AV appliance is one of the most popular sourvenir choice by American tourists. Cassette tape is dissapearing in Japan. They use CD and MiniDisc. With the same reason, don't buy DVD player for souvenir, except for the 'export to US' models. VHS uses same format.
Film rolls are cheap, too.
Shijo Teramachi' area in downtown Kyoto has many AV and camera stores, including duty-free store for tourists. Drawing Tools Drawing tools and art supplies are also better and cheaper. If you are a California grown, please prepare yourself. It is hot day and night, and often rains. And remember that we are mostly walking, not driving in a air-conditioned car.