Shopping: Geoland

In addition to its various department stores, Kichijoji also has lots of great independent kids' stores dotted around the area. Some are somewhat out of the way and hard to stumble across, so over the next few weeks I'm going to profile some of our (ok, my!) favourites.

First up is Geoland (http://geofix.jp/), a small but bright and inviting shop offering a variety of domestic and imported educational toys, baby/children's clothes, housewares and stationery. A short walk from the north exit of the station in the Honcho shopping area, the eye-catching primary colours make it easy to spot.

There's a great range of wooden toys by Japanese maker Ed. Inter that test my willpower every time I go in, including this wire beads puzzle that is now a firm favourite in our house:

If you're looking for a gift that's that little bit different, there is a large selection of inventive and unusual toys and sweet baby goods to choose from. Imported products are a little on the expensive side, but definitely worth it (or you could hang on for one of their sales where there are great bargains to be had!).For grown-ups who like a bit of cute in their lives, stationery and house wares from designer Shinzi Katoh and Swedish brand Little Pink and brokiga are also on offer. Be prepared to be parted from your money if you step inside!

When/Where? Open 11am-7.30pm, Kichijoji Honcho 2-12-5.

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