Depachika — the food halls in the basement (chika) floors of Japanese department stores (depaato) — are among the most dazzling and delicious places to eat and shop in Tokyo. Found beneath upscale stores in areas like Ginza, Shinjuku and Nihonbashi, these vast, gleaming halls are packed with hundreds of counters and vendors selling an astonishing array of beautifully presented food: exquisite Japanese and Western sweets and cakes, elegant bento boxes, sushi and sashimi, deli dishes, tempura, wagashi (traditional confections), imported delicacies, teas, sake and more, all displayed like jewellery. Many offer free samples, and the quality and presentation are superb. Depachika are perfect for assembling a gourmet picnic, buying a beautiful edible souvenir or gift, grabbing a top-quality bento, or simply marvelling at the artistry of Japanese food culture. Bustling and sensory, a depachika visit is a delicious only-in-Japan experience.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Ginza, Shinjuku & Nihonbashi, Tokyo |
| Hours | ~10:00–20:00 (store hours) |
| Admission | Free entry; pay per item |
| Time needed | 45–60 minutes |
| Best time | Year-round |
What to See
- Hundreds of counters of beautifully presented gourmet food.
- Exquisite sweets, cakes and traditional wagashi.
- Elegant bento, sushi, deli dishes and delicacies.
- Free samples and edible souvenirs and gifts.
Combine Your Visit
- Combine with Ginza omakase sushi nearby.
- Pair with Toyosu Market for more food.
- Read our Tokyo overview .
Getting There
- By subway: to Ginza, Shinjuku or Nihonbashi department stores.
- On foot: the basement floors of major department stores.
Tips
Go a little before closing time when some fresh items like bento and prepared foods may be discounted, and take advantage of the free samples. Assemble a gourmet picnic or grab a top-quality bento to go, buy beautiful sweets as a gift or souvenir, and simply enjoy browsing the artful displays — it’s as much a sight as a shop.
