If you are visiting the land of the Rising Sun, Japan, where traditions, culture and modernism blend in seamlessly, you should really consider yourself lucky. Not only does the country stand out for its concepts of Ikigai and Kaizen, or its pop culture (think Anime), it is also home to some cutting-edge innovation that makes it unique in all aspects. And when you have to shop in Japan, this beautiful amalgamation of culture and modernism makes it an enthralling experience on the whole. It is only natural to want to spend money on things you can only buy in Japan, so as to bring home the flavors of this modern-yet-rooted-traditional country.
Japan is home to some of the world’s most unique innovations (consider vending machines for literally everything), and the same uniqueness reflects in the products the country has on offer for locals and tourists alike. Go through our carefully curated list of 20 must buy products from Japan that are rarely found anywhere else in the world.
1. Japanese KitKats
It is no news that the Japanese love their KitKats to bits, and that is why they are the number one shopping item on your list. Whether it is the accidental meaning of the brand “Kitto Katsu“, to a Japanese phrase meaning “You will surely win” , or the exclusive flavors you will find only here, KitKats are more than just sweet-treats, they are also a good luck charm that people give each other on special occasions.
Some flavors are exclusive to the country and must be tried and You cannot be in Japan not and try “Sakura Matcha” (Cherry blossom Green Tea), ” Amaou” (A strawberry-flavored brand made in Fukuoka, Kyushu), and ” Beniimo” (Purple Yam) flavors of KitKats. Let me tell you, you will find yourself in sweet confusion on which flavor to choose from over 300 KitKat flavors up for grabs!. KitKats make an excellent gift from Tokyo for anyone who loves to binge on desserts. Just some of the things you can buy only in Japan!
Where to shop for KitKats in Japan: Almost all Supermarkets, convenience stores, drug stores and discount candy shops will have bundles of KitKats for tourists and locals alike. Hop on to Don Quijote for the crazy experience or visit stores like 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart on the go.
Price Range: Anywhere between ¥250 to ¥300 for a pack of 10.
2. Japanese Sweets and Snacks
Sure, the Japanese seem to have a sweet tooth, and after you have binged on a variety of KitKats, you may want to explore “Pocky” – the chocolate covered biscuits, or the more elite Wagashi – to keep up with your resolutions of drinking green tea.
- Wagashi: Traditional Wagashi candies are made from rice flour, beans and agar-agar and are even suitable for vegans. Too beautifully crafted and reflecting the region and season in which they are prepared, they make for an expensive gift for your folks back home.
- Tokyo Bananas: If you are shopping for gifts from Tokyo, you can look for Tokyo Bananas- a sponge-cake with a creamy banana filling in the shape of a banana. Well, no points for guessing that. You can also find Tokyo Bananas filled with chocolates, strawberries or caramel during special days and seasons. A very popular souvenir from Tokyo, they should be on your list of things to buy from Japan if you like to indulge in creamy cakes with a unique twist.
- Shiroi Koibito Cookies: Next on our list of Japanese snacks are the very famous and delicious Shiroi Koibito Cookies. With perfectly sweetened white chocolate sandwiched between langue de chat biscuits, produced in Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan. Named so after the pristine Hokkaido snowy climate and literally translating to “white lover” , these beautiful white boxes of delectable cookies are a must-buy souvenir from Japan. I expect atleast a box of Shiroi Koibito Cookies from all my friends and family who go to Japan for a visit. And why not??!!
Where to shop for Japanese Sweets and Snacks: Most Japanese souvenirs shop will have Wagashi, Tokyo Bananas and Shiroi Koibito Cookies packed in beautiful boxes to take back home. Many directly-managed Ishiya stores are also there, especially outside Hokkaido. Stores like Matsuya, Daimaru and Mitsukoshi offer the best Wagashi and Tokyo Bananas are found in all major Train Stations, airports and various shopping complexes.
Price Range:
Tokyo Bananas: 4 pieces, ¥691 approximately.
Wagashi: The popular Mochi can cost around ¥130 per piece, while the seasonal and elaborate ones can cost anywhere between ¥6,000 to ¥10,000.
Shiroi Koibito Cookies: From ¥800 for a small box to ¥3500 for more delectable flavors and premium boxes.
3. Japanese Skincare and Beauty Products
Something Japan is famous for and has kept us all in awe is how gorgeous their skins and hair are. Japanese skincare and beauty products have taken the social media feeds by storm, with influencers wooing us with their 8-step skin care routines for that ultimate glowing and beautiful skin. If you are into beauty and skincare, you simply cannot leave Japan without splurging on some of its famous beauty products. Honestly, you will need a suitcase, Japanese skincare products are T-E-M-P-T-I-N-G to indulge in.
