Tokyo Souvenirs: 18 Authentic Japanese Products to Buy in Tokyo

The list of the delights of Tokyo is long and being exposed to just some of them, at some point, can make one addicted (just as the Charles Winchester III character from the M.A.S.H. series). Still, you can always "prolong" the experience and enjoy the effects of it more, if bring home some carefully-selected, tasteful bits of the Japanese culture with you. Listed here are 18 such bits to choose from!

(To visit the venues mentioned in this article, check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Tokyo)

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1. Kokeshi Dolls

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Kokeshi dolls are handcrafted wooden dolls made by Kokeshi artists. Traditional Kokeshi dolls are now made only in the Tohoku area in the northeastern part of Japan. There are many places in the Tohoku area where Kokeshi dolls are made as a special regional product, and Tsuchiyu is one such place. Dogwood and pear trees (mizuki and nashi in Japanese) are used to create the original design by hand.  Because of the nature of the wood, the older the Kokeshi doll is, the more "mature" and "ripened" its wooden body reveals distinctive, sophisticated look. Very old Kokeshi dolls are considered antiques and some are priced as high as $1,000 or more. However, in a more traditional sense, Kokeshi dolls may be purchased for $30 or 3,000 to 3,500 Japanese Yen. The Timeline Trading Co. in Sendai-shi, Miyagi, Japan crafts and sells these unique dolls between 10AM and 7PM.

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2. Japanese Calligraphy Set

Calligraphy is a type of visual art: the art of giving form to signs in an expressive, harmonious and skillful manner. The local name for calligraphy, better known as Shufa, is appreciated throughout the island of Japan. Its shape, size and brush material determines the overall quality of the calligraphy pen. Although this art has died out in recent generations, the market for calligraphy pens still remains very much alive.

Calligraphy has influenced ink and wash panting, which is one reason this art remains alive today throughout the homes and temples of both eastern and western Japan. Today, calligraphy has its roots linked to Buddhism and is taught to elementary school children before pursuing higher education. Oriental Bazaar or Village 107, located at 1-19-24 Jingu-mae, Shibuya-ku,Tokyo, open from 10:00AM to 9:00PM, sells calligraphy sets that range in brush styles from horse hair to bamboo. The more expensive calligraphy sets can be custom-ordered and go for between $100 and $300, depending on the manufacturer.

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3. Wagashi

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Wagashi is a traditional Japanese pastry made of mochi, azuku bean paste and fruits. Most ingredients found in the plethora of wagashi varieties are extracted from natural plants. With the introduction of tea to Japan in the early 720s, the country discovered powders and mochi, which eloquently complemented this sweet pastry. The variety of wagashi pastries ranges from Animitsu (gelatinous cubes made of fruit) to Dango (small, sticky and sweet mochi, commonly skewed on a stick) to Imagawayaki (pastry covered in fried dough). Wagashi is also categorized by its moisture content. Depending on season, certain kinds of wagashi are produced and sold. For example, namagashi contains 30% more moisture and, therefore, varies in size between the cool and warm seasons. You can find these sweet pastries sold either directly outside the Ginza station in Tokyo or at the station entrance. The station is located in Chuo, Tokyo on the intersection of the Ginza main street and the Sanai Building, and is open between 7AM and 10PM. Wagashi, much as most any other pastry, is in high demand in Tokyo, and costs fairly low, $5-10 (500-1,000 Japanese yen).

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4. Sake Set

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A sake set is a generic term for a jar and cups used for serving Japanese alcohol, Sake. Sake vessels are made of ceramic and feature asymmetrical designs. Sake can be served in many different cups, including: saucer-like cups, called sakazuki; small cylindrical cups - ochoko; and masu - wooden cup boxes. Additionally, to chill sake, they use choiori. The sake “server”, included in the set, is called tokkuri and is traditionally shaped like a vase with a narrow neck to prevent heat from escaping. The wooden box is used for additional sake liquor to serve as a “spill-over” dish. Sake is quite popular among tourists in Japan, and can be found in Tokyo at Oriental Bazaar or Village 107, 1-19-24 Jingu-mae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo from 10:00AM to 9:00PM. More expensive and intricately made sake sets range in price between $100 and $200.

