Japanese Souvenirs

Are you planning a trip to Japan and wondering what Japanese souvenirs to bring back home with you? Are you like me and wish you could take back the country with you? Does the mere thought of gift buying in a wide and varied country like Japan overwhelm you?

Well, fret no more, my friend, as this list of souvenir ideas will undoubtedly inspire your holiday purchases. Whether you’re after snack recommendations, traditional cultural keepsakes, or cute kawaii gifts, this Japanese souvenir guide has your back.

And yes, we don’t just mindlessly buy here. I encourage you to be mindful with your purchases and to learn the history or culture behind any traditional Japanese souvenirs that you may buy. To help you, I’ve included a brief summary of each item where relevant.



Different Types Of Souvenirs From Japan

With a country as large, varied, and dripping in history and culture as the land of the rising sun, it is expected that there will be an equally diverse range of crafts to choose from when thinking of things to take back home with you.

And no, I’m not referring to the mass-produced fridge magnets and snow globes that you’ll find in every tourist trap. Which I do love, by the way. But I’m referring to the intricate crafts, textiles, beauty products, technology, and snacks that are native to Japan.

Therefore, I have broken this souvenir guide into various categories. These cover wooden, homeware, textiles, clothing, edible and more types of souvenirs. And if that wasn’t enough, I’ve also listed the best places to shop for your souvenirs in each of the major touristic cities and the local specialities to consider taking back home with you.

So, all that you will have to do, is throw on a good pair of walking shoes and constantly worry over how much space you have left in your luggage.

Happy Shopping!


Need Help Choosing Which Japanese Souvenirs To Buy?

When buying your souvenirs in Japan, I would highly recommend the following shopping tips

  • Plan and commit to your budget
  • Weigh your luggage with all your things in it to figure out how much weight you have left
  • Map out how far you are willing to travel to make a purchase
  • Think about who you are buying for and does the recipient have any particular interests
  • Think about what intrigued you the most on your travel and would want to share with others

This will ensure that not only the recipient will be happy. But the shopping experience will also be a pleasant and meaningful one too for the lucky shopper exploring Japan.

And if you’re purchasing a souvenir for yourself, I highly recommend getting everything that you want, if you can afford it.

Because trust me, there is no bigger regret than returning home and wishing you had bought something. Especially when it’s a destination as exotic as Japan and not one that you will frequently return to.

So without further ado, let’s dive into our list of must-have Japanese souvenirs.


Wooden Japanese Souvenirs

Japanese Souvenirs
Wooden Japanese Souvenirs

1. Chopsticks

If there’s one thing on our list that doesn’t need any introductions, it would have to be the humble chopsticks. It’s an eating tool that originates from China and is designed to eat without the sharp edges of a fork. So if like me, you find it hard to stab your food (which is offensive to do by the way) it is by design.

Chopsticks Etiquette To Note

  • Do not leave your chopsticks to stand in a bowl of rice, as it’s seen as a curse in certain Asian cultures. In particular, the Chinese culture. It is reminiscent of the incense used at a funeral.
  • Do not rub your chopsticks together. As, this could be interpreted as you’re rubbing the splinters of a cheap pair of chopsticks.
  • Do not wear chopsticks in your hair. This is simply rude and culturally inappropriate.

Now that you know the proper etiquette, why not buy a pair of chopsticks to take back home with you so that you can level up your chopstick’s eating and cooking skills.


2. Tsuko – Tegata

For anyone that has watched any Japanese films or dramas set in the Edo period, you will be familiar with this. The Tsuko – Tegata was a wooden passport that was used to prove your identity, and to ensure that you have the right to travel.

Much like the modern day passport and NI Cards, it was mandatory for every traveller to carry one. When visiting today, you can purchase your very own unique wooden Tsuko – Tegata. What better way to commemorate your trip to Japan.

Even better, why not also purchase one as an incentive for anyone planning on travelling to Japan.


