Global Major Cities Guide

Multi-level retail establishments offering clothing, electronics, household items, and gourmet food floors.

Sections

Popular Department Stores in Nagoya

Matsuzakaya Nagoya
- Overview: One of the oldest and most prestigious department stores in Japan, Matsuzakaya is located in the Sakae district, Nagoya’s main shopping and entertainment area.
- What to Find:
  - Luxury Brands: High-end fashion brands like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Gucci.
  - Japanese Goods: Traditional crafts, kimono fabrics, and tea sets.
  - Food: A basement food hall (depachika) offering gourmet Japanese sweets, fresh produce, and ready-to-eat meals.
  - Art Galleries: Exhibitions featuring Japanese and international artists.
- Services:
  - Tax-free shopping for tourists.
  - Personal shopping assistance.
  - Delivery services for large purchases.
- Average Costs: Luxury items can range from ¥10,000 to ¥500,000+; food items in the depachika start at ¥500.
- Nearby Attractions: Osu Kannon Temple and Osu Shopping District are within walking distance.
JR Nagoya Takashimaya
- Overview: Located within the JR Central Towers at Nagoya Station, this department store is a convenient and upscale shopping destination.
- What to Find:
  - Fashion: International and Japanese designer brands.
  - Beauty: High-end cosmetics and skincare products.
  - Home Goods: Stylish kitchenware and home decor.
  - Food: A vast depachika with local specialties like Nagoya-style miso katsu and hitsumabushi (eel rice).
- Services:
  - Tax-free counters for tourists.
  - English-speaking staff at the information desk.
  - Luggage storage and delivery services.
- Average Costs: Mid-range to luxury; expect to spend ¥5,000–¥50,000 on clothing and ¥1,000–¥3,000 for food items.
- Nearby Attractions: Nagoya Castle and Midland Square (for panoramic city views).
Meitetsu Department Store
- Overview: Situated next to Nagoya Station, this store is popular for its variety and accessibility.
- What to Find:
  - Everyday Fashion: Affordable Japanese brands and casual wear.
  - Electronics: Cameras, gadgets, and accessories.
  - Food: A depachika with bento boxes, sweets, and regional delicacies.
- Services:
  - Tax-free shopping.
  - Currency exchange counters.
  - Delivery services.
- Average Costs: More affordable than Matsuzakaya or Takashimaya; clothing starts at ¥3,000, and food items range from ¥500–¥2,000.
- Nearby Attractions: Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology.
Aeon Mall Nagoya Dome Mae
- Overview: A family-friendly shopping mall located near Nagoya Dome, offering a mix of department store-style shopping and entertainment.
- What to Find:
  - Fashion: Affordable Japanese and international brands.
  - Groceries: A large supermarket with fresh produce and local snacks.
  - Entertainment: A cinema and arcade.
- Services:
  - Tax-free shopping.
  - Play areas for children.
- Average Costs: Budget-friendly; clothing starts at ¥2,000, and meals at the food court range from ¥500–¥1,500.
- Nearby Attractions: Nagoya Dome (home to the Chunichi Dragons baseball team).
PARCO Nagoya
- Overview: A trendy department store in Sakae, catering to younger shoppers and those looking for unique, fashionable items.
- What to Find:
  - Streetwear: Popular Japanese and international casual brands.
  - Pop Culture: Anime merchandise, collectibles, and themed cafes.
  - Art and Design: Small galleries and design shops.
- Services:
  - Tax-free shopping.
  - Free Wi-Fi throughout the store.
- Average Costs: Mid-range; clothing starts at ¥5,000, and collectibles range from ¥1,000–¥10,000.
- Nearby Attractions: Nagoya TV Tower and Oasis 21.

Shopping Procedures and Tips

Tax-Free Shopping:
- Many department stores offer tax-free shopping for tourists. Look for the "Tax-Free" signs and bring your passport.
- The minimum purchase amount for tax-free eligibility is ¥5,000 (excluding tax) in a single day at the same store.
Payment Methods:
- Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, JCB, etc.) are widely accepted.
- Cash is also commonly used, especially for smaller purchases.
- Some stores accept mobile payment apps like PayPay or Alipay.
Store Layout:
- Most department stores have multiple floors, with luxury brands and fashion on the upper levels, food halls in the basement, and restaurants on the top floors.
- Elevators and escalators are clearly marked, and floor guides are often available in English.
Cultural Considerations:
- Politeness is key. Staff will greet you with "Irasshaimase" (welcome) and may bow when assisting you.
- Avoid touching items unless it’s clear that you can do so.
- Tipping is not customary in Japan.
Seasonal Sales:
- Look out for sales in January (New Year) and July (summer). These are great times to find discounts on clothing and other items.

Nearby Attractions and Entertainment Options

Nagoya’s department stores are often located in bustling areas with plenty of nearby attractions. Here are some highlights:

Sakae District:
- Nagoya TV Tower: A historic tower with observation decks offering city views.
- Oasis 21: A futuristic shopping and entertainment complex with a rooftop garden.
Nagoya Station Area:
- Midland Square: Features luxury shopping and a Sky Promenade with panoramic views.
- Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology: A fascinating museum showcasing Nagoya’s industrial history.
Osu Shopping District:
- A lively area with traditional shops, street food, and a mix of modern and retro vibes.
Nagoya Castle:
- A short train ride from Nagoya Station, this iconic castle is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Nagoya’s department stores offer a mix of luxury, tradition, and modern convenience, making them ideal for shopping, dining, and cultural exploration. Whether you’re looking for high-end fashion, unique souvenirs, or delicious food, you’ll find plenty of options. Be sure to take advantage of tax-free shopping and explore the nearby attractions to make the most of your visit.