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5. Lacquer Obento Boxes

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Japan’s small servings and petite style of eating are clearly displayed in the form of Obento boxes. The latter are used for serving lunch, comprising pickled vegetables, rice, beans, curd and other ingredients. Obento boxes are made environmentally-friendly or from recycled laquerware. Japanese homemakers (in keeping with tradition) spend a lot of time and energy on their children, making for them, among other things, tasty lunches to take to school. The most popular styles vary from panda bear faces to popular Anime characters to scenic views of the Tokyo skyline. Because Obento boxes are so popular, most stores, and even train stations, sell them; another popular shopping destination for obento is Omote-sando Dori in Shibuya-Ku, Tokyo 150-0001 between the hours of 9:00AM and 9:00PM. Sold there obento boxes range in price from $15-30.

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6. Traditional Fan (Uchiwa)

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A hand-fan, better known as a traditional Japanese fan, induces airflow, while intriguingly fanning elaborate Japanese art, such as a poem or Japanese calligraphy. Due to Japan’s parching summers, the fan is an eminent gift and is commonly seen on the crowded trains and Shinkansen (high-speed railway line) during the summer. The earliest fans were invented in China, while in Japan, the earliest fan, made of bamboo, was typically seen as part of a Geisha outfit. Nowadays, fans symbolize friendship, respect and good wishes. Most are given on special occasions or used as vital state props in Japanese plays at Kabuki Theater. A popular style of fan, known as the war fan, is made of lacquer and became prominent around the Edo period of the Samurai era. Oriental Bazaar, located at 9-13 5-chome Jingumae Shibuya-ku Tokyo  150-0001, working between 10:00AM and 6:00PM, sells traditional fans year round. The typical price range for fans is $50-80 U.S. dollars (5,000 to 8,000 Yen). Depending on the manufacturer or period of manufacture, the price can increase.

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7. Hashi (Ivory Chopsticks)

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Chopsticks are popular in Asian cultures, especially Japanese and Chinese. Hashi, also referred to as chopsticks, are short- to medium-length and have a tapered and pointed end. Traditionally, hashi are made of wood and lacquered, however, in Japan, they also use many other materials for chopstick, such as bamboo, plastic, metal, porcelain, animal bone, ivory, jade, agate, gold, brass or even coral. Bamboo is quite common a chopstick material as it resists cracking and abundant on the island. Hashi chopsticks, specifically those made of ivory, are seen a lot throughout Japan; the country's capital Tokyo offers the largest selection thereof and at most reasonable prices. In a Japanese restaurant, you will find disposable chopsticks scattered around the table; however, ivory chopsticks are long lasting, and make a great gift for an adventurous eater and chef. Oriental Bazaar, located in Omote-sando, is the place to find ins and outs of Japanese culture, including Hashi and Hashi rests. Oriental Bazaar is located at 9-13 5-chome Jingumae Shibuya-ku Tokyo,  150-0001 and is open between 10:00AM and 6:00PM.

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8. Rilakkuma Bear

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This cute stuffed bear toy is always in a relaxed mood. The included sleeping bag, made out of a soft boa, will let you tuck your bear in at night and say "good morning" when the sun comes up. The Rilakkuma bear simply snuggles with your child to help ensure tranquility. The sleeping bag is also reversible with an adorable polka-dot fabric on the inside. Bears, such as the Rilakkuma, became popular in Japan around 2008, when Kiddy Land underwent remodeling. Since then, the stores have housed a collection of these bears as an iconic symbol of the typical Japanese child. Kiddy Land, located at 1-9 Jingu-mae in Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, houses numerous furry friends, perfect for small children.

