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20 Tokyo souvenirs: The best things to buy in Tokyo
Discover 20 unique Tokyo souvenirs, from traditional crafts and delicious treats to pop culture items.
Tokyo, a vibrant metropolis, offers a wide selection of authentic and unique souvenirs. Whether you’re seeking traditional crafts, quirky pop culture items, or delicious treats, there are countless things you can purchase in Tokyo to remember your trip.
Finding the most interesting souvenirs and knowing what to buy is one of the best things to do in Tokyo! Below, we’ve curated a list of 20 Tokyo souvenirs that make perfect gifts for friends, family, or yourself. These souvenirs in Tokyo truly capture the essence of Japan.
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1. Japanese Kit Kat flavors
Japan is famous for its large number of Kit Kat flavors. Beyond the classic chocolate, you’ll find regional and seasonal options like matcha, sakura, sweet potato, and even sake. These make for fun and delicious Tokyo souvenirs that are easy to pack.
2. Wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets)
Wagashi are traditional Japanese sweets, usually made from sweet mochi, red bean paste, and fruit. They are known for their intricate designs and delicate flavors, reflecting Japan’s artistic heritage. These sophisticated Tokyo souvenirs are a feast for both the eyes and the palate and enjoyed on special occasions and daily by Japan residents.
3. Matcha and tea sets
Japan and Japanese culture is famous for its green tea, especially ceremonial matcha. A high-quality matcha tea set, complete with a whisk (chasen) and bowl (chawan), is a fantastic souvenir. You can also find other types of Japanese tea, from sencha to gyokuro, making for perfect Tokyo gifts for tea lovers.
4. Japanese stationery
Japanese stationery is world-class, known for its superior quality, use of local materials, and attention to detail. From writing pens, beautifully crafted notebooks with Japanese calligraphy, to decorative washi tape and origami paper, there are countless things to buy in Tokyo for stationery enthusiasts. These practical Tokyo souvenirs are both useful and aesthetically pleasing.
5. Hashi (chopsticks)
Chopsticks are a vital Japanese utensil and make for a practical and beautiful Tokyo souvenir. You can find intricately designed pieces of different materials at most stores, like wood, lacquered, or even ivory chopsticks, often sold with elegant stands. They are some of the best traditional souvenirs from Tokyo for everyday use.
6. Ceramics and pottery
Japanese ceramics have international acclaim for their artistry and craftsmanship. Delicate tea cups, bowls, serving dishes and other ornamental ceramics are among the most popular, and showcase the diverse styles and glazes. These traditional Tokyo souvenirs are perfect for adding a touch of Japanese elegance to your home or the home of a loved one.
7. Kimono or yukata
A kimono or yukata (a more casual cotton version) is a timeless Japanese garment. While traditional kimonos can be expensive, yukata are more affordable and widely available. This outfit- gives a taste of traditional Japanese fashion and makes a thoughtful gift. They are wearable Tokyo souvenirs that signal the unique culture of Japan.
8. Maneki-Neko (lucky cat)
The Maneki-Neko, or “lucky cat,” is a common Japanese figurine believed to bring good luck to its owner. These gold-painted waving cats come in many sizes and colors and make for an adorable and popular Tokyo gift, found in most souvenir shops.
9. Anime and manga merchandise
As the global hub of anime and manga, Tokyo possesses an unrivaled selection of merchandise and specialty shops. You can find collectible figures, plush toys, apparel, and art books. Anime and manga fans will find endless things to buy in Tokyo, particularly Kihabara, which is viewed as the epicenter of these exciting Tokyo souvenirs.
10. Furoshiki
Furoshiki are versatile and eco-friendly traditional Japanese wrapping cloths. They come in various and beautiful patterns and can be used for gift wrapping, carrying items, or as decorative accents. These stylish Tokyo souvenirs are both practical and beautiful, and a popular item to gift anyone who is eco-conscious.
11. Japanese knives
Japanese kitchen knives are world-renowned for their sharpness, precision, and elegant craftsmanship. For cooking enthusiasts, a high-quality Japanese knife is a valuable and lasting souvenir from Tokyo. These knives are among the best things to buy in Tokyo if you’re a culinary connoisseur or looking to impress a friend or family member with such a unique gift.
12. Bento boxes and accessories
Bento boxes, individual portioned meal containers, are an iconic part of Japanese food culture. You can find a huge variety of bento boxes and accessories like food dividers and decorative picks. These functional Tokyo souvenirs are perfect for bringing Japanese culinary flair home to family and friends, or or yourself.
13. Sake
Sake, Japan’s traditional rice wine, comes in many flavors and levels of quality. Many shops in Tokyo offer tastings to patrons, allowing you to choose the perfect bottle as a souvenir for yourself, or a gift for a loved one. It’s the perfect Tokyo gift for those who appreciate fine beverages outside of wine or other liquor.
