Japan's Second-Hand Treasures: A Guide to Book-Off, Vintage Shops, and Thrift Store Culture
Meta Description: Discover Japan's amazing thrift stores and second-hand shops. From Book-Off manga to vintage fashion in Tokyo, find authentic treasures at great prices.
Here's the paradox about Japan: it's expensive. Meals cost more, hotels cost more, attractions add up. But then you walk into a Book-Off or Second Street and find designer bags for ¥3,000, complete manga series for ¥500, vintage Levi's in perfect condition for ¥2,000. Japan's second-hand shops taught me that "used" doesn't mean "worn out"—here, it often means "basically new."
The secret is Japanese consumer culture. People take
meticulous care of their belongings, upgrade frequently, and have limited storage space. The result? High-quality used goods flooding the resale market at prices that make budget travelers very happy. Add Japan's obsession with cleanliness and organization, and you get thrift stores that feel more like boutiques than dusty charity shops.
This is treasure hunting, not guaranteed bargains. Some days you leave empty-handed. Some days you strike gold and spend the next hour texting photos to friends asking "can you believe this was ¥800?" Let me show you where to dig.
Book-Off - The Gateway Drug
What Book-Off Is
Japan's largest second-hand book and media chain with over 800 locations nationwide. Bright yellow and blue signage makes them impossible to miss. Clean, organized, well-lit—nothing dingy about these stores. They use a condition-based pricing system with everything clearly marked.
Despite the name, Book-Off sells way more than books: manga, CDs, DVDs, video games, and many locations (especially SUPER BAZAAR stores) sell clothing, electronics, branded goods, even furniture.
What You'll Find
Manga and Books:
Complete manga series for a fraction of new prices. Japanese books often ¥110-300 (yes, really). Some English books at larger locations (hit or miss). Art books, photography books, vintage magazines. The ¥110 corner is where treasure hunters live—I once found a rare architecture book there that sells for ¥3,000 new.
CDs and DVDs:
Japanese music albums ¥300-1,000, anime DVDs, J-pop, rock, and city pop (currently having a global revival). Condition is usually excellent. Note: region coding matters for DVDs.
Video Games:
Retro games (Famicom, Super Famicom, PlayStation), recent games at discount, portable games (Nintendo DS, Switch). Condition ranges from "like new" to "well-loved." Price-check before buying—some aren't actually cheaper than new.
Branded Goods (SUPER BAZAAR locations):
Authenticated designer bags (Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Coach, Prada), watches (Rolex, Omega, G-SHOCK), clothing (Nike, Adidas, Japanese brands), smartphones, cameras. All items authenticated by staff before purchase.
Not everything's a bargain—check prices against new—but the hunt is half the fun.
Shopping Strategy
Visit multiple locations (inventory varies wildly by store). Large SUPER BAZAAR stores have better selection. Check condition grades carefully (A = excellent, B = good, C = acceptable wear). The ¥110-500 sections offer best value. Bring cash (many locations accept cards now, but not all). Time needed: 30 minutes to 3 hours—easy to lose track.
Best Tokyo Locations
- Shibuya: Huge, convenient, but picked over by tourists
- Ikebukuro: Multiple stores, excellent for anime/manga
- Akihabara: Gaming focus, competitive pricing
- Shinjuku: Several locations, quality varies
- Suburban locations: Better deals, less tourist traffic
What to Buy as Souvenirs
Manga (even if you can't read Japanese, the art is gorgeous), Japanese music CDs (city pop is having a revival), art books (cheaper than overseas), vintage magazines, retro games if you have compatible systems.
Price range: ¥110 (bargain bin treasures) to ¥5,000 (newer/rare items, branded goods much higher)
Tax-free shopping: Many locations offer tax-free service for tourists (¥5,000+ purchases)
Second Street (セカンドストリート) - Beyond Books
What Makes It Different
Second Street focuses on clothing, accessories, and lifestyle goods. Over 900 stores nationwide (including overseas expansion). Bigger stores, more spacious layout. Mix of budget finds and high-end designer items. Furniture, electronics, sporting goods at larger locations. Feels more like a department store than a thrift shop.
Clothing and Fashion
What you'll find:
Japanese streetwear (A Bathing Ape, Comme des Garçons, Visvim, Neighborhood), international designers (Gucci, Prada—at fraction of retail), vintage denim (Japan's obsessed with quality denim), casual brands (Uniqlo, GU), traditional items (kimono, yukata), shoes, bags, accessories.
Condition: Generally excellent—Japanese people maintain things meticulously. Grading system like Book-Off (A, B, C). Some items still have tags (never worn). Stains or damage clearly noted on tags.
Sizing challenges: Japanese sizes run smaller. Always check measurements. Try things on (fitting rooms available). Men's large often equals Western medium. Women's sizing even more different. Japanese shoes tend narrower.
Other Items
Bags and luggage (quality brands at great prices), watches (authenticated luxury watches), electronics (cameras, audio), sporting goods (golf clubs, ski equipment, camping gear), collectibles (toys, figures).
