But it’s not in electronics neighborhood Akihabara that Google has chosen to set up shop.

Omotesando, the tree-lined boulevard that stretches out from the corner of Harajuku Station in downtown Tokyo, has been a mecca for fashionistas for generations. Now, though, it also boasts a new attraction for tech fans, with the opening of the first-ever Google Store outside the U.S.

Google Store Omotesando held its grand opening on August 13, welcoming visitors to come in and get hands-on looks at its Google Pixel smartphone line. The shop is also stocked with Fitbit, Nest, and other Google devices, as well as accessories such as Pixel cases from Tokyo-based manufacturer Casefinite.

There’s also a help desk with staff ready to answer questions, help resolve performance problems, or perform repairs for Google devices and services, and in-store pickup of items ordered online from the Google Store can be arranged too.

▼ Video of the Google Store Omotesando’s grand opening ceremony on August 13

One could make the argument that, what with Japan still having a relatively robust brick-and-mortar shopping sector with large-scale physical electronic stores staffed with knowledgeable salespeople, Google doesn’t need its own dedicated store to help with distribution, sales, and after-service. The primary benefits that Google is hoping for with its first store in Japan, though, can probably be guessed through its choice of location. Google is likely hoping that by having a footprint in Omotesando, the neighborhood’s fashionable, sophisticated and cosmopolitan image will come to be associated with its products and services too. As a matter of fact, rival Apple has a store of its own about 10 minutes’ walk further down the street…

…and Samsung’s Galaxy smartphone brand has a Harajuku showroom that’s even closer.

Considering, though, that for many people in modern life the idea of going out without your phone is as unthinkable as going out without getting dressed, maybe it’s a natural evolution that Harajuku is becoming a place where clothing and smartphone brands alike feel they need to be.

Shop information
Google Store Omotesando
Address: Tokyo-to, Shibuya-ku, Jingumae 4-40-3, Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Omokado
東京都渋谷区神宮前4-30-3　東急プラザ表参道「オモカド」
Open 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Website

Source: PR Times, Google
Top image: PR Times
Insert images: Google, PR Times
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