Find Cute Merch at Tokyo Station Character Street!

Tokyo Character Street should be on all pop culture lovers’ bucket lists. Located in one of Tokyo’s busiest transportation hubs, it has everything for Pokémon, Chiikawa, Mofusand, Tomica fans, and more.

If you’re in the city during the holidays and want to see everything without traveling too much, visiting this part of Tokyo Station checks off a few boxes at once. Let’s explore Tokyo Station Character Street together! (Warning: your wallet might be a little lighter afterward.)

Where is Tokyo Character Street?

As the name suggests, Tokyo Character Street is in JR Tokyo Station in Marunouchi, Chiyoda City. It’s found on the first basement floor, accessible via the Yaesu North Exit stairs and Yaesu Underground Central Gate. Tokyo Station has two more floors above it, with restaurants, clothing and gift stores, a gallery, and a hotel. 1.1 million people travel through the station every day.

Tokyo Character Street is specifically located in the station’s First Avenue area. We don’t recommend shopping there on an empty stomach, but we suggest visiting nearby streets if you’re hungry. You can enjoy a bowl of ramen on Tokyo Ramen Street, nibble on sushi on Nippon Gourmet Road, and choose from countless candies at the Tokyo Gift Palette. 

When was it created, and what can I find there? 

Opened in 2008, Tokyo Character Street used to have only ten character shops. However, once they were relocated to their current location, more stores followed. There are now 20-30 businesses, including permanent locations and unique pop-ups. TV stations like the NHK own some, while others sell official merch for anime like One Piece and toy companies like Sanrio and LEGO.

But that’s not all. Tokyo Character Street is also home to street wagons with limited-time merch, switched out throughout the year, and Ichiban Plaza, which hosts events and photoshoot opportunities. Businesses are open between 10 am and 8:30 pm. And the best part? Tokyo Station’s second floor has duty-free and tax refund services, which will apply to most products on First Avenue.

Which stores should I check out?

Rilakkuma Store 

While most tourists are familiar with Pikachu and Hello Kitty, this Japanese teddy bear is just as cute. Rilakkuma and his friends are waiting to meet you. The small shop contains around 3000 Rilakkuma stuffies in various outfits and sizes. Slippers, ramen bowls, keychain ornaments, and other trinkets will also be found. Visit Rilakkuma Store Tokyo Station to make your and your loved ones’ lives happier.

Donguri Republic

Studio Ghibli fans need to visit Donguri Republic. Not only will you find copies of all the movies there, including classics like “My Neighbor Totoro” and new releases like “The Boy and the Heron,” but you can buy all kinds of items like T-shirts, plushies, and notebooks. Donguri Republic even plays music from the soundtracks to draw in customers. This store is the next best if you can’t reach the Ghibli Museum or Ghibli Park.

Miffy Style 

Besides Japanese characters, Tokyo Character Street also has shops for foreign characters such as Winnie the Pooh and Moomin. But today, we’re talking about this adorable Dutch bunny that’s captured the hearts of Japanese consumers. Miffy Style sells official merch, including tote bags, lamps, and tulip bulbs. But the store also sells Japan-exclusive products like cute jewelry and Miffy plushies wearing kimono. You’ll fall in love once you step inside Miffy Style!

Why should I visit Tokyo Station Character Street? 

Tokyo Station Character Street has enough to keep the whole family occupied. Stores for action anime, anthropomorphic animals, and the hottest gadgets will make everyone happy. (Note that some unofficial shops will have different products from official centers.)

Not only that, but there are countless souvenir options: Moomin stuffies, Hello Kitty hair accessories, and One Piece figurines. If you’re traveling during the holidays and looking for a bit of everything, Tokyo Character Street is where you need to go.

Finally, Tokyo Station Character Street is near restaurants, hotels, and other sightseeing locations. You can easily spend a few hours on the street and a day at Tokyo Station. It’s not good for your wallet but great for the experience.

Tokyo Station Character Street is a one-stop shop for all fandoms, especially folks who want to get the most shopping done with the least hassle. The variety of stores and close proximity to food vendors and transportation allow you to do more in less time.

You’ll find everything you need – and pick up some extra souvenirs. We recommend visiting this street the next time you’re at Tokyo Station. What’s your favorite part of Tokyo Station Character Street? Tell us in the comments.