It doesn't matter whether you're a shopaholic or not because when you visit Tokyo, there's bound to be something that you'll want to bring home! From beauty products to novelty items (yes, Tokyo is the place for novelty souvenirs), trust us when we say that this shopping guide has something for everyone! Credit: Giphy *featured image credit to Tokyo Fashion P.S. Don't forget to download the HHWT Travel Planner app, available on Google Play for Android and iTunes Store for iOS, to make your trip to Tokyo even easier! You can find attractions as well as halal food and prayer spaces near these attractions, so no worries on not being able to find halal food anymore!

Novelty Items

Japan has always managed to leave us flabbergasted and in awe with their creative innovations and when you're in nippon land, you'll definitely have to check out some of them for yourself!

1. Don Quijote

Credit: antoniotajuelo What to expect: Ah, Don Quijote, commonly known to locals and frequent travellers to Japan as Donki. All those quirky Japanese inventions you’ve seen on your newsfeed probably came from Don Quijote. We’re talking cat ears that waggle when you’re happy, Michael Jackson masks that come in both black and white and marijuana-scented air fresheners. But of course, if you're looking for discounted household products, electronics, makeup, etc, Donki is your go-to place as well. It is a discount store after all! Plus it's an awesome place to get cheap yet unique gifts for friends. Even if you're not exactly looking to buy anything, Donki can pretty much be considered as an attraction on it's own. [caption id="attachment_2853" align="alignnone" width="930"] Want to dress up as Pluto, Green Man (Toy Story) or Pikachu?[/caption] [caption id="attachment_2854" align="alignnone" width="930"] Something for the boys?[/caption] [caption id="attachment_2855" align="alignnone" width="930"] Because everyone needs a wig![/caption] Credit: dannychoo Opening hours: 1000 - 0500 Address: 4-3-3 Sotokanda Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo (Akihabara outlet). Other outlets can be found here. How to get there: From the Electric Town Exit at Akihabara, go straight then turn left at the traffic light and keep going. Turn right at the next traffic light you encounter and go straight. You’ll see Don Quijote to your left. Website: http://www.donki.com/en (English)

2. Tokyu Hands

tokyu hands tokyo japan hhwt Credit: matcha What to expect: When we say you can get close to everything in Tokyu Hands, we're really not exaggerating. It's a huge lifestyle mega-store selling all sorts of merchandise including leather goods, packaged food, cookware and cutlery, bento boxes, stationery (see arts and crafts below), polaroid cameras, bicycles and MORE. [caption id="attachment_2875" align="alignnone" width="1000"] Yes, this is an emergency shelter that can accommodate 4 people, has LED lights, allows you to charge your phone, etc. It's also going for around USD5,000.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_2859" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Bring home a bike?[/caption] #HHWT Tip: There are a number of Tokyu Hands around Tokyo, but we recommend visiting either the Shinjuku outlet or the Shibuya (their very first outlet) store as these two outlets seem to have the largest variety. The outlet at Ikebukuro is also listed as a 'large store'. Opening hours: 1000 - 2100 Address: Times Square Building 2-8F, 5-24-2 Sendagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo. Other stores here. How to get there: : Alight at JR Shinjuku Station and take the New South Exit. Walk towards Takashimaya, Tokyu Hands is in the building.

3. Loft

Credit: rjch What to expect: Loft is another lifestyle mega-store selling everything under the sun. If you don't have much time in Tokyo, we recommend just heading to either Tokyu Hands or Loft as their offerings are pretty similar. Loft's branding however, is definitely targeted more at the younger crowd but if you ask us? We always make time to visit both Tokyu Hands and Loft ? Credit: iemo.jp #HHWT Tip: If you're already visiting Tokyu Hands in Shibuya, then head over to Loft as there's an outlet in the same area! Alternatively, you can head to the outlet in Ginza as the Muji flagship store is nearby as well. Opening hours: 1000 - 2100 Address: 21-1 Udagawacho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, 150-0042. Other stores here. How to get there: Take the Hachiko Exit from JR Shibuya station and cross at the main crossing (Starbucks is ahead). Turn left and Loft is in the lane between the Seibu stores A and B.

