Takashimaya 高島屋

Takashimaya first became known in 1933 thanks to its innovation. It was indeed the first fully air-conditioned department store. Since then, it has remained a great place to shop. Rare in Tokyo, it has retained some elements of its original structure, which has earned its title as "important cultural property", attributed by the government in 2009.

Thus, the elevators date from the beginning of the Showa era (1926-1989) and are still manually operated by dedicated teams while young women in white gloves will ensure the reception. The place is especially renowned for its depachika, its basement dedicated to food, where multiple tasting stands and delicatessens are grouped by specialty. It is thus possible to taste the rarest sake or cooking by the greatest chefs in the world.

Sales are often organized, allowing gourmets to acquire slightly deteriorated dishes. For a pleasant end to your visit, make a detour to the patio on the top floor, a place to relax, originally designed in 1950 to accommodate Takako, a baby elephant.