When traveling around Japan, it can be very difficult to decide on souvenirs and gifts. Simply because the choice of things that can only be bought in this country is incredibly huge. From ethnic style accessories to the latest and most advanced gadgets, there is something for everyone here. It is simply impossible to return home empty-handed from a trip here.
We offer you a list of the most popular Japanese souvenirs with a local flavor.
Electronics
Japan is rightly called the Mecca of electronics, and Akihabara is the best place for such purchases. This is an entire block in one of the districts of Tokyo, where there are a huge number of stores of electronic, computer and household appliances, as well as video games and anime goods.
Akihabara area in Tokyo
A rice cooker would be an interesting and useful gift. Such devices are very popular, often have electronic control and are programmed for the cooking mode that suits you. Most models have instructions in both Japanese and English.
Rice cooker - a useful gift from Japan
Japan is also famous for its brands Canon and Nikon, which produce high-quality cameras. Buying such equipment, of course, can hit your holiday budget, but for true connoisseurs and professionals there is no better gift.
Photography store in Akihabara
Clothes and accessories
It is not very reasonable to buy goods from European brands in Japan - their prices are even higher than in Russia. But locally produced clothing and accessories are definitely worthy of attention.
Sales in Japan start immediately after Catholic Christmas. Moreover, discounts apply even to new collections.
Shopping centers
Japan's best shopping centers are located in central Honshu. The most popular department stores in Tokyo are Mitsukoshi, Seibu, Matsuya, Isetan, Keio. In them, Japanese brands are presented along with European ones. The capital's youth dresses in shops in the Shibuya and Harajuku areas - the best budget and very fashionable brands have settled here. There is no point in listing them - it’s easier to look into these neighborhoods and choose the one that suits you in terms of quality or price. At the same time, look at what Japanese youth wear.
The city of Nagoya is home to Japan's largest underground shopping mall. This is a real city within a city with hundreds of shops to suit every taste. For shopping on Odaiba, head to DiverCity Tokyo Plaza. At the entrance you will be greeted by a huge robot - you definitely won’t pass by. In Kyoto, go shopping at The Cube shopping center.
In Osaka, all the major department stores are in the north in the Kita area, and the smaller shopping pavilions are in the south in the Minami area. Or you can forget this information and go shopping at the World Trade Center - a 55-story building with a bunch of shops, cafes and entertainment.
Boutiques, outlets
The best boutiques in Japan are located in Tokyo (Shinjuku and Ginza areas). In many shopping centers and large cities of the country there are stores of the famous Yohji Yamamoto and Kenzo. Prices are lower than in Russia, and the range is many times wider.
The best outlet stores in Japan are located in and around Tokyo. The most popular is Gotemba Premium Outlets. You can get here by bus. In second place is Shisui Premium Outlets, it is located next to Narita Airport.
Kimono
Many tourists want to bring a kimono from Japan, not as a souvenir, but to wear at home. If you are one of them, avoid shopping in souvenir shops. Go to regular Japanese brand stores in shopping centers: the quality is better and the prices are lower. A factory-made kimono in Japan can be bought for only 1.5-2 thousand yen (in souvenir shops - already for 5-6 thousand). But a real handmade kimono can cost about 200 thousand yen.
Yukata is another useful item from Japan. The same kimono, only made of cotton - a lightweight summer option. Again, shopping in shopping centers is more profitable.
Accessories
Perhaps, in no other place on the planet can you find such a selection of scarves, all kinds of socks (both very feminine and funny), gloves, hats, caps and other accessories. People in Japan really love such products.
A stole made of natural silk can be bought for about 4 thousand yen, but a beret or hat made of bright fabric can cost only a thousand.
In case of rain
Be sure to bring a fashionable umbrella from Japan. The traditional one made of bamboo and wax paper, which all the guidebooks loudly repeat, of course, can also be bought. But it would be much more practical to take a modern version.
There are thousands of them here! And also all kinds of raincoats and bright rubber boots, waterproof bags and other useful things for rainy weather - such goods from Japan will definitely come in handy in life. Prices start at 500 yen per accessory, and you can find them in every shopping center.
Decorations
It is definitely worth bringing jewelry from Japan. Pearls are especially good: the best choice is at the Tasaki Gallery in Tokyo. Prices for designer jewelry in this store start from 60 thousand yen.
It’s even worth bringing jewelry from here. The one made from medical (jewelry) steel is especially good. Now in Japan, decorations from Inori in the form of berries and fruits are trending. They are inexpensive - from 1.5 thousand yen.
Kairo
Winter in Japan can be quite cold. It’s no wonder that the world’s largest festival of snow and ice sculptures takes place here. But inventive locals found a way to stay warm on frosty days: they came up with kairo. These are dry heating pads, which are small bags with powder inside. They are sold in individual packages and are disposable.
Kairo - a warm souvenir from Japan
They are very easy to use: you just need to take the Kairo out of the package, place it in your pocket or attach it to your clothes, and the powder will begin to act in just 10 minutes. The warming effect lasts from 8 to 15 hours. This souvenir will greatly delight your friends who do not like the winter season.
Ceramics, glass and porcelain
Traditional Japanese crafts have a rich history, and the products of local factories and private craftsmen look incredibly elegant and will be a great gift for all connoisseurs of such things.
If you are in doubt about what to choose, buy a tureen. The Japanese love miso soup and eat it from special deep bowls. While here, you will probably try and love this dish, and then such a piece of tableware will be a logical souvenir to remember this eastern country. Pay attention to the black and red classic bowls for miso soup and special spoons for them. These soup bowls also come with lids and even smartphone stands.
Another great option: a teapot or a whole tea set. You definitely can't go wrong with a gift like this. The variety of sizes and shapes, as well as painting, is simply amazing. Take a closer look at the cute porcelain cups depicting scenes from Japanese village life.
