REISEFÜHRER Guide to the Essential Japanese Souvenirs A guide to shopping at Japan's major airports

The airport is an ideal place to purchase souvenirs for friends and family without having to carry them around for the rest of your trip. All three of Japan's major international airports offer numerous options for those in search of suitable souvenirs, luxury gifts and general goods.

As the busiest international airport in the country, Narita is the main gateway in and out of Japan. As such, the terminals are filled with shops catering to both tourists and business travelers.

The airport offers a wide range of traditional goods that make for the perfect souvenir. Head to terminal one to find shops specializing in Japanese fabrics, confectioneries, tea, lacquerware and more. In addition to traditional goods, there are also numerous shops specializing in Japanese pop culture, including a Hello Kitty store and a toy store.

Once past the security gate, you'll find numerous duty-free brands such as Chanel and Cartier. General duty-free shops dotted throughout the terminal also offer cheap deals on liquor, tobacco and cosmetics.

Grab snacks, books and medicine before your flight departs at one of the many convenience stores located throughout the terminals. If looking for a place to eat, note that some restaurants and bars are located on the fourth floor prior to the security gate and some are on the third floor after security.

Tokyo's international airport provides closer convenience to the center of the city, with Shinagawa Station a quick 20-minute train ride away. There are numerous places to buy souvenirs, tasty food and luxury items.

Shop for souvenirs prior to entering the security gate at the Tokyo Pop Town shopping area located on the fifth floor of the passenger terminal. The stores here cater to fans of contemporary Japanese pop culture, with numerous anime character goods and toys on sale. More traditional souvenir shops are scattered throughout the terminals.

Duty-free stores include Jimmy Choo, Bottega Veneta and Gucci. You'll also be able to shop for discounted liquor, tobacco and cosmetics.

Numerous dining options and everyday shops are located at the Edo Koji on the fourth floor of the passenger terminal. Grab a bite to eat, or shop for last-minute goods prior to your departure.

The main hub servicing Osaka, Kyoto and the rest of western Japan, Kansai International Airport welcomes international travelers from across the world. Find gifts characteristic to the Kansai region, along with all the other amenities expected from an international airport.

In addition to all the typical fare, you'll find certain souvenirs that are unique to the Kansai region. Consider purchasing a box of umeboshi (pickled plums), which are a popular export from nearby Wakayama. Many treats are also themed around Osaka's famed takoyaki (grilled octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes).

The terminal 1 duty-free area is home to top brands such as Hermes and Rolex. You can purchase liquor, tobacco, and perfumes at one of the several duty-free shops located past the security gate.

Grab snacks, candy, medicine and other last-minute goods at one of the many general shops scattered throughout the terminals.

Limited carry-on luggage and jam-packed overhead bins make international travel a hassle, especially when trying to bring gifts back home for loved ones. Many Japanese souvenirs are perfect for such restricted conditions, as they're compact, resilient and cleverly packaged. Since Japan has a regimented gift-giving culture, you'll find rows of perfectly designed gift-wrapped boxes full of sweets, crackers and jellies. Other stress-free gifts include tea, small plastic figurines and Japanese stationery.

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