Japan’s number 1 skincare brand, Hada Labo offers scientifically proven beauty solutions for all your skin and beauty needs. Needless to say, it is widely popular and highly regarded as a cult beauty brand. Why should you shop for Hada Labo premium products in Japan? Because they are generally cheaper in their home country than the rest of the world.
You could also pick up the affordable Bioré products or Rosette sheet masks as gifts for your friends and families.
Japan is also known for its minimum-look makeup brands that actually follow a skin-first approach and give you that natural, clean dewy look. Look for natural cheek blushes from Cezanne, and mascaras from Deja vu. There are some stunning eyeshadow palettes from Kate, and expensive but amazing foundations from Shiseido Synchro and Koh gen do.
Pick up face masks, serums, and cleansers—often formulated with unique ingredients like rice bran, pearl extract, and sake. Like I said before, you will need another suitcase.
Where to shop for Japanese Skincare and Makeup: Don Quijote, Cosme, Matsumoto Kiyoshi, and Tokyu Hands are some popular options to explore, and you can also look for deals in drug stores and shopping malls across Tokyo.
Price Range: Some products like cleansers may cost you in the range of ¥400 to ¥500 with discounts, whereas luxury and premium skincare products are anywhere between ¥1000 to ¥4500.
4. Kimono and Yukata – Traditional Japanese Apparel
If you have already posed as dolls for pictures in Japan’s traditional attire, you will definitely want to know where to get them as keepsakes from your trip. And traditional Japanese Apparel is something you will find in all its glory only in Japan.
Kimono are formal, traditional garments made from silk and often worn on special occasions like weddings, tea ceremonies, or festivals in Japan. Kimonos are elaborate with multiple layers and quite complex to wear especially if you don’t know how. Also, they can be quite expensive as a full set with under layer, an outer layer, zōri sandals, tabi (split-toe socks), accessories to give obi the right folds and shape and other detailing.
Yukata are the casual, lightweight version—typically made of cotton and worn during summer festivals or at ryokan (traditional inns). Yukatas come in a variety of fun, colorful patterns and are much more affordable than Kimonos. Because it just has one layer and a comparatively slimmer, and shorter obi to deal with, they are easier to wear and take off. In particular, Yukatas make a fantastic souvenir—they’re light, stylish, and bring a piece of Japanese summer culture home with you.
Where to shop for Kimono and Yukata: You can find them in several stores all across Tokyo, but to ensure you are buying yourself authentic Kimono and Yukata, head to Tansuya, Tokyo 135, department stores like Mitsukoshi. You can also opt for second-hand options from stores like Chicago or Kimono Yamato. There is no dearth of flea markets as well, but I’d prefer going to brands rather than returning with Yukata that look like bathrobes with a strip for an obi.
Price Range: Complete, authentic sets may cost you around ¥10000, and even more depending on how authentic you want to get. You can also get affordable Yukata in ranges of ¥1000-¥4500.
5. Handcrafted Japanese Fans
If you are looking for Japanese souvenirs that are easy to pack and will fit in your suitcase effortlessly, then opt for Sensu (Folding Fans) that are handmade and perfectly represent the rich culture of the Land of the Rising Sun. Sensu is the fan that people carry and use to fan themselves while ‘ogi’ are either for dancing or just display, so they are not practical though they are very pretty, and make for great keepsakes from Japan.
Nonetheless, they are intricately handcrafted by attaching washi paper or silk to a frame of thin wooden ribs made of bamboo. They represent the rich cultural heritage of Japan and can be used both for decorative and functional purposes.
Where to shop for Sensu in Japan: Nishikawa Shoroku Shoten (Kyoto) is perfect to shop for these traditional fans with techniques that are centuries old. A lot of department stores like Isetan or Mitsukoshi also have a good collection with beautiful patterns for tourists. You can also find a lot of origami range in these stores.
Price Range: Arguably one of the cheap things to buy in Japan, you can get them as souvenirs for as low as ¥200 and the price goes upto several thousands depending on the exclusivity and the brand.
6. Anime, Manga and Gaming Products
It is no surprise that Japan is the paradise for Anime and Manga fans alike. No matter whether you are a Naruto, One Piece, Attack on Titan, or Pokémon fan, you will not want to leave the country without memorabilia of your favorite anime or manga merchandise. And honestly, there is no dearth of options to choose from.
- Anime Products: From detailed statues of your favorite characters, to anime art books, and illustration collections are all pocket-friendly yet beautiful and meaningful souvenirs for any anime fan. Plushies and keychains are other popular options people from all walks of life buy as gifts to take back home from Japan.
