Ultimate Guide to Famous Japanese Brands
By The Japan Switch Team | March 12th, 2024
When you think of famous Japanese brands, names like UNIQLO, Sony, and Shiseido probably come to mind. But Japan’s reputation for quality and innovation goes far beyond these global giants, spanning everything from high-end fashion to cutting-edge tech.
This guide will introduce you to the most famous Japanese brands, from household names to under-the-radar finds. Whether you’re into fashion, beauty, or cutting-edge tech, there’s something here for you.
This article is a part of our extensive series on Learning about Japan through Online Japanese Lessons at Japan Switch.
A Brief Introduction of Famous Japanese Brands
Take Neighborhood, a cult streetwear brand that rivals Supreme but with a distinctly Japanese edge, blending military aesthetics with premium craftsmanship. When it comes to hair and skincare, you may know Shiseido, but you might also want to check out SK-II, the luxury skincare brand famous for its Pitera-infused essence that beauty lovers swear by.
What sets Japanese brands apart is their ability to reinvent tradition for modern life. Whether it’s using centuries-old dyeing techniques in contemporary streetwear or turning time-honored beauty rituals into high-tech skincare, these brands don’t just follow trends – they redefine them.
Top 3 Famous Japanese Brands for Women’s Fashion
Issey Miyake
Issey Miyake is a famous Japanese brand that offers innovative designs and cutting-edge fabrics for women who value artistic expression and modern elegance. Targeting professionals, creatives, and fashion enthusiasts, its pieces feature exceptional quality and durable materials like pleated, wrinkle-resistant fabrics. With a luxury price range of ¥30,000–¥150,000+, the timeless designs are built to last and are considered investment pieces, maintaining beauty and functionality for years.
Renowned worldwide, the brand blends art, technology, and timeless design, appealing to fashion enthusiasts and creatives. It merges traditional Japanese craftsmanship with innovation, known for signature pleated garments and high-tech materials. Many collections are made in Japan, with select items produced abroad, offering a unique fusion of Japanese artistry and global appeal, positioning the brand as a leader in modern fashion.
- Official website: https://www.isseymiyake.com/
- English support: Available in-store and online
- Shipping: Orders shipped within approximately one week
- Free shipping: For purchases over ¥11,000 (including tax)
- Returns: Accepted within 30 days for defective or incorrect items
- Customer-initiated returns: Accepted within one week of receiving the item; return shipping costs apply
- Sale items: Non-returnable and non-exchangeable
- Fragrance returns: Not accepted for customer convenience
Comme des Garçons
Comme des Garçons is a luxury Japanese fashion brand known for premium avant-garde designs. Targeting professionals, fashion enthusiasts, and individuals seeking bold style innovation, the brand uses premium materials like wool, silk, and innovative textiles for durability and comfort. With items priced between ¥30,000 and ¥150,000+, it’s a luxury brand offering timeless, boundary-pushing designs that remain stylish and are considered valuable investments for fashion connoisseurs.
Comme des Garçons are known for its deconstructed designs, such as [example], that challenge fashion norms, blending tradition with radical ideas. The brand attracts a global following of fashion enthusiasts, creatives, and tastemakers by emphasizing craftsmanship, innovation, and questioning beauty standards, all while staying rooted in its Japanese heritage. Most collections are made in Japan, with select items produced abroad to meet demand. Its unique design and cultural relevance have solidified Comme des Garçons as a leader in the fashion world.
- Official website: Comme des Garçons Online
- English support: Available in-store and online
- Shipping: Orders shipped within 2–4 days
- Free shipping: For purchases over ¥50,000
- Returns: Accepted within 5 days for defective or incorrect items
- Convenience returns: Not allowed
Learn Japanese. Make friends. Enjoy Japan.
Save up to 30 - 60% on your Japanese lessons while learning online or in the heart of Tokyo
with Japan Switch!
MUJI
This Japanese lifestyle brand embraces minimalism, focusing on simplicity, functionality, and durability. Designed for professionals, eco-conscious shoppers, and those seeking versatile wardrobe staples, it uses natural fabrics like organic cotton and linen for comfort. With an affordable price range of ¥1,000–¥8,000 in Japan, it offers practical, long-lasting designs for a broad audience.
This globally recognized brand delivers high-quality, eco-friendly products with a focus on simplicity and thoughtful craftsmanship. Embracing a “no brand” philosophy, it offers understated elegance for diverse lifestyles. While many items are made abroad (China, Vietnam) for affordability, strict quality control and sustainability ensure its Japanese design standards remain intact.
