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| Photo provided by JNTO (Japan National Tourism Organization) |
When you first step into Ginza the first thing you'll notice is the glitz and glamour. This renowned district is famed worldwide for its extraordinary shopping and entertainment offerings. Whether you're looking for a delightful dinner, a captivating show, or a little indulgence, Ginza has it all. However, beyond the designer bags and authentic gourmet experiences, there's another side to Ginza - a treasure trove of cool vintage finds.
Situated near the heart of Tokyo, Ginza is a compact neighborhood adjacent to the trendy Tsukiji fish market. It's easy to stumble upon Ginza without even realizing it. Look out for the suddenly opulent lampposts and impeccably maintained pavements, and you'll soon notice the surroundings becoming increasingly upscale.
As soon as you spot the opulent storefronts of luxury brands, you'll know you've reached Ginza. The streets are lined with prestigious names, and the displays in store windows are enough to dazzle even the most discerning shopper.
Ginza boasts several malls, all of which are excellent choices if you're in the mood for some serious retail therapy. Virtually every imaginable store can be found in Ginza, including options for souvenirs, making it a haven for finding that perfect pasalubong.
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Photo provided by JNTO (Japan National Tourism Organization) |
If
you are looking for something to do that isn’t shopping, Ginza has plenty of
other attractions. Check out the super Instagrammable Art Aquarium which is a series of artistically
done, aesthetically pleasing displays. There is also some traditional Kabuki
Theatre playing at the Shochiku and Kabukiza.
See if you can catch a show, it’s a unique Japanese experience! Hibiya
Park is a draw as well if you need a break from the frenetic energy
of Tokyo and want a moment of calm.
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Photo provided by JNTO (Japan National Tourism Organization) |
This district might be gaining popularity, but not a lot of people know the secret side of Ginza. During the day, Ginza is an explosion of people. There are tourists who come to see the sites and everyday shoppers just there to get their luxury goods and get out. But at night, all of that is transformed. Instead of a shopping district, walking through the streets is like sneaking a peek into someone’s closet. It’s a more intimate experience.
If you have the chance, go to Ginza in the middle of the night. While this might seem counterproductive if you are there to go shopping, it’s a great way to see another side of Ginza.
At night, the lights in the stores remain open, the street lights stay on. You can take a peek at Ginza when it’s quiet and serene.
The streets are yours to explore without the passersby and the noise of the crowd. Walking through the area at night will also help you strategize for your shopping visit during the day. Without all of the distractions, you really get a feel for where you want to shop. Discover Ginza’s secrets at night so you can strategize for your morning excursion!
Even though designer stores are the first things that catch your eye, there are other draws to shopping in Ginza. There are dozens of smaller boutiques belonging to Japanese designers. There are even second-hand stores that sell gently used luxury items. Don’t miss those! There are treasures hidden in those shops that are one-of-a-kind.
Ginza is especially known as an area for second-hand designer bags. There is a wide range of variety and price range when it comes to these items, but preloved doesn’t have the same connotation in Japan, they are still considered investment items.
The vintage stores in Ginza can range from glossy multilevel shops to smaller, cozier salons where you can see all the merchandise on display at once. There are pricey boutiques and more affordable department store-type establishments. It’s a shopping paradise!
When it comes to food in Ginza, there are lots of fancy restaurants for any kind of cuisine you can imagine, from traditional Japanese to specialty coffee shops. You do not have to settle for the first place that you see. Be choosy. Look for the perfect meal because you deserve it, and there are lots of places to discover. Even unexpected spots like under a train station could have an unbelievable meal waiting for you.
You never know in Ginza.
All in all, Ginza is one of the places in the world that lives up to the hype. Not only is it a destination for shoppers, but it’s also a great place to go if you appreciate fashion, art, and beauty. It needs to be experienced at different times of the day, but no matter when you go, you’ll be glad you did.
For more downloadable photos and videos of Japan's beautiful and exciting tourist attractions for media usage, you may visit the Japan Online Media Center (JOMC) (http://business.jnto.go.jp/).
