Japan’s department store experience is unlike any other. From the white-gloved elevator attendants, to the often available English-speaking floor staff, to the assembly line check-out areas where your purchase is neatly packaged while paying for your goods, this is the epitome of Japan’s customer service.
Daimaru (http://www.daimaru.co.jp/english/index.html, 9-1-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku; Tel: 03-3212-8011) – Part of the Daimaru group (which includes the Daimaru’s supermarket chain) which operates a number of department stores across the city. Daimaru offers shoppers with reasonably-priced cosmetics, fashion, accessories, and food options.
Matsuya (http://www.matsuya.com/, 3-6-1 Ginza, Chuo-ku; Tel: 03-3567-1211) – Located in the city’s most up-market district (Ginza), Matsuya is a top tier department store that offers men and women’s fashion, accessories, and some household goods. Matsuya also has a number of restaurant offerings located within the building.
Mitsukoshi (http://www.mitsukoshi.co.jp/store/fcs/english/1010/index.html, 1-4-1 Nihombashi, Chuo-ku; Tel: 03-3241-3311) – One of the most high-class department stores in the country, Mitsukoshi even has its own train station. Clothing, accessories, household goods, premium foods, and other items can be found here.
Parco (15-1 Udagawacho, Shibuya-ku; Tel: 03-3464-5111) – The Parco department stores located in Shibuya span three buildings (Parco 1, Parco 2, and Parco 3). Parco 1 focused on up-market fashion brands, Parco 2 offers a variety of household goods, and Parco 3 sells trendy clothing targeted at the youth market.
Takashimaya (http://www.takashimaya.co.jp/, located in several districts) – Arguably the most top tier department store chain in Japan; clothing, accessories, household goods, an entire floor of premium foods, and other items can be found here.
Tokyu Hands (http://www.tokyu-hands.co.jp, located in several districts) – Sells just about everything imaginable from lumber, power tools, and other gadgets, to bathroom fixtures, cooking supplies, and much, much more.
