Top 10 Best Department Stores in Japan for Luxury Shopping
Japan’s iconic retail destinations go far beyond shopping—they're cultural landmarks, architectural gems, and paragons of service. From the historic grandeur of Mitsukoshi to the modern elegance of Omotesando Hills, Japan’s top department stores serve not just as centers of commerce but as curated experiences for discerning shoppers. Whether hunting for haute couture, fine jewelry, or artisanal confections, these establishments provide impeccable offerings and unmatched hospitality.
While the retail landscape in Japan has shifted dramatically with the rise of e-commerce and convenience stores, department stores (known locally as depāto) remain steadfast symbols of refinement. Each one offers a unique perspective on luxury, often blending international brands with traditional Japanese craftsmanship. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, these top-tier destinations are a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in world-class luxury shopping.
Best Department Stores in Japan for Luxury Shopping
Tokyo
- Nihombashi Mitsukoshi Main Store
- Isetan Shinjuku
- Wako
- Matsuya Ginza
- Ginza Six
- Roppongi Hills
- Omotesando Hills
Osaka
- Daimaru Shinsaibashi
- Hankyu Umeda
Fukuoka
- Iwataya
Best Department Stores in Japan for Luxury Shopping: Tokyo
1. Nihombashi Mitsukoshi Main Store
Founded in 1673 as a kimono shop called Echigoya, the Nihombashi Mitsukoshi Main Store is Japan's oldest department store and a symbol of traditional luxury. Located in Tokyo's historic Nihombashi district, this flagship store exudes timeless elegance with its grand architecture and meticulous service. It’s popular with both affluent locals and global travelers who appreciate a refined shopping experience grounded in Japanese heritage.
- Highlights:
- Rich history dating back over 350 years
- World-class service and personal shopping
- Gourmet depachika (basement food floor) featuring rare delicacies
- Luxury Brands:
- Louis Vuitton, Hermès, Chanel, Gucci, Cartier, Bvlgari…
2. Isetan Shinjuku
Regarded as Tokyo's fashion headquarters, Isetan Shinjuku has built a reputation for its cutting-edge selection and trendsetting influence. Since opening in 1933, Isetan has stayed ahead of the curve, offering an eclectic mix of global luxury brands and emerging designers. Its sprawling men's building is particularly noteworthy, making it a favorite for stylish shoppers of all genders.
- Highlights:
- Extensive women's and men's luxury fashion floors
- Innovative seasonal pop-ups and collaborations
- Premier tax-free shopping service
- Luxury Brands:
- Balenciaga, Loewe, Valentino, Dior, Prada, Bottega Veneta, Givenchy…
3. Wako
Located at the iconic Ginza crossing, Wako is synonymous with understated elegance. Established in 1881 by Kintarō Hattori (founder of Seiko), Wako specializes in fine watches, jewelry, and lifestyle goods. The building's clock tower is a Ginza landmark, and the store itself caters to refined shoppers looking for both Japanese and international luxury.
- Highlights:
- Historic architecture and luxury-focused merchandise
- Renowned for watches, jewelry, and porcelain
- Home to Wako Hall, an art gallery on the sixth floor
- Luxury Brands:
- Seiko, Grand Seiko, IWC, Breguet, Panerai, and upscale Japanese crafts
4. Matsuya Ginza
Established in 1925, Matsuya Ginza blends modern design with a curated selection of high-end brands. Its sleek white exterior is a Ginza landmark, and inside, you’ll find both international fashion houses and top-tier cosmetics. Known for its stylish clientele, the store also features an excellent selection of contemporary Japanese designers.
- Highlights:
- Clean, contemporary layout and a trend-savvy atmosphere
- Excellent gourmet food and sweets section
- Home goods and fashion on par with global boutiques
- Luxury Brands:
- Yves Saint Laurent, Miu Miu, Prada, Shu Uemura, Stella McCartney…
5. Ginza Six
Opened in 2017, Ginza Six is one of the newest and most glamorous shopping complexes in the Ginza district. This multi-floor luxury haven combines fashion, art, and dining in an ultra-modern setting. It appeals to an international crowd seeking the latest in high-end fashion and lifestyle.
