Where to Buy Stationery in Tokyo – A Guide for Travelers Who Love Japanese Pens, Notebooks, and More
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Tokyo is a paradise for stationery lovers. Whether you’re searching for high-quality pens, beautifully designed notebooks, or unique Japanese items such as washi tape and calligraphy tools, the city offers countless places to explore. Here’s a guide to the best spots in Tokyo to shop for stationery—perfect for visitors who want to bring home practical yet stylish souvenirs.
1. Itoya (Ginza) – Tokyo’s Most Famous Stationery Store
If you only visit one stationery shop in Tokyo, make it Itoya in Ginza.
Established in 1904, Itoya is an iconic destination with multiple floors dedicated to pens, paper products, office supplies, art materials, and travel accessories.
Highlights
- A huge pen section with everything from affordable gel pens to luxury fountain pens
- Beautiful postcard and letter paper collections
- A floor dedicated to customizable notebooks
- A café upstairs where you can take a break
Itoya is especially loved by international travelers because many staff can assist in English, and tax-free shopping is available.
2. LOFT – Trendy Japanese Stationery All in One Place
LOFT is a lifestyle store with a fantastic stationery department. Locations like Shibuya, Ginza, and Shinjuku have entire floors dedicated to writing utensils, planners, desk tools, stickers, and seasonal items.
What You’ll Find
- The latest Japanese planners (手帳)
- Popular pen brands such as Zebra, Pilot, Uni
- Creative goods: stickers, washi tape, stamps
- Cute character-themed stationery
LOFT is perfect if you want modern, colorful, trendy stationery in a single shopping trip.
✦ 3. Tokyu Hands – A Treasure Box of Japanese Design Goods
Another favorite among travelers is Tokyu Hands. Their stationery section is large and often includes tools and items you won’t find in typical shops.
Recommended Items
- Unique notebooks and study planners
- Specialty craft tools
- Quirky, innovative Japanese gadgets
- DIY supplies and calligraphy tools
The Shibuya and Shinjuku stores are especially convenient for visitors.
4. Muji – Minimalist and Functional Japanese Design
For those who prefer a clean and simple aesthetic, MUJI is the perfect stop. Known for minimalist design and affordable quality, its stationery reflects Japanese simplicity.
Popular Picks
- Smooth-writing gel ink pens
- Transparent stationery cases
- Grid notebooks
- Sticky notes and index tabs
MUJI stores are everywhere in Tokyo, including Ginza, Shinjuku, and Ikebukuro.
5. Maruzen (Ochanomizu & Nihonbashi) – The Place for Book & Notebook Lovers
Maruzen, a historic bookstore chain, also has an impressive stationery department.
The Ochanomizu and Nihonbashi branches are well-known for:
- Fountain pens
- High-quality Japanese notebooks
- Academic planners
- Professional office stationery
If you enjoy elegant, adult-style stationery, Maruzen is a great choice.
6. Sekaido (Shinjuku) – The Best for Artists and Designers
Located in Shinjuku, Sekaido is famous among artists, designers, and architecture students.
Good For:
- Drawing pens and Copic markers
- Sketchbooks and art paper
- Watercolor, acrylic, and illustration tools
- Calligraphy brushes
Prices are often lower than other stores, making it ideal for stocking up on art supplies.
7. 100-Yen Shops (Daiso / Seria / Can Do) – Budget-Friendly Souvenirs
If you want cute and useful stationery at a very affordable price, try Daiso, Seria, or Can Do.
You can find:
- Cute sticky notes
- Portable scissors
- Washi tape
- Pen sets
- Small notebooks
These shops are perfect for buying souvenirs to share with friends.
Final Tips for Stationery Shopping in Tokyo
- Many stores offer tax-free shopping for tourists—bring your passport.
- Popular items often change with the season, so look out for limited editions.
- Japanese gel pens and planners are especially popular among visitors.
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