For those tourists who are afraid to transport fragile items and check them in as luggage, many stores offer services for sending their goods by postal services to any part of the world.
Souvenirs
In Tokyo, it is convenient to buy souvenirs for friends in FixPrice format stores (all for 100 yen). These are not our “fixes” - here you can find things with a national character of very decent quality. Excellent shopping awaits you in the capital's Grandberry Mall - there is a large selection of souvenirs.
There are souvenir shops near Mount Fuji, so you can bring back something as a souvenir from here too. On the island of Okinawa, the best souvenirs are sold in Naha city on Kokusai Street.
Ceramics
The best ceramics in Japan are made on the island of Honshu: in Tokyo, Yokohama, Osaka, Kyoto, Hiroshima and other cities. The widest choice is perhaps in the city of Nagoya (located between Tokyo and Kyoto). Bring Ryukyu pottery from Okinawa - it is different from what is sold in the rest of Japan.
Varnish
Lacquerware from Nagoya is considered the best, but you can buy it in other places. The most popular products are boxes, dishes, sushi sets, vases.
From Okinawa, we recommend bringing a traditional hexagon-shaped lacquered plate, in which snacks are usually served. Lacquered sushi sticks cost an average of 400-500 yen, boxes - from 600.
Glass and porcelain
If you're in Okinawa, pay attention to Ryuk glass. It is most profitable to buy it in a store (by the way, there are many reviews about it from tourists from all over the world, which confirm our words)
Japanese porcelain is much younger than its counterpart from China, but today it is indeed very popular. The best souvenir in this category is sake glasses.
Textile
Towels and other home textiles made using the tenugui technique are an excellent purchase to remember your trip to Japan. The piece of fabric is made of cotton and decorated with a beautiful printed design. Reminiscent of traditional batik from Indonesia, but looks even more interesting. The best shopping in this category awaits you in Japanese markets (prices are higher in souvenir shops).
Knives
Japanese kitchen knives are quite expensive, but they are considered the best in the world for a reason. If you know a chef, bring him such a gift. Or buy a knife in Japan for yourself - it will serve you for a lifetime. Don't forget that you can only carry them in your luggage.
As a gift for men from Japan, you can bring a replica of a samurai sword (katana). They are miniature and very inexpensive - they are sold in almost every souvenir shop. If desired, you can also find a large sword with skillful engraving.
Art
Bring a fan from Japan with a beautiful painting on it: a landscape or an image of sakura. You can also buy a panel with hieroglyphs - it looks very beautiful and colorful. For calligraphy, you can go to the markets. There are also many street artists in Japan, whose works can be bought as an unusual souvenir.
Amulets, figurines
Figurines of samurai and geisha are often brought from Japan. Traditional Japanese Kokeshi dolls (with a small body, no arms and a large head) are also very popular among tourists. They are often made by hand, so the souvenir is not budget-friendly.
As a gift to your friends, bring an amulet to attract good luck and money - Maneki Neko. This is a cat with its paw up, which you will often see not only in souvenir shops in Japan, but generally throughout the country.
A figurine of a protective creature called Shisa is often brought from Okinawa. Furina wind chimes are also very popular throughout the country. Bring it from Japan as a souvenir - it won't take up much space and will cost you only 300-500 yen.
For teenagers
Fans of anime and manga can bring comics, books, CDs or posters from Japan that cannot be found in Russia. The country has a huge selection of clothing, jewelry and all kinds of accessories on this theme.
An excellent gift from Japan for a schoolchild could be one of hundreds of puzzles or a shogi (mahjong) board game. However, adults will also like them.
For children
Bring toys to children from Japan. The choice here is so large that even the most capricious child will be happy. Soft toys, dolls, cars, radio-controlled, robotic - you name it. Prices in Japan are reasonable: you can buy a children's car that you can ride in for about three times cheaper than in Russia.
You can buy toys in regular shopping centers. The largest selection is perhaps in the stores in the Akihabara area in Tokyo.
And if you want to buy something special as a souvenir, take a toy koma - it’s something between a spinning top and a top. Sold in souvenir shops and markets, often hand-painted.
Souvenirs with cats
Cat and cat saucer
The Japanese have a great reverence for cats. Since ancient times, the inhabitants of this country believed in their connection with otherworldly forces and that these graceful creatures could protect them from dark magic. At the end of the 20th century, an official holiday was even introduced here - Cat Day, and on some islands the number of these animals exceeds the number of people living there.
Socks with cats
It is not surprising that souvenirs with the image or shape of a cat in Japan can be found almost everywhere and in a wide variety. These include mugs, bags, smartphone cases, jewelry, and even shoes. The list can be endless.
The most popular are maneki-neko. Be sure to take this figurine with you. This is a cat with a raised hand, usually made of porcelain.
According to legend, one day a traveler was looking for shelter from heavy rain and hid under a spreading tree. Suddenly, nearby, he saw a cat, which raised its left paw and beckoned him to come to her. As soon as the man approached the animal, lightning struck the tree under which he was hiding. Since then, amulets in the form of “alluring” or “calling cats” in Japan have been placed at the entrance to a house or shop.
Maneki-neko at the entrance to the house
It is believed that white maneki-neko bring good luck and prosperity to their owners, while black ones scare away evil spirits and protect against diseases. But the happiest are golden cats.
Food and drink
For groceries in Naha (the capital of Okinawa), go to the colorful markets - there are probably no such markets left anywhere else in Japan. There are excellent bazaars in Tokyo, and indeed on the island of Honshu. In Osaka, you can go for gastronomic shopping to the Kuromon Ichiba market.
The most popular chain supermarkets in Japan are Family Mart, 7/11, Lawson, Tesco. In general, almost every large shopping complex has a grocery store on the ground floor.
