The Yen took advantage of me 😭💴🛍️

During my trip to Nagoya and Kyoto, I quickly realized how much more rewarding it is to shop outside the usual tourist hotspots. The shopping scene in Nagoya offered a refreshing experience — not only were prices significantly lower, but the variety was greater, especially for winter clothing that actually kept me warm without breaking the bank. One thing I loved was exploring local Japanese brands like GU R.P.S, where I found comfortable, stylish jeans and cardigans perfect for hiking and everyday wear. I paired these with items from Uniqlo, which felt even more affordable here compared to prices back home. The quality, especially of wool blends and cashmere, was impressive and worth every yen spent. It was a pleasant surprise to find brands like Kenzo with wearable pieces at surprisingly reasonable prices. Aside from clothing, I also hunted for unique souvenirs and knick-knacks recommended by locals, like the hand-dyed silk cloth gifted by a dye master in Kyotango and stickers from vintage ticket shops. These items helped me bring a piece of Japan’s culture back home, beyond the typical souvenirs. A pro-tip from my experience: many smaller boutiques outside the tourist-heavy centers only accept cash, so always have some yen on you. I learned this the hard way when I ran out of cash and had to use an ATM; luckily, my YouTrip card waived the fee, which was a relief! Another highlight was my pharmacy haul based on TikTok skincare recommendations. Trying local Japanese skincare brands was eye-opening, even if some products didn’t dramatically improve my skin, they were an interesting addition to my routine. Finally, exploring the Kyoto by the Sea region was a hidden gem. It’s less crowded but rich in charm and local craftsmanship. This area gave me a beautiful blend of cultural and shopping experiences without the overwhelm of the city. For anyone planning a trip to Japan, I highly recommend allocating time to shop in places like Nagoya and smaller towns. You’ll enjoy better prices, more authentic shopping experiences, and the chance to discover unique local products that major tourist areas just don’t offer.