Although sticking to the areas where the main attractions are is easy, checking out also the suburbs gives you more perspective on local traditions and way of life. Located just a 10-minute train ride from Shinjuku, Koenji is a fashionable town known for live houses, vintage stores and cheap yet delicious food. However, there are also many shops that sell unique items. That is why we listed three stores where to buy interesting items in Koenji. These products are ideal souvenirs!
1. Nakaya: Textiles and cute items
Let’s start with the most traditional store! Nakaya is a small shop that sells Japanese textiles, kimonos and accessories that go well with kimonos. Number one choice for a souvenir in this shop would be a wall hanging with a beautiful pattern.
There are lots of patterns to choose from, but cherry blossoms would be a classic, good choice.
You probably feel like hanging one on the wall of your own apartment too? Get yourself one as well!
Even if you were not into kimonos, there are many cute items that would be perfect souvenirs. Check out these bags and hairpins!
Opening hours
Monday, Wednesday-Sunday 11:00-19:00
(Closed on Tuesdays)
Map:
In Japan, there are many products related to cats, from Hello Kitty onwards. But for a souvenir, wouldn’t it be nice to buy cat themed art items instead of something that you can probably buy in your own country as well? Neko no Hitai (‘A Cat’s forehead’) is a shop that sells cat related items from 200 artists from all around Japan. At the same time, it is a gallery, so you can also just admire the paintings, cards, miniatures and countless other items. Already the exterior of the shop looks fun and inviting.
There is an exhibition space after the entrance on the left. The artworks presented are also on sale, and they are not that expensive. One of those small paintings would be easy to take back home, as they do not take much space!
How about a cat climbing to Tokyo Tower or a cat wearing a kimono? I bet you cannot find similar items anywhere else!
There is also a wide selection of postcards, only at about 160 yen a piece!
Also, don’t forget to admire the paintings even though they might not be that easy to take back home. Even a guitar can be turned into cat themed art, as you can see below!
Opening hours
Monday-Wednesday, Friday-Sunday 12:00-20:00
(Closed on Thursdays)
Map:
Buying local sweets is a classic choice for a souvenir. Just a short walk away from Koenji station, Bunmeido is a place that is worth a visit if you are looking for something sweet to take back home to your friends and family. The store specializes in Japanese sponge cakes called Kasutera, although they offer also some other delicacies.
Even though sponge cake is not originally from Japan, it has become a famous dessert in the country. In Bunmeido store, the cakes are indeed very Japanese. For example, there is cherry blossoms sponge cake and green tea sponge cake.
Since you can buy them in individually wrapped packages, this would be a good choice if you want to give souvenirs to many people. The taste is delicious, too.
There are of course also bigger packages.
Map:
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