Sweets
From Sapporo we recommend bringing sweets from the Ishiya chocolate factory. Among other goodies, they make Shiroi Koibito cookies, which can only be bought in Japan and only on the island of Hokkaido. On the island of Miyajima, they sell maple leaf cookies filled with bean paste. It’s worth taking home, if only because it’s delicious (and it’s also a symbol of the island, and it’s not prepared anywhere else).
You can bring sweets to friends from Japan that are not available in Russia: sweets based on black sugar, or even with the taste of burger, cabbage, lamb, bitter radish and other non-obvious products. Bring Hello Kitty sweets to your child from Japan - donuts, straws, sweets, cookies with unusual flavors.
It’s also definitely worth buying ice cream in Japan. In Sapporo - corn with asparagus and cuttlefish ink, in Kamakura - with sweet lilac potatoes. It sounds strange, but it is very tasty. It’s a pity that you can’t take it to Russia.
Studio Ghibli toys
Japanese cartoons have long been watched outside the country, and Studio Ghibli is one of the leaders in the industry. All fans of such animated films as “My Neighbor Totoro”, “Spirited Away” and “Memories of Marnie” are advised to visit the Studio Ghibli merchandise stores. There is a huge selection of soft toys, figurines, stickers, mugs and keychains with cartoon characters.
Toy characters from the cartoon “My Neighbor Totoro”
Furin
Furin is a symbol of summer in Japan. This is a small bell with a piece of paper attached to the tongue. Depending on the prefecture, bells are made from different materials (bronze, iron, glass) and a wide variety of shapes (round, triangular, in the form of birds and animals). Poetic lines are usually placed on paper, and the furin itself is brightly painted with flowers and greenery.
Initially, the inhabitants of the Japanese islands were notified by ringing bells about epidemics that often occurred in these places during the hot and humid summer months. Today, the Japanese hang bells on windows or at the entrance to their houses in the summer to feel cool during the hot season and enjoy the soothing sounds that furins make in the wind.
Glass furin
This souvenir is sold in shops of local manufacturers, and in some of them you can watch the process of making a bell and even try to create it yourself.
Japanese bells in the shape of fish
Masks
On the streets of Japan you can often see people wearing medical masks. Some wear them to protect themselves from viral diseases, others as a fashion statement, and others as a way to maintain their privacy. In fact, masks have been present in local culture since time immemorial and were originally used during religious rituals. It was believed that they were able to scare away evil spirits, attract good luck and even influence the future harvest.
Today, masks can be seen in traditional Japanese theater but also at various Matsuri festivals. They are often used as decoration, so such items will become an original souvenir for those who love originality in the interior.
The variety of masks that you can buy in Japan is huge. Therefore, it is better to find out in advance what types of them exist:
- Mengu or samurai masks were originally created to protect wearers from enemy arrows and at the same time to intimidate the enemy. They are made of iron and patent leather and either cover the whole or part of the face.
- Noh masks or masks of Japanese theater actors. There are about 200 types of them, and among them there are both human faces and images of animals, demons and various supernatural creatures.
- Festival masks are used during holidays. “They” – frightening demon masks are worn on Setsubun, the spring festival of driving away evil spirits and attracting good luck. “Kitsune” is a fox mask worn in the fall on the day of honoring the god of fertility Inari. “Hyottoko” is a wooden mask of the god of fire, in the form of the mischievous face of a man fanning the flames, and “okame” is its female version. Often the Japanese keep hyottoko and okame masks at home as amulets for the family hearth.
Cosmetics and medicines
There are no large chain cosmetic stores in Japan. Look for luxury cosmetics in branded boutiques; for mass market products, go to drag stores and supermarkets. Medicines and supplements can be found in pharmacies or chain supermarkets.
Care
We definitely advise girls and women to bring cosmetics from Japan: especially those that are not available in Russia. And if it does exist, it is usually unprofitable to buy it. For example, the famous Hada Labo face lotion, which, according to statistics, is bought in Japan at a rate of 4 bottles per minute, in Russia costs about 5 times more.
The secret of “beautiful aging” of Japanese women, which everyone envy, is skin whitening, combating pigmentation and sun protection. Products from these categories are definitely worth buying in Japan, especially since many simply cannot be found in Russia. And, of course, pay attention to anti-aging cosmetics: with fullerene, squalene, colloidal gold, stem cells, etc. A cream from Japan with any of these components is definitely worth bringing home.
Don’t forget to buy Japanese eye patches – there is a choice here for every taste and budget. And also cleansing products: many Japanese “washes”, hydrophilic oils and foams are also not sold in Russia. Don’t forget to buy a special mesh for whipping foam - the main beauty gadget for girls in Japan.
Among the popular brands of Japanese cosmetics, we highlight the following:
- Shiseido;
- Forlle'd;
- Kanebo;
- Angel;
- Rosette Medicated;
- obagi;
- Hada Labo.
Decor
We advise you to pay special attention to Japanese mascara: the best reviews among tourists from all over the world about products from Kose Fasio and Ipsa. By the way, many tourists bring cosmetic products from Japan to Russia for sale, because there is always a demand for them. And don’t be afraid: even the cheapest product will definitely be excellent - technology is strict here.
Supplements, medications
In Japan, medications are sold not only in pharmacies, but also in popular chain supermarkets.
- Miracle patches
For many women, it makes sense to bring anti-edema patches from Japan. If you stick them on your calves while traveling or on a plane, your legs will feel light. Another popular Japanese medicine is detox foot patches. They are believed to be able to cleanse the body of toxins. Look for it in pharmacies in packs of 5-10 pieces. There are also anti-wrinkle patches; in Japan they are bought as often as a cream to combat wrinkles on the face.
- For eyes
Antioxidant eye drops are very popular in Japan. These are not sold in Russia (they can only be ordered with a large overpayment). The most popular are Sante Beauteye, Rohto Ice Cooling Eye Drops. No prescriptions are needed - it is more of a cosmetic product than a medicine.
