Books Kinokuniya Tokyo
Rating
Family of 4
USD 20-60 (books and stationery purchases)
Duration
1-2 hours
Best Ages
2-17
About
Books Kinokuniya Tokyo, located inside the iconic Takashimaya Times Square complex in Shinjuku, is one of the finest bookstores in Asia and a genuine cultural experience for families visiting Tokyo. The store spans multiple floors and houses an extraordinary collection of Japanese and English-language books, manga, magazines, and stationery that is unmatched in breadth and quality.
For families with children, the children's section is a highlight. Japanese picture books are renowned for their artistry and imagination, and many titles can be enjoyed by kids regardless of language ability. The manga section gives older kids and teens the chance to browse genres and series they may have only seen in translation.
And the stationery floor is a paradise for any child who loves drawing, journaling, or crafts — Japanese stationery culture produces items that simply don't exist in other markets.
Kinokuniya is a wonderful rainy-day destination and a relaxed experience that suits families with children of all ages. The store is fully accessible with elevators and wide aisles that accommodate strollers. After browsing, the Takashimaya food floor offers excellent lunch and snack options for the whole family.
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Stroller-Friendly
Nursing / Changing
true
Setting
Rainy Day
Great option!
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings before the lunchtime rush
Wait Times
No wait
Nearby Food
Takashimaya Times Square's food floor has everything from ramen to sushi to international cuisine. The basement food hall has a wide variety of bento, pastries, and prepared foods.
Why Kids Love It
Floor after floor of colorful books, manga, and stationery in a beautifully organized store — the Japanese children's section alone is worth the trip, with picture books kids can enjoy even without reading Japanese.
Pro Tips from Parents
- The Shinjuku Takashimaya Times Square location has a dedicated English-language section — excellent for expat families or tourists looking for books in English.
- The children's and manga sections are a goldmine for unique Japanese picture books that make incredible souvenirs.
- The store is inside Takashimaya Times Square, which has restaurants and a food hall — plan lunch there.
What to Bring
- A tote bag for book purchases
- A list of Japanese authors or manga titles you'd like to find
- A budget for stationery — the Japanese stationery selection is exceptional
Cost Info
Estimated Cost (Family of 4)
USD 20-60 (books and stationery purchases)
Tips to Save
- The children's section has affordable picture books starting around USD 5-8.
- Look for bilingual books that serve as both a souvenir and a language learning tool.
Hours & Contact
Hours
- Friday
- 10:30 AM – 7:30 PM
- Monday
- 10:30 AM – 7:30 PM
- Sunday
- 10:30 AM – 7:30 PM
- Tuesday
- 10:30 AM – 7:30 PM
- Saturday
- 10:30 AM – 7:30 PM
- Thursday
- 10:30 AM – 7:30 PM
- Wednesday
- 10:30 AM – 7:30 PM