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27 Useful Souvenirs and Things to Buy in Japan as a Tourist
Shopping in Japan can be a bit overwhelming, right? With so many cool things around, it’s hard to know what to grab and what to skip, especially on a budget. When I planned my 3 week trip to Japan, I faced the same dilemma.
We figured out how to travel around Japan on a budget, but I was unsure if I could buy anything affordable there. However, once I arrived, I found some cool, inexpensive, and worthwhile items!
Think quirky Japanese things to buy beyond fridge magnets to tasty Japanese sweets wagashi, or a unique Japanese tuna knife that won’t break the bank and is super useful.
In this guide, I’ll share all my tips on what to buy in Japan without overspending – from cute character socks and Japanese teas to beautiful ceramics and matcha Kit Kats.
These are items that’ll make your wallet happy and fill your suitcase with the best of Japan.
So, whether you’re browsing the Japanese market for gifts, looking for fun knick-knacks like “Maneki-Neko” lucky cat figurines, or shopping in Tokyo for traditional folding fans, I’ve got you covered.
Is shopping in Japan cheap?
Shopping in Japan can be budget-friendly, depending on what you’re after. Authentic Japanese items like tuna knives, kimonos, origami sets, anime merchandise, Japanese sweets (wagashi), and stationery are often cheaper in Japan than elsewhere.
Are Electronics cheaper in Japan
Shopping in Japan can be budget-friendly, depending on what you’re after. Authentic Japanese items like tuna knives, kimonos, origami sets, anime merchandise, Japanese sweets (wagashi), and stationery are often cheaper in Japan than elsewhere.
Are Designer bags cheaper in Japan
Designer bags are generally cheaper in Japan than in other Asian countries like Singapore or Malaysia, but they’re still not as affordable as in the UK, France, or Germany.
Brands like Prada, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Fendi usually cost less in Japan compared to their Asian neighbours. But despite being cheaper than elsewhere, these designer bags don’t quite fall under the category of “cheap things to buy in Japan.”
Affordable Things to buy in Japan
Sake (Japanese Rice Wine)
If you’re wondering what to buy in Japan that’s super authentic, Sake should be on your list.
Made from polished rice, sake comes in many varieties like Ginjo, Daiginjo, and Junmai.
I bought the Hakkaisan Daijingo Junmai, a premium type with no added alcohol, for 1,200 yen. It’s a delightful taste of Japanese tradition that you won’t find elsewhere.
Where to buy: Local sake shops
Average price: 1,200 yen for 180ml in supermarkets (varies by brand)
Ceramics Sake Cups
In Japan, sake is served in cute cups that make it extra special! You’ll see tiny Ochoko for sipping, relaxed Guinomi, wide Sakazuki for ceremonies, overflowing Masu wooden boxes, and Tokkuri carafes.
A sake cup set with these styles is a perfect souvenir—authentic, easy to carry, and pairs great with a bottle of sake. A must-buy in Japan!
Where to buy: Near temple stalls at Nagano and Kyoto
Average price: 1,500 yen onwards
Higashi (Japanese Sweets Wagashi)
When considering what to buy in Tokyo, Higashi – a type of Japanese traditional sweets Wagashi is a top pick.
It’s a high-class Japanese sweet made from rice flour and sugar, often shaped into seasonal patterns like cherry blossoms.
I found it in a centuries-old shop in Nihombashi—an elegant and easy-to-carry gift that stays fresh without refrigeration.
Where to buy: Shops in Nihonbashi, Tokyo
Average price: 400 to 800 yen
KitKat
If you are looking for most famous thing to buy in Japan, go for KitKat. Because Japan got around 40 unique flavours, from green tea to wasabi- Which you don’t get elsewhere.
The name sounds like “Kitto Katsu,” meaning “surely win,” which is why they’re considered lucky in Japan.
I grabbed some at the supermarket—I loved the matcha, strawberry, and coffee flavours!
Where to buy: Supermarkets and airports
Average price: 100–300 yen per pack
Tokyo Banana
Tokyo Banana is one of the best edible things to buy in Tokyo. This banana-shaped sponge cake filled with creamy custard melts in your mouth and is a favourite souvenir.
Since it doesn’t stay fresh for long, it’s best to pick it up at the airport before your flight back.
Where to buy: Tokyo airports
Average price: 500–1,000 yen
Japanese Soy Sauce
If you’re after authentic Japanese things to buy, soy sauce should definitely be on your list. Japan offers many varieties, but the dark soy sauce is perfect for everyday seasoning.
Vegetarians, watch labels closely— Just like how many “veg” dishes may have fish flakes, pork broth, even soy sauce with seafood extracts, as I learned the hard way!