- For beauty
We advise girls and women in Japan to think about buying dietary supplements with collagen. It is so popular here that you can even buy supplements in regular supermarkets. Collagen is often added even to drinks, but it is smarter and more convenient to bring the supplement in capsules from Japan to Russia.
Local pharmacies also sell breast enlargement candies, energy cakes and fruit purees with hyaluron or collagen. In short, the goods in Japan are interesting in all respects. It’s hard to say whether healthy goodies work or not, but the idea is interesting. And it wouldn’t hurt to take something as an unusual Japanese souvenir for a friend.
Accessories and decorations
No matter where you go in Japan, there are shops selling cute, inexpensive jewelry at literally every turn. You can choose jewelry or hair accessories, but the most unusual and attractive souvenir will be a fan.
In Japan you can find two types of fans: sensu and uchiwa.
Fans sensu
Sensu is an ordinary folding fan, which was invented by the Chinese and became widespread in many countries around the world. It is more familiar to us.
Uchiwa fans
Uchiwa is a national Japanese invention and is a round silk fan on a wooden handle. Previously, fans were used exclusively by noble ladies, because... they provided excellent protection from the sun, and also hid their faces from strangers and evil spirits. Today it is mainly an accessory for geishas and Japanese theater actors. A huge variety of colors and patterns combined with excellent quality materials make these items a wonderful gift that is well worth the $10+ price tag.
Cosmetics
Skin care and decorative cosmetics from Japanese manufacturers are known and loved all over the world. According to buyers, it is of very high quality and varied. Local cosmetic products often include extracts of mint, jasmine, green tea, rice, beans, as well as water from thermal springs and horse oil.
Shop items for 100 yen
Cosmetics in Japan can be purchased either in pharmacies or in specialized departments in shopping centers. The most popular brands for face and body care are Shiseido, Rosette, Mujirushi and Kotoshina. Among decorative cosmetics, it is worth noting products from the brands Coffret D'or, KATE, MAQuillAGe and Canmake. The CanDo and Daiso store chains attract with their quality and affordable prices. Any product can be purchased there for a fixed price of 100 yen ($0.9).
Daiso cosmetics store
Where is the best place to buy souvenirs?
Connoisseurs of photographic equipment should go to the specialized area around Shinjuku Station . Both new and discounted copies are sold there. They are definitely cheaper than similar models in our country. Tokyo's main shopping district is Ginza . EVERYTHING is sold here. You can also buy used equipment in the Akihabara .
You need to look for the fish market on Tsukiy Street . More souvenirs are sold on Nakamise Street . It doesn’t make much sense to look for a specific store or shop. Japanese tradition predetermines the concentration of homogeneous establishments in certain areas. Omote-sando Street from Shibuya offers a similar selection to Ginza. However, the cost of goods has been significantly reduced. The Harajuku quarter , which this street abuts, contains clothing in a non-standard punk style.
In Osaka, we advise you to first go to the World Trade Center , which occupies the second largest Japanese skyscraper.
Ginza district in Tokyo
Cost of travel to Japan
Incense
The incense brought from your trip will help you relax and mentally return to the mysterious and original Japan. These include incense sticks, essential oils, and sachets with dry herbs. They are sold in specialized shops that you simply cannot pass by indifferent - such aromas emanate from them! Depending on the manufacturer and type of product, the cost of incense ranges from a couple of dollars to hundreds.
Stationery
Japanese stationery is rightfully considered very practical, stylish and affordable. Pens and pencils, scissors and erasers, notebooks and diaries, stickers and many other products of high quality and original design will not leave either adults or children indifferent. A desire to visit LOFT, Don Quijote, Itoya and Tokyu Hands stores for a few minutes can turn into a multi-hour excursion among the abundance of stationery presented here.
Alcohol
For many people, Japan is associated with sake. This is a traditional local alcoholic drink made from rice. To say that this is rice vodka is not entirely true, because... The strength of sake is much lower - 14-16 degrees, and the process of its preparation is significantly different from how vodka is made. Depending on the quality of the rice, sake can be either elite or lower grades. Accordingly, the drink is served and consumed differently. If the sake is premium, it is drunk chilled. If the quality of the alcohol is lower, then it is heated to dull the bitterness of the drink.
sake
Traditionally, sake is served in a special jug called tokkuri and poured into small cups without handles called ochoko. These accessories can also be purchased as a souvenir along with the drink itself.
Sake set
In addition to sake, Japan produces some of the best whiskey in the world and the most delicious plum wine in the world.
Japanese whiskey
Suntory and Nikka hold the majority of the whiskey market in the Land of the Rising Sun, while the most popular brands of plum wine include Choya, Godo Shusei and Kishu. Usually, the fruits of this tree are placed in a bottle of classic plum wine, but producers constantly compete with each other, adding honey or green tea to the drink, and whole compositions of plants and flowers into the bottles.
Japanese plum wine
Matcha tea
Green tea is incredibly popular in Japan, and varieties produced here are highly prized throughout the world. This drink improves your mood, relieves stress and contains a large amount of antioxidants.
Japanese matcha tea powder comes in three types:
- Ceremonial, or superior quality, which is used in tea ceremonies and is practically not sold outside the country;
- Premium class, suitable for daily use;
- Low quality, which is cheaper than other types of tea and is used mainly as an additive to food: chocolate, ice cream, sweets and baked goods.
Higher quality green tea has a bright color, mild taste and a distinct herbal aroma. When choosing matcha, you need to make sure that it was grown in Japan, because... Only the local climatic conditions allow us to produce such a wonderful product. Secondly, you should pay attention to the color of the powder: the richer it is, the higher the quality of the tea.
