A Local's Guide to Find the Best Children's Clothing in Japan

2024-06-28

Great job finding this article! We wrote this guide for a reason: Japan is a treasure trove of high-quality, affordable children’s clothing that visiting parents shouldn’t miss! As local moms and dads, we’re thrilled to share our insider knowledge on where to find the best deals. From chic department stores to hidden second-hand gems, let us guide you through Japan’s kid-friendly fashion scene and help you make the most of your shopping adventure. Happy shopping!❤️

Oh, and here’s a quick spoiler: If you’re planning a trip to Tokyo, our top recommendation for quality, affordable kids’ and mom’s clothing—plus a spacious MUJI store—is ROX in Asakusa. (Google Map) It fits perfectly into your Tokyo itinerary, and trust us, that place really ROX!

Table Of Contents

The Allure of Japanese Children's Fashion
Where to Shop for Children's Clothing in Japan
Hidden Gems: Second-hand Shops in Japan
A shopping mall in Tokyo where you can find everything
Happy shopping in Japan!
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The Allure of Japanese Children’s Fashion

Japanese children’s clothing is renowned worldwide for its exceptional quality, innovative designs, and durability. Many international tourists are drawn to the unique styles and attention to detail found in Japanese fashion. As a local parent, I’ve witnessed firsthand how well-made these garments are – they withstand the test of time and countless playful adventures.

Where to Shop for Children’s Clothing in Japan

If you’re looking for great deals on quality clothes for your little ones, you’re not alone. Japanese parents feel the same way, especially when it comes to everyday wear for kids under 6. Many of them often shop at affordable stores like Akachan Honpo, Nishimatsuya, and Shimamura to find the best bang for their buck. Let’s not forget about Uniqlo’s kids’ clothing line – it’s a total hit among Japanese families. These are definitely some go-to spots to check out.

Mid-range options: Popular Japanese brands like Uniqlo and GU strike a perfect balance between quality and affordability. Look out for their seasonal collections and collaborations with famous designers or characters. These brands offer a wide range of styles suitable for various occasions, from casual playwear to more formal attire. GU is a Uniqlo’s sister brand, offers trendy and comfortable fashion at budget-friendly prices.

Uniqlo is a globally known store for everybody. They offer affordable, high-quality clothing for children and adults, focusing on comfort, durability, and style. It has everything you need to keep your little ones looking and feeling their best in Japan.
Location: Uniqlo Tokyo, Ginza, Shinjuku, Shibuya and another 800 stores in Japan.
FYI: Biggest one in Tokyo is Uniqlo Tokyo in Ginza, so better to visit there if you want to see everything what Uniqlo in Japan offers.

GU is a subsidiary of Uniqlo that offers trendy, affordable fashion for the whole family. Known for collaborations with popular designers, GU provides stylish, comfortable clothing at budget-friendly prices. It’s a great place to find fashionable pieces for you and your kids without breaking the bank.
Location: Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ginza, Odaiba and another 450+ stores in Japan
FYI: Shijuku and Shibuya are the biggest store in Tokyo. The one in Odaiba DiverCity Tokyo shopping mall is also a recommended store to meet with your itinerary.

Budget-friendly options: This is Don’t miss out on affordable retailers such as Nishimatsuya, Shimamura and Akachan Honpo. These stores provide excellent value for money without compromising on quality or style. As a local, we often shop at these stores for everyday clothing and always find great deals. Be sure to check the sale sections for even more bargains!

Nishimatsuya is a must-visit baby and children’s goods store in Japan. Believe us, they offer a wide range of products at incrediblly affordable prices. From clothing and shoes to toys and nursery items, Nishimatsuya has everything you need for your little ones.
Location: Odaiba, Kinshicho, and another 1,000+ stores in Japan.
FYI: If you are in Tokyo, Odaiba branch is a good choice to meet with your itinerary.

Shimamura is a popular clothing store chain that offers affordable fashion for the entire family. With a wide selection of clothing, shoes, and accessories for children and adults, Shimamura is a great place to find stylish, budget-friendly options. The store’s fun and welcoming atmosphere makes shopping a breeze.
Location: Asakusa, Toyocho and another 1,400+ stores in Japan.
FYI: Mostly located in residential area and very limited in central Tokyo. Among them, the one in Asakusa is most recommended for good access and decent store size.

