Reading material
Ginza Mitsukoshi - Tradition and Innovation at Ginza's Iconic Department Store

Ginza Mitsukoshi - Tradition and Innovation at Ginza's Iconic Department Store
Ginza Mitsukoshi is one of the landmarks that represents the district of Ginza. Facing Chuo-dori, where luxury brands line the streets, it has been a driving force behind the culture and trends of Ginza for many years. With a long history as a department store, it has always remained at the heart of Ginza, while incorporating the changes of the times, making it truly worthy of being called the "face of Ginza."
The History of Mitsukoshi - Japan's First Department Store
Mitsukoshi's roots date back to the Edo period as a kimono shop called "Echigoya." Founded in 1673, Echigoya gained popularity for its revolutionary sales method of "no markup on cash purchases," which was revolutionary at the time, and in modern times evolved into Japan's first department store, known as "Mitsukoshi." The announcement of the department store in 1904 marked a major turning point in Japan's distribution and retail industry.
The history of Ginza Mitsukoshi began in 1930. It opened in the heart of Ginza, next to Wako, and has grown alongside the development of the Ginza district for over 90 years. From the post-war reconstruction period, the period of high economic growth, the bubble era, and up to the present day, Ginza Mitsukoshi has always been a place that conveys the latest lifestyles.
Architecture and Design - A striking presence in the Ginza streetscape
The Ginza Mitsukoshi building has evolved into a modern building while retaining its classic charm. Despite repeated renovations, the exterior still retains the elegance and dignity that is characteristic of Ginza, blending seamlessly into the cityscape while still emanating a strong presence. The interior is equipped with the latest functionality and comfort, providing a spacious space where visitors can enjoy shopping at their leisure.
The mall is packed with features that offer more than just a shopping experience, including an open atrium hall, luxurious floors lined with brand shops, and a rooftop garden called Ginza Terrace.
The charm of Ginza Mitsukoshi
The appeal of Ginza Mitsukoshi lies in its wide range of products and its cultural influence.
・A high-end fashion floor with a lineup of world-famous luxury brands ・An underground food section where tradition and innovation coexist. A treasure trove of souvenirs lined with famous Japanese and Western confectionery shops ・A gallery selling art and crafts. A cultural encounter unique to Ginza ・The rooftop garden "Ginza Terrace" is popular as a place to relax. Many seasonal events are held ・Information and duty-free services are easy for tourists to use
All of these have been refined to provide you with a "special experience in Ginza."
The relationship between Ginza and Mitsukoshi
The district of Ginza has always been a stage for transmitting Japanese trends, and Mitsukoshi is a symbol of this. With pride as a long-established store, it has skillfully incorporated the sensibilities of each era, and has supported the "culture of Ginza" for over 90 years. Stepping into Ginza Mitsukoshi is more than just shopping; it is also an opportunity to experience the history and future of the district of Ginza.
Gifts and Japanese sweets culture
Speaking of Ginza Mitsukoshi, the basement food section is also an essential part. With a lineup ranging from long-established Japanese confectionery makers to trending new brands, the shop exudes the prestige and elegance of Ginza, making it a popular gift. It is also a place where you can experience the traditional Japanese confectionery culture that lives on in Ginza, with products such as yokan, monaka, and dorayaki. Ginza Mitsukoshi has always been trusted as a place to choose a gift that conveys the thoughtfulness of the giver.
Visiting Ginza Mitsukoshi
Stopping by Mitsukoshi when visiting Ginza is like experiencing Ginza itself. The moment you step into the prestigious building, the time you spend discovering the brands and food as you walk through the building, and the moment of peace you feel in the rooftop garden - all of these things symbolize the richness of Ginza.
Ginza Mitsukoshi is more than just a department store. It is the origin of Japanese department store culture and plays a role in connecting the history and future of the town of Ginza. Ginza Mitsukoshi brings new discoveries and excitement with every visit, and will continue to shine in the heart of Ginza.
BONGEN COFFEE | OFFICIAL SITE
https://ginza-bongen.jp/