Shopping Tokyo: The Glitzy Ginza District

Ginza is synonymous with “posh” in Tokyo. The district is littered with upscale department stores. Jewelry shops vie for the jet-set’s dollars alongside electronics boutiques (including an impressively designed Apple Computer Shop).

However, Ginza is not all about flash and glitz. The Japanese traditional performance art of Kabuki is has one of it most storied theater spaces in Ginza. These performances are marathon affairs, lasting more than a few hours. It is possible to buy a ticket to a single act of the performance, which itself will last as long as an entire Broadway musical.

Technophiles will go gaga when they visit the Sony Building. There are multiple floors of showrooms where the latest products of the electronics giant are on display. Some of the technology, though years away from being marketed to consumers, is downright unbelievable.

Chuo Avenue is a great place to go on weekends. The street is closed to motor traffic and there is a festive atmosphere, complete with street performers and the odd pickpocket.

But, of course, most tourists come to Ginza for the department stores. Places like Tokyo Kyuukyodo, with its unmistakable clock tower, are favorites. This is the best place to find (pricy) souvenirs. Some of the wares seem to be authentic and some seem to be aimed at tourists on the prowl for something they think is “Japanese.” All of it is extremely classy. You can’t go wrong shopping for the discerning (or picky) family member who is expecting a souvenir from your trip to Tokyo.

Most world-famous brands are represented in Ginza. Gucci has a showroom-like shop here, as do other brands. If high fashion (or snobbery) is your thing, these are the places to find (both). If you plan to do so, just leave your cut-off khakis and sandals at the hotel.

There is a line of multi-floor emporiums that starts with the ultra-plush Wako Department Store. At the very least, there are floors upon floors of window shopping. Given the location, bargains are few and far between (well, there are no bargains, really). Still, there are the odd gems like an impressive store selling pens and paper that are used for calligraphy.

Ginza is definitely a place to see. Like I said above, this is not a place for budget travelers to purchase anything, but it could be interesting as a sightseeing trip. Visiting Ginza might be akin to a stop in Milan or Paris, or at least a visit to Macy’s in New York.