Yodoya

Head to the Marais, seek out Rue Saint-Gilles, pass through the door of No. 6 and you'll find yourself in Japan. Yodoya's storefront conceals a myriad of oriental curios, from miniature figurines (including the ubiquitous Maneki-Neko waving cat – €4) to bunting adorned with cutesy animals (€3), via pricey kimonos supposedly salvaged from the collections of renowned artisans. It's all heaped up in a cluttered mess, with only small tags and the swiftly volunteered help of owner Miyako for guidance. If you've never been East, this is a good way to appreciate the Japanese fetishisation of knick-knacks and ornaments. And if it all gets too much, ask Miyako to serve you a cup of Japanese tea, whether the celebrated matcha or other – she'll happily oblige.