Japanese-brand watches are a favorite purchase for travelers to Japan. Many models and designs can't be found anywhere else, and prices are often lower than back home, especially for limited editions and Made in Japan models.
Take G-Shock, for example, one of Casio's most popular watch lines of all time, especially loved by people who live an active, adventurous lifestyle and appreciate the brand's distinctive design that's instantly recognizable. Even though G-Shock is now easy to find, some models are more expensive elsewhere, and some limited editions are sold only in Japan, such as the G-7900SLG-4DR Ebisu "Seven Lucky God" or G-Shock Hitz, along with several other models that aren't sold outside Japan. Are prices in Japan really lower? If you shop at the right store at the right time, yes, sometimes significantly. Prices are usually about 20-30% lower, and during a promotion, discounts can go as high as 50%. On top of that, if your purchase totals 5,000 yen or more (before tax), you can also apply for a tax refund. Warranty from most major stores is generally reliable too, since they offer a tourist warranty on every watch that can be claimed within the specified period.
Buying a watch in Japan is cheaper, offers more choice, and some models aren't available elsewhere at all, plus the warranty can still be claimed. Since you've come all this way, why not treat yourself to one? Now, where should you go shopping in this vast country? For the best selection and prices, Tokyo is the place to go, with maybe one or two options in Osaka as well. Let's take a look at where to shop.
1. Yodobashi Camera Akihabara
Photo by Rs1421 from commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Yodobashi-Akiba-02.jpg [CC by 2.0]
Details
Hours: Open daily from 9:30 AM to 10:00 PM
Access: Take the subway on the Hibiya Line to Akihabara Station, Exit 3, then walk about 2-3 minutes
2. Bic Camera Shinjuku Branch
Photo by IQRemix from flickr.com/photos/iqremix/17599262413 [CCSA2.0]
Details
Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Access: Take the train to Shinjuku Station, then walk about 6 minutes
3. Tokia Shinjuku Tozen
Photo from Official Facebook Page
A well-known watch retailer in Japan with about 18 branches nationwide. At the Shinjuku branch, the highlight is the wide selection and frequent year-round promotions, most recently a coupon that gives bigger discounts the more you buy. Models range from affordable everyday pieces to Limited editions with a higher price tag, making it a great store for any G-Shock fan.
Details
Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Access: Take the train to Shinjuku Station, then walk about 9 minutes
4. Komehyo
Photo by 運転太郎from commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:2_Chome_Yūrakuchō,_Chiyoda-ku,_Tōkyō-to_100-0006,_Japan_-_panoramio_(3).jpg
If you want an affordable G-Shock, new or used, especially a rare, older, or high-end model, Komehyo is the place to go. Komehyo is a trusted name for brand-name goods, from brand new items to secondhand pieces. What makes it worth a visit is that the secondhand items are in pristine condition. The store has been open for more than 70 years and remains as popular as ever. The recommended branch is near Isetan Shinjuku; it's a large store with 8 floors in total and a huge selection, with goods organized by floor for easy browsing. Watches are all on the 2nd floor, and G-Shock is one of the most popular items there, so there's plenty to choose from. Secondhand pieces are sometimes nearly 60% cheaper than new, yet look almost brand new. They also provide a warranty card. To be safe, it's best to buy on your first day in town, in case you run into any issues and need to make a claim at the store.
Details
Hours: Open daily from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Access: Take the subway to Shinjuku-sanchome Station, then walk about 2-3 minutes