Preparing matcha
During the tea ceremony, matcha powder is thoroughly mixed with water using a bamboo whisk in a bowl until foam forms, and then drunk in 3-4 large sips. At home, a shaker is often used to prepare it. But you can buy a special set that includes a bowl, measuring spoon, whisk and stand, as well as a small bag of matcha powder. By brewing a drink brought from distant Japan at home according to all the rules for its preparation, you can again plunge into the memories of your trip, enjoying the excellent taste and aroma.
Matcha making kit
Shopping in Japan
Modern Japan has turned into a consumer society to such an extent that shopping can well be considered an independent activity. The Japanese themselves (at least in big cities) very often do not leave home without a large and durable shopping bag - just in case they want to buy something. You can't really get to know a country without exploring the wide and varied range of traditional arts and crafts, the famous electronic gadgets and precision instruments, and the bewildering selection of kitschy souvenirs in the major tourist centers. Even if you are not going to buy anything.
The cost of living in Japan has not risen as dramatically in recent years as in many other developed countries, but due to the lack of a flexible sales tax and a surprisingly convoluted and inefficient distribution system, you can't expect very cheap purchases. Still, bargains are possible.
Market Street
It's worth starting your shopping expedition with the offer of general stores and hundreds of specialty stores in underground shopping centers. The first ones generally offer the widest selection of everything, but at the highest prices in the country. Then, in search of better deals, you can go to discount stores.
You may want to hold off on shopping until after your trip around the country so you don't have to burden yourself with electronics, lacquerware, ceramics, or whatever else takes your fancy. However, don't put off your shopping for too long, consider purchasing the items you like and using the extremely efficient and inexpensive courier delivery service (takkyubin). You can order delivery of large items to your hotel at any convenience store, and then the purchased item will be waiting for you at your hotel in Tokyo or any other city. Given the relatively low crime rate in the country, you can be sure that you will see your treasured souvenirs again.
High-tech goods
In Tokyo, every kind of electronics and computer equipment imaginable, including some you never knew existed, can be found, sometimes at low prices, in Akihabara, an entire district of specialty stores filled with electronic goods. Larger stores usually have a duty free section with a somewhat limited selection of items intended for overseas use. The staff often speaks English, but don't expect the same discounted prices as other floors, despite the tax exemption.
An additional attraction for fans of various gadgets may be the opportunity to purchase the latest devices several months before they appear abroad. However, cameras and electronic devices are rarely offered at better prices than in New York, which remains the world's discount center. Those hunting for software and hardware will most likely have a hard time finding products for sale in languages other than Japanese.
In Osaka, a similar mecca for fans of high technology is Nipponbashi, although it is inferior to Akihabara in both range and prices.
The Akihabara area is known as one of the largest shopping areas in the entire world for electronics, computers, anime, and otaku goods.
Keep in mind that the local power supply voltage is 100 V, 50 (or 60) Hz, which is somewhat different from American and significantly from European standards. So if you don't want to bother with converters, head to the duty-free department on the top floor, which specializes in export models intended for use around the world. Remember also that Japanese TVs are set to receive the NTSC signal, the same signal used in the United States. If you plan to use your TV in Europe or anywhere else where the main broadcast standard is PAL, make sure you buy a multi-system unit.
Cameras. It is better to purchase the desired photo and video cameras as early as possible in order to have time to try them out during the trip. If a malfunction is discovered, you will have time to agree on repairs or exchanges before departure. In most stores, there are no problems with exchanging defective goods. Please note that the warranty is often only valid in Japan, so ask the manufacturer about the possibility of extending it to other countries. The largest discount photo and video stores operate in Shinjuku and Ginza.
Traditional goods
Kimono. Japanese silk kimonos are gorgeous, but incredibly expensive. Most Japanese save for years to purchase them, and after purchasing they often spend the same amount of time paying off their debts. Unless you're one of the world's richest tourists, the good news is that at large flea markets that take place on temple grounds, shrines, and other large communal sites, new or nearly new kimonos usually sell for a fraction of their original price. . In Tokyo, visit the flea market (first and fourth Sundays of the month) at Togo-jinga, a shrine located steps from the trendy Takeshita-dori street in Harajuku. Kyoto's two largest flea markets are at Toji Temple (on the 21st of each month) and Kitano Temmangu Shrine (on the 25th), but there are many others. Another option is a more modest, but also elegant yukata (lightweight cotton kimono) in the traditional white and blue colors and much cheaper than a silk kimono. Also note the silk obi belts used to gird the kimono. Some are extremely beautiful in themselves, so if you are not going to use them for their intended purpose, you can opt for just one obi, which will serve as an original decoration for you.
Antiques. Kyoto's famous geisha district, Gion, also boasts one of the country's best selections of antique furniture and other antiques. Even if you just want to gawk, enjoy the magnificent furnishings, pottery, masks, lacquerware and Buddhist relics on offer at Nawate-dori, Furomonzen-dori and Shinmonzen-dori streets.
Works of art. Attractive, colorful ukiyo-e prints and painted scrolls can be found in antique and second-hand bookstores and even temple markets. Prices vary quite significantly.
Ceramics. Pottery production is a living tradition in Japan, maintained at a very high level. Most regions have their own distinctive style, from the patterned and sparkling glaze of Kiyomizu-yaki pottery from Kyoto to the beautiful natural terracotta from Bizen near Okay-ma and Shigaraki around Kyoto. The town of Mashiko, north of Tokyo, is worth a day's train ride if you're interested in how some of the country's best pottery is made. Prices there are slightly lower than in Tokyo. You can also take pottery classes in Masiko.
Lacquer products. You can hardly go wrong with the quality of varnish products, which are always top notch. The trays, dishes, bowls and boxes are beautifully made and not so heavy as to create overweight problems.
Paper products. Fans, dolls, and handmade stationery are usually moderately priced and crafted with as much care as items made from more expensive materials.
