Japan - what to buy

[PAULJ5555]

Family member is off to japan & singapore next week, any ideas of whats out there you cant get here or things that are stupidly cheap out there.

I remember in the 1990's Game boys were very cheap out there.

Needs to be something small no TVs, consoles ect

[Wyvern971]

Cigarettes are, but that isn't exactly what you're asking

Apple stuff (depending on exchange rate at the time) can be much cheaper (I think in Nov when I was there, approx 1/4 to 1/3 cheaper).

In general stuff made out there is cheaper.
(I purchased a Shoei NXR bike helmet for the equivalent of £200)

But tbh, if it's you trying to make a bit of money, it's probably not worth it.

[Xaero]

Yen is weak and the pound strong at the moment, so pretty much anything.

Camera bits tend to get big savings, especially if you're after a new one. I have a 2 year old Olympus camera and lenses which in the UK are now about the price I paid in Japan 2 years ago.

[soad]

Seiko watches.

[supersport]

Years ago we bought a camera that was a lot cheaper, a colleague on the same trip bought a DVD player that was hundreds cheaper, it was very funny watching him trying to the box in his luggage.

If you take your passport with you when you shop, they don't charge tax, which is nice.

[jogon]

Not very techie but if you like your selvage denim jeans then it is the best place to buy them as a lot of the top premium brands are handmade there - Pure Blue Japan, Full Count, Evisu etc. Well worth picking yourself up a pair as they cost £200+ once imported to the UK.

[camelot1971]

Watch when you come through customs on the way back. Not declaring any goods over £390 (I think) will land you in hot water if they catch you!

[PAULJ5555]

Some good info thanks - I think I may need a new watch soon.