Local markets are the best spots to buy, where you can get expert opinions from friendly locals.
Where to buy: Local markets, especially Toyosu in Tokyo, Nishiki in Kyoto
Average price: Varies
Traditional Japanese Dolls
Japanese dolls, or Ningyo, come in many styles—like Geisha, emperor, or empress dolls.
You’ll find wooden Kokeshi dolls with a simple shape, lucky Daruma dolls in red and yellow, and the famous waving lucky cat, Maneki-Neko.
Shopping for dolls in Japan is so much fun because they make everything so cute!
Where to buy: Kyoto Higashiyama Ward
Average price: 1,500 yen onwards
Sarubobo dolls
Sarubobo dolls are those cute faceless and a bit scary dolls. You’ll spot THEM in Takayama, Gifu prefecture where the magical Shirakawa-Go village is located. The dolls are all about good luck!
These dolls used to be red handmade by grandmas for their grandkids, hoping for a happy marriage and good fortune. But now they come in all sorts of colours, each with its own special meaning.
If you are looking for one of the unique souvenirs from Japan, Sarubobo dolls should be your bet- Not everyone buys it.
Where to buy : Takayama or Shirakawa-go
Average Price : 900 yen onwards.
Tsumami Zaïku Earrings and Pins
Tsumami-zaiku is a 200-year-old traditional Japanese craft where small squares of cloth are pinched and folded using tweezers—no needles or thread involved!
Tsumami-zaiku started as part of kanzashi hair accessories for geishas, but now it’s super trendy in Japan for earrings and pins too!
These earrings look like little fabric flowers blooming right from your ears—so cute and colourful! They add a fun, handmade touch to any look and mix tradition with a cool, modern style.
I bought a lovely pair of Tsumami Zaïku Earrings in Kyoto and love it.
Where to buy: Kyoto
Average price: 1,000 yen for a pin, 2,000 yen for a pair of earrings
Kanzashi – Traditional Hair Ornaments (Simple Range)
One of the prettiest authentic Japanese things is Kanzashi. These are traditional Japanese hair accessories worn by geishas and brides that add a lovely touch to kimono outfits.
But you can wear Kanzashi without wearing a kimono—pair it with either a pretty western skirt or a dress, or even an Indian saree!
They come in all sorts of styles, like hana kanzashi with flower designs or birabira kanzashi with dangling metal strips.
Patterns range from seasonal flowers to cranes and butterflies, each having a special meaning. You wear them by sliding them into a bun or updo for that elegant look.
Where to buy: Kyoto, Nagano
Average price: A simple Kanzashi hair stick costs 350 yen. The Large Floral Butterfly Kanzashi with Prong costs about 5,000 yen.
Skin Care Products
Japan is skincare heaven, and you’ve got to check it out! Japanese women are super into their skincare routines (seriously, 15-minute face-washing sessions!), and it shows.
That’s why Japan is one of the biggest markets for beauty products worldwide.
If you’re shopping, you can’t go wrong with the brand DHC—a local favourite known for great face washes and glycerin hand creams.
Where to buy : Malls and Speciality Stores across Japan
Average Price : 1000 yen onwards
Japanese Heat Packs – Kairo
Japanese heat packs, or Kairo, are a must-buy in Japan for winter. They’re self-heating, practical, and affordable, perfect for staying warm on the go.
You might find them in other parts of the world, but nothing compares to Japanese Kairo quality and price – So it goes on the top of must buy things from Japan list.
I loved the sticky ones that you attach to your clothes—they keep you warm for over 12 hours! These cheap products in Japan can be found at any Kombini for just 130 yen per pad. Simply ask for “Haro Kairo,” which means stickable heat packs.
Where to buy: Any supermarket
Average price: 130 yen per pad
Uniqlo Winter Clothing.
While using Japan’s public transport, you can’t help but notice the locals’ impeccable fashion sense, especially their winter wear.
If you want to style up for winter like the Japanese, you don’t need to spend a lot. Just check out a nearby Uniqlo store – one of the few Japanese brands which is cheaper in Japan.
Uniqlo is perfect for affordable winter and western clothing. Their Heattech trousers and tops are the best thermal wear I’ve ever bought.
A winter jacket that costs around $120 in India and only withstands 15°C can be replaced by a $40 Uniqlo jacket in Japan, which keeps you warm even at -5°C, and in style!
Where to buy: Over 870 Uniqlo stores in Japan; the Ginza Store in Tokyo is the largest
Average price: Varies
Furoshiki – Gift Wrapping Clothes
Furoshiki is a unique Japanese item to buy. These beautiful, versatile cloths are traditionally used to wrap gifts, lunch boxes, or even shopping items.
I loved them because they’re a sustainable souvenir that reflects Japanese culture. You can find these in various designs and sizes at local shops, and they’re quite affordable.
Where to buy: Historical area shops in Kyoto
Average price: 500–1,500 yen
Fundoshi – Traditional Japanese Undergarments
Fundoshi is the traditional Japanese undergarment worn by sumo wrestlers. Made from a 3-metre-long cotton cloth, it’s rare to find in stores.
I found one in Tokyo, and it’s an interesting souvenir that definitely starts conversations!
Where to buy: Speciality stores in Tokyo
Average price: 1,000–3,000 yen
Samue and Jinbei – Casual Japanese Wear
Samue and Jinbei are casual Japanese clothes made from lightweight cotton in colours like indigo and green.
Samue is a two-piece set for artisans or monks, while Jinbei is a comfy summer outfit, great for home.
Jinbei usually comes with short sleeves and shorts, while Samue has long sleeves and trousers. They’re super comfy for lounging and make a unique, practical souvenir from Japan.
Where to buy: Specialty stores all over Japan
Average price: 2,000–4,000 yen
Origami Sets
The art form of “folding paper to create figures,” Origami, has its roots in Japan. You’ll find origami sets featuring Ghibli characters, giant castles, and more.
There are even origami decorations like wreaths, mobiles, or framed pieces. I’ve seen origami jewellery and big, fancy displays in shops—it’s all about getting creative with a simple piece of paper!
This can be a great “brain teaser” souvenir to take home from Japan as a tourist.
Where to buy: Souvenir shops all across Japan.
Average price: 1000 Yen Onwards
Chopsticks (Hashi)
Hashi, or Japanese chopsticks, have been around since 790 AD and were once holy tools for rituals.
Now, they’re everywhere, used for eating, cooking, or even styling your hair.
Eating with chopsticks is actually quite mandatory—you’ll hardly find spoons and forks. So once you get used to the chopstick culture of Japan, buying a pair is a great idea as it is one of the cheapest things to buy in Japan.
They’re super practical and a fun way to bring a bit of Japan home. You’ll find all kinds—from simple wooden ones to fancy gift sets with cases.
Definitely Hashi-Japanese Chopsticks are the cheapest souvenir to buy from any part of Japan.
Where to buy: Any city’s Japanese markets
Average price: Starting from 300 yen
Japan’s Umbrellas
The traditional Japanese umbrella made of paper and bamboo is called Wagasa. Although they are pretty, they aren’t practical for regular use by non-Japanese.
Instead, go for transparent umbrellas that you can find in any Kombinis.
Whether it’s snowing or raining, these see-through umbrellas never block your sight and add beauty to your photos in the snowfall – Surely it is the best thing to buy in Japan under budet.
Where to buy: Kombini stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson)
Average price: Under 700 yen
Nostalgic Video Game Souvenirs
If, as a kid, you played games like Islander, Bomberman, Mario, Duck Hunt, and Pac-Man on a Nintendo console in the 1990s, you’ll be delighted to buy them as nostalgic souvenirs.
Local Japanese are obsessed with these, not just tourists, because Japan is the birthplace of iconic gaming brands like Nintendo and Sega.
So, if you want to buy something in Japan that locals also buy, go for video game souvenirs. You can find old cassettes, remotes, and everything else at an affordable price in Japan.
Where to buy: Super Potato in Akihabara, Tokyo
Average price: 200 yen for a cassette
Best high-end things worth buying in Japan.
Nintendo Switch
If you are obsessed with games like my spouse, buying a Nintendo Switch is totally worth it. It’s one of the best gadgets to buy in Japan for gaming enthusiasts.
This handheld gaming console doesn’t fall under the cheapest things to buy in Japan, but they’re cheaper than in other parts of the world.
Plus, Japan often has exclusive Switch models, limited-edition consoles, and special game bundles that you can’t get anywhere else.
You’ll also get the latest releases first, and there’s something special about buying a Nintendo product in its home country.
Where to buy : Nintendo world, BIG Camera
Average Price : 25000 yen onwards
Hocho – Japanese knives
Japanese knives, or “hocho,” are super important in Japan because they’re crafted with incredible precision and tradition.
Hocho comes in all shapes: Gyuto (your all-rounder for slicing and dicing), Santoku (for veggies, fish, meat), Deba (for fish), Nakiri (perfect for chopping veggies), and Yanagiba (for sushi).
If you’re new, grab a Gyuto or Nakiri. But keep in mind, they aren’t exactly affordable compared to other Japanese things.
