The Best Toy Stores in Japan (Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto)
Last Updated on November 11, 2024 by Kay
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Wondering where to buy toys in Japan?
It can be overwhelming figuring out where to find things in Japan when you’re new to the country, but thankfully, it’s not that difficult to find stores that sell toys. Japan is a country that has embraced toys to such an extent that you can find them almost everywhere!
In this article, I’ll share some of the best stores where you can find toys for all ages. The prices in major stores are relatively comparable, although you might find that some stores may offer a particular toy at a cheaper price when they’re running a sale.
For instance, toys in Japan can be much cheaper during New Year sales and sometimes you can even get Lucky Bags filled with toys for a great price. I also find that Amazon Japan tends to sell toys for less than in stores.
The stores in this article can be found throughout Japan, especially in Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto.
Where to Buy Toys in Japan
Joshin
Believe it or not, electronics stores in Japan sell toys! Joshin has an area called KIDS LAND JOSHIN, which is filled with toys and games for all ages. Some Joshin also have small areas for kids where they can play with the toys as well.
My recommended location is in Shin-Osaka.
Yamada Denki
This is another electronics store that sells toys for kids. I find that Yamada Denki carries the least toys out of all the electronic stores mentioned in this article. The toys also tend to be more expensive. I only come here for toys during New Year’s sales.
Check out the Yamada Denki in Ikebukuro, Shibuya, and Shinjuku (Tokyo), as well as Namba (Osaka).
Yodobashi Camera
Don’t let the name fool you, it’s not just about cameras! This multi-floor electronics store has an entire floor dedicated to toys, including spaces where children can play with them. They also have lots of model kits, such as for Gundam or Gunpla, and various capsule toys.
I recommend visiting the Yodobashi Camera locations in Akihabara and Ueno (Tokyo), Umeda (Osaka), and near Kyoto Station.
More Yodobashi Camera locations in Japan
Edion
This is yet electronics store with toys for kids. I recommend going to their Namba location in Osaka or their Akihabara branch in Tokyo.
AEON
AEON is a small department store usually found in AEON Mall branches throughout the country. They carry plenty of products for kids, including toys, puzzles, and games.
KIDDY LAND
This store has toys and other popular Japanese character goods for all ages. This store is mainly found in major cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto.
KIDDY LAND in Tokyo
KIDDY LAND in Osaka
KIDDY LAND in Kyoto
Sanrio Gift Gate
If you or your child is a fan of Hello Kitty or other Sanrio characters, then you might want to visit one of the many Sanrio Gift Gate stores in Japan. They’re small but carry many unique Sanrio products that you’re likely not going to find anywhere else.
For more about Sanrio Gift Gate and other Hello Kitty-related spots in Japan, read this article.
Pokemon Center
For Pokemon fans, stopping by a Pokemon Center is a must. They carry limited edition items as well as goods and toys for all ages, including babies!
(Psst, if you’re curious about the Pokemon Cafe, I have an article all about it, including detailed instructions on how to make a reservation without having to pay a third party to do it for you!)
For a list of Pokemon Centers in Japan, visit their official website.
Disney Store
Did you know that Disney Stores still exist and are thriving in Japan?
They have lots of goodies for all ages, including Disney toys for kids. I’m personally a fan of their cute Tsum Tsum plushies.
Disney Stores can be found in Umeda in Osaka, Kawaramachi in Kyoto, as well as the following locations in Tokyo:
- Ikebukuro
- Shinjuku (their flag shop)
- Shibuya
- Sky Tree Town
Major Children’s Stores in Japan
There are four major children’s stores in Japan that sell everything you need for kids, and toys are no exception. Make sure to read my article all about these stores to learn more!
Amazon Japan
This is probably the cheapest place to find toys. I usually scan a toy I want to buy using the Amazon Japan app, and most of the time, it’ll be cheaper on Amazon Japan.
Visit the Amazon Japan website.
Yamashiroya in Ueno
I used to work near Ueno so I would visit this store often, even before I had a kid! It has so many interesting toys, including Ghibli ones.
How to Get to Yamashiroya in Ueno
Character Street in Tokyo Station
This is a great area within Tokyo Station with stores dedicated to popular characters in Japan. I love exploring here with my daughter whenever we have the chance — heck, I liked visiting even before my kid was born!
Stores are constantly changing on Character Street but currently, some of popular stores they have include a Pokemon store, Jump Shop, Sumikko Gurashi Shop, Chiikawa shop, TOMICA shop, Ghibli store (Donguri Republic), Plarail shop, a Precure Store, and ONE PIECE shop. (Not sure what some of these are? Check out my article on popular kids’ shows in Japan.)
How to Get to Tokyo Character Street
Hakuhinkan Toy Park
How to Get to Hakuhinkan Toy Park
OLYMPIA
Olympia is a variety goods shop for kids and teenagers. In terms of toys, it mainly carries plushies featuring popular characters such as Pokemon, Sumikko Gurashi, and Mario, as well as character blind boxes.
They have locations throughout Japan but my recommendations are to visit the one at LaLaport Toyosu in Tokyo or Minoh Q’s Mall in Osaka.
100 Yen Stores
For super affordable toys, check out any 100 yen store in Japan. I buy my daughter toys from here occasionally and have usually been impressed by the quality.
Check out my picks for the best things to get for kids from 100 yen stores!
Wrap-up: The Best Toy Stores in Japan
I hope this look at the best toy stores in Japan has been helpful to you!
If you’re wondering what are the most popular toys for kids in Japan, read this article. For those looking for Japanese souvenirs for kids, here are my suggestions.