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9. Manekineko

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The most famous cat in Japan, known as Manekineko, lines the entrance ways of many restaurants, bars and shops around the country. While it is believed that Manekineko first appeared during the later part of the Edo period (1603–1867), the earliest documented evidence of it comes from the 1870s, during Japan's Meiji Period. This welcoming cat is a common sculpture beckoning its upright paw, as a symbol of good luck, to guests. The Welcoming Cat can be found gesturing both, its left and right hand; both are said to be of significance. The Manekineko is rather expensive, $70-90 U.S. dollars (about 7,000-9,000 Yen), but is durable and hand-crafted to last for generations. The popular Omote-Sando district of Tokyo, in conjunction with the Choyda Line, is known for selling these cats in a large variety.

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10. Amazake

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Amazke is a sweet, low-alcohol beverage made from fermented rice. Dating back to the Kofun period, it became a popular source of sweetness for Japanese cooking. Amazke can be used as a dessert additive, snack, baby food, or salad dressing. One of Japan's most popular dishes includes aspergillus oryzae, miso, soy sauce, sake and amazke. In fact, amazke is rather commonplace on a traditional family kitchen. It is nutritious, with no added preservatives, sugars or salt. Also, during New Year celebrations, the beverage makes its way into Shinto shrines. Department stores throughout Tokyo, such as Mitsukoshi, located at 1-3-1 Nihonbashi-Muromachi Chuo, open between 10AM and 9PM, sell this drink on a regular basis. The prices are reasonable – no more than $30 or 3,000 Japanese yen.

11. Hakama

Hakama is a traditional Japanese clothing, originally worn by men. Today, however, the Hakama is worn by both men and women. Hakama garb have seven deep pleats – two in the front and five in the back. The Hakama resembles the Samurai garb of traditional trousers and asymmetrical design aesthetics. The men’s Hakama is made of striped silk, generally, black, navy and white. These are worn with black montsuki kimonos (kimonos with either one, three, or five family coats of arms on the back, chest, and shoulders), white tabi socks divided down the middle, white under-kimono and various types of footwear. In cooler weather, a montsuki haori (long jacket) with a white haori-himo (haori-fastener) completes the outfit. These outfits can be found at 2-2-36 Hyakunincho Shinjuku-Ku Tokyo, from 9:00AM to 19:00PM. Because of the Hakama’s traditional value, the prices usually range between $100 and $200 U.S. dollars.

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12. Furoshiki

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A furoshiki is a distinctive wrapping cloth used to wrap, transport and decorate gifts. This item has become closely related to a bathing cloth, deriving from the Edo Period. Silk, rayon, cotton and nylon are among the fabrics used to eloquently decorate the cloth. Furoshikis are on the more expensive side of Japanese gifts, as the many uses of this product dictate the market. Shinagawa Station houses a collection of originally designed Furoshikis. In addition, Tokyu Hands (located outside of almost every train station in Tokyo), houses this gift-wrapping iconic item, marginally priced at $50-100 U.S. dollars. However, custom-made furoshikis come in a more expensive range, between $200 and $300.

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13. Noren Curtains

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The vast variety of vibrantly colored Noren curtains, traditional Japanese cloth room dividers, are sold in a big variety throughout Tokyo and the suburbs. The origin of Japanese noren goes back a long way to the Jomon Era, around 12,000 to 300 B.C. At the time, the sole purpose of norens was to cover houses with it in a bid to protect them from the negative forces of nature and the environment (i.e weather damage, sun exposure, etc). However, today, the Japanese use noren only for decorative and creative purposes. The most popular designs include the famous Mt. Fuji Wave painting and calligraphy designs. For tourists, this product is particularly easy to carry as its versatile designs allow for easy folding. Department stores, such as Daimaru, Matsuzakaya, Tobu, and Tokyu, sell norens for $50 to $200 U.S. dollars. Most these stores can be found on Ginza Dori, outside the Ginza train station.

