East of Shinjuku station lies some of the city’s most iconic department stores. Each store was built and designed to cater to a specific customer, from the popular Marui or upscale Takashimaya to the always-entertaining Isetan, which is a mere 15-minute walk from the Citadines residence. Never miss a chance at exploring the basements of these shopping malls, which are often a paradise filled with Japanese snack sellers, fragrant bakeries and delicate sweet shops.