3. Lucky Charms – Omamori

Omamori is a lucky charm that is commonly sold at shrines and temples all over Japan. It is an amulet that is believed to be a form of protection or bring good luck to the one that bears it. It is meant to be worn on your phone, purse, handbag, or even your keychain.

If you’re visiting Japan in winter, you’ll find that these charms are very popular around the New Year’s Eve period. And if you have any students in your life, you may want to consider getting them one. As students often rely on the wooden lucky charms to bring them good luck come exam season.


Homeware Souvenirs From Japan

Japanese Homeware Souvenirs
Japanese Homeware Souvenirs

4. Ceramics & Pottery

Did you know that nearly each of the 47 prefectures in Japan makes its own unique ceramics? That too, using resources that are local to their region? Well, believe it my friends because that is true. Whilst your mind may instantly go to the idea of purchasing a ceramic from each prefecture, (believe me, my mind went there), it may not be the most practical of options.

Therefore, I present to you some of my favourite ceramics from Japan.

  • Tableware such as plates
  • Sake bottles and sake cups that can also be used for water or soft drinks
  • Ceramic rice containers
  • Traditional tea pot and tea bowls set used in the tea ceremonies

5. Maneki Neko

If you’ve stayed in an Airbnb in Japan or visited a historical or cultural place, you would undoubtedly have seen this. It is the famous beckoning cat figurine that is believed to bring good luck to the owner. Even if you don’t believe in its magical prowess, who can say no to one of these cute felines.

If you do get one, it’s popularly placed at the southeastern corner of the house, which is considered the wealth area. If you have a home office, you should consider placing it there.


6. Mage Wappa Bento Box

If you’re familiar with the Japanese culture, you would know that bento boxes aka lunch boxes are very popular. Whilst the majority are made from plastic, most bento connoisseurs are reverting to the simple way of lunching by opting for a wooden lunch box.

The most traditional of all is the Mage Wappa Bento Box that originates from Odate City in the Akita Prefecture. The good people of Akita have been producing these lunch boxes for over 400 years now, so it’s safe to say that they know what they are doing.

When opting for a Mage Wappa bento box today, you’ll have three options:

  1. Uncoated wooden Mage Wappa box – Other than the fresh woody smell, it also keeps your food warm. Though given that it’s in its raw form, it’s considered harder to maintain than the other two options.
  2. Urushi-coated Mage Wappa bento box – This is considered the easiest to maintain. It washes easily and dries off easily.
  3. Urethane coated Mage Wappa box – Is the cheapest option of the three, but it is mightier in the sense that it can hold oily food. However, you won’t get that woody smell, nor does it keep your food as warm as the other two.

7. Zabuton Floor Cushions

Japanese Floor Cushion
Japanese Floor Cushion

If there is one thing that I appreciate, it is the endurance of those from Asia. Whilst, flashbacks to my primary school assemblies where we were seated on the floor are enough to make my legs hurt. You’ll find that many parts of Asia actually spend a considerable amount of time sitting on the floor. Especially at meal times.

And Japan is no exception. The zabuton floor cushions are like a miniature rectangular futon that is used for both sitting or kneeling in Japanese culture. The Zabuton cushions have been around for over 1000 years. They were popularly used by the high and mighty in the imperial courts, as well as by Buddhist monks.

Today when purchased you can use it for:

  • Yoga – You can use it to cushion your knees when you’re all on all fours or to rest your head on when in corpse pose.
  • Mediation – Especially for those that like to meditate for a while, this could help to keep your bottom nice and comfortable. Allowing you to spend more time focussing on your inner self.
  • Chairs – Yes, it is designed for the floor. But there is no reason why you can’t pad your chair up and make it extra comfy.

8. Kawaii Products

I mean, can you really say that you’ve been to Japan if you don’t come back with any Kawaii products? If you’re not familiar with the Kawaii culture in Japan, it’s simply celebrating all things cute. And yes, that does include hello kitty.