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14. Yunomi

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Yunomi are ceramic teacups made for everyday tea drinking, not for tea ceremonies. They are taller than wide in appearance and have a trimmed or turned foot. There are yunomi that are sold in pairs, and they are called meoto yunomi. Meoto means “married couple”. Meoto yunomi usually have the same pattern, but differ in color, shape and size. The larger one is the “husband” cup and the smaller one is the “wife”. There are a few yunomi styles and most potters make them.

One can find yunomi at the Oriental Bazaar in Harajuku at 9-13-5 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0001. The yunomi found there have the 茶 character, meaning "green tea", painted on. The Oriental Bazaar is open on weekdays from 10:00 to 18:00 (closed on Thursdays) and at the weekend or on national holidays from 10:00 to 19:00. The Yunomi prices differ, depending on the style and the material used. A good cup may cost up to ¥10000 ($123), while a simple one - about ¥1000 ($12).

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15. Kanzashi

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Kanzashi are traditional Japanese hair accessories that were widely in use during the Edo period; sometimes, in case of emergency, they were also used for self-defense. Eventually, the kanzashi craftsmanship reached a very high point and gave rise to many different styles and designs. In 1982, tsumami kanzashi was officially recognized as a traditional Japanese handcraft in the Tokyo area. Kanzashi are made from different materials, such as lacquered wood, gold and silver platted metal, tortoiseshell, silk and, nowadays, also plastic. There are several traditional kanzashi styles that follow complex flower and seasonal arrangements, though they are seldom followed these days. Usually, maiko (apprentice geiko, similar to geisha, but not exactly the same) still follow them.

Kanzashiya in Harajuku offers a nice selection of beautiful handmade kanzashi. The shop is located on the first floor of the Junk Yard at 4-26-28 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo. It is open from 12:00 until 20:00. Another place to buy kanzashi is the Kanameya shop in Ginza: 7-18-8 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0061. Kanameya is open from 11:00 to 21:30 on weekdays and from 12:00 to 19:00 on Saturdays. The shop is closed on Sundays and holidays. Kanzashi cost from ¥4000 ($50) to ¥132000 ($1630) and more.

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16. Obi (Sash)

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Obi is a sash used with traditional Japanese clothing, such as keikogi (a kind of training uniform used in Japanese martial arts) and as a part of kimono. At first, obis, for both men and women, were simple narrow sashes worn about the waist to hold the folds of a kimono. During the Genroku period (approximately late 17th century – early 18th century), kimono styles significantly changed and so did the obis, in order to suit the changes. Nowadays, an obi for men is about 10 centimeters wide, and for women – 30 centimeters. There are many types of obi, most of them are for women and categorized by design, formality, material and use. The most colorful and various in design are the obis for unmarried women. Being an accessory for traditional Japanese clothing, obis have various accessories made specially for them.

While it may be expensive (over $20,000) to buy a complete kimono outfit with all the due accessories, buying an obi is far less expensive. You can buy one at Kochou in Asakusa. The shop deals in kimono and all related accessories. It is located at 1-39-11, Asakusa,Taito-ku, Tokyo, and is open daily from 10:00 to 19:00. Prices for obis range from $20 to several hundred dollars, depending on design and material. You can also find obis in most department stores all over Tokyo with different variations in prices.

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17. Tabi Socks

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Tabi socks are still worn extensively throughout Japanese provinces, and not just for special occasions or holidays. Tabi socks are dyed mostly with organic dyes, resembling porcelain in color, and feature patterns common to Japan. Worn together with sandals, tabi socks are used by Japanese men as much as women. The socks are made from various materials – sometimes purely organic, but mostly of cotton fabric used for mass production. One can see lines of tabi socks outside temples, as they are among the few elements of minimalist attire that the monks and other religious personas wear in keeping with Buddhist tradition. Although tabi socks are not commonly given as a gift at fancy parties, they can make an ideal present for those fashion-minded and generally interested in Japanese culture. Daiso store, located in Village 107, 1-19-24 Jingu-mae, Shibuya-ku, offers a variety of Tabi socks. It is open from 10:00AM to 9:00PM.

