Apple is set to celebrate the grand reopening of its Apple Ginza store in Tokyo on Friday, September 26, 2025. This event marks a significant milestone, as Apple Ginza was the company’s first retail store outside the United States when it originally opened in 2003. The redesigned store seamlessly blends modern architectural elements with traditional Japanese aesthetics, reflecting Apple’s commitment to innovation and cultural appreciation.
A Storied History
Located in Tokyo’s bustling Ginza district, Apple Ginza has been a landmark since its inception. In 2022, the original building was demolished to make way for a new structure. During the reconstruction, Apple operated from a temporary location nearby. Now, the store returns to its original site, boasting a four-story design that embodies both contemporary style and traditional Japanese influences.
Innovative Design and Sustainability
The new Apple Ginza features a double-skin glass facade with adaptive louvers that regulate light and temperature, enhancing energy efficiency. The interior is adorned with regionally sourced materials and warm wooden paneling, paying homage to Japanese architectural traditions. The layout maximizes natural light, with balcony-style spaces offering views of Ginza’s vibrant streets. The store operates entirely on renewable energy, underscoring Apple’s dedication to sustainability.
Enhanced Customer Experience
Apple Ginza offers a comprehensive range of products and services. Customers can explore the latest Apple lineup, including the iPhone 17 series, Apple Watch Series 11, and AirPods Pro 3. The store features an Apple Pickup station for convenient online order collection, a Genius Bar with varied seating heights for accessibility, and dedicated areas for personalized setup and Today at Apple sessions. Additionally, a seating area is available for one-on-one Apple Vision Pro demonstrations.
Exclusive Offerings and Events
To commemorate the reopening, Apple Ginza will offer a special-edition Apple Gift Card, available exclusively at this location for a limited time. The store will also debut an exclusive Today at Apple Spotlight session in collaboration with Japanese supergroup Number_i, showcasing Spatial Audio and spatial video through their single U.M.A. This session will premiere at Apple Ginza before expanding to other Apple stores across Japan on October 11. Fans can also book one-on-one demos of Apple Vision Pro, including an immersive behind-the-scenes experience of the U.M.A. music video inside the Spatial Gallery app.
Leadership and Community Engagement
Apple CEO Tim Cook is in Tokyo to celebrate the reopening. During his visit, Cook engaged with Japanese pop culture, meeting boy band Number_i and hugging the iconic Pokémon character Pikachu. He also visited Bandai Namco headquarters to play the new iOS game Dragon Ball Gekishin Squadra, highlighting Apple’s focus on gaming and developer engagement. On social media, Cook called Japan a gamer’s paradise.
Reflecting on the significance of Apple Ginza, Cook stated, Apple Ginza holds a special place in our hearts as our very first retail store outside the U.S., and its opening more than 20 years ago marked a new chapter in how we connect with our customers around the world. This reopening is another incredible milestone on our journey here in Japan, and a symbol of our strong ties to customers and communities across the country.
A Symbol of Progress and Tradition
The reopening of Apple Ginza symbolizes the harmonious blend of progress and tradition. By integrating modern design with cultural elements, Apple not only honors its history but also sets a precedent for future retail experiences. The store stands as a testament to Apple’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and community engagement.
