Bic Camera is an extremely popular chain of consumer electronics stores in Japan selling every imaginable electronic product at very reasonable prices. The Kyoto branch of this store is very convenient as it sits right next to the Kyoto Station building.
This is one of the two major electronics stores in Kyoto, the other being the nearby Yodobashi Camera. In terms of pricing and service, there isn’t much to choose between them. However, the two stores do have a slightly different range of products in stock. The layout of the Bic Camera store is also a lot better organized, and so it is much easier to find your way around.
Bic Camera Kyoto
If you are looking to buy cameras, computers, TVs, rice cookers, or audio equipment – this is the place to come. Remember though that items here are made for the domestic market. Do check each item’s language functionality before buying it, and be sure each purchase comes with a manual in your language too!
Bic Camera Kyoto has 7 floors. Here are some highlights:
Bic Camera 1st Floor
The 1st floor is dedicated to mobile phones and smartphones. You can also buy prepaid SIM cards here. If you need extra cash, there is a Post Office ATM in the westernmost corner of the 1st floor that takes most major international credit cards such as VISA, MasterCard, American Express, Diners Club and JCB.
The 1st Floor Post Office ATM
On the 2nd floor you can find a great selection of cameras, camera equipment, and watches. Look out also for the Tax Free Corner. Bic Camera has a tax free service throughout the store for overseas visitors. However, at the Tax-Free Corner, the process is much quicker. Here you can pick up and quickly purchase the store’s most popular items such as cameras, men’s electric shavers, hair dryers and rice cookers.
The 2nd Floor Tax Free Corner
Bic Camera doesn’t just sell electronics. Also on the 2nd floor you can find a pharmacy and a liquor store.
The 2nd Floor Pharmacy
The 2nd Floor liquor store has an excellent range of imported beers and local sakes
For TV and audio equipment head to the 3rd floor.
The 3rd Floor TVs
Computers are sold on the 4th floor. Here you can also find office equipment, stationery and fountain pens.
The 4th Floor computers
On the 5th floor you can find sports goods, bedding, lighting, and “beauty electronics” like hair dryers and facial steamers.
You can also find bicycles on the 5th floor
The 6th floor has a lot of household electronics such as vacuum cleaners, and products for the kitchen like rice cookers, bread makers, and blenders.
6th Floor rice cookers
On the 7th floor you will find toys, games, and audio and video software.
7th Floor toys
Bic Camera Kyoto Location Map
Kyoto Station’s Nishinotoin Gate actually opens directly into the 2nd floor of Bic Camera. However, if that gate is a little hard to find, simply exit the main central exit on the north side of the station, and turn left. Going directly west you will pass Isetan on your left and the Central Post Office on your right. Bic Camera is just a little way ahead on your left.
The Nishinotoin Gate for Kyoto Station is on the 2nd floor of Bic Camera
Open: 365 days a year from 10:00 – 21:00
Article and original photos by Michael Lambe. All rights reserved.
