3 days ago
Japan's first flagship Harry Potter Shop has opened in Harajuku
It was only a matter of time before Japan would welcome its first flagship Harry Potter Shop, given that Potterheads here already flock to the wildly popular Warner Bros. Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter in Tokyo, as well as The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter at USJ in Osaka. The new Harry Potter Shop in Harajuku is the franchise's third flagship store in the world, after London and New York. Spanning 900sqm, it's directly connected to Meiji-Jingumae Station, making it an easy stop when you're in the area.
Officially opened on August 14, the massive new Harry Potter hub is so much more than just a retail space. In addition to offering a wealth of wizarding-related merchandise, it entices fans with fun photo spots, an exhibition of film-used props, and an exclusive food and drink menu at the in-house Butterbeer Bar.
The store's Forbidden Forest theme brings you face-to-face with magical creatures, including the famed hippogriff Buckbeak. Crafted by the team behind the film sets, the statue is strikingly realistic – from his detailed feathers to his piercing gaze, you'll feel as if you've stepped straight into Hagrid's magical garden.
Alongside Buckbeak, the first floor offers merchandise from the four iconic Hogwarts houses, plus exclusive items only available at the Harajuku store. Think T-shirts, sweatshirts, baseball caps, plushies and more.
A magical escalator through the Forbidden Forest will take you up to the second floor where you'll find the confectionery section, modelled after Honeydukes in Hogsmeade. Here, you can stock up on popular sweets like the Every Flavor Beans and Chocolate Frogs.
Don't miss the wand counter, where friendly staff will help you find the perfect wand for your personality. To complete your wizarding look, you can also pick up robes, ties, sweaters and other essential Hogwarts gear.
Of course, no visit is complete without stopping by the Butterbeer Bar, where you can enjoy a glass of Butterbeer and Harajuku-exclusive treats like Butterbeer ice cream and a pizza-flavoured Buckbeak bun.
Keep your eyes peeled – beyond the film props scattered throughout the store, you'll discover hidden treasures like fairies in tiny peepholes and the whimsical Golden Snitch.