Looking for inspiration? Who not consider?

  • A mochi shaped plushie
  • A tissue box in the shape of an old school TV
  • A 3D mop
  • A rabbit shaped kitchen timer

9. Rice Cooker

If there is one food item that we can appreciate from Asia, it’s rice. If like my family you have rice pretty much every night, then why not opt for a rice cooker? You’ll find that this is a staple in most Japanese homes, so why not take one back home with you?

Here are some of the most popular Japanese rice cookers to consider taking back home with you.


10. Smart Toilet

If you’ve been to Japan, you’ll know what I mean here. If there’s one item that blew me away whilst I was in Japan and that I regret not bringing back home with me, it’s a smart toilet seat. From being vocally greeted by the toilet as you open the door, to keeping your bottom warm and having bidet functionalities, who wouldn’t want one?


Artwork Souvenirs From Japan

Ukiyo-e Woodblock Prints
Ukiyo-e Woodblock Prints

11. Ukiyo-e Woodblock Prints

If you are a fan of the arts and history, then this souvenir from Japan is for you. The Ukiyo-e, which literally translates to “pictures of the floating world” is a woodblock with a colourful depiction of everyday life printed onto it.

Despite being seen as ‘low class’ back in the Edo period, actors and courtesans were still the style icons of their day. And with their popularity, they were commonly the subject of these woodblock prints. In fact, the term ‘floating world’ actually refers to the licensed brothels and Kabuki theatres.

However, there were many more subjects printed onto the woodblocks. These include landscapes and folktales. If you find yourself in Tokyo, be sure to head to the Hara Shobo store to view their collection.


Paper Japanese Souvenirs

Paper Japanese Souvenirs
Paper Japanese Souvenirs

12. Folding Fans

What screams Japan more than the folding fans that we have seen in Japanese art and history over the years. And the best part, the Japanese folding fan is more than just a souvenir, it can actually be used.

The folding fan is called “sensu” or “o-gi” in Japan, and it usually has calligraphy or a beautiful pattern or landscape printed onto Washi paper. It originates from the Japanese courts between the 6th- 9th centuries and was called akomeogi after the court women’s dresses.

Whilst the Japanese fan has many symbolisms, one of my favourites is that it brings prosperity. The opening action of the fan is similar to a blooming flower, which can be seen as the widening of wealth.

From modern prints to traditional ones, you’ll find a wide range of folding fans all over Japan.


13. Daruma Dolls

The Daruma doll is a round, hollow papier-mache traditional Japanese doll that is modelled after Bodhidharma. The founder of the Zen school of Buddhism. Originally, the doll was weighted at the bottom so that it would always spring back up if it had tiped on its side. Given its ability to always get back up, over time it became a symbol of perseverance and luck.

However, it comes in many colours and each colour has a different meaning.

  • Purple For health and self-improvement
  • White – For love and purity
  • Gold – For money and wealth

Though today, you’ll find the dolls sitting comfortably on a little stand and can be easily purchased from most cities. If you’re in Tokyo, you’ll very likely find these at one of the market stands outside the Senso-Ji temple.


14. Okiagari-Koboshi Dolls

Similar to the Daruma dolls, the Okiagari-Koboshi dolls are also weighted papier-mâché dolls. Given its ability to always spring back up, this good luck charm is also a symbol of perseverance and luck.

When purchasing your doll, it is recommended to tip two over, and to purchase the one that springs back up the fastest. Because you know, that one is clearly luckier.

Personally, I find this doll cuter when compared to the Daruma doll. And you can even pick up a Japanese princess style doll called Hime.


15. Chochin Japanese Lanterns

One of my favourite souvenirs to collect from around the world is a lantern. And the Japanese Chochin lanterns are no exception. The Chochin lantern is made from Washi paper that is then stuck onto the bamboo frame.

They come will all sorts of designs and calligraphy painted or printed onto them. So you’re bound to find one that meets your taste. Although traditionally they were shaped to reflect nature, myths and local culture. The modern Chochin lanterns come in all shapes, including dragons and pop idols.