Pricing
More expensive than Book-Off generally, but still 30-70% off retail. Designer items authenticated (peace of mind). Seasonal sales and clearance sections. No haggling—prices are fixed in Japan.
Typical prices:
- Basic clothing: ¥500-2,000
- Japanese brand pieces: ¥2,000-8,000
- Designer items: ¥4,000-30,000+
- Accessories: ¥1,000-15,000
Store Types
Second Street has nine different store formats:
- Apparel Reuse: Fashion at affordable prices
- Used Select: Carefully curated, mainly brands
- Brand Specialty Store: Luxury designers only
- Total Reuse: Mix of everything
- Full Spec Reuse: Largest format with everything
You won't find bargains every visit, but when you do, it's worth all the browsing. I once found Visvim boots (retail ¥80,000) for ¥15,000 in perfect condition.
Specialty Vintage and Other Chains
Vintage Clothing Boutiques by Neighborhood
Shimokitazawa - Vintage Paradise
Laidback bohemian neighborhood southwest of Shibuya. Multiple vintage shops on winding streets, hip cafés, live music venues. The go-to area for vintage clothing in Tokyo.
Don't miss: Stick Out (everything ¥800!), New York Joe Exchange (American vintage)
Koenji - Punk & Alternative
Edgier than Shimokitazawa, cheaper prices, punk/rockabilly aesthetic. About 10 minutes from Shinjuku on JR Chuo Line.
Harajuku - Trendy & Curated
Higher prices but curated selection, Instagram-worthy shops, youth fashion epicenter. Mix of vintage and contemporary secondhand.
Nakameguro - Upscale Vintage
Selective curation, higher prices, sophisticated aesthetic, beautiful neighborhood along canal.
Price range: ¥2,000-30,000+ depending on item rarity and shop curation
Mandarake (まんだらけ) - Otaku Paradise
Multiple stores focused on anime, manga, collectibles. Nakano Broadway (Tokyo) = flagship, also Akihabara, Ikebukuro, Osaka.
What you'll find: Vintage manga, anime cels and production art, action figures (new and vintage), idol merchandise, doujinshi (fan-made manga), rare collectibles.
Experience: Can be overwhelming (multiple floors, endless items). Staff are experts in their sections. Prices vary—rare items expensive, common items reasonable. International shipping available.
Best for: Anime/manga fans, collectors, nostalgia seekers
Time needed: 1-3 hours easily
Hard-Off (ハードオフ) - Electronics & Music
Sister chain to Book-Off. Focus: electronics, music equipment, tools, hobby items. Over 1,012 stores across Japan as of November 2025 (they've grown from 0 to 1,000+ stores in just over 10 years!).
What you'll find: Audio equipment (turntables, speakers, amplifiers), cameras (film cameras, vintage lenses), musical instruments (guitars, keyboards), tools, retro electronics.
Who it's for: Musicians, photographers, audiophiles, tinkerers, nostalgia hunters
Considerations: Test equipment when possible. Power voltage is 100V in Japan (different from most countries). Functionality not always guaranteed. Great deals exist but requires knowledge.
Treasure Factory (トレジャーファクトリー)
Similar vibe to Second Street. Clothing, accessories, lifestyle goods. Sometimes cheaper. More neighborhood-focused locations. Good furniture sections.
Hard-Off Group Sub-Brands
The Hard-Off group operates multiple specialized chains:
- Mode Off: Designer fashion at lower prices
- Hobby Off: Anime, manga, collectibles, trading cards
- Garage Off: Car/bike parts, sporting goods, bicycles
- Liquor Off: Japanese beer, sake, spirits, wine, whiskey
Shopping Tips for Success
Before You Go
Research locations near your itinerary, know what you're looking for (helps narrow search), check store hours (many close 8-9pm), bring reusable shopping bag, wear layers (trying on over clothes easier), comfortable shoes (you'll walk/stand a lot).
Shopping Strategies
Time management: Allow 1-2 hours minimum per store. Visit multiple locations (inventory varies hugely). Weekday mornings = less crowded, fresher stock. Weekend afternoons = busier but restocked.
Finding deals: Check clearance sections first, look for seasonal discounts, ¥110-500 sections = best value-to-treasure ratio, end-of-season sales, suburban outlet locations = better prices.
Quality checking: Inspect thoroughly (stains, tears, functionality). Grading system is a guide, not guarantee. Try on clothing (sizing unpredictable). Check for missing pieces (sets, game parts).
What to Watch Out For
- Tax (10% added at register)
- Sizing differences (Japanese vs. Western)
- Region coding (DVDs, games)
- Power voltage (electronics = 100V in Japan)
- Luggage space (easy to overbuy!)
- No haggling in Japan (prices are fixed)
Payment & Practicalities
Cash preferred at smaller shops. Credit cards accepted at major chains. Tax-free shopping: usually not available at second-hand shops (some SUPER BAZAAR locations offer it). Return policies: generally no returns (sale final). Bring your own bag or pay ¥5-10.
What to Buy (and Skip)
Best Buys
Manga: Even if you can't read Japanese, covers and art are collectible. Complete series ridiculously cheap.
Japanese Fashion Brands: Visvim, Neighborhood, Wtaps, Kapital—hard to find overseas, 50-70% off retail, quality impeccable.
