Just a short walk from the bustling hub of Ikebukuro, Zoshigaya is a charming residential neighborhood that feels worlds away from the neon lights. With its tree-lined streets, independent bookstores, and quiet cafes, it offers a glimpse into the gentle side of Tokyo life.
For those looking for authentic, handmade, and reasonably priced Japanese souvenirs, Tabineko Zakkaten (旅猫雑貨店) is an absolute must-visit destination in 2026.
Tabineko Zakkaten: The “Traveling Cat” Shop
As the name suggests—Tabineko means “traveling cat”—this lifestyle store is a treasure trove of cat-themed goods and traditional crafts curated from all over Japan. While many traditional crafts can be expensive, this shop specializes in items that are affordable yet carry deep historical meaning.
Curious to see what you can buy within your budget?
One of the most popular items here are these paper balloons. You can buy various shapes includes cats, carps and panda! Since it is light and eco-friendly, how about giving this as a gift to someone with a baby? You can also use these to decorate corners of your home.
Neko means cat in Japanese and since this store is called “Tabineko” (literally, traveling cat), you will find many products featuring cats.
Maneki Neko is probably the most famous cat in Japan and you can buy various types of Maneki Neko made from papier mache or ceramic here. A piece combining Maneki Neko and another symbol of Japan, the Daruma.
Another unique piece that combines two cats!
You can also buy straps with the adorable cats!
An extremely unusual item, instead of a cat, you have a raccoon raising its paw!
Notebooks, cards, paper sets with Utagawa Hiroshige’s cats created using the Ukiyo-e style.
You can also pick up thread-bound notebooks with gorgeous, traditional Japanese patterns. Each pattern has a meaning, which one would you pick?
You can also buy postcards with Japanese motifs and characters.
Kokeshi are handcrafted wooden dolls, check out these adorable paper clips featuring kokeshi.
You can also buy kokeshi inspired envelopes, post-its, magnets and tapes.
Wouldn’t this Kokeshi and Daruma chopstick make for a perfect gift?
Some amazing wall clocks made using paper, ideal to pack in a suitcase and not adding much weight 🙂
Combine with Kishimojin Temple
If you are visiting in October 2026, be sure to time your trip with the spectacular Oeshiki Festival at the nearby Kishimojin Temple. This historic temple, dedicated to the deity of safe childbirth and childcare, is famous for its ancient ginkgo trees and a 200-year-old candy shop located on its grounds.
Shop & Temple Details
Tabineko Zakkaten (旅猫雑貨店)
Address: 2-22-17 Zoshigaya, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, Japan (Google MAP)
Opening Hours: Wed – Fri 13:00-19:00; Weekends and Holidays: 13:00-18:00
Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays (Open on Mondays, in case of a national holiday)
Official website: http://www.tabineko.jp/
Kishimojin Temple (鬼子母神堂)
Address: 3-15-20 Zoshigaya, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
Opening Hours: 6:30 AM – 5:00 PM
A Mindful Shopping Experience
Tabineko Zakkaten isn’t just a store; it’s a gallery of Japanese folk art that fits in your suitcase. Whether you’re a “cat person” or a lover of traditional design, this shop offers a thoughtful way to bring a piece of Tokyo’s quiet soul back home with you in 2026.
