With multiple Apple Stores now available in Seoul, South Korea, Apple Stores have become less of a novelty. However, before Apple Stores arrived in Korea, they were already present in various locations in Japan. During my travels in Japan, particularly in Osaka in 2018, exploring an Apple Store that wasn’t yet in Korea became a unique part of the journey.
During my 2018 trip to Osaka, I had the chance to visit an Apple Store. At that time, the iPhone XS series and iPhone XS MAX series had just been released, adding an exciting element to the experience.
- 2018 Apple Store in Osaka : Osaka Amerikamura: ‘Apple Store’
“Seeing the iPhone 15 in Person at Osaka’s Apple Store”
During my recent trip to Osaka in 2023, I had the opportunity to see the newest iPhone models earlier than in Korea. The iPhone 15 series was released in Japan during my visit, with its debut on September 22, 2023.
As I was in Osaka on September 23rd and 24th, right after the iPhone 15 launch, I decided to visit the Apple Store to catch a glimpse of the new device.
“Strict Security Measures at the Apple Store Entrance”
Locating Osaka’s Apple Store wasn’t challenging, as I had visited before. However, as I approached the Apple Store, something seemed unusual. Right from the entrance, individuals in police attire were guarding, creating a heightened sense of security.
Inside, the situation was similar. A large crowd had gathered to catch a glimpse of the iPhone 15, making the atmosphere crowded and bustling.
Thanks to the commotion, entering the store was no easy task. However, by maneuvering through the crowd, I was able to enter and experience the iPhone 15 in person.
“Security Cables Attached to the iPhone 15”
There were noticeable differences compared to other Apple Stores or my previous visits to Japanese Apple Stores. Typically, Apple Stores don’t attach security cables to mobile phones. However, in Osaka’s Apple Store, security cables were attached to the iPhone 15. This was likely a temporary measure to prevent theft due to the heightened interest and release of the new iPhone.
“Experiencing the Lighter iPhone 15 Pro”
The iPhone 15 Pro featured a change in material, using titanium for its construction. This change contributed to a lighter weight compared to the previous model. When holding and using the phone, there was a noticeable difference in weight.
Since I frequently carry my phone, the idea of having a lighter device appealed to me. Observing the “iPhone 15 Pro” and feeling its lighter weight made me contemplate the possibility of making a purchase.
However, considering that my primary use for the phone is photography and there didn’t seem to be significant improvements in camera performance, I decided that sticking with the current model until the next release would suffice.
“Buying an iPhone in Japan is Cheaper Than in Korea”
As always, Apple products are generally cheaper in Japan compared to Korea. With the recent yen plummet, this price difference has become more prominent.
However, it’s important to note that Apple Stores no longer provide tax-free benefits for purchases. Yet, if you buy Apple products from authorized retailers such as Bic Camera, you can still enjoy tax-free benefits. Therefore, if planning to purchase an iPhone in Japan, it’s worth considering to save some money.
Interestingly, the camera on iPhones purchased in Japan still produces a shutter sound during photography, a feature that only seems to apply in Japan and Korea. This can be inconvenient when taking photos during international travels, as the shutter sound occurs regardless of whether the iPhone was purchased in Japan or Korea.
“Osaka Apple Store”
- Address: 1 Chome-5-5 Nishishinsaibashi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0086, Japan
- Phone: +81–6-4963-4500
- Operating Hours: 10:00 – 21:00
- Website: apple.com