It's no secret that Okazaki is not the fashion capital of anywhere nor will it ever be. However, there are times when we need a certain item of footwear or clothing desperately and we have to compromise on our better judgement. So here are a few ideas.
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Although it is not to my taste, some of my friends like shopping at Jusco.
Apparently, Seibu will open its department store in October, right next door.
For basics, I think it's worth taking a bike ride a bit further out to Tatsumigaoka. Not only will you discover another part of town, you'll get some exercise. On the same road as Higashi Okazaki station, set back from the road you'll find the popular Muji and Uniqlo right next to each other.
Muji, a chain of lifestyle stores, selling everything from kitchenware, furniture, stationery and clothing has now opened stores in London, Brussels and Paris. Its goods are simple and elegant. Although mujirushi roughly translates as "no brand", ironically, muji has become a label in its own right. The fact that only some items have been reduced by 20% when most stores are at 75% attests to its popularity. Students will no doubt like the stationery made from recycled paper - affordable. They also have their own eclectic range of food products. I recommend their Vitamin Drink that comes in a foil pouch. It costs 120 Yen. Muji has a clean, minimalist aesthetic - there is nothing haphazard in its merchandizing style which makes shopping or simply brousing there a relaxing experience.
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Uniqlo does not sell fashion. It sells sportswear basics. For both sexes and for all ages. Its a huge warehouse with its product neatly arranged. If you need a t shirt, singlet, plain coloured pants or shirts, cute pj's, basic accessories, back packs, etc. this is the place to go. The staff are friendly and will arrange your shoes for you while you're in the fitting room. If you're interested in doing lots of shopping here, make sure you get a point card.
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Need shoes? Don't want to spend much money and don't want a long bike ride. Pin Pon! Got it! Just the place! Set on Route 248, Tokyo Kutsu Ryuutsu Sentaa (Tokyo fashionable shoe centre) has shoes for everyone. Jogging and sports shoes as well. This summer it has had an ernormous array of those colourful slip ons with the frivolous heals that many young Japanese girls have been wearing for just 1000 Yen. This has made many a Yamasa student's day of late. Digressing somewhat, if its uncomfortable shoes you're after, they sell geta as well (now that it's yukata season), and those high platform shoes that are also popular with the young babes.