First opened in 1935, the historic Tsukiji fish market created an outer market region, thanks to its massive popularity. Known as the Tsukiji Outer Market, this vibrant landmark sells a variety of items like fresh produce, fish, utensils as well as ready to eat food. The market came into existence as a need to cater to non-wholesale customers, who were initially barred from entering the area for it was solely commercial. Even though the historic inner market has shut shop, you can still enjoy the unique shopping culture at the Outer Market.
Akihabara refers to the eastern side of the Chiyoda section of Tokyo. A vibrant and trendy hub, it is sometimes referred to as "Electric Town" because of the high concentration of stores selling all things electronic. Find the latest video games, gadgets, iPods, and cameras at Yodobashi Akiba, a multi-storied flagship store, or peruse the Tokyo Animation Center where you can watch showings and demonstrations on gaming and animation. Almost every shop here sells electronics, so the possibilities for technology enthusiasts are limitless. Akihabara is best known for its association with otaku culture, a term that encompasses people's all-consuming love of anime and manga. It's not surprising that all kinds of associated imagery are prominently reflected in a number of businesses, buildings, and even sidewalks in the area.
Photography is hugely popular in Japan and a majority of Japanese people both enjoy it as a hobby and appreciate it as an art form. The Photo Gallery International is a popular gallery and bookshop dedicated to the photographic arts. It organizes exhibitions and several other events surrounding the theme of photography and welcomes patrons of all ages. Renowned photographers like Ansel Adams, Edward Weston, Harry Callahan etc. have featured their works in the gallery.
The playful and trendy Harajuku district attracts many young locals and tourists searching for modern Japanese pop culture. As such, Takeshita Street emulates a large expression of that teenage culture with a wide variety of nestled shops located on the crowded street. Clothing establishments make up the most of the stores, where visitors are bombarded by colorful and stylish designs such as gothic/maid costumes. Accessory and specialty shops also have a great presence here and help add those final touches for a comprehensive shopping experience. Make sure to try out some delicious crepes while taking a break -there are plenty to choose from!
Yokohama Kimono Station is a Kimono rental center and store, and also sells and rents Hakama and Fulisodes are also available. Over 50 varieties are available to rent. The Kimono is a long wrap around jacket, Hakama is worn over a kimono, like an over-skirt, Fulisodes are silk textured materials, which is a formal and traditional dress for women. In order to rent a garment, reservations need to be made with details of the person renting outfits. The rent is reasonable and is available at all times, all days for men, women and children.
MARK IS is a mall in Yokohama that has stores for one and all. Shopping here includes categories such as footwear, clothing, household items, pet accessories and adventure sports equipment. The mall is centrally located and has hotels, restaurants, art museum and a dock area at close vicinity. The mall is quite spacious and a good way to spend time. During festivals the mall is decorated and looks very beautiful. People come over to look how well the mall is decked up for the season. Not only is it a great place to hangout with friends and families, but it is also a great place to shop.
Keshiki Classic is a great place in the city to buy some fabulous goodies from well-cut and tailored suits to great button down shirts, jackets, shoes, and accessories like no other. The store has a very nice vintage vibe to it and apart from local and regional brands, there are many international brands in here as well. And that too at cheaper prices than showrooms. All in all, this store has the answers to all fashion dilemmas of men and women.
Photography is hugely popular in Japan and a majority of Japanese people both enjoy it as a hobby and appreciate it as an art form. The Photo Gallery International is a popular gallery and bookshop dedicated to the photographic arts. It organizes exhibitions and several other events surrounding the theme of photography and welcomes patrons of all ages. Renowned photographers like Ansel Adams, Edward Weston, Harry Callahan etc. have featured their works in the gallery.
For washi enthusiasts, Yamagataya is top of many discerning origami lovers' lists. There is a staggering range of paper available here, in every conceivable color and pattern. Whatever kind of paper you're looking for and for whatever craft, whether it is origami or calligraphy, this is the place to come to; even the Emperor of Japan orders paper from here!
One of the best bookstores in the city, Daikanyama T-Site is a sprawling building. The store collection includes books, magazines and reading material spanning a diverse genre like art, literature, health, food and travel. There is a coffee shop at the ground floor where one can enjoy a cup of coffee while breezing through the books. A rich music collection is also available for sale.
BerBerJin is an old store but that is not the case with their collection. The place, which has been operating since more than two decades, has managed to stay strong and maintain their regular fan base amidst all the big brands and fashion trends. Their collection mostly consists of basic clothing like military jackets, parkas, hoodies, t-shirts and more. They also have accessories and their collection of sneakers is absolutely envious.
Victoria Sportswear is a chain selling inexpensive sportswear. This Shinjuku branch is housed in a nine-story building and strongly oriented toward golf, an unusually popular sport and pastime in Japan. The eighth and ninth floors even have driving ranges! Tennis wear can be found on the eighth floor; ski wear on the sixth and seventh. Next door you will find L Breath, which is part of the chain and specializes in gear for outdoor activities, from mini rucksacks to mountain bikes.