Traditional kimonos with a modern twist are found at this series of five stores. Even if you don’t plan to pick up a formal, or just an everyday, kimono, it is a fascinating place to look around, if only to be amazed at the range on offer. It is always a surprise to see that the kimono survives in a city where there is so much emphasis on the new and modern.

Famed for its amazing range of pens, brushes and special papers, this fabulous store is where to pick up distinctive, and affordable, souvenirs. Occupying eight floors, Ito-ya sells everything from utilitarian office supplies to limited-edition wrapping paper and brushes for expert calligraphers. There is also an annex specializing in Japanese washi papers.

This cutlery store founded in 1792 first made its name among the shoguns of that era for its precision perfect blades and slicing instruments. These days the inventory encompasses a comprehensive selection of Japanese and European modern steel and titanium tools, making this a must-stop for serious and aspiring chefs. Specialty items here include the Fugu knife and the elongated Takohiki “exclusively” for octopus. For those who do not cook, pick up a pair of Kiya’s ultra-precise nail clippers.

Founded as a kimono store in 1673, Mitsukoshi is today one of the most elegant department stores in the country, if not the world. Spanning over 10,000 square feet, the space sells designs ranging from Western fashion by Chanel and Dior to traditional Japanese kimonos and outfits. In the handcrafts section, shoppers can see an artisan hand-painting dishes and bowls. The basement food court is not to be missed—the juice bar and chocolate-covered chestnuts are special treats.

Though her recycled chic has been featured at the Kennedy Center and MoMA, Nuno’s Reiko Sudo is mainly big in Japan, where her original, hand-printed fabrics are instantly recognizable. Within the Axis Building, in Tokyo’s Roppongi district, textile and design fans will find a kaleidoscopic array of original textiles, many with 3D embellishments. Tables hold colorful scarves, designed by Sudo and her colleagues, in cotton, rayon, and silk, as well as origami inspired tote bags while bolts of printed cotton and toile line the shelves. The store will make pillow covers, other household items, and even clothes in any of the materials.

Connoisseurs of Japanese design have long trekked to the newly hip Daikanyama neighborhood to load up on Okura’s shirts, jackets, sweaters, pants and skirts, all of them indigo-dyed according to ancient Japanese techniques. To enter the charming, stone house you even pass through an indigo-dyed curtain. Upstairs is the women’s clothing including some barefoot-chic beach tunics, and accessories from socks to washcloths. These deep hued items are definitely Japanese yet more wearable than many traditional souvenirs, which makes this a great gift shop.

Tourist friendly (except that it incongruously closes on Thursdays), this three-story emporium offers an ideal one-stop souvenir shop. Dolls, teapots, kimonos, yukata, woodblock prints from the ukiyo-e masters, antiques and books on Japan can be purchased here and even shipped home by the English-speaking sales staff. The basement may be the most interesting, with vintage kimonos, chic tees emblazoned with graphically attractive Japanese kanji alphabet characters and folksy local toys.

As is the case for many of the best knife makers in Japan, this decades-old knife shop is owned and run by a family that previously made their name crafting and selling samurai swords. Located at the Tsukiji Fish Market, it’s a great stop after a sushi breakfast. The knives are sharp, durable and elegant and come in a range of prices. On certain models, you can get your name engraved in Japanese free of charge.

Located in the Ginza district of Tokyo, this beautiful store is filled with every type of tableware imaginable, and they specialize in Japan’s finest handmade lacquerware. This incredible craft is made by covering wooden objects with lacquer and finishing it with decorative designs. Though not cheap, lacquer objects make for thoughtful gifts.