Ginza Mitsukoshi Department Store: Tokyo’s Premier Shopping Destination
Located in the heart of Ginza, Tokyo’s most upscale district, Ginza Mitsukoshi Department Store is a century-old institution blending luxury brands, traditional Japanese crafts, and an acclaimed gourmet food hall under one roof. Whether you’re hunting high-end fashion, unique souvenirs, or sampling the best of Tokyo’s “depachika” delicacies, Ginza Mitsukoshi delivers an unforgettable shopping experience.
Overview
We selected Ginza Mitsukoshi for its iconic status, central location, diverse shopping floors, and budget-friendly tax-free options. This guide helps international travelers—especially American visitors—plan a smooth, rewarding trip to one of Japan’s oldest and most beloved department stores.
Featured Destination
Ginza Mitsukoshi Department Store
Established in 1930, Ginza Mitsukoshi spans eight floors of premium shopping, plus a basement “depachika” gourmet market. The façade preserves original Showa-era architecture, while the interior boasts modern amenities, free Wi-Fi and multi-language support.
- Luxury brands from Chanel to Louis Vuitton
- Japanese crafts & souvenirs: lacquerware, textiles
- Tax-free counters and global concierge desk
- Basement gourmet food hall with local delicacies
- English signage & staff fluent in key languages
Entry Fee | Free |
---|---|
Average Spend | ¥8,000 per person (shopping & dining) |
Nearest Station | Ginza Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza/Marunouchi/Hibiya Lines), Exit A3 |
Opening Hours | 10:00–20:00 (Basement 10:00–8:00) |
Shopping Highlights
Each floor of Ginza Mitsukoshi is themed for specific product categories, ensuring you find exactly what you want:
- 2F–4F Fashion: International designer labels and Japanese boutique brands.
- 5F Cosmetics & Perfumes: Global beauty counters with free samples.
- 6F Home & Lifestyle: Kutani porcelain, ceramics, tableware.
- 7F Men’s & Gifts: Watches, leather goods, Japanese stationery.
- 8F Kids & Toys: Character goods, educational toys.
Dining at Ginza Mitsukoshi
The basement “depachika” (food basement) is famous across Tokyo. Discover everything from sushi and tempura to artisanal chocolates and tea sweets.
- Fresh sushi counters with chef’s counters
- Japanese sweets stalls: mochi, dorayaki
- Matcha tea salon and café seating
- Grab-and-go bento boxes and delicatessen
Dining Option | Price Range | Floor |
---|---|---|
Sushi Express | ¥1,500–¥3,500 | B1 |
Matcha Parlor | ¥800–¥1,200 | B1 |
Ginza Bakery | ¥300–¥700 | B1 |
Practical Information
Plan your visit with these insider tips:
- Arrive on weekdays at 10:00 to beat the weekend crowds.
- Bring your passport for tax-free shopping (minimum purchase ¥5,000).
- Use the Global Concierge on 5F for shipping and gift-wrapping services.
- Free Wi-Fi is available on every floor—connect to “Mitsukoshi_Free_WiFi.”
Summary
Ginza Mitsukoshi Department Store offers a perfect blend of history, luxury, and modern Japanese hospitality. From high-end fashion to gourmet treats, it’s a must-visit landmark for international travelers. Whether you’re on a budget or ready to splurge, plan at least half a day to explore every floor and savor the full Mitsukoshi experience.
FAQ
- Is Ginza Mitsukoshi Department Store tax-free for tourists?
- Yes. Foreign passport holders can enjoy tax-free shopping on purchases over ¥5,000. Visit the tax-free counter on 5F with your passport and receipts.
- How do I get to Ginza Mitsukoshi by train?
- Take the Tokyo Metro Ginza, Marunouchi, or Hibiya Line to Ginza Station and use Exit A3. The store entrance is directly opposite.
- What are the best times to visit to avoid crowds?
- Weekday mornings (10:00–11:30) and weekday afternoons (14:00–16:00) are generally less busy than evenings and weekends.