Just make sure your airline allows you to carry knives in checked luggage. Go on a tuna fish auction tour to see all the varieties of Japanese knives and learn what could be used when.
Where to buy: Japanese markets in Hiroshima or Tokyo Toyosu Market
Average price: 8,000 yen onwards
Art & Stationary Supplies
Japan’s stationery scene is packed with cool finds! From Washi tape in endless patterns to Fudepens perfect for calligraphy, there’s so much to explore.
Japanese stationery is all about quality, creativity, and fun—seriously, it’s more than just pens and paper.
Artists love Kokuyo Campus notebooks and Pilot FriXion pens for their quality and style.
As an architect, I went crazy over the variety of pens and even grabbed a set of vibrant oil pastels.
Where to buy: Pigment in Tokyo, Suzuki Shofudo in Kyoto, Traveller’s Factory in Tokyo
Average price: The oil pastel pearl colour set of 12 colours that I bought cost me 7,000 yen.
Kawai and Harajuku style clothing
For a burst of colour and fun, Harajuku in Tokyo is the place to shop.
Here, you can buy Japanese schoolgirl uniforms, pop-colour jackets, and even quirky costumes on Takeshita Street. It’s all about unique styles that make you stand out!
Where to buy: Harajuku, Takeshita Street
Average price: Varies
Anime Merchandise
Japanese manufacturers create some of the most detailed and unique merchandise in the world.
Being home to Ghibli, Nintendo, and more, stores in Osaka and Tokyo are filled with miniatures and collectibles.
Where to buy: Ghibli stores (Donguri), Universal Studios, Nintendo stores in Tokyo, BIC Camera, and Edon
Average price: Varies
Kaga Temari – Cotton Thread Lanterns
Temari balls are beautiful, colourful balls made by wrapping silk or cotton threads around a core, creating intricate patterns.
Originally a children’s toy, they’re now used as decorations or gifts.
These thread balls are authentic to Kanazawa, and this art piece is now used as lanterns called “Kanazawa Lights.”
I’ve seen them hanging as ornaments, adding a pop of Japanese charm to any room. They’re small, unique, and super pretty!
Where to buy : Kanazawa
Average price per piece :5000 to over 10,000 yen
Yosegi Zaiku – Mosaic of Wood
The Hakone-born art form “Yosegi Zaiku” is a cool Japanese craft where they create awesome geometric patterns using natural wood—no paint needed!
Pieces of various trees are shaved, carved, or chipped and combined to create a hypnotic, subtly coloured geometrical pattern.
You can call it the mosaic art of wood. I spotted some beautiful boxes, trays, and coasters that just looked so unique and special.
Where to buy : Hakone, Tokyo
Average price per piece :5,000 to over 20,000 yen
Souvenirs in Japan You Should Not Buy
Don’t buy Kimono: Rent and wear Kimono with the help of shop attendees in Japan. They aren’t really comfy and may not be the best souvenir.
Traditional Japanese Sandals (Geta): Not so comfortable.
Don’t buy Matcha Tea powder : Matcha tea powder, the signature drink of Japan, is surely healthy, but the taste isn’t a personal preference.
Japanese Silk : Compared to Indian and Thai silk Japanese silk is expensive, and I have seen better quality silk for the same price.
Incense Sticks: Japanese temples are filled with delightful incense stick fragrances. But when you buy them and bring them back home, they don’t smell as nice—I wasted my money on it.
Ninja and Samurai Souvenirs: Apart from the figurines, nothing else was in our budget range!
Things from the 100 Yen Shop: Honestly, we found the 100 yen shops to be a bit tacky and solely made for tourists. The fridge magnets and keychains could be found anywhere else.
Japanese Fans: Fans within our budget weren’t any different from those you’d find in Vietnam or China. The prices for the hand-painted traditional paper fans were through the roof.
Can you shop tax-free in Japan?
Shops with a “Tax-free shopping” sign waive 8% tax for tourists on their billing amount. Unlike the EU, as a tourist you get a tax refund or reduction in the bill then and there.
To get 8% Tax Refund, you need to follow these :
- You must be a foreign visitor with a Japan temporary/Tourist visa staying in the country for less than six months.
- The purchase should be a minimum of 5,500 yen ( Varies with shops and outlets)
- At the time of billing, you must provide your passport. The passport must have the Japan entry stamp you receive at the airport.
- The cashiers scan that stamp to give you a reduction.
Best Places to Shop in Japan
What makes shopping in Japan a unique, easy, and fun experience is the wide range of options.