- Official website: MUJI Japan
- English support: Available in-store and online
- Returns & exchanges: Allowed within 30 days if the item is unused and has a receipt
- Defective items can be returned without a receipt
- Overseas purchases: Cannot be refunded or exchanged in Japan, must be handled in the country of purchase
Top 3 Famous Japanese Brands for Men’s Fashion
Yohji Yamamoto
Yohji Yamamoto, a luxury Japanese fashion brand, are known for avant-garde, unconventional designs and exceptional craftsmanship. Catering to fashion enthusiasts, artists, and fashion-forward men who appreciate bold creativity, Yohji Yamamoto mix premium materials like wool, silk, and cotton with traditional Japanese imagery and prints, such as kimonos, cherry blossoms, and waves often inspired by iconic woodblock prints. Featuring oversized silhouettes and intricate details, their pieces function as wearable art: bold, durable, and perpetually in style. While prices range from ¥30,000 to ¥200,000+ in Japan, they’re still more affordable here than in US and EU stores.
Yohji Yamamoto are known for their innovative, unorthodox; designs that challenge traditional fashion. Inspired by wabi-sabi, the Japanese concept of embracing imperfection and natural beauty, they utilize fabrics that are deliberately uneven or mismatched and loose-fitting to create dramatic shapes. Known for attention to detail, each piece often includes unique design elements such as raw hems or exposed stitching, making them stand out as high-fashion pieces. While many of its pieces are made in Japan, some are produced elsewhere to maintain efficiency without compromising quality.
- Official website: Yohji Yamamoto
- English support: Available in-store and by phone
- International returns: Must be made within 8 days of arrival
- Return conditions: Original packaging and tags required, prior contact with customer service necessary
- Refund processing time: At least 10 days after item’s arrival
- Credit card refunds: Processed through the issuer
- Cash-on-delivery refunds: Transferred to the buyer’s account
A Bathing APE
This legendary Japanese streetwear brand is a favorite among trendsetters, sneakerheads, and hip-hop fans. The brand rose to fame in the early 2000s, driven by bold designs and high-profile collaborations like Lil Yachty, Pharell and so on, they offer high-quality, durable pieces in the premium streetwear market. Prices range from ¥8,000 to ¥50,000+ in Japan, making them still more affordable than in US and EU stores, where a simple printed t-shirt can set you back around $150, compared to ¥8,000–¥11,000 ($60–$90) in Japan. Limited collaborations with global icons like Nike, Supreme, and Takashi Murakami make its pieces highly sought after by collectors and fashion enthusiasts.
A staple for celebrities and streetwear fans, this legendary brand is known for its bold graphics, including signature camo prints and shark hoodies, alongside traditional Japanese designs like koi fish [carp], dragon motifs, and wave patterns inspired by ukiyo-e woodblock prints. They blend Japanese craftsmanship with playful aesthetics, balancing global appeal with deep design roots. While much of the production is outsourced, premium items and limited collaborations are often made in Japan, maintaining the brand’s high-quality reputation.
- Official website: BAPE Japan
- English support: Available in-store and by phone
- Order cancellations: Not allowed
- Returns & exchanges: Only for defective or incorrect items
- Return claims: Must be made within 7 days of receiving the item
- Shipping: Limited to Japan
- Order dispatch time: Within 3 business days
UNIQLO
You already know Uniqlo, but what makes them a global staple? It’s more than just minimalist, functional designs. Uniqlo’s innovation shines through fabrics like HeatTech, which generates and retains body heat for warmth without bulk - which is a necessity in winter! In summer, they offer AIRism, a breathable, moisture-resistant material designed to keep you cool and dry. These high-tech fabrics make everyday basics more comfortable and versatile, whether you're layering up for winter or staying fresh in the summer. With affordable prices ranging from ¥1,000–¥5,000 and a focus on durability, Uniqlo delivers timeless essentials that fit seamlessly into any wardrobe.
Uniqlo has over 2,400 stores worldwide and is known for blending Japanese simplicity, efficiency, and quality with global trends. Their focus on customer service and precise design sets Uniqlo apart. While many products are made in Japan, most are produced in countries like China, Vietnam, and Bangladesh to keep prices affordable without sacrificing quality. This mix of Japanese craftsmanship and international production has made Uniqlo a leader in affordable fashion.
- Official Website: https://www.uniqlo.com/jp/ja/
- English Support: Available in-store and online
- Shipping: Free for online returns
- Refund Processing: Issued within 14 business days after receiving items
- In-Store Returns: Accepted within 30 days at any store
Top 3 Famous Japanese Brands for Technology
SoftBank
SoftBank is one of the famous Japanese brands leading the telecom & tech industry offering smartphones, tablets, 5G services, and business solutions in cloud computing, robotics, and AI. Known for reliability and cutting-edge technology, its mobile plans range from ¥3,000 to ¥10,000, and devices from ¥10,000 to ¥100,000+. SoftBank products are built to last, with strong customer service and long-term warranties.