Japanese Souvenirs

Because what's a trip to Japan without some quintessential Japanese souvenirs right? (Or maybe some photos of said souvenirs)

1. Oriental Bazaar

Credit: flickr - wallyg What to expect: 3 floors of very reasonably priced traditional Japanese souvenirs! The Oriental Bazaar first opened in 1934 so you can be sure that it's as authentic as you can get. You'll find kimonos, yukatas, t-shirts and books on the basement, Japanese chinaware, stationery and misc goods on the first floor and decorative items on the second floor. While you in the area, don't forget to explore Harajuku and Omotesando! [caption id="attachment_2863" align="alignnone" width="800"] Assortment of sensu fans - basement level[/caption] [caption id="attachment_2864" align="alignnone" width="800"] Popular 'yunomi' cups (for tea) - first floor[/caption] Credit: orientalbazaar Opening hours: 1000 – 1900 (closed on Thurs) Address: 9-13 5-chome Jingumae Shibuya-ku Tokyo 150-0001 How to get there: Alight at Omotesando Station and take the Omotesando Exit. Walk straight for around 5 minutes and you’ll find Oriental Bazaar to your left. From Meiji-jingumae Station, take Exit 4. U-turn when you come out of the station and walk straight. about 3 mins walk.Oriental Bazaar will be to your right. Website: http://www.orientalbazaar.co.jp/en/index.html (English)

2. Nakamise Shopping Arcade

What to expect: With around 90 shops spanning a 250m lane, selling all sorts of souvenirs, trinkets and even snacks, it's pretty hard to miss Nakamise Dori or Nakamise Shopping Street. Even though it's always bustling, the crowded atmosphere just adds to the fun of souvenir hunting. Expect to find traditional items such as Japanese chopsticks (you can even engrave your name on them), yukata, geta, wooden combs, fabrics and more. End your souvenir shopping trip by visiting the famous and oldest temple in Tokyo - Senso-ji at the end of the street! Still not convinced? Did we mention that there're not one, but TWO eateries selling halal ramen in the are? [caption id="attachment_2293" align="alignnone" width="1000"] The Maneki-neko is considered a lucky charm in the Japanese and Chinese culture - believed to attract good luck and fortune.[/caption] Opening hours: Dependant on the different shops. Generally 0900 – 1800 daily. Address: 2 Chome-3-1 Asakusa, Taitō-ku, Tokyo How to get there: 3 minute walk from Asakusa Station.

3. Tansu-ya

Credit: asakusa-shinnaku What to expect: Contrary to popular belief, buying a kimono or yukata isn't that pricey if you just know where to look! If you've always dreamt of wearing your very own kimono and enjoying a matsuri (Japanese festival), pay a visit to Tansu-ya, and check out their wide range of both brand new and secondhand kimono! The best part? There are several outlets around Tokyo, with three outlets in Asakusa alone. Even if you're not looking to purchase one, you can always rent one in Asakusa! tansuya kimono japan tokyo hhwt Credit: asakusa-shinnaka Opening hours: 10:00 - 18:00 (Asakusa outlet) Address: Taito Asakusa 1-1-8. Several outlets here. How to get there: Exit Asakusa station and cross Kaminarimon street. Turn left and walk straight, then turn right on the first bend. Walk straight for another 100m till you see Tansuya on your right.

Beauty - Cosmetics and Skincare

Every female out there knows to plan their beauty/skincare shopping list before heading to Japan.

1. Matsumoto Kiyoshi (or Matsukiyo in short)

Credit: japan-kakkoii What to expect: It's impossible to talk about beauty products in Japan without mentioning the no.1 place to visit - drug stores. Amongst the numerous drug stores around Tokyo, Matsumoto Kiyoshi is one of the largest chain stores (Kokumin is another major chain) with so many outlets that it's practically impossible to miss. Just look out for their trademark blue, yellow and white shop front. You can find popular Japanese brands such as Canmake, Majorlica, Kate and more in the stores. They also sell snacks, drinks and medicine so if you ever need a bottle of water, you know where to go! #HHWT Tip: Japanese drugstores can be daunting especially if you're new to Japanese beauty products. Before your trip, we recommend doing loads of research and be careful not to cave to impulsive buys! Opening hours: Shibuya Part 1 - 24hours Address: Part 1 - 22-3 Udagawa-cho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo (There are other outlets at Asakusa, Shinjuku, Akihabara, etc) How to get there: Alight at Shibuya station and exit via the Hachiko exit. Walk straight till you see Hachiko on your left, turn right and walk straight till you reach QFront (at the start of Inokashira Dori).Cross the street and the outlet will be on your right.

2. @Cosme

What to expect: @Cosme is Japan's largest cosmetics and beauty web portal. When you visit their physical storefront, be prepared to be wowed by the range of products available,including things you’ve never thought you’d need, like eyelash lotion :P Their flagship store is in Shinjuku Station, with 4 other outlets at convenient locations such as Shibuya, Ginza, Ueno and Ikebukuro. cosme store tokyo japan products Credit: savvytokyo What we love about Cosme is also that they have testers for almost every product, including sinks to try out facial cleansers! There are also certain items that are marked based on how popular they are in the @Cosme web portal, so you can try out products that are highly-rated by users. Opening hours: 1100 to 2200 (Mon to Fri),1030 – 2200 (Sat, Sun, PH) Address: Lumine Est Shinjuku B2, 3-38-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo How to get there: Alight at Shinjuku Station and take the east exit to Lumine Est. More info: Details on the other outlets can be found here - but do note that it's in Japanese (just hit the translate button if you're on Chrome).

