The Reality of Plus Size Shopping for Tourists in Tokyo

Shopping for women's plus size fashion in Tokyo can be challenging, especially if your trip is short. The city has more options than most regions of Japan, but the stores are spread out, the size ranges are limited, and tourists often have very little time to explore. This combination can make finding clothes that fit feel stressful rather than exciting.

The goal is not to discourage fashion lovers from shopping in Tokyo. Instead, it is important to understand the realities you may face as a plus size visitor.

What Is Plus Size in Japan, and What Are Your Chances of a Successful Shopping Trip?

In Japan, plus size typically begins at 2L, which roughly translates to a US L or XL depending on the cut. If you wear around this size, your chances of finding clothes in store are significantly higher than if you wear a US 3XL or above.

Most physical plus size stores in Tokyo carry sizes up to a 6L, at most. Depending on the brand and the shape of the garment, the fit is often similar to a US 2XL or 3XL. Unfortunately, if you usually wear above a US 3XL, in store shopping can be difficult (or impossible) and the selection will be very limited - even at actual plus size stores. If you are on the higher end of what Japanese plus stores offer, it helps to manage your expectations. Shopping should never make you feel bad or stressed out, especially when you are on vacation in Japan. It is simply important to know, before you start, that things may be more challenging. It is up to you to decide whether 1) searching for your size will feel like a fun, exploratory experience or 2) repeatedly trying on clothes that are too small might affect your holiday mood. It is not only plus size people who find shopping stressful in Japan. Straight-size women who are taller, or who have larger busts, shoulder widths, or hips than the country average, can have an equally difficult time.

It is a common misconception that Japan does not have plus size women, or that plus size people are exceptionally rare. While it's true Japan does have a lower obesity rate, plus size people still exist and they like to look fashionable! Many simply rely on online shopping for their everyday wardrobes. Understanding this context can help set realistic expectations and make your plus size Tokyo shopping trip.

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Why Shopping for Plus Size Clothes in Tokyo Can Be Stressful

Tokyo is known for fashion, but plus size options remain limited. There are many things to consider if you are plus size and coming to Japan to shop:

• Differences in Body Types

  People who are taller, have a larger chest, shoulder-width or larger hips/thighs than the average plus size Japanese person are going to have a harder time finding anything fitted, even in plus size stores.

• Limited Size Range

  Most plus size brands with physical stores only carry sizes up to Japanese 5L or 6L in store. This size roughly corresponds to a US 2XL or 3XL, depending on how you like your clothes to fit. If you wear larger sizes, your options shrink dramatically- as in, there are no options. There is always the chance you'll stumble across something with a 4L/5L tag that you fit into, but if you wear a US 4XL or larger, it's going to be really hard to find something in stores.

• Stores Are Spread Out

  Plus size stores are scattered across different neighborhoods. This means you might need to travel between several areas to find what you want, which is difficult if your time in Tokyo is short.

• Time Constraints

  When visiting for just a few days, shopping can feel like a race. You might not have the luxury to browse multiple stores, which are spread out across the city. In some cases, you may have to travel over an hour just to get to a store.

• Style Expectations

  Plus size brands with physical addresses tend to be brands that cater to mainstream Japanese fashion shoppers. They will carry items that appeal to the most people, and sometimes you don't quite get that J-Fashion flair you may be expecting. There are some brands like Taberunosky and even some items in Shimamura that are closer to what you may imagine "J-Fashion" to be, but the reality is a lot of what's available is really basic and trendy in Japan. Items tend to lean towards more muted colors (a lot of pastels), blacks/white/beige, and more 'feminine' detailing (frills, ruffle, lace etc).

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Where Can You Shop for Plus Sizes in Tokyo?

Use our Tokyo Plus Size Shopping Map (Google Maps) to see what stores you can visit in Tokyo, sizing info for each brand and how to get there.

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Tips for Stress-Free Plus Size Shopping in Tokyo

If you want to try shopping for fashion in Tokyo, we'll share a few tips from our own experiences of Know Yourself

Before considering clothing shopping in Japan, it's important to answer these questions honestly.

• Does shopping in your home country stress you out?

• Does seeing a larger size on a clothing label impact your self-esteem?

• Does trying on clothing that are too small stress you out?

• Can you shop quickly/under time constraints?

• Will everyone in your group be shopping for similar sizes? Are they willing to make special trips so you are able to shop for clothes?

The Reality of Sizes Available

• Japanese sizing is smaller than Western sizing in all aspects.

• You may not know your size in Japan until you arrive and try shopping in person. Some people feel stressed when they realize that clothing in regular stores does not fit. It can be surprising to suddenly be considered plus size if you are straight-sized in your home country. It can be just as upsetting to already identify as plus size but find that items in Japanese plus size stores do not fit. If you think this might affect you emotionally, it helps to prepare yourself before your trip.
  

Plan Ahead and Prioritize

• Research stores and their locations before your trip.

• Identify a few key shops that may carry your size.

• Allocate enough time for travel between stores.

• Plan other activities in the areas of those shops; are those stores close to other sites you want to see?

  
  

Be Realistic About What You’ll Find

• Don’t expect to find a perfect fit or a wide range of styles.

• If you find something that fits and you like, great. If not, don’t feel pressured to buy just because it’s from Japan.

• Save your suitcase space for items you truly love.

• If clothing shopping is too stressful, focus on unique Japanese accessories to take home and pair with outfits you already love.