The vertical shopping temple in the heart of Shinjuku
Sixteen stories of glass and concrete rise just two minutes from the south exit of Shinjuku Station, forming one of the most striking retail cathedrals in Tokyo. Takashimaya Times Square, opened in 1996, draws more than 16 million visitors annually to a complex that brings together the historic Takashimaya department store, the legendary Tokyu Hands, and a galaxy of specialty boutiques.
Here, shopping becomes a layered experience where every floor reveals a distinct world.
Why is this complex so captivating?
In a city saturated with shopping malls, Takashimaya Times Square stands out through its strategic layout and variety. The complex occupies two connected buildings. The main 14-story structure houses the department store, while the 7-level south building is home to the Kinokuniya bookstore and its exceptional international collection.
The location plays a crucial role in its success. Adjacent to the Busta Shinjuku bus terminal and connected directly to the subway in the basement, the complex provides an air-conditioned refuge from the chaos of Shinjuku. Unlike the frenetic Kabukicho district just a few blocks away, this space maintains the hushed, refined atmosphere of a traditional Japanese department store.
The depachika: a basement culinary paradise
The basement level alone is worth the trip. The depachika, a Japanese term combining department store and chika (basement), unfolds as a culinary kaleidoscope across the entire floor. French pastries sit alongside traditional wagashi (Japanese sweets), fish from Toyosu market gleam on beds of ice, and green teas are lined up in elegant pouches.
Counters offer generous samples. A bite of cheesecake here, a slice of smoked salmon there. Staff wrap every purchase with the precision of a jeweler, turning a simple package into a work of art. It is the daily theater of Tokyo gastronomy where locals come to pick up their dinner.
Tokyu Hands: the largest creative DIY store in Japan
Six entire floors of the main building, from the 2nd to the 7th, belong to Tokyu Hands, the largest location in the country. This cult brand, established in 1976, defines itself as a hint market, an idea hub overflowing with 200,000 items.
The 2nd floor features travel accessories and luggage. The 3rd floor is dedicated to beauty and personal care. The 4th floor unveils a paradise of kitchen utensils where even the most ordinary objects become fascinating. The 8th floor, dedicated to stationery, is a magnet for enthusiasts, featuring washi notebooks, technical pens, masking tape in infinite patterns, and ink refills for rare fountain pens.
Prices are not discounted, but the quality and originality of the products justify every yen spent. You will find things here you did not even know you were looking for.
The Hello Kitty card for tourists
International visitors can pick up a free Hello Kitty card at the information desk, which offers a 5% discount on purchases over 3,000 JPY (about $20). Just present your passport. The tax-free service counter is located on the 11th floor.
Restaurants Park: three floors of dining with a view
The 12th, 13th, and 14th floors make up Restaurants Park, which concentrates more than 30 restaurants with varied cuisines. Michelin-starred ramen shops sit alongside Kuroge wagyu teppanyaki, while crispy tempura competes with Cantonese dim sum.
On the 14th floor, high-end restaurants offer panoramic views of the Shinjuku skyline. On a clear day, Mount Fuji appears on the horizon. Tenshu Saikan serves imperial Peking-style cuisine where the roasted duck is carved as a spectacle right at your table.
The White Garden terrace on the 13th floor allows for outdoor dining with a view overlooking Yoyogi Park. Access is free to enjoy the panorama.
Local tip: Visit the complex in the late morning on a weekday to avoid the weekend crowds. The depachika is at its peak between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. when salarymen buy their bento boxes, but arrive earlier to sample the goods in peace.
Uniqlo and cultural events
The 12th floor hosts the largest Uniqlo integrated into a shopping center, spanning 1,650 square meters. It features distinct zones for men, women, and children, with dedicated spaces like Relax Comfort and Sports.
The 10th and 11th floors house an art gallery and exhibition space that hosts rotating displays of traditional crafts like Edo-kiriko glass and woodwork, along with thematic food events. The Kinokuniya Southern Theatre, on the 7th floor of the south building, programs shows, lectures, and rakugo performances for its 463 seats.
I went there out of curiosity and because it is located right near Shinjuku Station. You will like this place if you are not afraid of crowds and you love shopping! These impressive buildings contain an entire universe. The advantage is that you will find everything you need there, from clothes to food. There are also a lot of restaurants. So many that sometimes you do not know what to choose!