- Manga Comics: What is that one thing that would make a great souvenir from Japan for both adults and children? Manga comics – without a doubt. These book-length comic books are sometimes sold with limited edition merchandise and posters, postcards, or mini-figures and make for great collectibles. Plus, you can always trust the very versatile stationary items sold in Japan in various Manga themes. Win-win!
- Gaming Products: Gaming is huge in the whole of Japan, so there is no dearth of electronic products you can pick for your gaming fan friend or colleague as your token from Japan. From limited editions, to retro consoles and even costumes on gaming heroes, these are some must-buy gadgets to buy in Japan.
Where to shop for Anime, Manga and Gaming Products in Japan: Pokemon stores all across the country are favorite haunts for shoppers looking for these small gifts. Akihabara, Ikebukuro, Nakano Broadway, and Super Potato stores are all your heaven! Ikebukuro in Tokyo is more for adults and has that cool vibe.
Price Range: You can shop for Manga volumes, key chains and other small merchandise starting from ¥100, and you can find plenty of options within the budget of ¥400 to ¥1000. If you are in the mood to treat yourself, you may want to bag limited edition figures, or new games and anime volumes starting ¥1000 each.
7. Maneki Neko (Lucky Cat Figurines) and Omamori (Good Luck Charms)
What can be a great gift for someone you love from Japan? Maneki Neko (‘beckoning cat’) is a good luck charm for the Japanese people thought to bless the owner with good fortune, money and good luck. You will find Ceramic statues & figurines of Maneki Neko in all shops, and mostly near the cash register.
Traditionally, Maneki Neko was of white color, but now you can get plenty of cute options in black, yellow, red, green, pink and blue, among others. But before you decide to give them to someone, make sure you know the meaning and significance of the color of the Maneki Neko cat.
Alternatively, you will also find ‘Omamori’ – deeply personalized and spiritual souvenirs that offer blessings for things like health, love, or success near all temples and shrines. These are small pouches made of embroidered brocade containing hand-written prayers and sealed inside. The amulet is fixed with a small strap that you can tie with your personal items. Definitely worth bringing from Japan for your very close people for that good luck and best wishes.
Where to shop for Maneki Neko cats in Japan: Places like Don Quijote, Tokyu Hands, Loft, and even some Daiso (100-yen shops) carry budget-friendly Maneki Neko. You will also find super affordable options in almost all department stores and souvenirs shops across all major train stations.
Price Range: You can get great options ¥300-¥1000 for both Maneki Neko cats and Omamari. Ofcourse, you can find finer variations in both these options at a higher range as well.
8. Japanese Bento Boxes
If your Instagram feed hasn’t yet shown you what a delight Japanese Bento Boxes are, we suggest you check them out at the local markets once. We guarantee you would not be able to stop at just one. To remember your vacation in Japan, Bento Boxes can be a simple way to bring a piece of Japanese culture back home and cherish it everyday, at your home, office or even school.
Whether you opt for wooden boxes or go for the more modern Ghibli-themed BPA-free boxes, there will be plenty of options and you can choose according to your lunching needs. Additionally, you can also get some amazing water bottles and other lunch essentials at great prices. Moreover, all of them collectively make for souvenirs that are equally usable.
Where to shop for Bento Boxes: You will spot Bento Boxes everywhere from convenience stores to train stations and department stores. One name that is popular for shopping for reusable Bento Boxes is Hands in Shinjuku.
Price Range: At 100¥ shops, you will find many Bento Boxes options in various colors, while the supermarkets and train stations will have the more customized variations. My take is, keep around 300¥ for each Bento Box, if you are budgeting beforehand.
9. Souvenirs for tea lovers- Matcha and Japanese tea-sets
Japanese ceramics are a beauty in themselves – and it is a matter of great pride if you own a pristine, beautiful Japanese tea-set. Not only are they delicate, they are also high on craftsmanship and is a sign of pure indulgence, plus show how seriously you take your tea. If someone you know is in that league, an authentic tea-set from Japan would make a great gift for them. I love drinking tea, so I got myself two of them at great prices and am not shy to admit I sometimes show them off.
If you like the rugged, rusty appeal, then opt for Sage cups – in various shapes and comforting, earthy colors. The best ones are the ones without the handles – they warm your hands as you drink from them.
Another great gift from the land where people relish and consider tea as a serious business would be Matcha. The country has popularized drinking matcha for its immense benefits and you can easily get packs of flavored and unflavored matcha across the country at affordable prices. Well, that is a gift of health for someone, isn’t it?
Where to shop for Japanese Ceramics: Many craft stores have Japanese Ceramics for sale, but it is best to shop from craft fairs and pottery towns such as Kappabashi Street and Kiyomizu-zaka Street.
