What's Actually Worth Buying in Tokyo

Tokyo is one of the best shopping cities in the world — but not everything is a deal. Here's what's genuinely cheaper, what's unique to Japan, and what you should skip.

Buy: Electronics.

Japan-market electronics are frequently 20–40% cheaper than international retail, especially Sony, Panasonic, and Fujifilm products. The tax-free scheme (10% removed at checkout) compounds the savings. Akihabara and Yodobashi Camera flagship stores have the widest selection and all participate in tax-free shopping.

One caution: check voltage compatibility and warranty coverage. Some Japanese electronics run on 100V and may not work on 220–240V systems without an adapter. International warranty coverage varies by brand.

Buy: Skincare and cosmetics.

Japanese skincare (Shiseido, SK-II, Hada Labo, Muji) is priced for the domestic market. SK-II Facial Treatment Essence sells for roughly 30–40% less in Tokyo than international retail. Drugstores like Matsumoto Kiyoshi and Don Quijote are tax-free eligible and stock the full range.

Korean skincare brands (Innisfree, Laneige) are also well-priced in Tokyo, though not as deeply discounted as Japanese brands.

Buy: Japanese denim.

Brands like Momotaro, Pure Blue Japan, Studio D'Artisan, and Kapital are either unavailable or marked up significantly outside Japan. A pair of Momotaro selvedge jeans costs roughly ¥20,000–35,000 in Japan versus $300–500+ internationally. If you care about denim, this is the city.

Consider: Watches.

Grand Seiko and Casio G-Shock limited editions are cheaper in Japan, sometimes significantly. Standard Seiko and Citizen models show modest savings. Swiss brands (Rolex, Omega) are globally priced with minimal difference.

Skip: Western fashion brands.

Nike, Adidas, Levi's, and similar Western brands are typically 10–20% more expensive in Tokyo than in the US or Europe. Japanese retail markup on imported Western brands is real. Don't buy your Nikes in Shibuya.

Skip: Apple products.

Apple's Japan pricing is essentially the global price adjusted for currency. Occasional yen weakness can create a temporary window, but it's unreliable. Tax-free helps, but the margin is thin.

The tax-free advantage.

Japan's 10% consumption tax removal at checkout is the cleanest tax refund system globally. No airport paperwork, no processing fees, no waiting. Present your passport, the tax is removed. This means every purchase over ¥5,000 at a participating store is automatically 10% cheaper than the sticker price. Factor this into every comparison.