Tokyo's best thrift store neighborhood
Friperies au Japon
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Tokyo, the fashion capital of the world, is brimming with thrift shops for every style and every price !
In Tokyo, you'll find districts that specialize in vintage fashion, with a concentration of numerous thrift stores, such as Shimokitazawa or Koenji. Although Japanese thrift stores are renowned for their bargains and wide selection, they remain slightly more expensive than those in France, with a few rare exceptions. Here are the main areas where you can go bargain-hunting in the major thrift stores (2nd Street, Kindal, Flamingo, Chicago, Mode off...) as well as in smaller, independent boutiques to bring back some unique finds from your trip to Japan.
Shimokitazawa
The most emblematic second-hand clothing district in Tokyo is undoubtedly Shimokitazawa. In this district, very popular with young Japanese and fashion lovers, you'll find many thrift stores at all price points, most of which offer a selection of items from the USA. In addition to a wide choice of second-hand stores, you can also stroll through its pleasant little streets or relax over a coffee in one of the many establishments and restaurants that Shimokitazawa has to offer. We advise you to visit in the afternoon, as most stores don't open until 11 o'clock. Alternatively, visit the monthly flea market just a few minutes' walk from the JR station.
How to get there : Located in the Setagaya district, take the Odakyu line or the Keio-Inokashira line, Shimokitazawa station.
Our favorite addresses : 3neko (¥), Stick Out (¥).
Quartier de Shimokitazawa à Tokyo
© Souka Kinmei, wiki media
Harajuku
Harajuku, the heart of Tokyo's unusual fashion scene, is also a great area to explore for vintage clothing and accessories. While Harajuku's reputation for alternative fashion is well established (with Lolita, Visual Key and other styles), its thrift stores offer a wide variety of styles, from streetwear to 1990s Japanese fashion, and many offer menswear. Most thrift stores have a selection of luxury brand items at lower prices, especially around Cat Street, where shopping is frequently crowded. Between Shibuya and Shinjuku, this district is also a great place to stop for a coffee and explore the capital in all its nooks and crannies.
How to get there : Located in the Shibuya district, take the JR Yamanote line to Harajuku station; for the Chiyoda or Fukutoshin subway lines, stop at Meiji-jingumae (Harajuku) station.
Our favorite addresses : TOXGO (¥¥), kindal harajuku cat street second hand store (¥¥).
Koenji
Close to Shinjuku, Koenji is the flagship district for artists and is appreciated by locals for its mythical architecture from Japan's pre-boom era. Along with Harajuku and Shimokitazawa, it's the third district with the most vintage stores. You can stroll along the large covered alleys of Junjo shotengai or Look shotengai to come across a large number of thrift shops. While grunge style was originally predominant in this district, you'll find a wide variety of Japanese and foreign fashions. Don't hesitate to discover the retro charm of the interiors of Koenji's shops and the activities on offer, such as a visit to the Saisho-ji temple or underground and alternative music shows for a moment of culture.
How to get there : Located in Suginami district, take the JR Chuo line to Koenji station; for the Marunouchi subway line, stop at Shin-Koenji station.
Our favorite addresses : Hayatochiri (¥), SANGO (¥¥).
Boutique à Koenji
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Koenji, la nuit
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Kichijoji
A little way from the center, but accessible via the Chuo Line, Kichijoji is a quiet, residential suburb of Tokyo teeming with cafés, restaurants and, of course, second-hand clothes stores. Few travelers go there, so it's the perfect place to shop like the Japanese!
You'll find the big brands of thrift shops (Kindal, Mode Off...) as well as smaller second-hand establishments. Here you can find unique pieces for all styles in a more chill atmosphere, far from the frenzy of department stores. If you're planning to stay a whole day, take the opportunity to visit the Ghibli Museum, just a few minutes' walk from the JR station, and take a stroll through the magnificent Inokashira Park, where the beautiful autumn leaves and cherry blossoms are in full bloom.
How to get there : Located in the town of Musashino, take the JR Chuo-Sobu line to Kichijoji station or the Keio Inokashira subway line to Kichijoji station.
Our favorite addresses : dracaena (¥¥), Little Brother (¥).
Rues de Kichijoji
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