8 Best Places to Buy Stationery in Japan

Japan is renowned for its impeccable attention to detail and dedication to craftsmanship, making it a paradise for stationery enthusiasts. From traditional calligraphy brushes to high-quality notebooks and pens, stationery in Japan is unparalleled, combining functionality with beauty. When I moved to Japan, I quickly learned how amazing Japanese stationery was. My favorite thing to do when visiting a new place was trying to find stationery stores to find new items to add to my collection.

Last week we talked about Japanese stationery that I recommend for everyone. So now, we obviously have to talk about where to find it.  If you’re in Japan, it’s quite easy, really, you can find stationery in almost any store you wander into, including your local Conbini like 7-11 or Lawson.  But if you’re new here or just visiting you might want some guidance. That’s why I’ve put together a list of where to buy Japanese stationery in Japan.

Whether you are an artist, student, or simply someone who appreciates the art of writing, Japan’s best places to buy stationery will leave you spoilt for choice. In this article, we will explore some of these hidden gems where you can find the perfect tools to inspire your creativity and help you elevate your everyday writing experience.

If you are heading to Tokyo, get my free custom Google Map to help you get to all of the English Bookstores, stationery shops, and cozy cafes to write, read, or journal in.

Where to Buy Japanese Stationery in Japan

LoFt

LoFt handles commodities, stationery, knicknacks and bags. You can enjoy wonderful shopping there. The shops are located near major stations in Tokyo (ex. Shibuya, Shinjuku, Ikebukuro), so you won’t have much trouble in finding them. There are also plenty of locations outside of Tokyo (and also in most train stations so it’s easy to get to) so you won’t miss out.  If you want to hit multiple stationery places in one go Shibuya is a good bet.  A store not far away will most likely be our next pick: Tokyu Hands.

Tokyu Hands

Tokyu Hands is a very interesting place to shop around. It deals with a wide range of goods, such as bicycles, DIY tools and, of course, stationery. As the shops of Tokyu Hands are also situated near famous places, it’s easy to access them.  There are locations all around Japan, and obviously many in Tokyo.  But you can usually also find them in train stations so no matter where you are visiting you can find one somewhere.  

If you’re looking for stationery, Tokyu Hands is a must.  If you’re visiting one of the larger locations in Tokyo (like the Shibuya one) then you should dedicate some serious time looking around here.  With multiple floors of anything from arts and crafts, art supplies, homeware, and books, I think you’ll need time to look around. 

Ito-ya

Ito-ya is well-known as a smart stationery store. The Ginza branch is especially famous and worth paying a visit to. It’s famous for its giant red paperclip outside the shop.  You can find 18 Floors in the Ginza location and find anything from pens, notebooks, special writing instruments, and letter writing sets.  A must-visit in Tokyo.  

MUJI

Mujirushi-ryohin is famous for its original simple-designed goods. The shop not only deals stationery, but also commodities, clothing, bedding and some snacks. Mujirushi-ryohin is famous for its original simple-designed goods. The shop not only sells stationery, but also commodities, clothing, bedding and some snacks.

Muji has many locations around Japan (like thousands) but some of my favorite locations are the flagship store in Ginza (7 stories including a restaurant, bookstore, kids play area, and… a hotel?!), and Muji Shibuya that’s multiple stories and connected to a Loft so you can get double the stationery action.

See also: What to Buy at Muji in Japan

Sekaido

Sekaido is a bit more unique. It mainly deals with designing, drafting and drawing goods. You may find unfamiliar or highly specialized stationery there.

Shimojima

Shimojima was originally founded as a wrapping goods shop. It now provides not only wrapping goods, but also decoration merchandise and stationery.

Daiso

Daiso is the 100 yen (dollar store) of Japan.  It has plenty of goodies like kid’s toys, homeware, and of course stationery. The selection is most likely going to be smaller than the stores listed above simply because of price but, you might be surprised at some of the options you find that are cheaper than those at the bigger stores.  And, if you’re not worried about brand name, you can find a lot of great souvenirs like origami paper, notebooks, pens, stamps, and more.

Don Quijote

Don Quijote, usually shorted to Donki, is another chain that can be found all over Japan.  With a giant store in Shibuya near the Tokyu Hands and Loft locations I recommended, you can hop in there and find anything from food, clothes, cosmetics, kid’s toys, adult toys, or bikes.  And obviously also stationery.  I’ve found that the selection isn’t as large as at other stores like Tokyu Hands or Loft but I often find it a little cheaper and it’s still a great place to shop for both stationery and other goodies. But if you’re looking for the big-name planners like Kokuyo or Hobonichi, you’ll most likely have to go with Loft or Tokyu Hands. 

Japan offers a plethora of options when it comes to purchasing stationery. Whether you are looking for traditional Japanese designs or modern and trendy styles, there are countless stores and online platforms that cater to every stationery need. From department stores like Tokyu Hands and Loft to specialty shops like Itoya and Kingdom Note, the variety is truly astounding.

Additionally, the convenience of online shopping allows for easy access to unique and hard-to-find items. So whether you’re a student, professional, or simply an enthusiast, exploring the world of Japanese stationery is sure to ignite your creativity and enhance your everyday writing experience.If you know of any other stores to find stationery in Japan, let me know so I can check them out!

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