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When visiting Japanese cities, one place that surprises and captivates many travelers is the basement food floor of department stores, commonly known as “Depachika.” Like a food theme park, this space is packed with every kind of gourmet delight, from bento boxes and ready-made dishes to sweets, fresh foods, and even sake. This time, we’ll introduce how to enjoy this food wonderland 120%, focusing on the highly recommended “Shinjuku Isetan Depachika.”
From souvenir hunting to lunch or dinner during your trip, or even late-night snacks at your hotel, Depachika is truly a “food treasure trove” for international visitors. After reading this article, you’re sure to be captivated by Depachika!
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What is “Depachika”? Japan’s Unique Food Culture Space
Depachika literally means “department store basement” food floor. It’s not just a grocery section but a unique Japanese food culture space where high-quality ingredients, bento boxes and ready-made dishes from famous shops, artistic sweets made by patissiers, and rare foods from around the world are all gathered in one place. Its appeal lies in the fun of browsing various products as if on a treasure hunt, and the ability to feel Japan’s dedication to food firsthand.
Gourmet Treasure Trove: Everything from high-end gourmet to everyday ready-made dishes.
Fun Just to Look: Beautiful displays and lively tasting corners.
Perfect for Souvenirs: Abundant unique Japanese sweets and rare food items.
Tourist-Friendly: Some stores offer tax-free counters and international shipping services.
Complete Guide to Shinjuku Isetan Depachika! Must-Buys & Must-Tries
Among the many department stores, Shinjuku Isetan’s Depachika stands out for its scale and product range. Spanning the first and second basement floors, it offers a selection of domestic and international famous brands, long-established Japanese confectioneries, and seasonal ingredients. Here are the categories and representative delicacies especially recommended for international visitors.
1. Artistic Sweets: Perfect for Souvenirs or a Personal Treat
The colorful sweets corner is arguably the face of Depachika. The visually stunning cakes and tarts, and delicate Japanese confections unique to Japan, make you feel happy just by looking at them.
- Cakes from Famous Patisseries: Stores by world-renowned patissiers like “Patisserie Sadaharu Aoki Paris” line up.
- Popular Kyoto Wagashi: “Cha no Ka” from Kyoto’s “Malebranche” and other rich matcha-based sweets are particularly popular.
- Long-established Japanese Confections: Seasonal fresh confections, and long-lasting senbei (rice crackers) or yokan (bean paste jelly) are also abundant, perfect for souvenirs.
2. Gorgeous “Deli” & “Bento Boxes”: A Luxurious Dinner to Enjoy at Your Hotel
Depachika’s ready-made dishes and bento boxes are varied and visually appealing. Taking “Depachika gourmet” back to your hotel to enjoy leisurely is one of the true pleasures of travel.
- Specialty Bento: Numerous luxurious bento boxes, both in appearance and taste, supervised by famous Japanese restaurants and eateries, offering Japanese, Western, and Chinese cuisines.
- Wide Variety of Deli Items: A diverse range of ready-made dishes including fried foods, simmered dishes, salads, and international deli-style foods. You can buy small portions to try various flavors.
3. Unique Japanese “Sake” and “Seasonings”: Recreate Japan at Home!
The selection of sake and shochu is also extensive, where you might even encounter rare brands. Additionally, high-quality Japanese staple seasonings like miso, soy sauce, and dashi are available, perfect for those who want to recreate Japanese flavors at home.
- Sake from Across Japan: There are also tasting corners where you can find your favorite flavor.
- Artisan Seasonings: Unique items not usually found in supermarkets, such as regional miso and soy sauce made by artisans.
Smart Tips for Conquering Depachika
Here are some tips to make the most of your Depachika experience.
Actively Enjoy Samples: Don’t hesitate to try samples of products that catch your eye. You might discover something new.
Target Your Timing: Ready-made dishes and bento boxes may be discounted in the evening. However, popular items might sell out.
Utilize the Tax-Free Counter: Tax exemption procedures are available for international visitors. Confirm before purchasing.
Delivery Services: If you buy too much, hotel delivery services or international shipping services may be available.
Shinjuku Isetan Depachika Basic Information
- Name: Isetan Shinjuku Store Depachika (Food Floor)
- Hours: Usually 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Hours may vary, please check the official website)
- Address: 3-14-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo (Isetan Shinjuku Store B1F/B2F)
- Access:
- 5-minute walk from JR Shinjuku Station East Exit
- 1-minute walk from Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line Shinjuku-sanchome Station (direct underground connection)
- 3-minute walk from Toei Shinjuku Line Shinjuku-sanchome Station (direct underground connection)
- Official Website: https://www.mistore.jp.e.az.hp.transer.com/store/shinjuku.html
Regarding Crowds: Weekends and evenings are very crowded. If you want to browse leisurely, weekday mornings are recommended.
Sampling Rules: Samples are provided free of charge, but please use them responsibly.
Expiration Dates: Fresh foods, bento boxes, and ready-made dishes have expiration dates. Please consume them promptly after purchase.
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Depachika: A New Way to Enjoy Your Trip to Japan
Japanese Depachika is not just a place to buy food. It embodies the depth of Japan’s food culture, the dedication of its artisans, and the aesthetic sense that expresses the changing seasons. Why not embark on a gourmet journey that stimulates your five senses at Shinjuku Isetan’s Depachika and discover your own “ultimate food wonderland”?
From souvenir selection to memorable dining experiences, Depachika will enrich your trip to Japan even further. Be sure to stop by a Depachika on your next visit to Japan.
