Apple is returning to its roots in Japan with the reopening of Apple Ginza this Friday, September 26. The store first opened in 2003 as Apple’s very first location outside the United States, and now it’s back in a completely reimagined four-story design that mixes modern architecture, sustainable materials, and plenty of glass with the company’s latest retail concepts.
CEO Tim Cook called the reopening an “incredible milestone” that highlights Apple’s long history in Japan. Deirdre O’Brien, Apple’s retail chief, said the redesigned store will deliver a “magical new experience” for customers, complete with localized programming and expanded services.
Shoppers visiting Apple Ginza will be able to browse the company’s full lineup, including iPhone 17, iPhone Air, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, Apple Watch Series 11, Apple Watch Ultra 3, Apple Watch SE 3, and AirPods Pro 3. Apple is also dangling exclusives, such as a limited-edition Apple Gift Card available only at this location and new accessories like the Crossbody Strap for iPhone Air.
Retail perks include one-on-one shopping help with Specialists, financing options, and trade-in programs. Apple is also highlighting its updated pickup service, where customers can buy online and collect in-store. Naturally, the Genius Bar and personalized setup stations are part of the experience as well.
To mark the reopening, Apple Ginza will host a Today at Apple Spotlight session with Japanese supergroup Number_i, featuring a Spatial Audio and spatial video exploration of their single “U.M.A.” Fans will even be able to step inside the song’s music video using Apple Vision Pro. The session launches exclusively at Ginza before rolling out nationwide in October.
Like Apple’s other facilities, the new store runs on 100 percent renewable energy. The design features a double-skin glass façade with adjustable louvers to manage light and temperature, regionally sourced wood paneling that nods to Japanese design traditions, and balcony-style spaces that overlook the bustling Ginza streets.
Customers can also join daily Today at Apple sessions such as “Tips: What’s New on iOS 26” and “Say Hello to iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro,” making the store more of an interactive hub than just a retail shop.
