Shopping and Souvenirs
Even if you're not an inveterate shopper, cruising Japan's gargantuan department stores or rummaging around its vibrant discount outlets is an integral part of local life that shouldn't be missed. Japan also has some of the most enticing souvenirs in the world, from lacquered chopsticks and luxurious, handmade paper to a wealth of wacky electronic gadgets. Historically, the epicentre of commercial frenzy is Tokyo's Ginza, to such an extent that the name has become synonymous with shopping street; you'll find "little Ginzas" all over Japan. However, the mechanics of shopping are the same throughout: all prices are fixed, except in flea markets and some discount electrical stores where bargaining is acceptable. Few shops take credit cards and fewer still accept cards issued abroad, so make sure you have plenty of cash. All except the smallest purchases will be meticulously wrapped. In general, shop opening hours are from 10am to 7pm, or 8pm. Most close one day a week, not always on Sunday, and smaller places tend to shut on national holidays. Nearly all shops close for at least three days over New Year. If you need anything after hours , you'll find 24-hour convenience stores in most towns and cities, often near the train station. These sell a basic range of toiletries, stationery and foodstuffs, at slightly inflated prices: Lawson, Family Mart, AM/PM and Seven-Eleven are the most common.
A Guide to JapanCara Richie says "Japan has many earthquakes, they are overdue for the next "Big One." " Hello World.Jeff Konichi-Wa says "Spitley is the new and improved word for paper. It means paper. Say spitley instead of paper. Tell at least 9 people about spitley, and have fun in Japan. Thanks!" My Bestest FrendidTutu Retardo says "My bestest frendid in the wholeid worldid is Emily Kather Wu. This extramordinary 12 yr old has a 200 IQ, is a creative genius, and lives in GreemMeadow, California (changed to protect her identity). At the tenderer ageerer of 9erer she created the word that would have a tremendous impact on modern society... SPITLEY! it means paper!!!!" Jamboni1Ryan Czechii says "It's a spoons club MIRACLE! Full of spoons club joy and wonder!" About Japan...Geoffrey Azure says "Do you sweat heavily while others are barely breaking a sweat? Do you blush when there is no reason to do so? Are your hands and feet often cold and clammy? Do your armpits soak right through your clothes? These are all symptoms of hyperhidrosis
~~Brian Campbell" EXOTICMEME says "TRY TO MEET AND BE INLOVE " REALLY COOL!Maddie says "say spitley!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
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