Other Paper Souvenir Items

Origami
Origami

16. Japanese Stationery

Stationary is another one of my favourite staples to pick up on my travels. And given the kawaii culture in Japan, you may find yourself buying one of everything. Even a cute tape holder, although you never use tape.

But one thing that you can easily get and put to use is a notebook and pen. You can even use this to document your travels. Kind of like a journal.


17. Origami

Who doesn’t love a good old origami session? And what better than to buy an origami set from the land that it originates from. That is right my friends, origami is the 1000 years old traditional Japanese art of folding paper to make intricate objects. That too with just a single piece of paper.

You’ll be able to pick up a kit at most arts and crafts stores across Japan.


18. Tickets & Maps

The tickets and maps that you used on your travels make for a great personal souvenir. Especially if you’re into scrap booking your travels. even if you’re not I highly recommend taking them back home with you and storing them in a box.

You never know when nostalgia or even creativity will hit, and you’ll wish that you had all the mementos from your travels.


Japanese Textile Souvenirs

Noren Curtains
Noren Curtains

19. Furoshiki Cloths

A Furoshiki is a squared shape cloth that is used to wrap gifts, carry your goods or even just simply use as decoration. It’s the Japanese answer to eco friendly wrapping paper. If you travel by train or coaches/bus across Japan, you may notice that the locals have their things wrapped in a cloth. That is a Furoshiki.

The Furoshiki dates back to 710 BC, where it was initially used to wrap important gifts. Throughout the different periods in time, the purpose for it evolved. During the Muromachi period, it is reported that the guests at a particular Shogun bathhouse would keep their belongings wrapped up in a cloth.

This cloth would contain their clan’s emblem to prevent anyone else from confusing it with theirs. Given that there were feudal lords in attendance, it probably was a good idea to not get things mixed up.

However, when all is said and done, the Furoshiki is one of those Japanese traditions that stood the test of time and is still commonly used today.

If you’re looking for an eco friendly Japanese souvenir to take back home with you, this is it. It’s one that can be used time and time again and even passed down through generations.


20. Noren Curtains

The Japanese Noren Curtain is the famous curtain that you probably would have seen in restaurant doorways. It is famously split down the middle, so it allows the owner to easily pass in out through the curtains whilst maintaining privacy.

It was originally designed to protect a house from wind and dust, but today it can be used in your doorway, by your windows or even hung on the wall as a decoration.

So if you absolutely must have one, you don’t have to throw away your existing curtains. You can simply hang it up on display, and it won’t be considered out of place.


21. Tengui Towels

If you’re into the business of collecting hand or kitchen towels on your travels or just really like the sound of one, then the Tengui Towels may be just what you need. It is a simple piece of cloth that is very versatile.

It can be used as a hand towel, dish cloth or even as a wash cloth.


Clothing Souvenirs From Japan

Yukata
Yukata

22. Yukata

If you’ve been to a Japan bathhouse, Ryokan or pretty much anywhere in Kyoto, you would have probably seen a Yukata. It is the lighter version of a kimono that is made from cotton or polyester and is traditionally worn in casual situations. These range from summer festivals to trotting to your nearest bathhouse.

Think of it as the classy bathrobe that you can even wear outside when it’s too hot for anything else. Many of the large department stores such as Don Quijote sells Yukata sets that comes complete with an obi belt and geta sandals.


23. Obi Belts

An Obi is a belt traditionally worn on a Yukata. If you are buying a Yukata then chances are that you’ll need an obi to prevent your robe from coming undone. You can even buy multiple Obis so that you can mix and match your belts with your favourite Yukata.


24. Geta And Zori Sandals

Geta and Zori sandals are traditional Japanese shoes that resemble a flip-flop. These are commonly made out of wood and are worn with kimonos. The difference between the two is simply that Geta sandals are much higher.

