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:
2. Neko no Hitai: Cat themed art shop & gallery
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:
3. Bunmeido Japanese sponge cake shop
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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