SoftBank is a major Japanese tech giant known for its innovative mobile services and technology solutions. With a focus on expansion, global partnerships, and emerging tech like robotics and AI, they combine entrepreneurial spirit with traditional Japanese values. SoftBank offer a range of consumer products, including smartphones, 5G services, smart home devices, and AI-driven robotics like the Pepper and Whiz robots. While many products are made in Japan, SoftBank also sources and develops internationally to meet global demand, solidifying its status as a tech trailblazer.
- Official website: SoftBank Japan
- English support: Available in-store and online
- Returns: Accepted within 8 days of arrival (30 days for SoftBank Certified products)
- Return shipping: SoftBank covers return shipping
- Defective items: Can be exchanged after inspection at a SoftBank shop; if exchange isn’t possible, a refund may be issued
Nikon
If someone is travelling to Japan, chances are someone has asked them to bring a Japanese camera. This is due to the renowned reputation of Japanese cameras, which are celebrated for their distinctive style and quality. Hence why this brand made our list.
Nikon is a renowned Japanese brand specializing in optics and imaging, offering high-quality cameras, lenses, binoculars, microscopes, and precision equipment for industries like healthcare and manufacturing. Recognized for its reliability and advanced technology, Nikon provides camera models ranging from ¥50,000 to ¥800,000+, serving both professionals and enthusiasts. Their products are designed for durability, backed by excellent customer support and long-term warranties.
Nikon is known for precision and cutting-edge imaging tech. Built with Japanese craftsmanship, its cameras and lenses are durable, reliable, and high-quality. While expanding globally, they stay true to their roots, blending Japanese values of precision and innovation into every product, for instance, the advanced pro-grade DSLRs, which are digital single-lens reflex cameras known for advanced optics and manual controls. Nikon’s commitment to pushing imaging technology forward makes it a trusted name for photographers, scientists, and creators worldwide.
- Official website: https://www.jp.nikon.com
- English support: Available in-store and by phone
- Returns:
- Within 8 days of arrival
original packaging and tags required, contact customer service - Refunds processed in 10+ days.
- Credit card refunds via issuer, other payments to buyer’s account
- Within 8 days of arrival
- Exchanges:
- Within 8 days for defective or damaged items
- Shipping covered by Nikon
Courier service required for proof of shipment - No exchanges for customer-damaged items or after 9 days
Hitachi
Now that we have mentioned SoftBank that will conveniently take care of your smartphone, mobile data, and utilities in Japan, it’s time to move to home appliances. If you are a person who just arrived in Japan and are looking to buy affordable, high-tech, long-lasting technology for your house, then you cannot go wrong with Hitachi. From advanced refrigerators and washing machines to powerful hairdryers and efficient kitchen appliances, Hitachi offers a wide range of reliable home solutions..
Hitachi is one of the famous Japanese brands specializing in advanced technology and industrial solutions, offering high-quality electronics, construction machinery, energy systems, and IT services for industries like infrastructure, healthcare, and manufacturing. Recognized for its reliability and cutting-edge innovation, Hitachi provides products and solutions ranging from ¥20,000 to ¥650,000+, serving both businesses and consumers. Their offerings are designed for durability, backed by excellent customer support and long-term warranties.
Hitachi is known for its innovation in infrastructure, IT, and industrial solutions. Rooted in Japan’s tradition of precision and efficiency, Hitachi develops cutting-edge products, from high-speed trains to AI-driven smart systems. Its commitment to sustainability and advanced technology reflects a balance of progress and traditional Japanese values. While expanding globally, Hitachi continues to prioritize quality and reliability, making it a trusted name in industries ranging from energy to healthcare.
- Official website: Hitachi, Ltd.
- English support: Available in-store and by phone
- Warranty: 1-year (excludes consumables & parts).
- Order Cancellation: Allowed before delivery.
- Returns: Not accepted for outlet or refurbished items.
- Return Shipping: Customer covers cost unless product is defective or incorrect.
- Shipping: Varies by location; estimated at checkout.
- Refunds: Processed after return approval, timing depends on payment method.
Top 3 Famous Japanese Skincare / Cosmetics Brands
Shiseido
Shiseido, one of Japan’s oldest and most respected skincare brands, offers premium products for both men and women. Known for exceptional quality, their advanced formulas use cutting-edge ingredients to promote skin health. Prices range from ¥1,500 for basic items to ¥15,000+ for luxury creams and serums. Shiseido’s products are designed for long-term use, making them a popular choice for those seeking high-performance skincare.
