Hiroshima

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Malls and Department Stores

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Comprehensive Guide to Malls and Department Stores in Hiroshima, Japan

Hiroshima, a vibrant city blending history, culture, and modernity, offers a variety of shopping experiences. From sprawling malls to high-end department stores, Hiroshima caters to all tastes and budgets. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate the city’s shopping scene.

Popular Malls and Department Stores in Hiroshima

1. Hondori Shopping Arcade

  • Overview: A bustling pedestrian shopping street in the heart of Hiroshima, Hondori is a mix of modern stores, local boutiques, and casual eateries. It’s a great place for both shopping and soaking in the local atmosphere.
  • Stores: Fashion boutiques, cosmetics, electronics, and souvenir shops.
  • Price Range: Affordable to mid-range.
  • Dining Options: Numerous casual restaurants and cafes offering local specialties like okonomiyaki.
  • Tips: Look for unique Hiroshima-themed souvenirs, such as momiji manju (maple-leaf-shaped sweets) and Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki kits.

2. Hiroshima PARCO

  • Overview: A trendy shopping mall popular with younger crowds, PARCO is located near Hondori and offers a mix of Japanese and international brands.
  • Stores: Fashion (Uniqlo, Zara, and local designers), cosmetics, accessories, and lifestyle goods.
  • Price Range: Mid-range to high-end.
  • Dining Options: A food court and several restaurants, including dessert cafes and Japanese cuisine.
  • Entertainment: Seasonal pop-up shops and events.
  • Tips: Check out the top floor for unique Japanese pop culture merchandise and limited-edition items.

3. SOGO Hiroshima

  • Overview: A high-end department store located near Hiroshima Station, SOGO is known for its luxury brands and excellent customer service.
  • Stores: Designer fashion (Gucci, Louis Vuitton, etc.), cosmetics (Shiseido, SK-II), and home goods.
  • Price Range: High-end.
  • Dining Options: A gourmet food hall in the basement (depachika) offering everything from sushi to French pastries.
  • Tips: Visit the depachika for beautifully packaged gifts and premium Japanese snacks.

4. Hiroshima Station Area (ASSE and ekie)

  • Overview: The shopping complexes around Hiroshima Station, including ASSE and ekie, are convenient for travelers and offer a mix of shopping and dining.
  • Stores: Fashion, souvenirs, cosmetics, and convenience stores.
  • Price Range: Affordable to mid-range.
  • Dining Options: Restaurants serving Hiroshima specialties like oysters and okonomiyaki.
  • Tips: Perfect for last-minute shopping before catching a train.

5. Aeon Mall Hiroshima Fuchu

  • Overview: A large suburban shopping mall with a wide variety of stores and family-friendly facilities.
  • Stores: Fashion (H&M, GU), electronics, home goods, and a large Aeon supermarket.
  • Price Range: Affordable to mid-range.
  • Dining Options: A food court with Japanese and international cuisine, plus standalone restaurants.
  • Entertainment: A cinema and kids’ play areas.
  • Tips: Ideal for families or those looking for a one-stop shopping experience.

6. Mitsukoshi Hiroshima

  • Overview: A prestigious department store offering luxury goods and impeccable service.
  • Stores: High-end fashion, jewelry, cosmetics, and traditional Japanese crafts.
  • Price Range: High-end.
  • Dining Options: A refined selection of restaurants and a gourmet food hall.
  • Tips: Great for purchasing high-quality Japanese gifts, such as lacquerware or silk products.

Types of Stores

  • Fashion: From global brands like Uniqlo and Zara to Japanese designers and traditional kimono shops.
  • Electronics: Stores like Bic Camera and Yamada Denki offer the latest gadgets and appliances.
  • Souvenirs: Look for Hiroshima-themed items, such as Hiroshima Carp baseball merchandise, local sake, and traditional crafts.
  • Cosmetics: Japanese beauty brands like Shiseido, Kanebo, and SK-II are widely available.
  • Specialty Foods: Hiroshima is famous for oysters, okonomiyaki, and momiji manju, all of which can be purchased as souvenirs.

Price Ranges

  • Affordable: Stores like GU, Uniqlo, and Daiso (100-yen shop).
  • Mid-Range: Brands like Zara, H&M, and local boutiques.
  • High-End: Luxury brands at SOGO and Mitsukoshi.

Dining Options

Most malls and department stores in Hiroshima have excellent dining facilities, ranging from casual food courts to high-end restaurants. Don’t miss the depachika (basement food halls) in department stores like SOGO and Mitsukoshi, where you can find gourmet bento boxes, fresh sushi, and beautifully packaged sweets.

Entertainment Facilities

  • Cinemas: Aeon Mall Hiroshima Fuchu and other large malls often have movie theaters.
  • Events: Seasonal events, pop-up shops, and cultural exhibitions are common in malls like PARCO and SOGO.
  • Kids’ Areas: Family-friendly malls like Aeon Mall have play areas and activities for children.

Local Shopping Customs

  1. Politeness: Staff are extremely polite and attentive. Expect to be greeted with “Irasshaimase!” (Welcome!) upon entering a store.
  2. Packaging: Items are meticulously wrapped, especially in department stores.
  3. Trying on Clothes: Shoes must be removed before trying on clothes in fitting rooms.
  4. Cash and Cards: While credit cards are widely accepted, some smaller stores may only take cash. It’s a good idea to carry yen.
  5. Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Japan.

Tax Refund Procedures

  • Eligibility: Visitors staying in Japan for less than six months are eligible for tax-free shopping.
  • Minimum Purchase: A single purchase of at least 5,000 yen (excluding tax) at participating stores.
  • Procedure:
    1. Present your passport at the tax-free counter in the store.
    2. The staff will process the refund and attach a receipt to your passport.
    3. Keep the receipt in your passport until you leave Japan, as customs may check it at the airport.
  • Tips: Look for the “Tax-Free” sign at stores and bring your passport when shopping.

Useful Tips for Visitors

  1. Timing: Malls and department stores typically open around 10:00 AM and close by 8:00 or 9:00 PM.
  2. Language: Many stores have English-speaking staff or signage, especially in tourist areas.
  3. Transportation: Most malls and department stores are easily accessible by Hiroshima’s efficient tram and bus systems.
  4. Eco-Friendly Shopping: Bring your own shopping bag or be prepared to pay a small fee for plastic bags.
  5. Seasonal Sales: Look out for big discounts during New Year (January) and summer (July-August) sales.

Hiroshima’s shopping scene offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking for luxury goods, trendy fashion, or unique souvenirs. With this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to explore the city’s malls and department stores while enjoying the local culture and hospitality. Happy shopping!