Why You’ll Shop a Lot in Japan & Bangkok
Why You’ll Shop a Lot in Japan & Bangkok (The Bargains Are That Good)
Traveling to Japan or Thailand isn’t just about temples, street food, and sightseeing. It’s also about shopping. Fashion here is so cheap and stylish that it naturally becomes part of the trip. Whether you’re wandering through Tokyo’s busy streets or exploring Bangkok’s markets, shopping is something you have to experience.
Japan = GU (Fashion on a Budget)
In Japan, everyone goes crazy for GU (think of it as Uniqlo’s younger, trendier sibling). During your trip, you’ll see locals walking out with big shopping bags because the deals are that good. Clothes usually cost around $10–15 per piece, and they change collections every season so you can grab a trendy winter jacket, spring dress, or summer top that makes you look like you belong in Harajuku. Shopping at GU is just as much a cultural experience as visiting a shrine!
Bangkok = Platinum Fashion Mall (Trend Central)
Bangkok takes shopping to another level. While you’re there for the food, night markets, and temples, don’t skip Platinum Fashion Mall. It’s a six-floor paradise packed with the latest styles. Clothes here are insanely affordable, often $5–10 per item, and the variety is endless (streetwear, chic dresses, K-pop inspired looks, and more). After sightseeing, this mall feels like a fashion adventure where you can bag a whole new wardrobe in one go.
Travelers Often Bring an Empty Suitcase
Here’s the secret: many travelers actually fly in with an empty suitcase because they know shopping is a major part of traveling in Japan and Thailand. It might sound funny, but it’s the smartest hack ever. While you explore temples in Kyoto or night markets in Bangkok, you’ll also be picking up outfits you can’t find anywhere else. By the end of your trip, that “empty” suitcase will be packed full of stylish bargains.
Stay Connected Affordably with Eskimo eSIM in Japan and Thailand
When you’re shopping in Japan or hitting the fashion hubs in Bangkok, staying online should be straight‑forward and budget‑friendly. That’s exactly what Eskimo eSIM delivers:
- In Thailand, Eskimo offers country-specific data bundles priced around $2.30 per GB for a 10 GB plan, and $2.60 per GB for a 5 GB plan.
- These rates are highly competitive for reliable, high-speed 4G/5G access no surprise there, thanks to dedicated AIS network coverage.
- Plus, Eskimo’s plans come with standout features: data rollover, 2-year validity, and personal hotspot support, making it perfect for longer trips, group sharing, or keeping data ready for future travels.
FAQs
How much money can I bring to spend shopping in Bangkok for a one-week trip?
Expect around $20–$50 USD per day just for shopping and souvenirs. So budget $140–$350 USD for a week of shopping.
Besides Bangkok, which city is good for travel shopping?
Seoul (South Korea) ranks as a top alternative for fashion-forward shopping. Other standout destinations include Singapore and Kuala Lumpur for their mix of affordability and variety.
Is there a place cheaper than GU?
Within Japan, GU is already one of the most budget-friendly options. While other local or second-hand shops may occasionally offer cheaper or unique finds, GU remains among the most affordable mainstream brands.
Do U.S. citizens need a visa to visit Japan and Thailand?
- Japan: U.S. citizens do not need a visa for tourism or short-term business visits up to 90 daysvintageclothinggu
- Thailand: U.S. citizens can enter visa-free for up to 60 days (air entry) under the current exemption policy, effective since mid-2024