Shiseido is a globally recognized skincare brand with over 140 years of history. It blends traditional Japanese beauty practices with cutting-edge science, offering products for diverse skincare needs. Known for meticulous craftsmanship, Shiseido uses high-quality ingredients sourced from Japan. While R&D is based in Japan, much of its production is abroad, ensuring global accessibility without compromising quality, while also being clean of animal testing for 40 years. This mix of local heritage and global reach has made Shiseido a leader in the beauty industry.
- Official website: https://www.shiseido.co.jp/
- English support: Available in-store and online
- Products delivered within 2–4 days, some areas may take up to 11 days
- Returns accepted within 30 days for customer convenience, customer covers return shipping
- Exchanges allowed for the same product, within the same 30-day return policy
SK-II
SK-II is a famous Japanese brand known for premium anti-aging products, targeting professionals, beauty enthusiasts, and those seeking skin rejuvenation. Its products, like facial treatment essences starting at ¥10,000 and premium creams up to ¥30,000+, are designed for long-term use, offering lasting effectiveness. SK-II is considered a worthwhile investment for maintaining youthful, radiant skin.
SK-II is known for its transformative skincare, especially its Facial Treatment Essence, praised for improving skin texture and radiance. The brand’s use of Pitera, a unique ingredient from Japanese fermentation research, blends science with tradition. With a focus on quality and skin health, SK-II combines Japanese craftsmanship with global production, maintaining consistent quality while meeting worldwide demand. While the brand strives for innovation, it does conduct animal testing where required by law. This blend of heritage and innovation has made SK-II a luxury skincare leader.
- Official website: https://www.sk-ii.jp/
- English support: Available in-store and online
- Returns accepted within one week of delivery for damaged or incorrect products
- Returns also allowed if the product does not suit your skin (customer covers return shipping)
- Shipping times vary depending on the payment method
- No returns accepted after the one-week period unless there is a product defect or skin compatibility issue
Learn Japanese for Free
Our newsletter for beginner to low intermediate Japanese students will get you on the right track to learning Japanese and saving money.
Decorte
Decorté is a premium Japanese skincare brand known for its luxurious, high-performance products. Targeting women who seek innovation and visible results, the brand offers advanced formulas with unique Japanese ingredients. In Japan, Decorté’s products range from ¥5,000 for cleansers to ¥50,000+ for exclusive lines. With long-term effectiveness and indulgent experiences, Decorté is a go-to for those wanting refined, lasting beauty solutions.
Decorté is known for elegant, innovative skincare, blending advanced science with traditional Japanese beauty principles. Popular globally, the brand focuses on high-quality, nature-inspired ingredients and a luxurious beauty experience. Its signature AQ Meliority line showcases Japan’s blend of precision, innovation, and tradition. While research is based in Japan, production happens both locally and internationally, ensuring Decorté’s global presence and leadership in luxury beauty. Decorte does not use animal testing.
- Official website: Decorté Official
- English support: Available in-store and online
- Returns accepted for damaged or defective products within 8 days of delivery
- Shipping fees for returns covered by Decorté if the issue is their fault
- No cancellations or changes to orders allowed
Refunds processed via the original payment method
Top 5 Famous Japanese Hidden-gem Brands
Don Quijote
Don Quijote, or “Donki,” is a quirky Japanese discount store that’s a must-visit for anyone seeking unique finds. Known for their maze-like layout, it offers everything from everyday items to quirky souvenirs, cosmetics, electronics, snacks, and even limited-edition goods. With its neon signs, crowded aisles, and fun, chaotic atmosphere, Donki attracts all ages, locals and tourists alike, for a thrilling shopping experience full of surprises.
- Official website: https://www.donki.com/en/
- English support: Available in-store and online
- Don Quijote allows returns and exchanges for unused and unopened products, including groceries if the taste is unsatisfactory.
- Requires the receipt and return at the purchase store.
- Certain items like fresh food, branded goods, contact lenses, and gift vouchers are non-returnable.
- Defective products must be inspected in-store.
Neighborhood
NEIGHBORHOOD is a premium Japanese streetwear brand known for its blend of rugged Americana and Japanese craftsmanship. Founded in 1994 by Shinsuke Takizawa, NEIGHBORHOOD draws inspiration from biker culture, military aesthetics, and punk rock, creating a rebellious, dark style. Targeted at streetwear enthusiasts and collectors, the brand’s high-end clothing and accessories, like jackets (¥50,000+) and graphic tees (¥10,000+), are built to last thanks to premium fabrics and craftsmanship. Known for limited releases, NEIGHBORHOOD has earned global recognition, especially through collaborations with Supreme and Adidas.
