If you’ve read part 1 then you already know that in Tokyo’s Kanda district, tucked between Ogawamachi and Jimbocho subway stations lies a swarm of ski and board shops just waiting to be explored. This was a must on my “to do” list while visiting Tokyo this past weekend. Here is why you too should make the detour:
1. Unparalleled variety
You want top quality backcountry gear? No problem. You require only a very affordable, basic set-up? You got it. Basically, if you can’t find it here, you won’t find it anywhere. All the big names are there for both soft and hard goods with some popular Japanese brands tossed in for good measure. If you dream in Technicolor, you’re in for a treat; Japanese ski brands seem to have a penchant for vibrant, even fluorescent outerwear. The tendency for the past couple seasons has been to wear one bright colour for both pants and jackets- fancy looking like a glow stick?
2. A rare opportunity to bargain in Japan
Haggling is just not in my nature, so it seems perfectly fair that most every Japanese vendor expects to receive their ticketed price. However, in the sporting goods district it’s a whole other ball game. With the sheer number of shops selling similar goods being well over 50, the competition is fierce. Therefore, in many shops, price negotiation is not only accepted but encouraged. If you find a better price in another shop, chances are you could point that out and be offered the same price plus a 10% discount. Good deals are also bound to be struck on last year’s equipment, with some places even offering couple’s discounts for buying two of the same model- the his and hers special.
3. A chance to avoid ski town prices
For the two past seasons living in Niseko, the only ski wear or equipment I have purchased is a neck warmer. Thus far, North American prices simply could not be beat. Though I can’t say that the prices were better in the Kanda Sporting Goods District than Canada or the US, they were at the very least comparable. On the other hand, resort areas jack up the prices knowing that the options are far slimmer. In keeping with my second point, bargaining simply isn’t an option is ski towns. If you have a stop-over in Tokyo before heading to your alpine destination, I highly recommend the Kanda pit-stop.
Some cautionary advice:
English speaking sales attendants can be hard to come by depending on the shop. If you know what you’re looking for and don’t need much guidance, than you can easily get away with what an acquaintance of mine likes to call “international sign language”. Thumbs-up equals good, double thumbs-up equals really good, thumbs-down equals bad… you get the point. Of course, taking the time to learn some basic words is not only useful but shows the locals that you’re putting an effort in- and that always gives you a leg up, especially when negotiating. If however you are new to the sport or are unsure about your needs, things may get a little more complicated without Japanese lingo. I would suggest doing a little research prior to shopping, perhaps asking for advice from knowledgeable friends.
If for no other reason than to have a very unique experience, I would say that the Tokyo ski shops are well worth the trip.
Winter is coming,
K