Another Japan request: any special, unique souvenirs you recommend seeking out, that would be hard to find online? Think that beer glass from that one speakeasy, that candy you can't find stateside, a weird but useful kitchen tool...bonus if it's art supply related. Thank you!

Question

GK · Answer

Itoya Ginza: Heaven for stationary obsessives.  Over 7 floors with each floor having a specialization. Off the top of my head, there was a pen floor (just pens!!), crafts, notebooks, home goods - can't remember the rest but this is one of my favorite spots and I go every time I'm in Tokyo. Look for the big red paperclip!

For souvenirs, they sell Itoya products like special-sized Post-Its and giant red paperclips.

Emily · Answer

47 Japanese KitKat Flavors for 47 Prefectures: these are so much fun to bring home and share (or not!)

Clara · Answer

KITTE Marunouchi, an incredible boutique mall in the center of Tokyo: Make sure you get a meal at Snow Peak’s restaurant! I love window-shopping (and occasionally caving and buying little trinkets) here.

Clara · Answer

MUJI HQ in Ginza, Tokyo: This is a multistory MUJI and has so many things that are unavailable elsewhere (for instance, I’ve purchased a traditional shuro broom there as well as cotton slippers in a pattern I’ve never seen elsewhere, and these scrap towels seem really useful). Excellent spot to look for high-quality kitchen supplies.

Clara · Answer

Antiquaille: Maybe my favorite antique store in Japan? In a (famously) great neighborhood for vintage shopping, as well: Shimokitazawa.

Antique and flea markets are also incredible places to find unique and beautiful souvenirs. I’ve gone to Oedo (every other Sunday), Hanazono Shrine (every Sunday), and Tomioka Hachiman (multiple times throughout the month), and they’re always great.

Clara · Answer

Sekaido, an excellent art supply store in Shinjuku: Such a great store. Also check out Hands, Beams, and Loft for great stationery, kitchen, hardware, and all manner of other supplies in this same neighborhood.

Clara · Answer

Freddy Leck Slim Laundry Basket: Obviously not worth the shipping cost at the link, but I love this laundry basket. Worth bringing back from a trip to Japan, imo. (I got it at Hands Shinjuku.)

Clara · Answer

This apple gum from Japan: Shockingly good.