A Geta is designed to keep you elevated from the elements and is best worn when it’s raining or snowing to keep your feet nice and dry.

If you’re already getting a Yukata and Obi belt, you may as well go ahead and get a pair of traditional sandals as well.


25. Kawaii Socks

Yes socks! If there is one thing that I always get when I’m in Asia, it is socks. As they tend to be the cutest ankle socks, and you get them for a bargain. And let me tell you it doesn’t get cuter than kawaii. Whether you’re after Hello Kitty, Pokémon, or any other cute characters, you’ll find them, and they are super comfortable.


Japanese Souvenirs To Last A Lifetime

Bonsai Tree
Bonsai Tree

26. Japanese Cooking Class

If you’ve grown fond of Japanese food whilst you are on your travels, then why not opt for a Japanese cooking class? An authentic Japanese cooking class in Japan is a great way to learn the local herbs, spices, and techniques to master the art of Japanese culinary.

And fret not, you can even find cooking classes that are tourist-friendly.


27. Bonsai Tree

If you’re after a Japanese souvenir that not only lasts you a lifetime but can be passed down many generations, then get a bonsai tree. If you aren’t familiar with Bonsai rearing, it’s the art of growing trees whilst keeping them dwarfed in size.

Whilst it may sound difficult to grow bonsai trees, it’s actually pretty simple once you’ve understood the how-to. If you decided to get one, you should head to the Omiya Bonsai Village in Saitama. Not only is it a popular nursery in Japan, but it’s also globally renowned.


Edible Japanese Souvenirs

Japanese Wagashi and Tea
Japanese Wagashi and Tea

28. Sweet Treats

Japan has many sweet treats that you can bring back home to commemorate your trip with.

Some to consider buying are:

  • Kit Kats – Trust me on this. You’ll find every Kit Kat flavour imaginable in Japan. Over 300 Kit Kat flavours to be precise, and that includes cherry blossom and grape.
  • Pocky – These biscuit sticks covered in chocolate or other flavouring are highly addictive and come in many flavours. This includes cocoa milk, chocolate almond, strawberry and chocolate banana.
  • Tokyo Banana – As the name suggests, this sweet treat is a banana shaped sponge cake that is filled with custard. Yum! Due to its freshness, this does have a short life span of around 1 week. So you may want to consider purchasing this on your last day in Tokyo. Did I mention that Tokyo Banana is exclusive to Tokyo?

29. Japanese Teas

With all the sweetness, you’ll definitely need some tea to wash it down with, right? Especially if you bought a tea set, you’ll need an excuse to use it right. Well lucky for you, Japan has no shortage of tea, flavours and strength.

Some to consider buying are:

  • Peach Tea – From the Fuji Shibazakura Festival that runs at the foothill of Mount Fuji in spring.
  • Matcha Super Premium Is the highest quality matcha tea that’s grown near a river in Uji, Kyoto.

30. Savoury Japanese Snacks

Whilst Japan may be known for its sweet treats and teas, it is in no way lacking in savoury snacks. From rice crackers to crisps, Japan has it all.

Some to consider buying are:

  • Yokohama Seasme Oil Okaki Rice Crackers – Made from 100% glutinous rice and flavoured with sesame oil and soy sauce.
  • Hokkaido Rich Butter Crisps – This potato crisp comes with a punch full of flavour, and is made with fresh butter from Hokkaido. The prefecture that is famed for its dairy produce, so just imagine how great that buttery taste must be.
  • Imokari Cube – This sweet potato snack is chopped into cubes and fried to a crisp to create the perfect mix of sweet and savoury.

Japanese Beauty & Skincare Souvenirs

Beauty Products
Beauty Products

31. Japanese Makeup

If you’re a beauty junkie, well you shouldn’t turn your nose up at Japanese makeup as it’s very popular in the Asian world. If you have ever spent any time on the Asian Beauty subreddit, well then you’ll know exactly how popular Japanese makeup is.