14. Daruma dolls
Daruma dolls are traditional, hollow, round dolls that symbolize perseverance and good luck in Japanese culture. They are often bought to make a wish, with one eye painted in when the wish is made and the other when it comes true. These meaningful Tokyo souvenirs are a unique addition to your souvenir or keepsake collection.
15. Omamori
Omamori are Japanese lucky charms or amulets sold at Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples, and an iconic symbol of the country. They are believed to provide multiple forms of luck and protection, such as for health, safe travels, or academic and professional success. These small, significant Tokyo souvenirs are often beautifully designed, so you can choose the perfect one for your style.
16. Kokeshi dolls
Kokeshi dolls are traditional wooden dolls, handmade by artisans, with a simple cylindrical body and an enlarged and dramatic head. Originating from the Tohoku region, they are beloved symbols of Japanese folk art and make charming Tokyo souvenirs, especially for children.
17. Japanese fans (sensu and uchiwa)
Japanese fans, both folding (sensu) and non-folding (uchiwa), are elegant and practical souvenirs that don’t take up much space in your luggage. These traditional Tokyo gifts are perfect for staying cool and adding a touch of Japanese flair to your home as decoration. Japanese fans often feature colorful and minimalist artwork and designs, helping to make a gift to friends and family more personalized to their taste.
18. Gashapon toys
Gashapon are small capsule toys dispensed from vending machines. They are incredibly popular with residents and visitors alike, and offer a fun, often quirky, surprise. From anime characters to miniature replicas, these unexpected Tokyo souvenirs are addictive to collect once you start.
19. Beauty products
Japan, like other Asian countries, is a leader in cleaner, cutting-edge, and innovative beauty products, from skincare to makeup. You’ll find many high-quality and unique items that make excellent Tokyo souvenirs or gifts, often at very competitive prices.
20. Tokyo Banana
Tokyo Banana is a popular sweet sponge cake filled with banana custard cream, usually decorated with a banana print. It’s a great little “omiyage” (souvenir gift) that people often bring when visiting friends outside of Tokyo. These delicious Tokyo souvenirs are a must-try treat and can be found at most convenience stores. They’re a perfect side addition to the massive Tokyo street food scene.
Where to shop for Tokyo souvenirs
Finding the best souvenirs in Tokyo is an adventure in itself, with loads of shopping experiences available. Here are some top spots to find you unique Tokyo souvenirs and gifts:
- Asakusa (Nakamise-dori): Known for traditional Japanese crafts, souvenirs, and snacks, especially along the bustling Nakamise-dori leading to Senso-ji Temple.
- Shibuya & Harajuku: Explore trendy fashion, colorful accessories, and pop culture items. Shibuya LOFT and Takeshita Street in Harajuku are excellent for modern Tokyo souvenirs.
- Ginza: High-end department stores like Mitsukoshi and Ginza Six offer luxury Japanese goods, fine ceramics, and gourmet food products.
- Akihabara: The go-to district for anime, manga, electronics, and unique gadgets. If you’re a tech or otaku fan, you’ll find countless things to buy here.
- Don Quijote: A popular discount chain with multiple branches across Tokyo, they have a of snacks, cosmetics, novelty items, and general Tokyo souvenirs, often at great prices.
- 100-Yen Shops (Daiso, Seria): For budget-friendly Tokyo souvenirs, these shops offer a surprising variety of quality items, from stationery and ceramics to small traditional goods.
- Department Stores (e.g., Isetan, Takashimaya): Visit the basement food halls (depachika) for exquisite Japanese sweets and gourmet items and the upper floors for high-quality crafts and fashion.
Holafly eSIMs: Make shopping for Tokyo souvenirs stress-free
Navigating Tokyo’s vast shopping districts and finding the perfect Tokyo souvenirs is easier when you’re always connected. A Holafly eSIM for Tokyo, or eSIM for Japan if you’re headed outside the city offers unlimited data to help you find the best shops, translate Japanese phrases, look up product reviews, and compare prices on the go.
If you’re planning on extending your stay, then the monthly subscription service of Holafly Plans is for you. Choose between three data plans with a fixed monthly fee and enjoy the following benefits:
- No hidden fees: Enjoy transparent pricing with no unexpected charges.
- Three flexible plans: Choose from unlimited data, 25 GB, or 10 GB to match your needs.
- Global coverage: You can use one eSIM worldwide!
- High-speed, uninterrupted connection: Stay online anywhere, without network disruptions.
- Total flexibility: Switch plans or cancel anytime, with no long-term commitments.
Stay connected to guarantee a seamless shopping experience for all the things you want to buy in Tokyo and Japan with an eSIM for Japan or a Holafly Plans subscription.
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I’m a communications professional with over 17 years of experience in the social justice sector. Eight years ago, I started working as a freelance content writer and strategist. Over the course of my career, I’ve had the chance to work with a mix of social enterprises, NGOs, government agencies, and corporate clients. I have lived and worked in Australia, Austria, Mexico, and Indonesia. I love crafting content that resonates across cultures and tells a meaningful story.
