Here comes part 2 of my series of posts on Tokyo :)
Disclaimer: This post is solely based on my own experiences and encounters.
Shopping
Tokyo isn't like Bangkok or Vietnam, or even Taiwan; what with renown night markets brimming with clothes at prices not many can resist. Tokyo is expensive, especially for those on a budget. Department stores like Isetan and Takashimaya carry mainly local brands, and they're priced high on the spectrum.
Underground malls connected to major train stations such as Shinjuku and Shibuya are the best bet for affordable clothing. I've noticed certain brands that are selling in Isetan Shaw as well, but for three to four times the price (Green Earth, Lowrys Farm which has recently closed down in Singapore, and EMODA). Clean, crisp and minimalist are words I would use to describe when shopping for clothes in Tokyo. Comfort is definitely key, and for the prices I paid (approx 15SGD and up) I had no complaints whatsoever.
Being in another Asian country, sizing is not much of an issue especially if you're petite. Jeans, skirts and dresses would not fall too long and as someone who stands at 155cm, it was a breeze to shop for clothes in Tokyo. Sizes are mostly free, or come in the range of M or L. If you come around June (nearer the end) till August, the sales get bigger and better as the months go by.
Apart from clothes, Japan is THE place for all sorts of knick knacks. Polaroid films that can set you back 15SGD and up cost less than 10SGD over there (yes, even for the patterned films). Stickers, stationary, toys (Gundam, Tamiya, Lego, Pokemon, Tomica; the list can go on for days...) and all things Sanrio or Disney is significantly cheaper in Tokyo. Departmental stores often commit one level just for these; I spent the most at these sections. If you're a sucker for these paraphernalia just like me..your wallet will be weeping by the end of your trip.
Tip 1: Always bring your passport when shopping, tax refund is done on the spot at a counter and they need your passport to input the relevant details. The tax at Tokyo is at 8% so that is a significant amount you get back (the more you spend, the more you gain), in cash.
Tip 2: BIC Camera East Store (Shinjuku) is THE place to go for discounted prices of Lego, Tomica, Tamiya and Gundam items amongst other toys. They sell these items 30% off retail price, so do visit them before other departmental stores to avoid paying higher for one item and regretting it when you see it at BIC.
Tip 3: Shops close early (8-9pm)!! Restaurants and eateries close later (10-11pm) so plan your day accordingly!
Designer goods such as Coach, Agnes B and LeSportsac are cheaper than Singapore. I bought a bagpack from Coach that would have cost me SGD995 but was SGD740 in Isetan. Singapore also carried only one color and Tokyo, three. I also noticed a ton of items that Singapore did not carry despite having many Coach stores lining Orchard Road (e.g certain shoe models and accessories). LeSportsac carries many Japan Exclusive items and these are marked with a tag. They are for sale only in Japan's Departmental Stores so this is the time to grab and show off to your family and friends your exclusive item. Take for example the amazing Frozen collection, as well as Cinderella....
*Other brands such as Chanel and Ferragamo are significantly cheaper as well.
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| How a typical train ticket looks like. |
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| Tickets for the Airport Limousine service that we bought upon landing in Haneda Airport. Approx SGD13 per pax |
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| This allows tourists to get tax refunds, and yes as with all things Japanese - it is too cute. Tokyu Hands has such a card too! Other departmental stores rely on the physical copy of your passport to determine eligibility for tax refund. |
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Getting Around
For a first timer in Tokyo, unless you're with a tour group that provides transport, going 'free and easy' isn't going to be always easy. The Tokyo train map looks like a intricate and mind boggling spider web.
Train stations can have up to 10 exits and 16 platforms (or more!?), and it is not an easy place to manoeuvre for a foreigner. For starters, Shinjuku is connected to 4 other coloured train lines... Thank god for maps every 20 metres and information counters with the most polite staff in the history of any service line. Even then, one can get lost. I guess that's all in the joy and adventure of travelling, getting lost and the satisfaction when you finally get to your desired destination.
The amount of walking one does in Tokyo is unreal. I could feel my skinny jeans getting less 'skinny' as the days passed, or it could all just be in my head. Nonetheless, I was in awe at how easily it was for them to go around like it was second nature... So, when in Tokyo, take the train. It is a whole new experience altogether and unlike taking the train in any other country. I promise you that.
Tip 1: Buy a card that can be topped up every now and then. I did not and I realize I could have saved a lot more by doing so. Train tickets bought individually can go up to SGD5 and the cheapest at SGD1.80. Here's a link on how-to get top up cards for your time in Tokyo.
Tip 2: Avoid taking the taxi unless ABSOLUTELY necessarily. For a mere 15 minute walk, it can cost up to SGD10-12 for that ride alone.
Tip 3: Umbrella. Poncho. Hoodie. The rainy season is during June for Tokyo, and to avoid getting drenched, always be prepared. You'd think this is common sense but it can often be something we all overlook. *7/11 also sells Gossip Girl-esque transparent brollies for a mere SGD5.
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| Hachiko Exit of Shibuya Station. |
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| The infamous Shibuya Crossing |
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| Takashimaya Shinjuku 3F: Cova used to be at Paragon. Serving quality coffee and tea sets this is THE place for mid-day shopping recharge over a cuppa and cake. |
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| The aftermath ;) |
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With this trip, I would have been to five parts of Japan (Kyoto, Osaka, Kyushu, Yokohama & Tokyo) and safe to say not one has disappointed me. Tokyo is a fine example of what I hope Singapore will be one day; a busy yet seemingly organised community. How they need no train personnel to form a synchronised queue at the platform or how scarily accurate they are in terms of timing train arrivals to the minute details of gift wrapping each item with pride. I guess its in the joy of serving others' I see it in the way they speak, portray themselves and with acts that speak louder than anything else.
I will never forget the impeccable service provided at every shop I stepped into. Whether it was a branded boutique or merely 7/11 on the street. The seamless routine the people of Tokyo possess, the ever so delicious food and a culture so vibrant... Needless to say, Japan will will always have a special place in my heart. :)
Final Tip: Go with an open mind. Soak in everything Tokyo has to offer. They say the word is a book and those who do not travel only read a page. I've realised how small I am in the bigger scheme of things each time I travel; and its a wonderful wanderlust feeling to wake up in foreign place and breathe in a different air.
I hope this post resonates well with you, thank you for reading!
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