Vintage Denim: Japanese obsession means quality selection. Levi's vintage, Japanese reproduction brands.
Traditional Items: Kimono, haori jackets, obi belts ¥1,000-5,000 for decent quality. Make great wall hangings.
Designer Bags: Authenticated luxury brands, excellent condition, 30-60% off retail.
Retro Gaming: Famicom, Super Famicom games much cheaper than overseas retro market.
Music (CDs, Vinyl): City pop, J-rock, Japanese jazz having global revival. Cheap and easy to transport.
What to Skip
Electronics (unless expert): Voltage differences (100V Japan), region locking, no warranty, can be DOA.
Shoes (unless trying on): Japanese feet narrower, sizing confusing, can't return if doesn't fit.
Fast Fashion: Uniqlo, GU, H&M secondhand not much cheaper than new, available in your country anyway.
Grade C Items: Often not worth it, stains hard to remove, pay more for better condition.
Budget Planning
- Book-Off: ¥110-3,000 (most ¥300-800, branded goods higher)
- Second Street: ¥500-20,000+ (average clothing ¥2,000-5,000)
- Vintage boutiques: ¥2,000-30,000+
- Mandarake: ¥300-50,000+ (collectibles vary hugely)
- Realistic shopping budget: ¥5,000-10,000 for good haul
- Easy to spend more (self-control required!)
Key Tokyo Locations
- Shibuya: Book-Off (large), Second Street
- Harajuku: Vintage boutiques (expensive, curated)
- Shimokitazawa: Multiple vintage shops, best for clothing
- Nakano Broadway: Mandarake flagship
- Akihabara: Book-Off, Hard-Off, Mandarake (gaming/anime)
- Koenji: Alternative vintage, cheaper
- Ikebukuro: Multiple Book-Off locations, good selection
Final Treasure-Hunting Wisdom
Second-hand shopping reveals Japanese consumer culture—the care people take with belongings, the frequency of upgrading, the cultural value of "mottainai" (waste not). The hunt is part of the experience. Don't expect bargains every visit. Some days you leave empty-handed. Some days you strike gold.
Budget time for browsing—it's genuinely addictive. Leave space in your luggage. These aren't souvenirs you'll forget in a drawer; they're items you'll actually use and think "I got this in Japan" every time.
I came to Japan for temples and ramen. I left with a suitcase full of vintage manga, a ¥3,000 Comme des Garçons jacket, and a newfound appreciation for the Japanese phrase mottainai. Not everyone will care about thrift shopping, and that's fine. But for treasure hunters, it's one of Japan's genuine hidden pleasures.
FAQ: Japanese Thrift Stores
What is Book-Off in Japan?
Book-Off is Japan's largest second-hand chain with 800+ stores nationwide. Founded in 1991, it sells used books, manga, CDs, DVDs, games, and at SUPER BAZAAR locations, clothing, electronics, and branded goods. Everything is clean, organized, and graded by condition. Famous for ¥110 bargain sections. Tax-free shopping available at select locations for tourists.
Is second-hand shopping popular in Japan?
Very popular. Japan has a huge "recycle shop" (risaikuru) culture. People upgrade items frequently, maintain belongings meticulously, and have limited storage space, creating constant supply of high-quality used goods. Major chains like Book-Off, Second Street, and Hard-Off have 1,000+ combined locations. It's completely mainstream, not niche.
Where can I buy cheap manga in Japan?
Book-Off is the best option. Complete manga series for ¥110-500 per volume (new volumes cost ¥500-800). The ¥110 corner often has older series. Mandarake (Nakano Broadway, Akihabara) for rare/vintage manga. Even if you can't read Japanese, the art and covers make great collectibles. Manga condition is usually excellent.
Are there vintage clothing stores in Tokyo?
Many! Shimokitazawa (bohemian vintage neighborhood), Koenji (punk/alternative), Harajuku (trendy/curated), Nakameguro (upscale). Second Street and Book-Off SUPER BAZAAR locations have vintage sections. Prices: ¥500-30,000+ depending on rarity and location. Japanese sizing runs small—always try on.
How much does second-hand shopping cost in Japan?
Book-Off: ¥110-3,000 for most items. Second Street clothing: ¥500-10,000. Vintage boutiques: ¥2,000-30,000+. Designer bags: ¥3,000-50,000 (still 50-70% off retail). You can find great stuff for ¥5,000-10,000 total budget. Easy to spend more if you're not careful. Cash budget helps prevent overspending.
Can foreigners shop at Japanese thrift stores?
Absolutely. No restrictions. Stores welcome tourists. Most staff don't speak much English, but shopping is visual (prices clearly marked, size charts posted, Google Translate helps). Some Book-Off locations offer tax-free service for tourists (passport required, ¥5,000+ purchase). Payment: cash preferred at small shops, cards accepted at major chains.
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This guide is based on 2025 Japanese second-hand shopping information. Store counts, prices, and locations may change. Book-Off has 800+ stores, Hard-Off group has 1,012+ stores as of November 2025, Second Street has 900+ stores globally.
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