11 Cool Stuff To Buy In Japan

“I’m Japanese!” is something my proud friend can often be found shouting, so she likely already knows 11 cool stuff to buy in Japan. However, she is usually shouting this in reference to someone mistaking her for another Asian heritage like Chinese or Korean. This super offensive buttheaded xenophobic happens quite a bit, even in the great urban metropolis of New York. Usually, it waits until conflict but can also be part of an off the cuff remark or a maliceless question–not intended to offend, but offensive nonetheless.

People are idiots. Still, you can be curious about a country without making assumptions. Something I really should not have to write, but sadly is a lesson we need to relearn again and again, no matter our age. Curiosity about other cultures can be a great thing, especially if you plan to visit that country. Obviously, you would want to research and immerse yourself in as much as you can–so you can learn and, you know, have a killer time.

What about when the trip is over? What should you bring back? I didn’t know about bringing back gifts from vacation until recently. I remember a co-worker once brought me soap from Paris and I was touched but also thoroughly confused. Was she trying to tell me I smelled? That she in fact took the trip to take a break from smelling me and realized, while in Paris, her nose never had it so good?

Now I am less ignorant of the travel gift protocol. I know it is important to pick up some a t-shirt or some Sri Lankan food from Staten Island, and dole it out to my family, whenever I make the long ferry ride out there from Manhattan. If I were going all the way to Japan, I would need to pick up some even better mementos. Certainly you can’t go wrong with one of the 11 cool things that you should buy from Japan and if you truly enjoy your stay check out the 10 Best Places to Retire in Japan.

Now, what is “cool” you ask? Well, you are free to definite “cool” for yourself, as only a cool person would do.  For the purpose of this post about cool stuff to buy in Japan, cool is something which is not super expensive, but is specific and interesting or rare and can mostly only be found in Japan or reflect a compelling facet of Japanese culture. However, do not expect to see niche items such as love pillows and stuff of that nature on the list as well. We will be staying mainstream, and list out items that we think are cool to have added to your collection and also be cool to give out to your friends and family as a gift. The items listed here have not been ranked in any order. Instead, we took a look at several websites offering similar contents, and made a list of 11 cool stuff to buy In Japan; items we think everybody should pick up during their stay. 

 

11. Comic books or Manga

Japanese comic books or Manga are extremely popular in the West, and shops like Kinokuniya and Mandarake have overflowing libraries. Of course, we like reading digital copies of these books, but having an authentic copy of your favorite Manga is always going to be amazing.

 

10. Umbrella

Of course we are not talking about a regular umbrella here. We are talking about the traditional style Japanese paper umbrellas or their new inventive umbrellas that look like lettuce or even a necktie. Getting it home on a plane might be a problem, but if you can swing it (don’t actually swing it), then a traditional Japanese Umbrella is going to be a very cool thing to have.

 

9. Maneki neko

The moment you go near a shop in Japan, you are likely to encounter a Maneki neko doll. This is the beckoning cat doll that has become synonymous with Japanese iconography. The Japanese believe the doll brings good business to a business establishment. And it makes an amazing souvenir for visitors.

 

8. Japanese hand fans

You might wonder why you have to go to the trouble of buying it from Japan, when you can get these at any Asian supermarket. But, the thing is, the authentic Japanese hand fans made from fine fabrics and real wood are a totally different thing altogether.

 

7. Japanese chopsticks

Japanese chopsticks are quite different from the Chinese ones. The traditional Japanese chopsticks are made from lacquered wood and have a pointy end. Also these can be found in several sizes for men, women and children. You can find chopstick sets as decorative items. We highly recommend that you pick a few of them up as they make great gifts and also potentially a cool decoration.

 

6. Kokeshi Dolls

I am sure you are familiar with Chibi figures. The Kokeshi Dolls, our number 6 on the list of cool stuff to buy in Japan, are basically the inspiration of the modern Chibi dolls. Basically a doll with exaggerated head and a smaller body. Kokeshi Dolls are traditional Japanese dolls made in Northern japan. They are made from wood, and are quite popular among tourists and collectors alike.

 

5. TV Network shops and character goods

Well, if you are into anime then you must have to visit TV Network shops in Japan. You can get things featuring you favorite anime character, items like action figures or cosplay gear. There are several TV network shops scattered around Tokyo and other major Japanese cities. The items they sell are licensed and authentic.

 

4. Different flavored Kit-Kats

Kit-Kat, one of the cool stuff to buy in Japan, pretty much comes in just one flavor in almost everywhere in the world. But, in Japan, you can find several uncommon flavors of this popular treat like Rum Raisin. Flavors range from pretty unique Strawberry to extremely weird Purple Sweet Potato. If you like Kit-Kats then you are going to enjoy exploring all the different flavors of it while you in Japan.

 

3. Furin (Chimes)

Furin is basically a chime, instead of using a metal tube, Furin uses a glass or metal ball as a basis. If you like to give your home a traditional, Zen-inspired look, then having Furins on your windows is a must.

 

2. Food Sample Items

In the West, restaurants use colorful menus to illustrate the delicious dishes they offer. But in Japan, many restaurants will have life-size replicas of the food items they serve. These replicas are so lifelike that you will not be able to tell the difference unless you touch or smell them. These are also available as pocket chain, and fridge magnet variants as well. I highly recommend picking up one of these cool stuff to buy in Japan as they make great gifts.

 

1. Omamori, or Good Luck charms

While you are in Japan, you are likely to visit shrines or temples. And you can find these over there. These are basically good luck charms, and they can be used in your car or house. There are many times of Omamori available in Japan. Ranging from just general good luck to specific scenarios, like for pregnant women or students. These are also very cheap, you can get these for about 1 to 2 dollars each.

Now that you’ve read 11 cool stuff to buy in Japan, it’s time to start packing!