Hi!, I’m Eiryu.
Are you looking for the best Japanese souvenirs and gifts for your trip to Japan?
You are lucky, I’d love to share some great ideas here.
Let’s go!
Yokan is one of Japan’s most traditional and famous wagashi (Japanese sweets).
It is made primarily from red bean paste, and has a refined sweetness and a smooth, firm texture.
Additionally, this sweet can be stored long at room temperature, so it’s best for a gift.
In summer, try mizu-yokan, a refreshing, jelly-like version of yokan.
You’ll find yokan in most Japanese sweet shops across the country. If you want a gift that truly represents Japanese confectionery culture, this is a must-try.
Recommended Shop:
Toraya – Japan’s most prestigious yokan brand with stores nationwide. Loved by locals and visitors alike.
👉 https://global.toraya-group.co.jp/pages/locations
When people think of Japanese gifts, matcha often comes to mind.
While traditional matcha can be bitter, modern versions are much more approachable—think matcha latte powders, cookies, and matcha-flavored sweets.
These vibrant green treats not only taste great but also look beautiful—perfect for gifting.
Where can I buy this?
You can often find them near Japan’s famous tourist spots—such as Asakusa, Kyoto’s Kiyomizu-dera, and Fushimi Inari Taisha, or in the food section of a department store.
Recommended Shop:
THE MATCHA TOKYO – Offers organic matcha and matcha sweets. They even prepare matcha on the spot in their café!
👉 https://www.the-matcha.tokyo/en?srsltid=AfmBOoouXFJ5DQ3ZY-L52b9LmAe1L8rHDvi-aQuXt2DD2Tx1AP3yySmM
Yukata is a casual summer kimono, traditionally worn during festivals or fireworks events in Japan. Made of lightweight cotton, it’s cool, comfortable, and easy to wear—perfect for Japan’s hot and humid summers.
If you feel a little shy wearing it outdoors, no problem! Yukata also make great loungewear or sleepwear at home. They’re both stylish and relaxing.
Where can I buy this?
Yukata are commonly sold in Japan during the summer months, especially from June to August. You can find them in a variety of places like souvenir shops near popular tourist area or a department store.
Recommended Shop:
Fujikiya (Tokyo,Ueno) – You can buy Yukata under ￥10,000.
👉 https://fujikiyakimono.com/english
Wagasa is a traditional Japanese umbrella made from natural materials such as bamboo and washi paper(Japanese traditional paper). Unlike modern umbrellas, Wagasa is usually crafted by hand and often beautifully decorated with traditional patterns, making them both functional and artistic.
Wagasa aren’t sold in many places, but Gifu Prefecture is famous for producing them.
If you’re looking for a high-quality, authentic Wagasa, visiting Gifu prefecture is highly recommended.
While you’re at it, be sure to check out our site for the top spots to visit in Gifu!
Recommended Shop:
Wagasa casa (Gifu) – They offers very stylish Wagasa!
👉 https://wagasa.shop/en/?srsltid=AfmBOoq8h9BXHD1_Q3ObrMOR3dt1xI-HlynmetSWHuh3AbbRO-xsf4_Q
Japanese chopsticks are not just utensils—they’re beautifully crafted cultural items. Many are decorated with traditional patterns, and some shops even offer personalized engravings.
Ideal as gifts for Asian friends.
Recommended Shop:
Mikura (Asakusa) – Offers over 500 styles of chopsticks, with name engraving available at affordable prices.
👉 https://kappabashi-mikura.com/en
Have you ever watched this pretty thing?
Furin is a symbol of Japanese summer. When the breeze passes through, they emit a charming “chirin-chirin” sound that instantly evokes memories of tranquil summer days in Japan.
They’re visually stunning and make thoughtful, unique gifts.
Where can I buy this?
You can find furin at traditional souvenir shops, especially during the summer. They’re often sold in popular tourist areas such as Asakusa in Tokyo, Kamakura, and Kyoto. Actually, it is little bit difficult to find a shop selling this, but keep on searching!
Recommended Shop:
Shinohara Maruyoshi Furin (Taito, Tokyo) – Beautifully wrapped wind chimes and even DIY workshops are available.
👉 https://www.edo-fuurin.com/en
Geta are traditional Japanese sandals typically worn with yukata or kimono. With their natural wood design and soft clacking sound as you walk, they’re both stylish and nostalgic. While pricier than typical souvenirs, you can enjoy geta as works of Japanese art.
Recommended Shop:
Yamatoya Footwear Store (Ginza, Tokyo) – A more than 100 year old geta store where you can buy handcrafted sandals at reasonable prices.
You can find these things around the spots bellow while enjoying sightseeing.
Right outside Kamakura Station, this shopping street is full of traditional souvenir shops offering geta, furin, chopsticks, and more. Plus, it’s a great spot for street food and sightseeing in a historically rich town.
Near Kyoto’s top tourist attractions. Especially famous for its matcha shops, many of which offer sweet, travelers-friendly matcha gifts.
A classic souvenir shopping street right in front of the iconic Senso-ji Temple. Great for traditional gifts and snacks.
Japan’s claw machines are filled with high-quality prizes—from plushies and toys to snacks and figurines. It’s a thrilling way to win your own unique souvenir!
They’re especially common in entertainment districts, shopping street, shopping malls, and near train stations.
You’ll often see them in places like Shibuya, Shinjuku, Akihabara (Tokyo), Namba and Umeda (Osaka), and major tourist areas around the country.
For under ¥1,000, you can try your luck at convenience stores offering “Ichiban Kuji” lotteries. Even the lowest-tier prizes are collectible items, and top prizes include large, exclusive figures. Give it a go if you see one featuring your favorite anime or character!
You can find Ichiban Kuji—a type of lottery where every ticket wins a prize—at many convenience stores and hobby shops throughout Japan. Each shops held different theme of Ichiban Kuji, if you find favorite one, let’s try your luck!
Japan offers so many unique and meaningful items that reflect its rich culture and tradition.
Bringing home any of these souvenirs will not only make your family and friends happy, but also give you lasting memories of your Japan trip!
Happy shopping and enjoy travelling!