Price Range: You can get small tea cups and sake cups typically from 500¥ onwards, while everyday bowls and plates will cost you upwards of 1000¥. If you are in the mood to splurge, shop for high-end tea-sets and sake sets, costing upwards 5000¥.
10. Daruma Dolls
Another one of Japan’s most popular souvenirs has to be Daruma Dolls, the Japanese symbolic figures representing perseverance, good luck, and success. With their origin in the Buddhist culture, they are specifically gifted on New Year’s eve in Japan. However, to actually benefit from the luck that Daruma Dolls bring in for you, you need to paint the left pupil when asking for a wish and place it at a prominent place in your home (like the altar). Once your wish comes true, you can paint the right eye.
You can find a huge variety of authentic Japanese Daruma Dolls and pick your favourite as a gift for yourself or a loved one! Plus, they are easy to carry in your suitcase and flight as well.
Where to shop for Daruma Dolls: The 100¥ stores will have a decent variety at affordable prices, but for that real, authentic experience you can head to Daruma Market in Takasaki City, which is known as the birthplace of Daruma dolls. A host of department stores will also have these round, hollow, and usually red dolls with wide eyes and no pupils.
Price Range: Mini Daruma Dolls (4–5 cm) can cost you around 100¥ and more, and the prices go up as the size increases. Daruma dolls get costlier close to New Years’ when many people make new resolutions and wishes.
11. Japanese Knives
If you know someone who is a professional chef or is an amateur cook, they will be delighted to receive Japanese knives as souvenirs from you. Considered the finest in the world in both craftsmanship and quality , with elegant designs , Japanese knives make for a functional and meaningful souvenir. You can even get them engraved! Not only this shows how deeply you value the people you gift them too, but also how thoughtful you have been in buying them something they will cherish for life.
And not to worry, you can legally bring knives home in checked luggage — just pack them securely in original boxes or bubble wrap. And exercise caution when gifting it to someone.
Where to shop for Japanese Knives: Japanese department stores often have quality knives, but for an authentic experience head to Kappabashi Dougu Street (Tokyo) near Asakusa. It is nicknamed ‘kitchen town’ and when you visit it, you will know why.
Price Range: The renowned Gyuto (Japanese chef’s knife) can cost you anywhere between 10000¥ to 40000¥ whereas small knives start from 5000¥ to 10000¥.
12. Japanese Incense & Fragrances
Looking for products that only exist in Japan? Then you can bring the soft and meditative Japanese incense in subtle, refined and relaxing fragrances. Japanese people are known for their mindfulness practices, and they have a special place for their incense and fragrances. Traditionally made from natural ingredients, bringing them as souvenirs for yourself and your loved ones would be like gifting them something giving authentic Japanese vibes. Plus, they burn without much smoke, so there is an added health benefit.
You can choose from a variety of fragrances- sandalwood, cinnamon, cherrywood and many more. Believe me you, you will be spoilt for choice. I am someone who feels an energy rush with the mild scent in my home both during mornings and evenings, so a lot of these made their way back home with me.
Where to shop for Japanese incense and fragrances : Isetan, Mitsukoshi, Takashimaya and other department stores sell various brands such as Nippon Kodo, Shoyeido, Baieido. You can also find a plethora of purifying or spiritual scents incense outside temples and shrines.
Price Range: Generally, a pack of 10 mini sticks would cost you around ¥500 and the price goes up as the number of sticks increases and depending on the brands and scent. Premium, designer and Lisn single sticks can cost you anywhere around ¥1,000-¥10,000 and even more.
13. Japanese Stationery
What are some of the coolest items you can buy from Japan? Stationary, without a blink. Japan takes stationery to a whole new level of adorable and cute. Think washi tape, sticker packs, pens shaped like sushi, and notebooks covered in cartoon animals. Anyone who loves pens and colors is sure to be bowled over seeing the wide range of stationary supply Japan has on offer. And no, you simply cannot stop at 1 (or 10).
Where to shop for Japanese incense and fragrances: Stores like Loft, Tokyu Hands, and Daiso are treasure troves for stationary shopping and will give you many options to take back home as souvenirs. Head to Seria / Can★Do (100 Yen Shops) for cute yet affordable and adorable stationery — from gel pens to sticky notes, stickers, and mini notebooks under one roof.
Price Range: Starting small items like pencils from ¥100, you can keep on spending the money to your heart’s desire. Trust me, no one ever has enough stationary!
And with this, we come to conclude our exhaustive list for unique things to buy from Japan as souvenirs for your loved ones. Cherry on top – most souvenirs come beautifully packaged already, but even if you buy something simple, expect it to be carefully wrapped — because in Japan, the gift experience matters just as much as the gift itself. Let us know what did you shop for in Japan and how was the experience!
