Workman Japan101: The “Blue-Collar” Brand That Beat UNIQLO? (Ultimate Budget Guide)

UNIQLO changed Japan 25 years ago. But now, a new king of budget fashion has risen from construction sites. Workman. Originally a shop for manual laborers, it is now the secret weapon of smart Tokyoites.

👁️ Kajino’s Eye: Why I Spend My Money Here 

Let me be honest. Top outdoor brands like The North Face are cool, but I’d rather save my money for sushi. Last winter, I bought the “Giga Puff” Down Jacket here for ¥9,800 ($65). It claims to handle -20°C. While Tokyo only drops to -2°C or -3°C, I ride my motorbike in freezing winds and feel nothing. A similar jacket from a famous brand would cost ¥80,000 ($530). That is 1/8th of the price! My other favorite? The “Enril” shoes (¥3,500). They are sturdy, anti-odor, and look… well, let’s just say they look suspiciously like New Balance (I am waiting for the lawsuit, haha). They are so comfortable I bought two pairs—Grey and Black. If you want to survive Japan’s winter or just walk 20,000 steps a day, skip the department stores. Come here.

🛠️ The “Smart” Breakdown: What to Buy 

Why is everyone obsessed with Workman? It’s simple: Pro Quality at Flea Market Prices.

• 🧥 Outerwear (The “Giga Puff” Series)
  • Price: ¥3,900 – ¥9,800
  • Why: Waterproof, flame-retardant (for camping), and incredibly warm.
• 👟 Footwear (“Enril” & Boots)
  • Price: ¥1,500 – ¥3,500
  • Why: Designed for construction workers who stand all day. High grip, anti-fatigue soles.
• 🔥 Innerwear (Heat Assist)
  • Price: ¥980 – ¥1,500
  • Why: Thin, compact, but warmer than UNIQLO’s Heattech. Perfect for packing light.

While UNIQLO remains attractive, visitors to Tokyo should consider Workman. Originally a workwear retailer, Workman has successfully transformed into a casual wear brand while maintaining incredibly competitive prices. With over 1,000 stores nationwide (compared to UNIQLO’s 800), Workman is set to expand internationally, starting with Taiwan in 2027.

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📍 Where to Buy in Tokyo

📍 Where to Find Them (Easy Access Stores) 

Most Workman stores are in the suburbs, but these “Workman Girl” and “Workman Plus” locations are easy for tourists to access.

(SWELL Accordion Start) Summary: Recommended Store Locations

• Workman Girl – Ginza (Exit Melsa)
  • Best for: Fashion items, ladies’ wear.
  • Address: 5-7-10 Ginza, Chuo-ku (Exit Melsa 5F)
  • Map: [Insert Google Map]
• Workman Girl – Tokyo Solamachi (Skytree)
  • Best for: Souvenirs after sightseeing.
  • Address: 1-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida-ku (Solamachi 1F)
  • Map: [Insert Google Map]
• Workman Girl – Sunshine City (Ikebukuro)
  • Best for: Casual wear and shoes.
  • Address: 3-1-3 Higashi-Ikebukuro (Sunshine City Alpa 2F)
• Workman – Minamisuna (The “Real” Experience)
  • Best for: Full lineup of pro gear (gloves, boots, tools).
  • Address: 6-3-6 Minamisuna, Koto-ku
  • Map: [Insert Google Map] (SWELL Accordion End)

• Workman Sunshine Ikebukuro

• Workman Tokyo Skytree

• Workman Ginza

• Workman Minamisuna (full workwear selection)