Books. Tokyo's Jinboto district is almost entirely at the mercy of second-hand booksellers. This is the largest district of its kind in the world, selling books in both Japanese and most European languages. You'll also find old maps and engravings here, but keep in mind that sellers are aware of current prices on everything, and true bargains are rare. Currently distributed throughout the world, Japanese manga comic books are on sale almost everywhere. In Tokyo, head to Shibuya and Shinjuku for them.
Tokyo Jinboto District
Not that cheap
Remember that some Japanese consumer products are much cheaper abroad than in their country of origin. Japanese tourists visiting other countries are shocked by this unexpected circumstance.
Edible gifts
Of course, you are unlikely to be able to bring sushi and rolls from Japan, but there are several options for excellent edible souvenirs that you should pay attention to.
- Salty sakura. No kidding! In this country, people not only admire cherry blossoms, but also eat its fruits, leaves and flowers. The latter are salted and pickled in plum vinegar, resulting in pale pink inflorescences with a pronounced taste. Of course, such an unusual delicacy is not included in the daily diet of the Japanese, but is present only at significant events. For example, it is an indispensable attribute of wedding celebrations.
Packaging of salted sakura
Salted sakura flowers can be eaten as a treat on their own or used to decorate various dishes, such as baked goods or rice. Sometimes sakura needs to be pre-soaked in water, but to prepare original tea, simply dip 1-2 flowers into a cup of drink.
Dessert with salty sakura
- Umeboshi or salted plum has long been present in traditional Japanese menus along with rice and miso soup.
Umeboshi
Samurai also believed that umeboshi helped them fight fatigue on the battlefield and charged them with energy for future victories. This product contains a huge amount of nutrients, it helps control weight and is involved in the prevention of various diseases. However, due to its salty taste, umeboshi is not eaten daily, and is usually paired with rice without any other additives.
Rice with umeboshi
- Chocolate and candies with green tea. The Japanese are famous for their originality in preparing sweets. If you are partial to confectionery, you can try the matcha-infused sweets and baked goods here.
Matcha cookies
Pay attention to the brands Meiji, Morinaga and Lotte. They create truly amazingly delicious chocolate, caramel and green tea cookies. In Japan, you can even find matcha-flavored KitKat bars and Chocopie cakes.
UNUSUAL GIFTS
Cosmetic masquerade: Japanese moisturizing masks
-What's wrong with you? Oh, you made me blush! – remember the dialogue from the film “Moscow Doesn’t Believe in Tears”? The heroine of Irina Muravyova used fresh strawberries as a nourishing mask. Modern moisturizing face masks can surprise, amuse, and make you blush. Masks depicting animals, cartoon characters and Kabuki theater characters are very popular in Japan.
Bright masks can be a wonderful souvenir from Japan for girls and women with a sense of humor. You can buy them not only in specialized cosmetics departments, but also in pharmacies and even in 24-hour convenience stores.
Sushi suitcases
These suitcase covers can turn an airport baggage carousel into a giant sushi bar. Original bags made of synthetic material will protect your luggage from dust, dirt and moisture, and you can also identify your luggage from afar. In addition, just the appearance of a giant roll can improve your mood.
The size of the case is 425 x 300 x 640 mm, which corresponds to a standard suitcase with a volume of 70 liters. Your task is to choose a color: salmon, octopus, mackerel or something else!
You can purchase a sushi case at Parco department store or at Narita International Airport.
Hieroglyphs . The Japanese brought calligraphy to extreme perfection. A good souvenir would be a panel decorated with a hieroglyph. The trick is that no one except you will know the meaning of the hieroglyph. Well, of course, if you don’t talk about it later...
Puzzle . The Japanese are an extremely smart nation, as you can easily see if you buy a local puzzle. The return flight time will fly by for you. What souvenir is worth bringing from Japan is up to you to decide.
Food sticks
This is one of the most popular souvenirs brought from Japan. Chopsticks, or hashi, as they are called here, are a common cutlery set for residents of several Asian countries, as well as for those who love local cuisine. Prices for Khasi start from $1 and largely depend on the material. The most common ones are bamboo, porcelain, metal and plastic. If desired, you can custom engrave the name of their future owner on the sticks. This way the gift will become not only exotic, but also personalized.
What can and cannot be exported from Japan?
The island country's customs have strictly enforced rules. You can transport both national and foreign currency of any type. Amounts from 1 million government yen and their equivalents in foreign banknotes are required to be included in the declaration. You can take no more than 56 milliliters of perfume with you on a plane. Most goods are limited in value to 200 thousand Japanese yen for export.
strictly prohibited to transport artistic and antique objects, cultural values without official permits from control authorities. The ban applies to pornographic items and publications, weapons, explosives, psychotropic drugs and substances with a narcotic effect. You will not be allowed to take with you anything that violates patent restrictions and copyrights.
Kimono
If your budget allows, then a traditional Japanese kimono will be the most luxurious gift brought in memory of your trip to the Land of the Rising Sun. Kimonos are quite expensive, but they are true works of art. Depending on the material, color and type of dress, you can pay for it from $500 to $25,000. And it will either be a branded item, or an author’s, one-piece copy in a special salon selling kimonos. These items of clothing can be bought cheaper in second-hand stores for only $150-300, but in this case you should not be too picky about the quality of the product.
Kimono is not just a dress. To be worn correctly, it requires appropriate accessories, which can also be purchased with it. These include a variety of undershirts, belts, sandals, combs and hairpins.
Men can also try on men's kimonos, which are not as bright as women's ones. Most often, matte fabrics in black, blue or green are used for their manufacture.
What souvenirs to bring from Tokyo
Bring a sushi set from Tokyo, consisting of bowls, bowls and glasses. Don't forget your chopsticks. Buy more of them: use them later in everyday life or give them as gifts to friends. Don't rush to buy souvenirs at the first shop. The choice is great, it’s better to first play marketer and scout out the market situation.
