ELECTRONIC PURCHASES
 

How many of you have purchased electronics in Japan and were they cheaper.
I am thinking of buying a portable DVD player - between 9 and 10"- large screen.
I can purchase a Panasonic 9" in Canada for $349.00 - should I wait until I get to Japan?
I may also be interested in purchasing a new Ipod.

You are unlikely to make worthwhile savings for portable DVD players.
Panasonic 9" (DVD-LS91-S) is listed at Yodobashi.com at 52,800 yen (US$450).
Plus items only come with warranty valid within Japan. They do 8" Sony DVP-FX810 at 32,800 yen ($283). Also look out for compatibility with region coding - Japan is Region 2, US/Canada is Region 1. Some players are multi-region or can be modified.
Generally electronic prices are around US net prices or slightly higher, but you get far greater range of articles on sale (and in stock).
Accessories, such as lenses for SLR cameras, are good value.

Many US online stores are selling the Panasonci LS91 for ~$260 shipped!

As for iPods, you won't find discount Apple stuff in most places. In Japan, the 30GB is 29,800 yen, which is US$255. It's US$249 here in the US, and C$299 (US$262). Difference is extremely slight. Buy at home.

In our travels to Asia electronics are not a cost saving purchase. If you go to B & H on the internet you will see a low price vs. most other internet providers and use that as a benchmark even for purchase in the Canada. Unless you need a camera for your travels then buy a 5-6 megapixel "point and shoot" for $200USD.

I havent brought electronics but all the Canon cameras are 50% less than australian shop prices (colour printer cartridges and paper for canon are 1/2 cost too)! amazing!

I too heard from Australian visitors we meet that prices were if not 50% less a good 25% less but not from Canadians now that the dollars in Canada and the US are not far apart.