Apple CEO Tim Cook has returned to Japan for the grand reopening of the Apple Ginza store, the company’s first retail location outside the United States. Cook, who last visited the country in 2022 to meet with suppliers and developers, described the Tokyo event as a major milestone in Apple’s relationship with Japan.
Apple Ginza’s Historic Role
The Apple Ginza store originally opened in 2003, marking Apple’s global retail expansion. In 2022, the store relocated to a temporary boutique space while its original building was demolished. Now, the store has returned to its original site in a newly constructed building designed with modern architectural standards.

Cook shared his excitement on social media, posting: “There’s nothing like the energy in Tokyo! So thrilled to be back … for a sneak peek of the all-new Apple Ginza, opening this Friday, September 26.” His remarks highlight the symbolic importance of Ginza, both as a flagship location and as a symbol of Apple’s longstanding presence in Japan.
A Symbol of Connection
Speaking about the reopening, Cook said: “This reopening is another incredible milestone on our journey here in Japan, and a symbol of our strong ties to customers and communities across the country.” He added that Apple looks forward to welcoming visitors into the redesigned space and continuing to build on its history with Japanese consumers.
Global Presence and Timing
Cook’s visit to Tokyo follows his recent appearance at Apple’s Fifth Avenue store in New York, where he greeted fans during the iPhone 17 launch. His back-to-back engagements underscore Apple’s global reach and its efforts to maintain strong connections with communities in major markets