Hiroshima

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Local Fashion and Shopping

Sections

Key Shopping Districts in Hiroshima

  1. Hondori Shopping Arcade (ๆœฌ้€šใ‚Šๅ•†ๅบ—่ก—)

    • Overview: This is Hiroshima's most famous shopping street, a covered arcade filled with a mix of international brands, local boutiques, and specialty stores. Itโ€™s a pedestrian-friendly area, making it perfect for leisurely shopping.
    • What to Find: Trendy clothing, accessories, cosmetics, and souvenirs. Popular Japanese brands like Uniqlo and GU are also located here.
    • Atmosphere: Bustling and lively, with a mix of locals and tourists.
    • Price Range: Moderate to affordable, depending on the store.

  2. Kamiyacho and Hatchobori Areas

    • Overview: These are Hiroshimaโ€™s central business and shopping districts, home to department stores, high-end boutiques, and electronics shops.
    • What to Find: Luxury brands, designer fashion, and department stores like Sogo and Fukuya, which offer a wide range of products, including clothing, cosmetics, and gourmet foods.
    • Price Range: Mid-range to high-end.

  3. Shintenchi District

    • Overview: A trendy area near the city center, known for its independent boutiques and vintage shops.
    • What to Find: Unique, one-of-a-kind fashion pieces, vintage clothing, and accessories.
    • Price Range: Affordable to moderate.

  4. Aeon Mall Hiroshima

    • Overview: A large shopping mall located near Hiroshima Station, offering a mix of international and Japanese brands.
    • What to Find: Casual fashion, home goods, and a variety of restaurants.
    • Price Range: Affordable to moderate.

  5. Miyajima Island Shops

    • Overview: While primarily a tourist destination, Miyajima Island offers shops selling traditional crafts and clothing.
    • What to Find: Kimono, yukata (light summer kimono), and other traditional Japanese attire, as well as handmade accessories.
    • Price Range: Moderate to high, depending on the craftsmanship.

Local and Traditional Fashion Items

  1. Kimono and Yukata

    • Description: Traditional Japanese garments often worn during festivals or special occasions. Yukata are lighter and more casual, ideal for summer.
    • Where to Buy: Specialty stores in Hondori or Miyajima Island. Some department stores also carry high-quality kimonos.
    • Price Range:
      • Yukata: ยฅ5,000โ€“ยฅ15,000
      • Kimono: ยฅ20,000โ€“ยฅ100,000+ (depending on fabric and craftsmanship)

  2. Hiroshima Carp Merchandise

    • Description: Hiroshima is home to the Hiroshima Carp baseball team, and their merchandise is a local favorite.
    • Where to Buy: Official team stores in Hondori or Hiroshima Station.
    • Price Range: ยฅ2,000โ€“ยฅ10,000 for clothing and accessories.

  3. Momiji Manju-Themed Accessories

    • Description: Inspired by Hiroshimaโ€™s famous maple-leaf-shaped sweet, these accessories are unique and playful.
    • Where to Buy: Souvenir shops in Miyajima or Hiroshima Station.
    • Price Range: ยฅ500โ€“ยฅ3,000.

  4. Traditional Japanese Footwear

    • Description: Geta (wooden sandals) and zori (straw sandals) are traditional footwear often paired with kimono or yukata.
    • Where to Buy: Specialty stores in Miyajima or department stores.
    • Price Range: ยฅ3,000โ€“ยฅ10,000.

  5. Indigo-Dyed Clothing

    • Description: Known as "aizome," this traditional Japanese dyeing technique produces beautiful blue hues. Look for scarves, shirts, and accessories.
    • Where to Buy: Artisan shops in Hiroshima or Miyajima.
    • Price Range: ยฅ5,000โ€“ยฅ20,000.

Shopping Etiquette in Hiroshima

  1. Politeness is Key: Always greet shop staff with a polite "Konnichiwa" (hello) or "Arigatou gozaimasu" (thank you). Bowing is a common gesture of respect.
  2. Handling Items: Avoid touching items unless itโ€™s clear that youโ€™re allowed to. If you do, handle them gently.
  3. Tax-Free Shopping: Many stores offer tax-free shopping for tourists. Bring your passport to take advantage of this benefit (usually for purchases over ยฅ5,000).
  4. Cash vs. Card: While credit cards are widely accepted in larger stores and malls, smaller shops may only accept cash. Itโ€™s a good idea to carry some yen with you.
  5. No Bargaining: Prices in Japan are generally fixed, and haggling is not customary.
  6. Shopping Bags: Many stores charge a small fee for plastic bags, so consider bringing a reusable shopping bag.

Unique and Authentic Shopping Experiences

  1. Kurashiki Denim

    • What It Is: Hiroshima is near the Okayama region, famous for its high-quality denim. Look for jeans, jackets, and bags made from this premium fabric.
    • Where to Buy: Select boutiques in Hiroshima or specialty stores in Okayama (a short train ride away).
    • Price Range: ยฅ10,000โ€“ยฅ30,000.

  2. Hiroshima Glassware

    • What It Is: Beautiful, handcrafted glass items, including jewelry and home decor.
    • Where to Buy: Artisan shops in Hiroshima or Miyajima.
    • Price Range: ยฅ2,000โ€“ยฅ10,000.

  3. Local Artisan Shops

    • What It Is: Explore small, independent shops selling handmade goods, from clothing to accessories.
    • Where to Buy: Shintenchi District or Miyajima Island.
    • Price Range: ยฅ1,000โ€“ยฅ20,000.

  4. Secondhand and Vintage Stores

    • What It Is: Japan has a thriving secondhand market, offering high-quality, gently used clothing and accessories.
    • Where to Buy: Look for stores like 2nd Street or independent vintage shops in Shintenchi.
    • Price Range: ยฅ1,000โ€“ยฅ10,000.

Average Price Ranges for Fashion and Shopping

  • Casual Clothing (Uniqlo, GU): ยฅ1,000โ€“ยฅ5,000 per item
  • Mid-Range Fashion (Local Boutiques): ยฅ5,000โ€“ยฅ15,000 per item
  • Luxury Brands (Department Stores): ยฅ20,000โ€“ยฅ100,000+
  • Traditional Attire (Kimono, Yukata): ยฅ5,000โ€“ยฅ100,000+
  • Accessories and Souvenirs: ยฅ500โ€“ยฅ5,000

Tips for a Memorable Shopping Experience

  1. Plan for Seasonal Sales: Japan has major sales in January (New Year) and July (summer). Look for "fukubukuro" (lucky bags) during these times for great deals.
  2. Explore Local Markets: Visit Hiroshimaโ€™s Asaichi Morning Market for fresh produce, handmade goods, and a glimpse of local life.
  3. Combine Shopping with Sightseeing: Many shopping areas, like Miyajima Island, are also cultural hotspots, allowing you to enjoy both activities in one trip.

Hiroshima offers a delightful mix of modern and traditional shopping experiences, making it a fantastic destination for fashion enthusiasts and souvenir hunters alike. Whether youโ€™re looking for the latest trends or timeless Japanese craftsmanship, youโ€™ll find plenty to explore and enjoy!