Looking for the best department stores in Japan for luxury brands, gourmet food halls, and tax-free shopping? Japan’s famous “depachika” basements, high-end fashion floors, and impeccable service make department store shopping a cultural experience. From Tokyo to Osaka, here are the top 10 department stores in Japan every traveler should visit.
1. Isetan
Isetan Shinjuku is widely considered the best department store in Japan, especially for luxury shopping in Tokyo. Located in the heart of Shinjuku, it features premium global brands, high-end Japanese designers, and one of the most famous depachika (food halls) in the country. Visitors love the beautifully packaged sweets, wagyu beef selections, and seasonal gift sets. The kimono and traditional crafts floors showcase authentic Japanese culture. Tax-free counters are tourist-friendly and efficient. If you want a true upscale Japanese department store experience, Isetan is the gold standard.
2. Mitsukoshi
Mitsukoshi is Japan’s oldest department store brand, with its flagship in Nihonbashi, Tokyo. Known for its iconic lion statues at the entrance, it offers a refined shopping atmosphere focused on luxury fashion, cosmetics, and premium food. The depachika is exceptional for traditional wagashi sweets and beautifully arranged bento boxes. Mitsukoshi also excels in customer service, making it ideal for international visitors seeking tax-free shopping in Japan. For history, elegance, and world-class Japanese hospitality, Mitsukoshi remains one of the top department stores in Tokyo.
3. Takashimaya
Takashimaya is one of the most recognizable department stores in Japan, with major branches in Shinjuku, Osaka, and Kyoto. It blends international luxury brands with premium Japanese labels, making it a favorite for fashion lovers. The basement food hall is famous for high-quality seafood, seasonal fruits, and artisanal desserts. Many locations are directly connected to major train stations, offering convenience for travelers. Takashimaya’s spacious layout and multilingual support make tax-free shopping simple. It’s a must-visit for those wanting both luxury shopping and gourmet experiences in Japan.
4. Daimaru
Daimaru is a major department store chain with popular branches in Tokyo Station and Osaka’s Umeda district. Its Tokyo location is particularly convenient for travelers catching the Shinkansen. The store offers mid-range to luxury fashion, premium cosmetics, and a standout food basement known for fresh sushi and gourmet desserts. Visitors appreciate the clean layout and easy tax refund process. Daimaru often hosts regional product fairs showcasing specialties from across Japan. If you want quality shopping near major transport hubs, Daimaru is one of the best department stores in Japan.
5. Hankyu Department Store
Hankyu Umeda Main Store in Osaka is a luxury shopping paradise in Kansai. Famous for its grand interior design and curated fashion floors, Hankyu carries top global brands and trendy Japanese designers. The depachika is one of the largest in western Japan, offering everything from wagyu beef to limited-edition sweets. Beauty enthusiasts love the extensive cosmetics section featuring Japanese and international brands. Multilingual services and tax-free counters make it tourist-friendly. For upscale shopping in Osaka, Hankyu is consistently ranked among Japan’s top department stores.
6. Keio Department Store
Keio Department Store in Shinjuku is popular for its frequent food fairs and regional specialty events. Compared to ultra-luxury stores, Keio offers more affordable fashion and household goods, making it ideal for everyday Japanese shopping. The basement food hall is especially loved for limited-time gourmet festivals featuring ramen, seafood, and desserts from across Japan. Conveniently located near Shinjuku Station, it’s easy for tourists to access. If you’re searching for variety, value, and authentic Japanese food culture under one roof, Keio is a smart choice.
7. Seibu Department Stores
Seibu’s Ikebukuro flagship in Tokyo is a massive shopping complex offering fashion, cosmetics, art galleries, and gourmet foods. It caters to both luxury shoppers and trend-conscious younger customers. The beauty floor is one of the largest in Japan, featuring major global and Japanese brands. Downstairs, the depachika showcases premium sweets and ready-to-eat meals perfect for gifts. Its central location near Ikebukuro Station makes it convenient for travelers. For variety and scale, Seibu ranks among the top department stores in Japan.
8. Sogo
Sogo is a well-known Japanese department store brand with strong locations like Yokohama. It combines luxury brands, everyday fashion, and excellent gift selections. The food basement is particularly famous for high-quality seafood and confectionery. Many visitors appreciate Sogo’s spacious layouts and organized floors, making shopping stress-free. Seasonal gift displays during holidays are beautifully curated. For travelers staying outside central Tokyo, Sogo provides a high-end yet relaxed shopping experience with easy tax-free procedures.
9. Tobu Department Store
Tobu Department Store in Ikebukuro is one of the largest department stores in Tokyo. It offers a wide mix of fashion, electronics, cosmetics, and an impressive food hall. The rooftop garden area is a pleasant surprise, giving shoppers a place to relax. Tobu often hosts international food fairs and pop-up events, attracting both locals and tourists. Located directly connected to Ikebukuro Station, it’s extremely accessible. If you want a massive, all-in-one Japanese department store experience, Tobu is a fantastic option.
10. Parco
Parco, especially in Shibuya, offers a modern twist on the traditional Japanese department store concept. It focuses on youth fashion, streetwear, anime merchandise, and creative pop culture brands. Shibuya Parco is home to official stores for popular franchises and cutting-edge Japanese designers. While smaller than classic luxury stores, it attracts trendsetters and younger shoppers. The building’s stylish design and curated retail spaces make browsing enjoyable. If you’re looking for contemporary fashion and pop culture shopping in Japan, Parco is a must-visit destination.
Final Thoughts
From historic luxury icons to trendy urban shopping hubs, these are the top 10 department stores in Japan for fashion, food, and tax-free shopping. Whether you’re exploring Tokyo, Osaka, or beyond, visiting a Japanese department store is more than retail; it’s a cultural experience.