Luxury brands like Louis Vuitton exist even in train stations next to humble sweet vendor shops. Convenience stores to Japanese Vending machines, there are a variety of places where you go shopping in Jpan
Department Stores
Large multi-floor shops where you find groceries, sweets, and bento in the basement and luxury clothes, home goods, and restaurants above. Mitsukoshi in Nihombashi is the first in Japan.
Speciality Store
Shops dedicated to specific items, like cameras at Lemon Inc Shinjuku or soy sauce at Sawai Shoyu in Kyoto.
Electronic Stores.
High-tech stores like Yodobashi Camera and Bic Camera got gadgets, from robots to smart stoves – exclusive to e-gadgets, plus services like currency exchange.
Outlet Shopping
Discounted brand items in large shopping areas outside cities, such as Gotemba, known for its great deals and views of Mount Fuji.
Shopping Arcades
Covered shopping streets filled with small shops and food stalls, perfect for affordable finds and local flavours.
Convenience Stores
24/7 shops like 7-Eleven, offering snacks, meals, daily goods, and ATMs, found every few metres in cities. Umbrellas, Sake, delicious desserts, underwears, heat packs – You can buy a ton of things here.
Vending Machines
Japanese Vending machines sell not just drinks, but also figurines, umbrellas, and even clothing like kimonos.
Arts and crafts centres
Places near temples or old districts where you find traditional crafts like pottery, lacquerware, and wooden toys.
Temple and shrine stalls
Shops along temple paths offering sweets, souvenirs, and the “Goshuincho” stamp book to track your visits.
Japanese Local Markets
Semi closed markets selling fresh fish, fruits, and vegetables – Good place to find Japanese food ingredients.
What to Know Before Shopping in Japan
Shop opening hours in Japan are usually from 10 AM to 8 PM on weekdays.
Convenience stores like 7-Eleven and FamilyMart are open 24 hours a day, throughout the week.
Fish and vegetable markets open as early as 7 AM and close after lunch.
Many shops remain closed on Japanese national holidays and Sundays.
Christmas markets bloom in the evenings in December. Check them out for winter illumination and some homemade foods.
Japan used to be a mostly cash-based country. But now, using your Master and Visa Credit card for shopping is easy. Some shops accept SUICA cards also. But cash is preferred in Japan’s rural areas.
How to Shop in Japan – Etiquettes to Follow
No Eating or Drinking: Eating and drinking are prohibited in most shops.
Use Google Translate : Always have data enabled or a local Japanese SIM on your phone to use Google Translate, especially in local Japanese markets.
Window Shopping: Window shopping and asking for prices politely is okay.
No Bargaining: Forget about bargaining—no shop in Japan entertains it.
Line Etiquette: Breaking the line at the billing counter is a big no-no.
Ask for a Bag: You have to tell the cashier if you need a plastic bag (it costs ¥3 – ¥5).
Paying with Cash: Place cash on a money tray; don’t hand it over or place it randomly on the counter.
No Tipping: Never say, “Keep the change.” Tipping or leaving the change is considered rude.
No Discounts: Don’t expect shopkeepers to give you even a 1 yen discount unless specified.
Clothing Sizes: Japanese clothing sizes are quite different, so if in doubt, ask for help and wait for them to take you to the fitting room.
No Shoes in Fitting Rooms: No shoes are allowed in fitting rooms.
Use Both Hands: Receiving any object using just one hand is uncommon and considered rude.
Photography Rules: Most shops and markets don’t allow photography inside. Ask for permission before taking pictures.
Greetings: Shopkeepers greet you with a smile and a bow. As a foreigner, a nod with a smile when you enter the shop is fine.
Gift Wrapping: If you need gift wrapping, you must inform the cashier. Sometimes, you may have to do it yourself with the paper they provide
FAQ
Can You Haggle in Japan?
Haggling in Japan isn’t entertained. Hardly local people bargain. SO as a tourist, it is better you don’t haggle.
Is Shopping in Osaka Cheaper than Tokyo?
Shopping and cost of living in Osaka is much cheaper than Tokyo in general.
Where to Go Shopping in Japan?
There are numerous shopping places in Japan, from local markets to luxury malls. If you want to buy expensive designer bags, clothing shoes consider visiting a luxury thrift store in Japan for great deals.
What to Buy in Tokyo?
If you’re unsure what to buy in Tokyo, consider local specialties like Higashi, Knives, Tokyo Banana or traditional dolls.
What can you buy with 100 yen in Japan
100 yen is a small amount to spend in Japan However, you can still find some simple stationery, a small pouch of cosmetics, or a small portion of snacks for 100 yen in Japan.
What were your favourite things to buy in Japan as a tourist? Share your experience with us in the comments below!
