Matsumoto
Glass and pottery aficionados will find this wonderful boutique on Nakamachi-dōri a must.
Must-see shopping in Central Honshū
Nagoya
Enjoy the genius of Komehyō, Japan's largest discounter of secondhand, well…everything. Housed over seven floors in the main building, clothes, jewellery…
Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza
Nagano Region
Just outside the south exit of JR Karuizawa Station, this gargantuan outlet shopping mall has most of the big names. Shopaholics should allocate plenty of…
Kanazawa
Here you can observe the kinpaku (gold-leaf) process and pick up all sorts of gilded souvenirs, including pottery, lacquerware and, er...golf balls. It…
Kanazawa & the Hokuriku Coast
In the former Suzu train station (and attached to the current Suzu bus station), this shop sells well-priced crafts and products from around the Noto…
Central Honshū
This high-end maker of wagasa (oiled-paper parasols/umbrellas) is a 10-minute walk from JR Gifu Station. Turn left from the south exit, then right at the…
Takayama
Stalls here are primarily produce-centric, with seasonal fruit (don't miss the apples in autumn), vegetables and traditional snacks. Permanent storefronts…
Matsumoto
A pun on 'classic' in English, 'kura (storehouses)' in Japanese and 'chic' in French, Nakamachi Kura-chic-kan showcases locally produced arts and crafts…
Matsumoto
Temari (embroidered balls) and dolls are found here, about 500m east of the station. Doll styles include Tanabata and oshie-bina (dressed in fine cloth).
Takayama
In front of Takayama-jinya, this market has stalls selling everything from farm-fresh produce to local arts and crafts.
Nagoya
The Nagoya branch of one of Japan's coolest department stores has a definite design bent. You can't miss the yellow-and-black livery.
Ishikawa Local Products Center
Kanazawa
An overview of Kanazawa crafts, on the kitschy side, under one roof.
Kanazawa
If a flowering tree made of candy excites you, head to Murakami. At this handsome wagashi (Japanese sweets) shop you'll also find fukusamochi (red-bean…
Takayama
Helmed by the one-time head of the local ittobori (woodcarving) association, this studio and shop sells find figurines from ¥750 to how much?
