The Grand Depato. 🏬
The "Depato" (Department Store) is the anchor of Ginza life. These are not just shops; they are cultural institutions with art galleries, rooftop gardens, and underground food cities.
Mitsukoshi
Look for the two bronze lions at the entrance. It is the oldest and most prestigious. The basement food hall is legendary.
Matsuya Ginza
Known for its "Design Collection" on the 7th floor, curated by Japan's top designers. Less touristy, more chic.
Ginza Six. 🏛️
The largest retail complex in the district. The central atrium features massive floating art installations (often by Yayoi Kusama) that change seasonally. It feels more like a museum than a mall.
Tsutaya Books
Located on the 6th floor. A stunning space dedicated to art books, with vintage magazines and a skylit cafe.
Rooftop Garden
The "Ginza Six Garden" on the roof offers a 360-degree view of the skyline. It’s free and open to the public.
Noh Theater
Yes, there is a full-scale traditional Noh theater in the basement (B3F). The blend of ancient and modern is seamless.
Rei Kawakubo
Beautiful Chaos
Dover Street Market. 🎨
Created by Rei Kawakubo of Comme des Garçons. This multi-story space treats fashion as sculpture. There are no clear aisles; brands like Gucci, Supreme, and Nike are smashed together in artistic installations.
Rose Bakery:
Located on the top floor. A minimalist concrete cafe serving excellent carrot cake and tea. A quiet escape from the visual noise below.
G. Itoya. 📎
Look for the giant red paperclip. This 12-story building is entirely dedicated to stationery. It elevates pens and paper to a religion.
Takeo Paper (7F)
A wall of 1,000+ types of paper, organized by color and texture. You can choose three sheets to make a custom notebook.
Indoor Farm (11F)
They grow fresh lettuce in a futuristic hydroponic farm on the 11th floor, which is then served in the cafe on the 12th floor.