Japan’s unique pricing structure, along with periodic sales and tax exemptions for tourists, make it an appealing destination to buy certain clothing brands at a lower price than in other parts of the world. Here’s a guide to top 10 clothing brands that are cheaper in Japan and the best times and places to buy them.
1. Uniqlo
Uniqlo’s prices are naturally lower due to its domestic roots and competitive pricing strategy. Like many global fast fashion players, it relies on an extensive network of clothing manufacturers to keep costs down while scaling globally.
- Why Cheaper: As Japan’s largest global apparel retailer, Uniqlo’s prices are naturally lower due to its domestic roots and competitive pricing strategy.
- When to Buy: The semi-annual “Uniqlo Anniversary Sale” (usually in May and November) offers significant discounts on a wide range of items.
- Where to Buy: Flagship stores like the Ginza location in Tokyo or large department stores like Shibuya and Osaka’s Namba City.
2. GU
- Why Cheaper: GU is Uniqlo’s sister brand and offers trendier, more affordable fashion at lower price points.
- When to Buy: During GU’s clearance seasons, usually at the end of summer and winter.
- Where to Buy: GU stores can be found in major cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. The Harajuku GU store is particularly famous for its variety.
3. Comme des Garçons
- Why Cheaper: Being a Japanese brand, prices for Comme des Garçons are lower domestically. While it’s still a luxury brand, international markups often make it more expensive abroad.
- When to Buy: Seasonal sales typically take place in January and July.
- Where to Buy: Head to the brand’s Aoyama flagship store in Tokyo or large department stores like Isetan and Seibu.
4. Beams
- Why Cheaper: Beams is a well-loved Japanese fashion and lifestyle brand offering everything from clothing to accessories. Japanese retail prices tend to be more affordable than international resellers.
- When to Buy: Look for seasonal sales, especially after New Year (January) and during summer (June-July).
- Where to Buy: Visit Beams stores in Harajuku or Shinjuku for the best selection.
5. A Bathing Ape (BAPE)
BAPE’s cult status worldwide has driven up prices internationally, but it remains more affordable in Japan where the brand was born. Global streetwear brands like BAPE also depend on efficient apparel manufacturers and suppliers to meet demand outside Japan
- Why Cheaper: BAPE’s cult status worldwide has driven up prices internationally, but it remains more affordable in Japan where the brand was born.
- When to Buy: BAPE does periodic drops and sales throughout the year, with particularly good deals in January and July.
- Where to Buy: Flagship stores in Harajuku or Shibuya offer the best access to exclusive items and special discounts.
6. Issey Miyake
- Why Cheaper: Another iconic Japanese designer, Issey Miyake’s prices in Japan are often lower due to fewer import costs and markups.
- When to Buy: Seasonal sales (January and July) as well as New Year’s Fukubukuro (lucky bags) offer substantial discounts.
- Where to Buy: Visit the Aoyama flagship store in Tokyo or browse department stores such as Mitsukoshi and Isetan.
7. Yohji Yamamoto
- Why Cheaper: As a leading figure in avant-garde fashion, Yohji Yamamoto’s clothing is highly sought-after globally, but pricing tends to be more reasonable within Japan due to direct availability.
- When to Buy: Best deals can be found during winter and summer clearance sales.
- Where to Buy: Yohji Yamamoto’s flagship stores in Aoyama or Ginza are your go-to for exclusive designs and sales.
8. Visvim
- Why Cheaper: Known for high-end streetwear with Japanese craftsmanship, Visvim’s pieces are significantly cheaper in Japan compared to abroad.
- When to Buy: Clearance sales are typically held at the end of each fashion season (January and July).
- Where to Buy: Visit the F.I.L. (Free International Laboratory) stores in Tokyo or Kyoto for the best access to stock and exclusive deals.
9. Undercover
- Why Cheaper: Jun Takahashi’s Undercover brand is one of Japan’s most celebrated, and it’s often cheaper in the domestic market due to international retail markups.
- When to Buy: Shop during seasonal sales for markdowns on select collections.
- Where to Buy: The Undercover store in Aoyama or high-end department stores like Isetan in Shinjuku.
10. Muji
- Why Cheaper: Muji offers minimalist and practical clothing at budget-friendly prices, with significantly lower costs in Japan compared to international locations.
- When to Buy: Muji runs regular sales throughout the year, with particularly good discounts during the New Year and mid-year sales.
- Where to Buy: Visit Muji’s flagship stores in Tokyo’s Ginza or Shibuya neighborhoods for an expansive collection.
Buying clothes in Japan can be a savvy move for both tourists and fashion enthusiasts. With smart timing and the right shopping spots, you can snag high-quality Japanese fashion at lower prices than you’d find elsewhere in the world. Be sure to plan your purchases around major sales and take advantage of tax-free shopping to get the most out of your budget.
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