3. Ranking Ranqueen

What to expect: Overwhelmed by choice? If you can’t find your way around Japanese cosmetics, visit Ranking and Ranqueen, where products are categorized and ranked based on their popularity. Only the top three to five items in each category are stocked, so be assured that whatever you pick is gonna be a winner! Opening hours: 1000 – 2300 (daily) Address: Jiyugaoka 1-30-1, Meguro-ku, Tokyo How to get there: Alight at JR Jiyugaoka Station. It's located within the station.

Arts and Crafts

Paper, pens, stickers, craft materials... Everything you'll need for the perfect DIY card or scrapbook! Even if you're not huge on arts and crafts, it's worth visiting these places for a glimpse into the Japanese love for gorgeously crafted goods and packaging.

1. Ito-ya, Ginza

[caption id="attachment_2687" align="alignnone" width="900"] 8th Floor - Crafts[/caption] What to expect: A paradise for stationery lovers – if you love your washi paper (traditional Japanese paper), pens and all things related to crafts, we have found the place to be. Think Willy Wonka but a pen factory instead. The only downside is that it's a little on the pricey end, so you may want to do your browsing here and perhaps purchase it at Tokyu Hands instead. [caption id="attachment_2688" align="alignnone" width="900"] 3rd Floor - Desk. Pen & Ink Bar where you can try the pens.[/caption] Credit: tabroom Opening hours: Mon to Sat, 1000 - 2100 Address: Yubinbango104-0061, 2-7-15 Ginza, Chuo 104-0061, Tokyo How to get there: Take the Hibiya, Marunouchi or Ginza Subway Lines to Ginza Station. Take exit A13 and walk straight. Turn right at the traffic light then left at the first street. Walk down the street and Ito-ya will be at the right side. More info: Check out the full floor guide

2. Tokyu Hands and Loft

[caption id="attachment_2717" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Pens and markers of every colour you can think of in Tokyu Hands[/caption] What to expect: Yes, Tokyu Hands and Loft make another appearance in the arts and crafts section even though we've covered it earlier under novelty items, because we just can't talk about stationery and crafts without mentioning these two stores! Credit: travelwithpamela While Ito-ya is like the luxury store for stationery, Tokyu Hands and Loft are where you can get your daily supply of craft materials and stationery. The prices are definitely lower in these two outlets so we'll definitely recommend purchasing your stationery here.

Luxury

Ah, luxury goods. We hear our wallets crying for mercy.

1. Chuo Dori, Ginza

Credit: japan-talk What to expect: Ginza is synonymous with luxury shopping and Chuo Dori is the main upmarket shopping district in Tokyo. The streets are lined with high-end stores such Chanel, Burberry, Prada and even the famous French departmental store - Printemps, alongside well-established Japanese labels! If you're shopping for jewelry, Mikimoto is a must visit. Don't forget to check out Maison Hermes (departmental store) as there are merchandise exclusive to Japan only! [caption id="attachment_2694" align="alignnone" width="900"] Chuo Dori Ginza Tokyo Japan Hokosha Tengoku Hokosha Tengoku or Pedestrian's Paradise[/caption] Credit: japan-guide #HHWT Tip: We recommend heading there during the weekends to experience Hokosha Tengoku (or Pedestrian's Paradise) when roads are closed off from vehicles (1200 to 1700) to make it more comfortable for shoppers to move about! Opening hours: Dependant on the various shops and malls Address: Chuo Dori, Ginza, Chuo, Tokyo How to get there: Take the Hibiya, Marunouchi or Ginza Subway Lines to Ginza Station (Exit A13 to Chuo Dori & Mikimoto, Exit B6 to Maison Hermes).

2. Omotesando, Harajuku

Credit: seejapan What to expect: As if there're not enough reasons for you to visit Omotesando already! This tree lined street is sometimes referred to as ‘Tokyo’s Champs-Elysees, for a very good reason. Filled with a multitude of fashion flagship stores and luxury boutiques, if you're hunting down that exclusive branded product, you have to visit Omotesando. Check out our guide to Harajuku to find out more on this trendy, upscale area and what to do/eat in the area! Opening hours: Various Address: 4-12-10 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0001, Japan How to get there: Take the Chiyoda, Ginza or Hanzomon Subway Lines to Omotesando Station (Exit A1/ A2). [iframe seamless="seamless" style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" height="450" width="100%" scrolling="no" src="https://pollbuzz.co/frame/398?type=poll"][/iframe] If you think that's all to our ultimate shopping guide, then you're definitely wrong. There's just so much more to Japan that we simply can't cover in an article!

The Ultimate Guide to Shopping in Tokyo, Japan