Some items to consider buying are:

  • Kiss Me Heroine Make Smooth Liquid Eyeliner
  • Kiss Me Heroine Make Long and Curl Mascara
  • Shiseido Synchro Skin Glow Luminizing Fluid Foundation
  • CANMAKE Cream Cheek
  • SHISEIDO Eyelash Curler
  • CANMAKE Marshmallow Finish Powder
  • Shu Uemura Hard Formula Eyebrow Pencil 

32. Japanese Skincare

If you thought Japanese makeup was a big hit with the Asian Beauty subreddit, well then believe me Japanese skincare is even more popular. Famed for their essences and sunscreens, if you do one thing for your skin, make sure you don’t leave Japan without one of these.

Some items to consider buying are:

  • Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence Sunscreen
  • CANMAKE Mermaid Skin Gel UV SPF 50+ PA++++
  • SKII Facial Treatment Essence
  • Hada Labo Gokujyun Hyaluronic Face Wash
  • Kikumasamune High Moist Lotion

Additional Japanese Souvenirs

Samurai Goods
Samurai Goods

33. Samurai Goods

The samurai or bushi as they were formerly known were the warriors of Japan. Although they are no longer the protectors of modern day Japan, the Samurai culture still lives on. If you have any interest in Samurai, chances are you’ll visit a samurai museum in Japan.

Here are some items to consider buying:

  • Samurai Armour
  • Japanese sword / katana
  • Sword Mount
  • Samurai Jeans
  • Samurai T-shirt

34. Japanese Parasol

Japanese umbrellas are called Wagasa in Japanese and are made from oiled paper. A janomegasa is a Wagasa with a bull’s eye design. Regardless of which one you get, these umbrellas are very light weight and are primarily used in the sun.

If you aren’t familiar with the concept of parasols, it’s an umbrella that is used to shield one’s delicate skin from the sun. It is very popularly used across Asia. Whilst the Wagasa are a type of parasol, don’t expect to be able to use this paper brolly if there’s any wind or rain.


35. Japanese Inkan Stamps

A Japanese Inkan Stamp is another way of signing a document, that replaces the need for a signature or initials. It is a seal that has been carved with the owner’s name or company name and can be used to sign a contract and even bank documents.

Though, you can’t just create an Inkan and use it. You have to get it registered with the government and get a certificate in return. But if you wanted to just get a Japanese stamp to keep as a memento, you can easily do so without the need to register it.


36. Kanzashi Hair Accessory

Kanzashi is a popular Japanese hair accessory that has been used by Japanese women since the Jomon period. It is commonly worn in traditional Japanese hairstyles and can also be worn on short hair.

If you’re into your hair accessories, you should definitely pick one up. Especially if you plan to complete your Yukata look with a traditional Japanese updo.


37. Furin Wind Chimes

Furin is a Japanese wind chime that unlike traditional wind chimes contains a bell. It is commonly hung around balconies and porches in the summer, but there’s no reason why you can’t hang it by your window. Especially if you live in a flat/apartment as I do.

But like with other Japanese goods, the location of the wind chimes is supposed to bring about different luck.

  • When hung in the West – It brings good luck to small children
  • When hung in the North – It opens up career opportunities
  • When hung in the North West – It brings the luck of your mentors into your life

To be on the safe side, I recommend buying one for each location to cover all your bases!


Where To Go Shopping For Japanese Souvenirs

Japanese Souvenirs
Japanese Souvenirs

Now that you know all the must-have Japanese souvenirs, here are the best places to go shopping for them in each tourist city. As well as the popular souvenir to purchase at each location.

Asakusa

Asakusa is one of the famous districts in Taito Tokyo that is famous for the Buddhist temple Senso-ji. Not only does this district ooze old school charm, but it’s a popular location to buy souvenirs in Japan.