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18. Geta Sandals

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Geta sandals are a type of footwear consisting of a clothing thong attached to a wooden platform. Its origin dates back to the late 300 A.D. and is seen alongside the standard Yukata (casual summer kimono). Although this type of footwear is largely associated with the samurai culture, modern Japanese men also tend to wear these wooden sandals a lot on the streets of Tokyo. Zori Sandals (designed in a similar fashion to Geta sandals) utilize bamboo tatami material. Tatami are the straw mats that cover floors in Japanese homes. They are usually rectangular in shape (about 90cm wide and 180cm long) and made of hard-packed straw covered with a kind of rush, called igusa. The edges are hemmed with cloth. Oriental Bazaar, located in Omote-sando, features ins and outs of Japanese culture, including Geta sandals. It is located at 9-13 5-chome Jingumae Shibuya-ku Tokyo  150-0001, and is open between 10:00AM and 6:00PM. The typical price range for Geta sandals is $50-$80 U.S. dollars (5,000 to 8,000 Yen).

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Other Interesting Souvenirs from Japan

If traveling to the Land of the Rising Sun is not on your immediate agenda, or you simply can't afford an extra space in your luggage, fortunately, these days, you can find a wide selection of authentic and truly interesting Japanese souvenirs online. Presented here are some of the Japanese products sought by foreign visitors, now available online for your convenience.

1. Sweets and Snacks - Daifuku, traditional Japanese rice cake available in 5 fruity flavors (Matcha, Chestnut, Sweet Red Bean, Salty, and Sweet Red Bean). Good thing to share with a friend, particularly if s/he has a sweet tooth. Assortment of Japanese "DAGASHI" snacks much loved by the locals since 400 years ago and still popular in today's Japan. Quite handy a gift for a party, St. Valentine's Day or any other celebration.

2. Matcha (Green Tea) - Organic green tea powder (naturally gluten free and vegan) of authentic Japanese origin. This unique product is made of the premium quality green tea leaves ground into a fine powder. Can be consumed directly as tea or as a culinary ingredient added to delicious, healthy smoothies, lattes, baked goods, and other dishes.

3. Kendama - An ancient toy (introduced to Japan from China, back in the 1700s), comprising a small wooden ball and a string, meant to develop one's skill by tossing the ball and catching it in one of the shallow cups. Will capture your kids' imagination and keep them active, while absolutely safe. Suits all ages.

4. Tenugui - Japanese hand towels, typically made from cotton, quite smooth in texture unlike its Western terrycloth counterparts. Suitable for various purposes, such as drying hands, bodies, etc. May be used instead of a handkerchief or as a wrapper for gifts. The locals also wear it around their head, as a bandanna, or around the neck, as a scarf, or just sit on it, as a mat. Also suitable as a mask or strainer.

5. Omamori - Traditional Japanese Shinto lucky charm, commonly sold at religious sites, available in a variety of styles and designs. Each omamori has a special purpose - some facilitate good fortune in business or love, others bolster good health or success in exams.

6. Cosmetics - Japanese-made hydrating lotion, anti-ageing beauty serum, moistursing milk, face cream, face mask, and eye mask. Among these is Kikumasamune High Moisture Sake Brewing Skin Care Lotion made of famed dry sake (Japanese rice liquor), naturally high in kojic acid that hydrates, soothes, smoothes, and brightens the skin; as well as Makanai Cosme Hair Soap/Shampoo Bar with Camellia Oil & Black Sugar that leaves the hair soft, mild and naturally beautiful.

7. Furin (Wind Chimes) - Wind bells, iron cast in the form of pagoda lantern or a traditional Japanese temple bell, with a clear and resonant sound. Another wind chime is called NOUSAKU, a silver colored bell with a paper string. Each of these makes a nice addition to room decoration.

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