Akachan Honpo is a very popular store for families with young children in Japan. This popular chain offers a wide range of affordable, high-quality baby and children’s products, from essential gear to adorable clothing and educational toys including their private brand products. In Tokyo, branches are mostly located inside shopping malls.
Location: Toyosu, Kinshicho, and another 120+ stores in Japan
FYI: Recommended one is Toyosu, as it’s inside the huge shopping mall LaLaport TOYOSU and it’s a big branch too.

High-end options: For those seeking luxury items, head to department stores like Mitsukoshi (in Ginza and Nihonbashi) and Isetan (in Shinjuku). These stores have a wide exclusive floor only for children’s clothing. Many of these stores also provide special services like gift wrapping and alterations, making your shopping experience even more convenient.

Mitsukoshi is a traditional and renowned department store. You can find top-quality brands for children’s clothing both foreign and Japanese, like Burburry and familiar. Inside the store is beautiful, gorgeous and clean.
Location: Ginza, Nihonbashi
Exlusive Kids Floor: New Building 10th floor (Ginza)

Isetan Shinjuku is a flagship department store in the heart of Tokyo. You an find an extensive selection of high-quality international and Japanese brands such as Gucci, Dior and miki house and all presented in a stylish and welcoming environment.
Location: Shinjuku
Exclusive Kids Floor: Mainfloor 6th

Hidden Gems: Second-hand Shops in Japan

One of Japan’s best-kept secrets is its thriving second-hand market. Due to the high quality and excellent condition of pre-loved items, shopping at second-hand stores is a fantastic way to find unique pieces at a fraction of the original price. Stores like Book Off and 2nd Street offer a wide selection of children’s clothing, toys, and accessories. The atmosphere in these shops is clean, organized, and inviting – similar to the popular American store Ross Dress for Less. Many local parents, myself included, have found incredible deals and one-of-a-kind items at these second-hand shops. Don’t be afraid to explore these hidden gems during your visit!

Book Off is a unique and exciting store for families who love books, music, and movies. This second-hand store chain offers an extensive collection of gently used items at incredible prices. You can find children’s books, toys, and games alongside a wide selection of media for adults. It’s a great place to explore and find hidden treasures.
Location: Shinjuku, Omori and another 800 stores in Japan.
FYI: Please note that the product lineup may vary depending on the store, and some locations may not carry clothing items, so it’s essential to check before visiting. The Omori store is a massive outlet and highly recommended. We guarantee that you’ll find unique and interesting items that are distinctly Japanese.

Second Street is another popular second-hand store chain in Japan that offers a wide range of clothing, accessories, and household items. With a focus on quality and value, Second Street is a great place to find gently used clothing and toys for your children and adults at affordable prices. The store’s clean and organized atmosphere makes it a pleasant shopping experience for the whole family.
Location: Hachioji, Yachiyo, Umeshima and 800+ stores in Japan
FYI: Biggest one in Tokyo is Hachioji, but quite far from central Tokyo that takes 50mins by train from Shinjuku station. So it’s recommended for those coming to Japan twice and more.

A shopping mall in Tokyo where you can find everything

After introducing ROX in Asakusa, here’s another top pick: DiverCity Tokyo. This mall has it all – kids’ clothes, parent shopping, and play areas. It’s a one-stop destination for family-friendly shopping in Tokyo!

Situated in Odaiba, this mall is one of the newest commercial facilities. It boasts a variety of relatively new stores and restaurants. Notably, it houses Uniqlo, GU, Donguri Republic (Sudio Ghibli’s official store), ZARA, H&M, and even a Gundam statue outside. Plus, there’s a bowling alley called Round One on the 6th and 7th floors.

For kids to play, Little Planet DiverCity Tokyo Plaza is a facility that allows children to explore and play in a safe, engaging environment while parents can take turns browsing the nearby shops. It’s a win-win situation for the whole family!

Find more on Little Planet DiverCity Tokyo Plaza

Happy shopping in Japan!

Japan is a wonderland for children’s clothing, offering a diverse range of options to suit every style, budget, and preference. Don’t be afraid to explore new brands you see in Japan, visit second-hand shops, and step out of your comfort zone – you never know what treasures you might discover!

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Locals in Japan

We’re Japanese locals excited to share the latest, most reliable info from our firsthand experiences living in Japan. Our almost daily updates aim to help families, groups, and couples have an amazing Japanese adventure. Stick with us for practical tips and insider knowledge to make your trip unforgettable!