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
- 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)
- 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.
