What to Buy When Traveling to Japan?

Mục Lục

When planning a trip to Japan, many Vietnamese travelers wonder: “What should I buy as souvenirs when traveling to Japan?” This is not only a habit when going far but also a very characteristic part of our East Asian culture.

Why You Should Buy Souvenirs When Traveling to Japan

According to a 2024 survey by the Japan Tourism Agency, more than 78% of international travelers said they spend 10- 20% of their trip budget on gifts, and Southeast Asian travelers (including Vietnam) are among the highest spenders. This shows that buying souvenirs is not just “recommended,” but has practically become an indispensable part of the experience when traveling to Japan.

Gifts Carry Deep Cultural Value

Every souvenir in Japan comes with its own story: from traditional mochi, handmade wagashi, to handicrafts. By bringing them back to Vietnam, you are not only giving an item but also conveying the spirit and cultural beauty of Japan.

Preserve Memories and Mark the Journey

A trip becomes more complete when you have souvenirs to remember it by. According to statistics from the Japan Tourism Agency, on average 9 out of 10 travelers usually buy at least three different types of gifts before leaving Japan, including food, cosmetics, and handicrafts.

Show Thoughtfulness to Family and Friends

Especially for Vietnamese travelers, buying gifts after a trip has become a way to show care. For businesses, colleagues, or partners, a gift from Japan conveys elegance and sophistication.

Before starting your shopping journey in Japan, don’t forget to prepare your Japanese visa as early as possible to proactively plan your schedule. Contact iVISA to get full A- Z support for your Japanese tourist visa today!

Read more: Japan’s Weather in Late November

Categories of Products to Buy When Traveling to Japan

When planning a trip to Japan, the question “What should I buy as souvenirs when traveling to Japan?” always comes to mind first. Japan is not only famous for its scenery but also a shopping paradise with many meaningful souvenirs. These gifts not only preserve memories but also help you show thoughtfulness and respect to family, friends, and colleagues.

Here is a list of typical souvenirs that travelers should consider when going to Japan:

Traditional Japanese Specialties

“What should you buy as souvenirs when traveling to Japan?” Traditional specialties are always the top choice. Sweets, matcha tea, or sake are not only delicious but also carry deep cultural significance, making the recipients feel truly valued.

Japanese Sweets: Mochi, daifuku, or KitKat are often chosen as gifts because of their cute packaging and portability.
Uji Matcha and Wagashi: Green tea and traditional sweets reflect Japanese refinement and are suitable for those who love cultural experiences and want to share the taste of Japan with their loved ones.
Sake and Umeshu: Sake is not only a traditional Japanese drink but also symbolizes formality and respect, so it is often chosen as a gift for important occasions. Umeshu, with its light sweetness and easy-to-drink taste, is a friendly gift suitable for family, friends, or colleagues, conveying warmth and elegance.

Souvenirs with Distinct Japanese Identity

Have you ever imagined your loved ones opening a gift filled with the spirit of Japan? Typical souvenirs are not only beautiful but also carry messages of luck and success. Holding a Maneki Neko, a Daruma doll, or an Omamori charm, you are sending hope, care, and sincere affection to those you cherish. This is also a great way to preserve memories of your time traveling in Japan, making every trip more memorable.

You can easily find these souvenirs in Asakusa, the Gion district, or souvenir stalls in temples. When purchasing, prioritize reputable stores to ensure quality and avoid counterfeit products.

Japanese Cosmetics and Health Supplements

If you are still wondering “What should I buy for my mother, sister, or friends in Japan?” cosmetics and domestic health supplements are the top choice. Japan is globally famous for its safe and high-quality cosmetics. According to the Japan Cosmetic Industry Association, over 90% of domestic products meet strict testing standards, use natural ingredients, and are safe for sensitive skin. This explains why Vietnamese travelers always prefer beauty care gifts when traveling to Japan.

Japanese Cosmetics: Brands such as DHC, Shiseido, Hada Labo, and SK-II are prominent for skincare, serums, and masks. They not only nourish the skin but also provide a relaxing experience, offering a peaceful moment amid a busy lifestyle.
Health Supplements: Collagen, DHC tablets, probiotics are meaningful health gifts. They convey wishes for safety, vitality, and lasting youth, and are easy to bring back to Vietnam.

When buying these products, shop at reputable stores such as Matsumoto Kiyoshi, Cosme Store, or Loft. Make sure to check expiration dates and labels to ensure authenticity.

Read more: When Is the Best Time to Visit Japan?

Household Items and Technology Products

Japan is globally known for durable and modern household and technology products. Choosing these as gifts not only shows thoughtfulness but also brings a part of Japanese lifestyle home. This is also a great way to remember your wonderful travel experience in Japan.