  • Funawa Honten for sweet potato treats.
  • Kimura-ya Ningyo-yaki Honpo for various shaped sponge cakes filled with anko bean paste
  • Tokiwado Kaminari-Okoshi Honpo for sweet rice crackers
  • Kurodaya for Japanese Washi Paper
  • Yamakichi for tableware and ceramics

Tokyo Station

Tokyo station is one of the busiest stations in Tokyo. But given its popularity, it also means that there are lots of souvenir shops for you to pick from.

  • GRANSTA for Maple Mania Maple Butter Cookies that are voted the best rated souvenir in Tokyo station.
  • GRANSTA for My Captain Cheese TOKYO Set. It’s a burger shaped treat where cheddar cheese chocolate is sandwiched in bun shaped biscuits.
  • GRANSTA for Marche de Chocolat. It’s a nut that’s coated in chocolate and comes in a chocolate persimmon flavour.

Harajuku

Harajuku is one of the trendiest areas in Tokyo. And given its edginess, you’re bound to find a wide array of souvenirs here.

  • Asoko for a wide variety of Japanese souvenirs.
  • AssistOn for Japanese stationery, bags electronics and more.
  • Princess one Spoon TOKYO for accessories, clothing and fashion items and of course sweet treats.
  • Shoyeido Aoyama Store for a wide variety of Japanese incenses.
  • Picnic Harajuku for all your Kawaii gifts, T-shirts, Japanese arts and crafts.

Downtown Kyoto

Downtown Kyoto isn’t a tourist hotspot in terms of attractions, but it’s where all the hustle and bustle happens. Downtown is where the hotels, shops and restaurants are.

  • Nishiki Market for your exotic vegetables, tofu, Japanese pickles, traditional sweets, kitchenware and more.
  • The Souvenir Store for Kyoto branded gifts such as T-shirts and small gift pins.
  • Kyoto Sword Shop for all your Samurai sword needs.
  • Kazari Nishiki for all your Japanese souvenir and gifts.

Gion

Gion is the major tourist destination in Kyoto. And the Gion Shopping Street is the go-to location for all your shopping needs.

  • Kazurasei Roho for Kanzashi (hair accessories) and beauty products such as camellia oil. As well as other products used by Maiko such as wigs.
  • Kyo-to-to for Japanese embroidered hand towels, bags, pouches and more small items. If you’re looking for Kawaii meet traditional Japanese souvenirs, they’ve also got you covered.
  • Chingireya for one of a kind accessories made from ancient cloth fragments.

Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street

Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street is the most popular shopping area in Osaka. It begins at Ebisu bridge, located in the heart of Dotonbori, so you can’t miss it.

  • Daikoku Drug for all your Japanese skincare and beauty products.
  • LAOX for all your tax-free duty-free needs. This includes electronics, crafts, jewellery, food and beauty products.
  • DAISO for 100 yen Japanese souvenirs.
  • 3Coins for 300 yen Japanese souvenirs such as socks, household goods, home decor, accessories and more.
  • Sanrio Gallery for Sanrio products such as Hello Kitty and My Melody.

Hondori Shopping Arcade

Hondori is one of the most popular shopping arcades in Hiroshima, which promises to be a shopper’s paradise. From purikura parlors to anime shops, cafés, and clothing stores, this shopping street has it all.

  • Hiroshima Yume Plaza for local products from Hiroshima.
  • Heiando Umetsubo for Japanese sweets.
  • Nagasakiya for gifts and speciality products.
  • Don Quijote for discounted Japanese products.

More Inspiration To Plan Your Trip To Japan

Looking for more things to do in Japan? Here are some more inspirations.


The Veiled Explorer’s Summary

Well there we have it, the best 37 Japanese souvenirs to buy from Japan and the popular shopping districts to purchase them from. From wooden souvenirs to paper, traditional and edible, you’ll find every Japanese souvenir imaginable in this guide.

So out of all the 37 souvenirs from Japan, which one are you looking forward to purchasing the most? Leave me a comment down below to let me know.



37 Awesome Japanese Souvenirs You Will Love

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