Tokyo Shopping Guide｜Souvenirs Edition

Tokyo offers a rich culture of souvenirs, ranging from traditional Japanese sweets to modern snacks, ensuring delightful options for everyone. Here are three shopping spots perfect for finding unique and affordable souvenirs that capture the charm of Tokyo. 1. Tokyo Station Ichiban-gai Located on the basement level of Tokyo Station, Ichiban-gai is a paradise for souvenir shopping, featuring "Tokyo Sweets Paradise" and "Tokyo Ramen Street." Here, you can find the classic Tokyo Banana cakes (around 1,200 yen for 8 pieces), known for their rich cream flavor and elegant packaging, making them ideal gifts. Other popular items include limited-edition KitKat flavors (like matcha or strawberry) and ROYCE’ Nama Chocolate, priced affordably at around 800-1,500 yen. 2. Nakamise-dori in Asakusa Nakamise-dori is a treasure trove of traditional souvenirs, located along the walking street from Kaminarimon Gate to Senso-ji Temple. The small shops here sell treats like Ningyo-yaki (around 200 yen each), Senbei rice crackers (around 1,000 yen per box), and traditional Japanese sweets like Yokan. These handmade snacks exude a strong Japanese vibe and come in exquisite packaging, making them perfect for gifting to elders. Visit before 10:00 AM to avoid the tourist crowds and soak in the historical atmosphere of Asakusa. 3. Don Quijote Don Quijote is the go-to spot for budget-friendly souvenirs, with locations in Shibuya, Ginza, and more, open 24/7. The store offers exclusive Pocky flavors (around 200 yen per box), region-specific Calbee potato chips (around 150 yen), and Meiji chocolates (like Matcha Macadamia, around 800 yen). You can also find cartoon-themed candies and Hello Kitty trinkets, perfect for kids. Prices are low, and discounts are common. Shopping Tips: - Bring your passport for tax-free shopping; some stores accept electronic payments like Alipay. - Tokyo Station and Don Quijote are great for quick shopping, while Asakusa is ideal for leisurely browsing. - Check the shelf life of souvenirs (traditional sweets have shorter shelf lives, while snacks last about 3-6 months). Tokyo souvenirs combine creativity and tradition, ensuring you can find the perfect gift no matter your budget at these locations!