎Best Anime Shops in Tokyo
▶︎Best Variety Stores in Japan
▶︎10 Lifestyle Stores in Japan

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▶︎Ginza Shopping Guide: 10 Best Shops in Harajuku
▶︎Shibuya Shopping Guide: 20 Best Shops in Shibuya

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