Page 29 - MASALA Magazine Vol.15 Issue 2 | December 2023 - January 2024

JAPAN

For those traveling to Japan, I like to use the SSS acronym I
came up with. The first ‘S’ is for shoes (for all ages), the second
is for stationeries, and the last S is for snacks and ‘sipping’, which
refers to tea and perhaps sake, pronounced sah-keh, if you enjoy
consuming alcoholic beverages.

Shoes

For my daughter, the first must-buy item was ASICS shoes. It was
always a challenge to find my active daughter great walking and
running shoes, and Japanese brands always proved to be the best.
The brands range from Miki House (which is also a clothing
brand) to ASICS to Onitsuka Tiger, all birthed in Japan. The
brand ASICS in particular is renowned for their running and
walking shoes which provide comfort and support.

The ASICS Brand and Stores

Not only are ASICS well-priced
but the options are plentiful.
ASICS are for all ages, from babies,
to adults and senior citizens. The
staff at the ASICS stores are also
well-versed in their wares and
knowledgeable. ASICS stores
are well equipped with unique
technology that will help you find
the right shoe based on your foot
shape and curvature. Through
a foot scanner, the machine is
able to calculate how wide, thick,
and arced (or flat) your foot shape
is within seconds. What’s even
better? If you get yourself a pair of
shoes at the beginning of the trip,
you can enjoy them right away
as Japan has plenty of walking
and running opportunities!

MASALA’S TIP FOR NEW MUMS

If you are expecting or have a baby or toddler, the best
place to purchase things is Aka-chan Honpo (translates
to Baby’s Head Office), one of the largest chain stores for
pregnancy and baby items. It is considered a one-stop-shop
with all the necessities for newborns and older children.
From nutritional baby foods, to colourful toothbrushes
and exclusive toys, Aka-chan Honpo stores are also easy
to locate, as there are over a hundred of them across
Japan, making it a popular store for both local Japanese
and tourists. Visit www.akachan.jp for more information.

Nishimatsuya is the other famous large chain selling
necessities for babies and toddlers. Many find Nishimatsuya
a cheaper alternative than Aka-chan Hompo. It may
also be easier to locate as there are over 1,000 stores
operating across Japan. Nishimatsuya differentiates itself
by offering wares of famous brands while promoting new
baby brands and up-and-coming makers of specialty
products. Both locations are a shopping must-visit
for families! Visit www.24028.jp for more information.

WWW.MASALATHAI.COM | 29