- Highlights:
- Over 240 stores, including luxury boutiques
- Rooftop garden with city views
- Regular art installations and cultural exhibitions
- Luxury Brands:
- Dior, Saint Laurent, Céline, Valentino, Van Cleef & Arpels, Rolex…
6. Roppongi Hills
Roppongi Hills is a premier urban complex in central Tokyo that blends luxury shopping with culture and sophistication. Opened in 2003, the development centers around the Mori Tower and features a curated mix of high-end boutiques, gourmet restaurants, and lifestyle brands. More than just a shopping destination, Roppongi Hills is home to the Mori Art Museum, outdoor sculptures, and seasonal events that enhance its cosmopolitan appeal.
- Highlights:
- Urban luxury with cultural elements
- Rooftop views, gourmet dining, and art installations
- Convenient access to central Tokyo
- Luxury Brands:
- Cartier, Gucci, Louboutin, Kate Spade, Tiffany & Co., Rolex…
7. Omotesando Hills
Designed by famed architect Tadao Ando and opened in 2006, Omotesando Hills is a stylish shopping complex at the center of Tokyo’s most fashionable street. With over 100 stores, it focuses on high-end and design-conscious brands, making it a hotspot for Tokyo's fashion-forward crowd.
- Highlights:
- Cutting-edge architecture and boutique luxury
- Popular with Tokyo’s elite and fashion influencers
- Seasonal lighting displays and upscale cafes
- Luxury Brands:
- Chloé, Chaumet, Star Jewelry, Tag Heuer, Dior…
Best Department Stores in Japan for Luxury Shopping: Osaka
8. Daimaru Shinsaibashi
This storied department store recently underwent a major renovation, blending classic architecture with a modern retail experience. Located in the heart of Osaka’s trendsetting Shinsaibashi area, it’s a major draw for locals and tourists alike seeking prestige brands.
- Highlights:
- Historic facade with state-of-the-art interiors
- Huge beauty floor and luxury handbags section
- Easy access to the Shinsaibashi shopping arcade
- Luxury Brands:
- Chanel, Balenciaga, Berluti, Carter, Moncler, Miu Miu, Manolo Blahnik…
9. Hankyu Umeda
A landmark in Osaka’s Umeda district, Hankyu Umeda is known for its massive scale and rich assortment of luxury fashion, cosmetics, and lifestyle goods. Opened in 1929 and renovated extensively in the 2010s, it is the preferred destination for affluent shoppers in the Kansai region.
- Highlights:
- Massive fashion floors with international and Japanese designers
- One of Japan’s best luxury cosmetics departments
- Seasonal exhibitions and fashion events
- Luxury Brands:
- Louis Vuitton, Hermès, Gucci, Tiffany & Co., Chloé, Chopard…
Best Department Stores in Japan for Luxury Shopping: Fukuoka
10. Iwataya
Located in the heart of Fukuoka’s Tenjin district, Iwataya is Kyushu’s premier luxury department store. It has a loyal following among regional shoppers and offers a blend of domestic and international high-end fashion, accessories, and beauty brands. The store has two buildings connected by a sky bridge, each with its own luxurious flair.
- Highlights:
- Leading department store in Kyushu
- Elegant layout and multilingual assistance
- Local gourmet selection and stylish boutiques
- Luxury Brands:
- Max Mara, Bottega Veneta, Fendi, Ferragamo, Shiseido…
Conclusion
Luxury shopping in Japan is more than a transaction—it's a cultural experience defined by detail, heritage, and hospitality. Whether you're exploring the historical ambiance of Nihombashi Mitsukoshi, browsing the contemporary flair of Omotesando Hills, or indulging in curated collections at Ginza Six, Japan’s department stores offer a distinct atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
For those passionate about fashion, design, and craftsmanship, these top department stores serve as gateways to both global trends and Japanese refinement, making luxury shopping in Japan an experience to savor—not just a splurge to make. Happy shopping!