Buy the popular Japanese amulet maneki-neko. He looks like a cat with his paw raised. The Japanese believe that the amulet attracts good luck. Miniature netsuke sculptures and traditional wooden dolls – darumas – are also suitable for the interior.
If you're interested in traditional attire, consider wearing a kimono and geta (wooden sandals). For example, take a light version of the robe - yukata and complement the look with a wagasa umbrella. It is made from bamboo and washi paper and carried with you on sunny and rainy days.
Bring home Japanese theater masks. They are made from wood or ceramics. There are full-size masks, and there are small souvenir ones. Each mask has its own name and belongs to a specific category depending on the chosen role.
Another symbol of Japan is ukiyo-e prints. They first appeared many centuries ago, but are still popular, and the stories are constantly being supplemented with new trends. True, a landscape or a historical site is considered an established option.
Women in Japan buy cosmetics. The most famous brands are SK-II and Shiseido. Men are addicted to Japanese technology. The prices are steep, but I really want to buy a Yamaha audio system or a Fujitsu video player.
If you like photography, there is a neighborhood near Shinjuku Station that sells electronics. In addition to new models of cameras and lenses, you can find discount stores there. During our trip we bought two lenses. Although they are used, they are in excellent condition and are 15 thousand cheaper than similar ones in Russia.
In Tokyo you can find second-hand bookstores. If you are interested in history, be sure to check it out. They sell old postcards, books and scrolls. You can choose interesting options. I brought two dozen postcards from the beginning of the last century. Each cost only 100 rubles. Plus I snatched a gorgeous scroll for 300 rubles and a book with hieroglyphs for 100. Useless in everyday life, but beautiful.
Read:
How we got 100 thousand rubles in an antique shop and lost them back.
If you don't want to spend a lot of money on souvenirs, look for fixed price stores. We came across “Everything for 100 yen” and “Everything for 300 yen.”
Gamaguchi
Gamaguchi are rag handbags and wallets with a frame lock. Their colors are quite bright and most often floral. These pieces have a bit of a vintage feel to them because similar clasps were found on vintage coin purses. But, despite the seeming old-fashionedness, gamaguchi are very popular among young Japanese women.
TRADITIONAL CULTURE
Khasi. Food sticks . Of course, they eat with chopsticks not only in Japan, but also in China, Vietnam, and Korea. And they are different everywhere! In Japan they are called hashi. Dishes are prepared in small pieces, and soups are served in bowls: the liquid is drunk, the thickness is removed with chopsticks. Children receive hashi on the hundredth day after birth along with their first grain of rice.
In household use, reusable sticks made of wood, bone, plastic, richly inlaid, are real works of art. There are children's, men's, women's khasis, sets for spouses and for the whole family, gift sets for newlyweds. Khasi for the tea ceremony, for sweets, just for cooking...
Wagasa paper umbrella . This is another symbol of Japan. No one knows how old this elegant accessory is. The court lady Sei-Syonagon, the author of “Notes at the Headboard” and a contemporary of the Kyiv prince Vladimir, wrote that an umbrella is a necessary thing in every wealthy family. Over two thousand years, vagasa gradually moved from a luxury item to a common accessory, and in the twentieth century they were replaced by modern umbrellas. But the Japanese do not want to completely abandon traditions.
Paper umbrellas are still used by geisha and maiko. Girls flaunt small wagasa at traditional holidays. Large umbrellas are raised over newlyweds during ceremonies at Shinto shrines. Even a sumo wrestler can be seen with a wagasa in his hands. And for tourists, a paper umbrella is a wonderful souvenir from Japan.
Glass bell "furin" . Furin, with its soft chime, can bring coolness even on the hottest day, so all of Japan sounds like this in the summer. Glass trinkets were brought from China about two thousand years ago. In Buddhist temples, bells warded off evil spirits, and pleasant shimmers delighted the ears.
Japanese fan . During the summer, on Japanese streets, on trains and in restaurants, you can see many people using hand fans. They can be folding or rigid flat fans. Hand fans are so popular in Japan that it is simply impossible to leave Japan without taking at least one with you.
Paper lanterns . They are made from Japanese washi rice paper, which is attached to a bamboo frame. This is a traditional way of illumination in Japan and can be found everywhere - at festivals, in parks, restaurants or hotels, as well as in residential buildings.
Sarubobo dolls. They come from Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture, and protect against evil, bring harmony to the family, and help women in labor. In such dolls, facial features are usually not drawn.
Kokeshi dolls . Another wonderful souvenir that you can bring home to remember your trip to Japan. These wooden dolls are said to bring good luck. The kokeshi facial expressions indicate the region where the doll was made. Initially, these were children's toys, but now they are increasingly becoming home decoration or souvenirs for tourists.
Maneki-neko. Perhaps the most famous symbol of Japan is a figurine of a cat with a raised paw. Everywhere in Japan, from shops and restaurants to banks and offices, you are greeted by a “luring cat” statue. This maneki neko is one of the most famous good luck charms in Japan and is believed to bring good luck to business and increase wealth.
They are also used to decorate the interior of the house, since cats can be made in any size and from any material. You can buy them in a souvenir shop, but it is best to do this at Gotoku-ji Temple, the birthplace of this talisman.
Daruma. A papier-mâché doll sold with white eyes. The toy is usually red, although there are also green, yellow, blue, white... There are no arms or legs, just a mustache. There are no pupils either. First, one eye is drawn on the doll and a wish is made. Until Daruma-san fulfills it, he will not receive a second eye. Well, if he didn’t manage it, he ended up in the January bonfire where holiday trees are burned! And rather buy yourself a new daruma.
Gamaguchi. Rag handbags and wallets with frame lock. Their colors are quite bright and most often floral. These pieces have a bit of a vintage feel to them because similar clasps were found on vintage coin purses. But, despite the seeming old-fashionedness, gamaguchi are very popular among young Japanese women.
