Shirokiya traces its department store roots back to 1662 in Tokyo, Japan. The store in the Ala Moana Shopping Center was the first outlet located outside of Japan. It is well known as the place you can pick up a $5,000 television along with a $5 bento, all in one store. In addition to the oriental food items upstairs (I love watching them make those Japanese pancake desserts), the lower level has electronics; books; magazines; furniture; and even a bakery.
When the Japanese economy went bust, there was a momentary scare when it was announced that Shirokiya may be forced to close. Two of the three Hawaii stores did close, but the one in Ala Moana survived under new ownership.
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