A Guide to Vintage Shopping in Tokyo


Tokyo is often a top travel destination for fashion lovers around the world, as Japanese vintage and second-hand stores offer a variety of one-of-a-kind, affordable items. Let’s take a look at Tokyo’s best neighborhoods for second-hand shopping that locals and tourists alike should add to their itineraries.

Shimokitazawa

Streets of Shimokitazawa
Streets of Shimokitazawa

Also known as Shimokita, this neighborhood has thriving arts and music scenes. This small but bustling part of Tokyo is filled with vintage shops, popular chain stores and rare boutiques that are hard to come by. You’ll find an eclectic mix of second-hand clothing stores to browse, as well as plenty of unique cafes and bars that are perfect for unwinding after a day of shopping. 

Location: Setagaya Ward, accessible by Odakyu and Inokashira train lines. 

Store highlights:

  • MODE-OFF 
  • JAM 
  • Flamingo 
  • Kinji 
  • 2nd Street

Koenji

Kouenji arch sign
Kouenji arch sign

Located in Western Tokyo, Koenji is commonly known to have retained its counterculture spirit from the past. The neighborhood has a lively and artistic atmosphere that benefits from being a bit further away from bustling and often over-crowded areas such as Shinjuku.  Offering many vintage shops, independent music as well as quirky bars and restaurants, Koenji is a popular spot to source second-hand products. 

Location: Suginami Ward, accessible by the JR Chuo line.

Store highlights:

  • Tampopo House 
  • MODE-OFF 
  • Kinji 
  • 2nd Street 
  • Bazz Store 

Oi Racecourse Flea Market

Oi Racecourse Flea Market Clothes

This popular flea market located in Shinagawa is free to enter every Saturday and Sunday from 9am-2:30pm (unless stated on the official website). Having around 500 vendors each week, visitors can search for a variety of vintage goods, including clothing, electronics, accessories and houseware. With food vendors and an eating area also available in the venue, Oi Racecourse Flea Market is a great place to spend your weekend. 

Location: Shinagawa Ward, accessible by the Tokyo Monorail (Haneda line). 

Harajuku

Nightlife of Harajuku streets
Nightlife of Harajuku streets

Located between Shinjuku and Shibuya, Harajuku represents the heart of Tokyo’s youth culture. Walking through Harajuku gives visitors an up-close look at some of Tokyo’s most creative street fashion. With plenty of vintage shops to accommodate any style, Harajuku’s Takeshita street and the neighboring area of Omotesando are perfect places to immerse yourself in one of Tokyo’s most lively shopping hubs. 

Location: Shibuya Ward, accessible by the JR Yamonote line. 

Store highlights:

  • Chicago Harajuku
  • Kinji 
  • Ragtag
  • Flamingo
  • 2nd Street
Clothing rack of clothes and accessories

From homeware products to designer clothing, vintage stores in Japan put a lot of effort into keeping their stock in good condition. For anyone looking to revamp their wardrobe or home decor, Tokyo’s secondhand shopping scene has enough affordable options to accommodate anyone’s needs!

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