NEIGHBORHOOD is a hidden gem for streetwear fans seeking quality beyond the mainstream. Offering the same high quality as brands like Supreme but often at more reasonable prices, NEIGHBORHOOD is a great alternative for those who want top-tier streetwear without the markup. With durable construction and a strong identity, it’s a standout choice for anyone wanting unique, premium streetwear.
- Official Website: https://www.neighborhood.jp/
English support: Available in-store and online - International shipping available
- Delivery times vary by location
- Returns/exchanges accepted within 7 days for damaged, defective, or incorrect items
- No returns for buyer’s remorse
The North Face Purple Label
The North Face Purple Label is a Japan-exclusive line, created with Nanamica, blending high-performance gear with minimalist, fashion-forward designs. They use premium materials and vintage-inspired styles, tailored for urban lifestyles. With limited availability and sleek, refined looks, it’s a hidden gem for those seeking understated luxury in streetwear and outdoor fashion. Targeted at fashion-conscious consumers, they offer a sophisticated alternative to brands like Arc'teryx Veilance and ACRONYM.
- Official Website: https://www.nanamica.com/itemlist/4/
- English support: Available in-store and online
- No returns, exchanges, or cancellations for customer preference (size, color, etc.)
- Returns/exchanges accepted for defective or incorrect items
- Must request within 5 days of delivery
Book Off
Book Off is a famous Japanese brand retailer offering second-hand books, manga, CDs, DVDs, video games, and even electronics and luxury items. Known for clean, organized stores, they provide high-quality used goods at affordable prices. They attract a wide audience, from students seeking cheap textbooks to collectors looking for rare items. Unlike chaotic stores like Don Quijote, Book Off focuses on pre-owned media and lifestyle products, making it a hidden gem for bargain hunters and pop culture fans.
- Official website: https://www.bookoff.co.jp/
- English support: Available in-store and online
- Returns or exchanges only for defective items (delivery mistakes, damaged goods, or CDs/DVDs that do not play)
- Must be reported within 10 days of receipt
- Contact customer service through order history for returns
- Refunds or exchanges processed after item is returned
- Long-term purchases or items without verifiable purchase history may not be accepted
Wacko Maria
Wacko Maria is a high-end Japanese fashion brand known for its music-inspired, rebellious style. Founded by former J-League footballers, they mix rock 'n' roll, film, and art influences, with intricate embroidery and luxury fabrics. The brand targets fashion-forward men who appreciate premium streetwear with a bold, cinematic feel. Prices range from ¥25,000–¥50,000 for shirts to over ¥100,000 for outerwear. Known for using durable materials like heavyweight cotton and wool, Wacko Maria pieces are considered collector’s items, making them a solid investment in unique, high-quality design.
They offer high-quality pieces at a similar price to brands like Supreme and Saint Laurent. With intricate embroidery, premium fabrics, and vintage Americana influences, Wacko Maria appeals to those who love the rock 'n' roll edge of Saint Laurent or the artistic style of Dries Van Noten. It's a great alternative for fashion enthusiasts seeking unique, niche luxury streetwear beyond the mainstream.
- Official website: https://wackomaria.co.jp/
- English support: Available in-store and online
- Wacko Maria's return and refund policies vary by retailer
- Some retailers offer free returns on unused items within 14 days
- Returns allowed only for defective products within 3 days of delivery
- General returns for other reasons are often not accepted
- Size exchanges may be possible depending on stock availability
Final Thoughts: Is it worth it?
In conclusion, a number of famous Japanese brands have earned their reputation for excellence across various industries, offering unparalleled reliability, innovation, and quality. When shopping for technology, you can trust Japanese brands to deliver cutting-edge advancements with long-lasting durability. If you're in the market for clothing, Japan offers everything from minimalist, high-quality essentials to luxury avant-garde designs that push the boundaries of fashion. Whether you're seeking practicality, stunning craftsmanship, or forward-thinking style, Japanese brands consistently provide products that stand the test of time without compromising on affordability. In short, for a combination of dependability, longevity, and top-tier performance, Japanese brands are always a reliable choice.
Related Articles:
Ultimate Guide to What to Do in Tokyo at Night
Ultimate Guide to Romantic Restaurants in Tokyo
Ultimate Guide to Visiting a Haunted House in Japan
Ultimate Guide to Japanese Pop Culture
Ultimate Guide to Japanese Sushi: How Much Do You Know?
Ultimate Guide to Golden Week
