Kanagawa Shopping Guide 2025
Find the best markets, malls, and unique souvenirs in Kanagawa.
Kanagawa Prefecture is a diverse region south of Tokyo offering everything from the cosmopolitan port city of Yokohama to the ancient temples of Kamakura and the volcanic hot springs of Hakone. It combines urban sophistication with natural beauty, including stunning views of Mount Fuji and the rugged Shonan coastline.
What to Buy
Unique local products worth bringing home.
Kamakura-bori Lacquerware
Carved wooden lacquerware unique to Kamakura, featuring deep red-and-black patterns. Bowls, trays, and accessories are popular gifts.
Odawara Kamaboko
Artisanal steamed fish cake from Odawara — Japan's most celebrated kamaboko. Comes in gift sets for safe transport.
Yokohama Chinatown Goods
Chinese ceramics, tea sets, silk goods, and lucky charms make for distinctive and affordable gifts.
Hakone Yosegi-zaiku (Marquetry)
A traditional Hakone craft of intricately patterned wood inlay, producing beautiful geometric patterns on boxes, trays, and cups. Famously used in Himitsu-bako (secret puzzle boxes).
Japanese Matcha Products
High-quality ceremonial-grade matcha, matcha sweets, and matcha kits are excellent gifts available throughout Kamakura.
Yokohama Caramel
Yokohama-specialty soft caramel in flavours including Yokohama coffee, black sesame, and sakura. Made with local ingredients.
Markets & Bazaars
Experience authentic local shopping culture.
Local Bazaars
Traditional markets offer the most authentic shopping experience. Wander through narrow lanes filled with spices, textiles, and crafts. Bargaining is expected.
Food Markets
Local food markets showcase regional produce, spices, and prepared foods. Great for experiencing daily local life and finding edible souvenirs.
Complete Shopping Guide
Bargaining phrases, souvenir recommendations, and budget tips.
Shopping Districts
Where to find different types of shops.
Motomachi Shopping Street
Yokohama's most prestigious shopping street with a 150-year history as Japan's first Western-style retail district. Home to high-end boutiques, European fashion brands, and luxury homewares alongside Japanese select shops and cafes.
MARK IS Minato Mirai
Large lifestyle shopping complex in Minato Mirai with 180+ shops on 6 floors including Japanese fashion brands, Yokohama-exclusive goods, family dining, and a rooftop garden.
Yokohama World Porters
Waterfront shopping mall next to the Red Brick Warehouse with an international theme — foreign food imports, pop culture goods, and casual fashion. An eclectic mix beloved by young Yokohamans.
Isezakicho Mall
Yokohama's longest pedestrian shopping street, over 1km, with discount electronics, vintage clothing, book stores, music shops, and local specialty food vendors. More affordable than Motomachi.
Komachi-dori (Kamakura)
Kamakura's most famous shopping street running from the station to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. Lined with craft shops selling Kamakura-bori lacquerware, handmade ceramics, silk accessories, and a vast array of Japanese sweets and snacks.
Yokohama Chinatown
Beyond food, Chinatown's shops sell Chinese lanterns, robes, lucky charms, tea sets, and imported Chinese goods — ideal for unique and affordable souvenirs.
Odawara Kamaboko no Sato
A specialty complex dedicated to Odawara's most famous product — kamaboko (steamed fish cake). Shop for artisanal kamaboko in dozens of varieties, gift sets, and watch demonstrations of traditional fish-cake making.
Malls & Modern Stores
Air-conditioned shopping options.
Modern shopping malls are available in major cities, offering international brands, food courts, and entertainment. They provide a comfortable, air-conditioned shopping experience with fixed prices.
Bargaining Tips
How to negotiate prices in local markets.
Start at about 50% of the asking price and work up. The final price is often 60-70% of initial ask.
Be friendly and patient. Bargaining is a social interaction, not confrontation.
Walk away if you can't agree - the seller may call you back with a better price.
Compare prices at multiple stalls before buying. Get a sense of the market rate.
Buy multiple items from one seller to negotiate a better overall price.
Have small bills ready - don't show large amounts of cash while negotiating.
When NOT to Bargain
- Fixed-price shops and malls
- Government emporiums
- Restaurants and hotels
- Supermarkets and pharmacies
Customs & Export Rules
What you need to know about taking purchases home.
Export Restrictions
Some antiques, artifacts, and cultural items may be prohibited from export. Ask for authenticity certificates when buying antiques.
Tax Refunds
Check if tax refund schemes exist for tourists. Keep receipts and ask about procedures at larger stores.
Duty-Free Limits
Check your home country duty-free allowances. Declare valuable items if required.
Shipping
Many shops can arrange shipping for large purchases. Get insurance for valuable items.
Shop Smart in Kanagawa
Get our complete shopping guide with bargaining phrases, quality assessment tips, and budget planner.
Download Shopping Guide