Wako Department Store Ginza
Iconic Ginza landmark featuring luxury watches, jewelry, and exquisite seasonal parfaits. A taste of Tokyo's elegance.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed browsing
Wako Department Store Ginza
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed browsing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Ginza landmark featuring luxury watches, jewelry, and exquisite seasonal parfaits. A taste of Tokyo's elegance.
"A pleasurable experience with top-notch customer service, especially for watch enthusiasts."
⌚ Watch Enthusiast's Dream
Don't miss the Seiko and Grand Seiko sections; staff are incredibly knowledgeable.
🍰 Sweet Treats Await
The Wako Tea Salon offers stunning seasonal fruit parfaits. A must-try!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Seiko & Grand Seiko Boutique
2nd Floor
Explore the exquisite world of Seiko and Grand Seiko watches, from iconic models to exclusive collections.
Iconic Clock Tower
Exterior
The historic clock tower is a beloved landmark and a symbol of Ginza's elegance.
Seasonal Fruit Parfaits
Wako Tea Salon (Annex)
Indulge in beautifully crafted parfaits featuring fresh, seasonal fruits. A delightful treat!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dress Code & First Impressions
Timing Your Visit for Watches
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⌚ Watch Enthusiast's Dream
Don't miss the Seiko and Grand Seiko sections; staff are incredibly knowledgeable. +1
🍰 Sweet Treats Await
The Wako Tea Salon offers stunning seasonal fruit parfaits. A must-try!
📸 Iconic Photo Spot
The building's clock tower is a classic Ginza photo opportunity.
✨ Welcoming Atmosphere
Despite its luxury, staff are friendly and welcoming to all visitors.
Tips
from all over the internet
⌚ Watch Enthusiast's Dream
Don't miss the Seiko and Grand Seiko sections; staff are incredibly knowledgeable. +1
🍰 Sweet Treats Await
The Wako Tea Salon offers stunning seasonal fruit parfaits. A must-try!
📸 Iconic Photo Spot
The building's clock tower is a classic Ginza photo opportunity.
✨ Welcoming Atmosphere
Despite its luxury, staff are friendly and welcoming to all visitors.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Wako Ginza is celebrated for its luxurious offerings, particularly its Seiko and Grand Seiko watch boutiques, where staff provide exceptional, knowledgeable service. Visitors appreciate the historic architecture and the delightful seasonal parfaits at the tea salon. While some initially feel intimidated by the upscale environment, most find the staff to be welcoming and professional. +1
"Great place to shop for luxury item especially Seiko and Grand Seiko. I did feel somehow that I was not properly dressed and was a bit tacky, so the staff were not really greeting me even if I am looking around. On the 2nd floor during my day of my visit fortunately they have a watchmaker exhibiting how to assemble a GS movement. Overall, a pleasurable experience and I am sure customer service is top notch if you are in the market for their pieces."
Sherwin Clarence Go
"Great experience, exactly what I’d expect when buying a Grand Seiko from the flagship boutique in Ginza. Staff were friendly and knowledgeable, watches were well-presented, and I was made to feel like a valued customer. Will certainly return one day when it’s time for my next GS beauty."
Josh Melia
"I came here because of the Apocalypse hotel anime, it was definitely beautiful in person and the inside is worth checking out
It's a very expensive place inside, it's not actually a hotel but a watch store but everyone was super kind and even though I was dressed in very athletic clothing because I came in August everyone treated me very nicely
You feel like the atmosphere is super rich like you wouldn't be welcomed but they were very welcoming
I just wanted to say hi to Ponko and yachiyo"
Michael B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wako Department Store Ginza is easily accessible via public transport. The nearest station is Ginza Station, served by the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Marunouchi Line, and Hibiya Line. It's a short walk from the station exits. +1
Yes, Wako Ginza is located in the heart of the Ginza district, surrounded by high-end boutiques, department stores, and dining options. It's also close to the Kabuki-za Theatre.
Walking is the best way to explore Ginza and discover its many shops and sights. Wako Ginza is a central point for this exploration. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Wako Department Store Ginza is free. You can browse the store and its various sections without purchasing a ticket.
Wako Ginza typically opens around 10:00 AM and closes at 7:00 PM or 7:30 PM. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours, especially on holidays.
The watch exhibitions, such as the GS movement assembly, are usually part of the in-store experience and do not require a separate admission fee.
Absolutely! Trying on watches, especially Seiko and Grand Seiko models, is encouraged. The staff are happy to assist you. +1
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
Wako Ginza is renowned for its luxury goods, particularly Seiko and Grand Seiko watches. They also offer jewelry, high-end fashion, and other premium accessories.
The Wako Tea Salon, located in the annex, is famous for its delicious seasonal fruit parfaits and other desserts.
While not a typical souvenir shop, purchasing a Seiko or Grand Seiko watch from this historic location can be a very special and lasting memento of your trip.
Wako Ginza primarily deals in luxury items, so prices can be quite high, especially for watches and jewelry.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, especially of the exterior and the iconic clock tower. However, it's always polite to ask staff before taking close-up photos of merchandise or displays, particularly in the watch boutiques.
The exterior of the building, especially the clock tower, is a prime photo spot. Inside, the elegant displays and watch collections offer great photographic opportunities. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
⌚ Watch Enthusiasts
📸 Photography Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Wako Ginza
Originally established as a purveyor of Western goods, Wako has maintained its reputation for quality and elegance. Today, it is particularly celebrated for its association with Seiko and Grand Seiko watches. The store houses flagship boutiques for these renowned Japanese watchmakers, offering an unparalleled selection and a luxurious shopping experience.
Beyond watches, Wako offers a curated selection of high-end jewelry, fashion, and accessories. The Wako Tea Salon in the annex is a popular spot for enjoying exquisite seasonal fruit parfaits, providing a sweet respite from shopping. The overall atmosphere is one of refined luxury, yet many visitors find the staff to be exceptionally welcoming and professional, regardless of their attire.
Experiencing Seiko & Grand Seiko at Wako
What sets the Wako experience apart is the personalized service. Staff, like Mrs. Fukazawa mentioned in reviews, are often highly knowledgeable about the brand's history, technology, and specific models. They can guide you through the nuances of different collections, such as the Spring Drive movements or the unique dials inspired by Japanese nature.
Many visitors describe the purchase process as a special occasion, often involving a visit to an 'owners' lounge' for completing the transaction. This adds a layer of exclusivity and makes buying a Grand Seiko from its birthplace a truly memorable event.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit