Japan is many things\u2014from ancient history and architectural marvels to gachapons\u2014the vast universe of capsule toys that give you an entryway into the layered pop cultural mindscape of its people. For tourists and travellers, the journey is dotted with chasing KitKat flavours, a perfectly timed photograph at Shibuya Crossing, and navigating labyrinthian train stations.<\/p>\n
This writer\u2019s recent visit may have ushered in matcha fatigue (and clocked exactly zero Mt Fuji sightings), but it has also inspired lessons in the art of thrifting in Tokyo, investing in \u201cviral\u201d beauty products that actually work, and skipping Instagram- popular kushi dango for gourmet daifuku. While global brands like Uniqlo and Muji deserve their spotlight in every guide to Japan, it\u2019s the local brands and experiences that will make the trip unforgettable. From the Kyoto-headquartered % Arabica for a wake-me-up cup, to Takeshita Street for those who want to fuel their crepe-loaded, Daiso-bought, Harajuku-fashion-fuelled fantasies. Till then, arigato gozaimasu<\/p>\n
Maximalism + minimalism<\/p>\n
If there is one accessory that lines the streets of Japanese cities and holiday towns, it is the ubiquitous compact hand fan that doesn\u2019t only keep humidity at bay but also ensures that it\u2019s not the sweat that glazes your dewy makeup look. And, when it comes to fashion, the young working woman in Japan is dominantly rooting for comfort\u2014the Issey Miyake galaxy of pleats, embedded in accordion pleated skirts like an inherited style code. However, the minimalism stands strong by the side of subcultural dressing styles that keep maximalism at its core\u2014either through Rei Kawakubo-sized silhouettes and abstraction, or via charms that hang from backpacks and designer handbags in hordes. Along with an iced lemon tea and fresh onigiri to go, of course.\u00a0<\/p>\n
The electric handheld fan will be your go-to accessory in Japan.<\/p>\n
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Little Trip to Heaven, a vintage clothing and jewellery store in Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto. Find everything from Tyroleaninspired sepa<\/p>\n
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No gender, no border\u2014that\u2019s how Japanese fashion brand Not Conventional defines itself. The silhouettes are anti-structure with Looking to wear Japan on your sleeve (bag?)\u2014look no further than Pop Mart, including their Robo shops aka vending machines found<\/p>\n
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With cool collabs and pop culture forward, Graniph is for the no-fuss buyer. Think Harry Potter prints, works of illustrator Bri<\/p>\n
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Founded by Fumie Kobayashi, Calico merges Indian textiles with Japanese design. With collections crafted in collaboration with m Care for a Parisian touch to your Uji matcha? Caf\u00e9 Kitsun\u00e9 and its speciality servings are worth the try in Tokyo.<\/p>\n
India inspiration<\/p>\n
You may leave Japan, but chances are, Japan may stick to your style subconscious. If you are hung up on the wabi-sabi of it all, explore Indian brands and designers that understand handcraftsmanship, minimal detailing, and colours that take a cue from an earthy palette.<\/p>\n
Upcycled separates with bandhani (tie-dyed) details courtesy Doodlage.<\/p>\n
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Kantha stitch patterns X silk and cotton blends by Abraham & Thakore.<\/p>\n
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Akaaro by Gaurav Jai Gupta\u2019s handspun and handwoven cotton summer dress.<\/p>\n
Get behind J-beauty<\/p>\n
We have seen Reels that have added to the \u201cviral\u201d value of some of these products. And, the truth is\u2014a lot of them actually work. From the drugstore fix for acne, the Lion Pair Acne Cream (there\u2019s also an anti-acne cleanser on offer), to The Fino Premium Touch hair mask (the trick is to leave it on for at least five minutes)\u2014most of these are available to buy across department and convenience stores in Japan. The prices vary from store to store\u2014so invest in some on-ground research.<\/p>\n
One thing India and Japan have in common? Humidity. Pick the Matomage wax stick to tame flyaways. The legacy Japanborn brand\u2019s Ultimune series is a long-term commitment to healthy skin.<\/p>\n
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If you are into beauty supplements, Meiji\u2019s made-inJapan Amino Collagen is worth the pick. The affordable hair mask can declare early retirement for your conditioner. You can\u2019t ignore the reviews. Bior\u00e9 Japan\u2019s water-based sunscreen + essence delivers. While the brand is now available in India, explore SK-II\u2019s range of skincare treatment products across Japan.<\/p>\n
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The Keana Nadeshiko Rice Pack by Ishizawa Labs is a soothing fix for dehydrated skin. The Lion Pair Acne Cream is worth the buy for breakouts and long-term acne reduction.<\/p>\n
This article originally appeared in Cosmopolitan India’s July-August 2026 print issue.<\/p>\n
Image credits: Getty Images, Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, Instagram, and respective brands<\/p>\n
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