Japanese Knives: Santoku, sashimi knives, and small paring knives are highly rated for sharpness and durability. They are ideal for cooking enthusiasts and reflect precision and quality in every detail.
Modern Kitchen Appliances: Domestic rice cookers, mini grills, and baking molds make home cooking more professional and enjoyable.
Technology Items: Massage machines, hair dryers, or mini air purifiers are premium gifts that promote health while bringing a modern touch, suitable for longer stays in Japan.

You can purchase these items at Bic Camera, Yodobashi, or Don Quijote, which are trusted stores ensuring authentic products. Note that Japan uses 110V, so prepare an adapter if needed.

Japanese Cultural Products

Japan is not only famous for its scenery and traditional culture but also a pop culture paradise. If you wonder “What should I buy for children or anime lovers?” products related to anime, manga, Ghibli, or Pokémon are perfect choices.

Popular products include official anime figures, Pokémon plush toys, and Ghibli souvenirs such as postcards or Totoro models. You can buy them at trusted stores like Animate, Mandarake, Pokémon Center, or official Ghibli Museum shops. This helps make your gift more meaningful while also being part of an enjoyable Japanese travel experience.

Shopping Experience in Japan

According to the Japan Tourism Agency, about 70% of international tourists choose cosmetics, health supplements, and souvenirs as gifts when visiting Japan. This shows that the demand is not only a preference but also a way to preserve beautiful memories from the Land of the Rising Sun.

Here are some tips to remember when shopping in Japan:

Check the origin, expiration date, and label, especially for cosmetics and health products. Most major stores such as Don Quijote, Bic Camera, and Matsumoto Kiyoshi have English labels and clear invoices, helping you shop without worrying about counterfeit items.
For transportation, liquids over 100ml, Japanese knives, or sharp objects must be checked in. Fresh or perishable food should be bought close to your departure date to maintain freshness.
Regarding costs, don’t forget to look for tax-free stores. When spending 5,000 yen or more in a single day at a store, you can get immediate tax refunds. Shopping at major chain stores also helps verify product origin and avoid counterfeit goods.

Reference Costs of Popular Souvenirs in Japan

Understanding gift costs helps you plan efficiently:

Wagashi: Approximately ¥500- 1,500 per piece; small, beautiful, and perfect for family or friends. Handle carefully to maintain quality when bringing back to Vietnam.
KitKat: ¥300- 800; compact and convenient, suitable for friends or colleagues.
DHC Deep Cleansing Oil 200ml: Around VND 600,000- 800,000; a premium gift for female family members or friends.

These gifts are popular in Japan and highly appreciated by travelers. Knowing prices beforehand makes it easier to select meaningful, attractive, and practical souvenirs for loved ones in Vietnam.

Current Gift Trends

Japan is a country with long life expectancy, so people emphasize health and spiritual value to maintain balance and peace of mind. Vietnamese travelers also adopt this trend. When asking “What should I buy when traveling to Japan?”, many travelers choose:

Health Care Gifts: Green tea, chamomile tea, or lotus products, which convey care for family and friends’ health.
Premium Food: Kobe beef, Wagyu, or Norwegian salmon; luxurious and healthy.
Exquisite Handicrafts: Ceramics, textiles, Japanese lanterns, or folk paintings. These carry rich cultural and aesthetic value and are ideal for bringing back to Vietnam.

Read more: Autumn in Japan

Frequently Asked Questions About Shopping in Japan

Do I need to check taxes when shopping in Japan?

Most major stores like Don Quijote, Bic Camera, and Matsumoto Kiyoshi offer tax-free policies. Tax refunds usually range 8- 10% for purchases meeting the minimum value. Show your passport to staff to claim tax refunds when shopping in Japan.

Should I buy gifts online while in Japan?

If staying long-term in Japan, online shopping is convenient. For short trips, buying in-store is better to check quality, appearance, and avoid late delivery or wrong items.

Are domestic Japanese products better than exported ones?

Yes. Domestic products are often of higher quality because they are made for the Japanese market and intended for Japanese consumers only. For “premium” gifts rich in Japanese culture, prioritize domestic products.

Trusted shopping locations for Vietnamese travelers:

Many Vietnamese travelers choose Don Quijote, Bic Camera, Matsumoto Kiyoshi, or major malls in Shinjuku, Osaka. These places offer diverse items, from food, cosmetics, and handicrafts to souvenirs, guaranteeing genuine products and convenience for choosing gifts.

Buying souvenirs when traveling to Japan is not just about giving an item; it also conveys the message and feelings of the giver. Now, you have the answer to the question: “What should I buy as souvenirs when traveling to Japan?” Don’t hesitate any longer! Contact iVISA now to complete your visa and explore Japan during the upcoming festive season!

iVISA Property & Citizenship

Add: Số 99 Nguyễn Thị Nhung, phường Hiệp Bình, TPHCM
Hotline: 0937 999 610
Email: info.ivisatravel@gmail.com