
Shopping. Japan-style
It’s almost impossible to visit Japan and not buy souvenirs to bring home. Known for its centuries-old craft heritage as well as futuristic fashion trends. This is a place that appeals to everyone. whether they’re shopaholics or not.
Across the country there are opportunities to see artisans at work and to take part in craft-based tourism activities. Whether you’re in the market for a new pair of premium Japanese jeans. or prefer a more traditional souvenir. Read on to discover a wide variety of options to appeal to all kinds of shoppers. And don’t forget to leave some space in your suitcase for the return journey. You’re going to need it.
Jean Genie – Japanese denim and where to buy it

Fashionistas and connoisseurs have long claimed that Japan’s denim is the best in the world. And there’s one street in Japan. Kojima Jeans Street in Okayama Prefecture. that delivers a denim fanatic’s dreams. with vintage storefronts housing flagship stores. artisans at work. and plenty of cafés and restaurants when you need to take a break from Shopping. Japan-style.
While Kojima may not feel like a centre of fashion. Japan’s denim industry grew up here. At the Betty Smith Jeans Museum and store. you can learn about this intriguing history. As well as customize your own jeans with a selection of buttons and rivets.
There are 30 stores specializing in premium denim here. And the signature indigo colour is everywhere. from the street itself that has been dyed blue in its honour. to cafés serving indigo-coloured food and drink. perfect for when you’ve shopped until you’ve almost dropped.
It’s not just jeans that you’ll find on Jeans Street. Jackets, caps, shirts, bags and other accessories can be found here. All dyed in those shades of indigo that are so synonymous with Japanese premium denim.
Visiting masters of craft in Toyama Prefecture

Toyama prefecture is known for its traditions of craftsmanship. and should feature high on the itineraries of travellers interested in learning more about Japan’s artisans and their exquisite work. And while there are plenty of opportunities to shop for items to take home. there’s much more to enjoy.
In Toyama. travellers can go straight to the source. visiting workshops. ateliers and factories to see how products are made from start to finish. many using techniques that have been alive for centuries. It’s all part of the prefecture’s push to develop more craft-based tourism opportunities.
In the city of Takaoka. artisans have been practicing copper and tin casting for hundreds of years. For an insight into metalwork. as well as an opportunity to experience one of the area’s most stylish buildings. Head to the Nousaku foundry.
Established in 1916 as a producer of Buddhist ritual objects. Japanese tea sets and vases made of brass and bronze. Nousaku continues to produce exquisite handmade metal items. and also offers free tours of the factory (which must be booked seven days in advance).
But this isn’t just a tour where visitors observe processes. There’s also the opportunity to try your hand at making tin sake cups. trays and other items at the Nousaku Lab.
The factory shop is the perfect place to pick up souvenirs to take home. including limited edition items only available here. and don’t miss the onsite Imono Kitchen restaurant for delicious cuisine made from local ingredients.
Pro Tip – plan your visit in autumn – from September to November – when Takaoka hosts a number of events linking craft and tourism. including the Takaoka Craft Ichibamachi. an opportunity to discover and purchase products from local producers and craftspeopl

Hello dolly at the Iwatsuki Ningyo Museum

Dolls have long held significance in Japanese culture. from the beautifully ornate hina ningyo celebrated during the Hina Matsuri doll festival on March 3rd. to the wooden cylindrical kokeshi traditionally made in northern Japan.
Saitama prefecture has its own tradition of doll-making. and the Iwatsuki Ningyo Museum. opened in 2020. is a great place to learn about this traditional craft.
The museum houses collections of elegant 18th century Gosho Ningyo dolls and warrior ningyo.
Also you can learn about the skills that have been handed down for generations through local families. At the next-door Nigiwai Koryukan Iwatsuki community complex. you can even try your hand at making your own doll.
If you’re keen to take a Japanese doll home with you. head to the Togyoku store. where the Totsuka family has been making dolls since the middle of the nineteenth century.
Miniature dolls. paper dolls. wooden dolls. dolls dressed in traditional kimono. dolls representing kabuki and noh theatre performances are all available.
Don’t forget to visit the Doll Studio as well to see the artisans at work creating this incredibly detailed craft.

Shop ‘til you drop. and fall into a comfy bed at the MUJI Hotel. Japan

As much as we love Shopping. Japan-style. the phrase “shop ‘til you drop” was created for a reason. It can be an exhausting pastime. Fortunately. those focusing their shopping spree on Tokyo’s Ginza neighbourhood have an option that provides fantastic retail therapy. and a good night’s sleep.
The MUJI Hotel Ginza combines convenience and comfort right in the middle of the Japanese capital’s favorite shopping area.
The MUJI Hotel feels like much more than a hotel. It has its own library and bakery. as well as the Atelier Ginza exhibition space focusing on craft and design. Take a seat at the camphorwood counter in Salon to sip carefully selected teas and coffee. or head to MUJI Diner for wholesome food based on natural seasonal ingredients.
Guestrooms are designed in typical MUJI style, with a simple, clean aesthetic. The smallest rooms are very small. so better to go for a larger option if you’ll have lots of shopping bags.
And if you pay a visit to MUJI GINZA. The brand’s flagship store and located in the same building. you’re likely to leave with plenty of new purchases.