The low-down: This multi-brand lifestyle-cum-department store has been dubbed the Japanese Barneys New York (despite the fact that Barneys already exists in Japan). There are 17 freestanding stores throughout Japan as well as corners in department stores such as Mitsukoshi. There are also Via Bus Stop jeans and accessory corner stores.
Fashion labels: For women, Viktor & Rolf, Bernard Willhem and Tocca. Men can browse through Hussein Chalayan and Anne Valerie Hash.
What's the difference? The unique merchandise comes from collections produced by designers exclusively for the Japanese market. Exclusive brands include Easton Pearson as well as Seta Ichiro and Vaughan Alexander.
Worldwide appeal: If fighting the crowds in Tokyo doesn't appeal, the brand has opened a 2,700-square-foot store in New York and has plans for outlets in Milan and Paris.
Fun fact: Hong Kong designer Johanna Ho sold the store her first collection and has been designing an exclusive line for Via Bus Stop ever since; which makes sense, considering it's her favourite shopping haunt.
