Shopping In Tokyo

Pathway to one of many shrines

• mornings – visit parks, temples, shrines, etc. (avoid rush hour)



We got up soooo early that we actually woke up the neighbourhood cats

• afternoons – shopping



Grocery stores, some open 24/7, provide food and entertainment

• early evening – shopping at hotel region shops

Take the time to explore as much as humanly possible — adventures await around every corner

Maximizing your time can assist you with a packed itinerary.  But be realistic.  I look at Pop Japan Travel’s itinerary and while I can appreciate they wish to expose their group to as much as possible, I honestly feel it’s too overwhelming to enjoy fully.  On the other hand, if you are looking for small bits and bites, then these tours may be just the thing.

As the purpose of this site is about shopping, realize that you will be spending many hours of most days in the shops.  An entire day in Shibuya’s Mandarake is expected.  Several trips to Akihabara and Ikebukuro is not unusual (and if you are staying in one of those regions, you’ll be in those shops any chance you have).

But please don’t forget to enjoy the cultural side of Tokyo as well.  There is much history and culture to enjoy.  The more research you can perform before you go, the better you can plan a flexible itinerary that you can you juggle around as time marches on.  When doing your research, find out what time your desired destinations are open.  Shrines and temples are generally open 24/7.  Museums keep slim hours in some cases.  Regardless, make notes; avoid travelling the trains during rush hour (unless you have no issues with this).

Also when plotting out your day, study the train maps; find the most efficient routes (I tend to begin with a locale that is furthest out, then work my way inward).

If you can plan to reach parks, temples, shrines and similar destinations by early morning, you will find this a really beautiful way to start your day.  Most shops open by 11:00 a.m., but I suggest you have a snack before you dive in.  Afternoons are perfect times for shopping blitzes, taking breaks as necessary.  Shop until you drop.

Evenings can be spent shopping, exploring, cavorting and so on.  There is never a lack of things to do.  And if you are looking for something low-key, I suggest bunkering down for the night with some Japanese television — always fun.

But what to do with all your stuff during the day?  Train stations also house coin lockers where you can stash your purchases.  Unfortunately, if you have your carry-on, you’ll be doing battle with other otaku and fujoshi for those larger lockers.  Good luck (also a good reason to avoid major shopping when school is out).  If your hotel is reasonably close by, drop items off throughout the day to minimize what you are carting around with you.