Furoshiki
Since ancient times, residents of Japan have used furoshiki to wrap gifts and various things, as well as as a rag bag when traveling and walking. They are square pieces of fabric in eye-catching colors and various sizes and are usually made from silk, cotton and viscose. Factory-made furoshiki cost around $50-100, and custom-made furoshiki cost $200-300.
Recently, the Japanese company Vibram began producing furoshiki sneakers that wrap around the foot and do not require laces. In some ways they resemble foot wraps.
The soft, pleasant-to-touch fabric and ease of wear have made these unusual shoes popular, especially among outdoor enthusiasts.
This, of course, is not a complete list of souvenirs that can be purchased as a souvenir of your trip to Japan. We advise you to take a minimum of luggage on your trip in order to be able to take with you all the gifts that you choose in this country.
What to bring from Japan as a gift and souvenir?
It’s not difficult to figure out what to bring from Japan as a souvenir; there is a huge variety of items that will remind you of your holiday in Japan. We definitely advise you to focus on the recommendations presented by the experts of the Asian country themselves.
- Maneki neko . Those who understand the culture of the land of the rising sun, and especially those who specifically study the language, will unmistakably recognize that we are talking about a figure that brings happiness. Alluring cat figurines are found in shops, banks, restaurants and even in reputable offices. Traditional culture implies that these sculptures attract good luck and help improve one's financial situation. But this is something that can be brought from Japan to decorate houses. You can buy such a souvenir in any specialized store. The copies sold in Gotoku-ji, where this talisman was first made, are considered the height of perfection.
Maneki neko
- Tenugui . Or in other words, a rectangular piece of material covered with an ornament or some more complex pattern. The product is multifunctional. Its main purpose is as a towel. The main material is cotton. The length of the towel is about 0.9 m. The pattern is formed using the printed method, the motifs can vary significantly. For Japanese culture, traditional flower themes. But geometric compositions also occur. Tenugui is used for wrapping gifts and is also used as a replacement for tablecloths and panels.
Tenugui
- Yukata . You can buy souvenirs in Japan inexpensively by choosing this type of kimono. It is made from cotton and is used mainly in summer. Within the country itself, such clothing is worn during national cultural festivals and in traditional hotels. Experts advise purchasing yukata not in specialized shops, but in mass clothing stores for locals or in supermarkets, department stores, and shopping centers. Then the quality will be higher and the variety of available options will be greater.
Kimono
- Geta . This is the name given to classic national shoes worn along with the same yukata. Geta resembles both flip-flops and wooden shoes. For those who are not going to tune in to complete authenticity, zori is better suited - this is the name of a more gentle modification of geta, which often suits Europeans, and at the same time corresponds to the island canons.
National shoes
- Veera . The Japanese take folded or rigidly made hand fans on the train when going to a restaurant. In the summer, people carrying them are found on every street. Therefore, we can confidently say that uchiwa fans express national flavor.
Traditional fans
- Wagasa . The classic Japanese umbrella has a similar name. In this country, the tradition of using and creating umbrellas dates back hundreds of years. The Japanese need this both for protection from bad weather and during tea ceremonies and when staging theatrical performances.
Umbrella
- Furin . Air bells are specific to the culture of the Asian country. They can be heard even in the most modern buildings and structures. Furin is made from glass or metal. When the bell swings, it signals the approach of a cool breeze.
Japanese bells
- Paintings of the Ukiyo-e type . The literal translation is “painting of the floating world.” It has been popular since at least the 17th century. This genre is a leader in Japanese fine art. Therefore, such souvenirs should definitely be in the luggage of travelers leaving the Japanese islands.
Ukiyo-e
- Food sticks . According to the old tradition, they are made from varnished wood. It is customary to make cutlery in several different sizes. Compared to the Chinese version, the length is shorter and the shape is closer to an ideal circle. Stores mainly sell sets of sticks. To improve their decorative qualities, they are equipped with elegant ornaments.
Sticks
- Cosmetical tools . The question of what cosmetics to bring from Japan that are not available in Russia is difficult to resolve. Almost any product is brought to our country. But it’s definitely worth purchasing original Asian collagen. Such goods are sold not only in boutiques and supermarkets, but also in pharmacies and modest stores. The shapes are varied, and it is easy to choose the one that suits you. The island country also sells many types of face masks. There are fabric, gel-like and cream-like ones. The compositions vary greatly: algae, gold, pearls, and extracts of various tones are used. The choice is made individually. Attractive cosmetics are made under the brands Kanebo, Biore, Shiseido.
Japanese cosmetics
- Technically complex products . The question of what equipment to bring when visiting Tokyo, Osaka, Hokkaido or Okinawa will arise with 100% probability. The range includes both those made in Japan itself and in other Asian countries. Some goods are produced for domestic national consumption. The lack of translated documentation is a strong negative factor. The cost is also not too cheap. Experts recommend coming to Tokyo's Akihabara district.
Robots
- First class knives . Local manufacturers have long known how to make the sharpest blade and give reliability to the product. Even world-famous chefs willingly purchase knives with the Japan brand.
Knife set
- Tea will be the right answer to the question of what food and drink to bring from Japan. We recommend paying attention to Matcha tea - the green powder type. The harvest takes place once a year. Before harvesting, the leaves are protected from the sun for 14 days. Therefore, the finished product acquires a sweet taste.
Green tea
- Sweets of national format. A great variety has been created for this position. A classic is wagashi (a candy made by mixing rice paste, sweet potato paste and tea). Chocolates will also be original. Here they learned to give them over 300 different flavors. Cakes or cookies are no worse.
Wagashi
- Other exotic dishes . These are bento, sashimi, vacuum-coated Pacific fish fillets, fish roe, crabs, other canned food, dried seaweed, noodles, mushrooms, and delectable sauces.
Bento
