Eyewear

Glasses are a real fashion statement in Tokyo, and most places have prescription glasses and contact lenses, as well as fashion glasses frames and sunglasses. Most opticians will do eye tests for free, and places like Sakuraya will do a basic eye exam every three months for contact lens wearers (for a nominal fee). Contact lenses are especially popular, and prices are competitive. Around most stations you’ll see promotion girls handing out flyers advertising a local retailer’s latest discounts. For sunglasses, it doesn’t get any cheaper than around Takeshita Dōri. You can get pairs for under ¥1,000 in this area, and though they may not last long, they’ll be fashionable for a time. For a more substantial investment, check out the sunglasses section of most department stores. Isetan and Takashimaya carry Gucci, Dior, Oliver Peoples, Louis Vuitton, and Chanel. Washin Optical is an upmarket chain that sells nice one-of-a-kind handmade frames.

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