Tokyo is definitely on everyone’s bucket list. Amidst its bustling city life and staggering architectural delights, there are a handful of vintage stores tucked into the city selling rare retro pieces. If you want to add to your collection of antique treasures, Tokyo thrifting is the move for you.
Tokyo is an eccentric shopping experience irresistible to shopaholics, tourists, and locals alike. From Shibuya to Harajuku, Tokyo is home to the most renowned shopping districts. Not only can you find numerous global brands, but also local hole-in-the-wall thrift stores. The culture of thrifting in Tokyo is so unbelievably extensive, there is a store for just about anything you want. If you are looking for unique and exotic Japanese fashion pieces, be sure to visit these stores the next time you travel to Japan.
Brand Collect
Do you consider yourself a hypebeast? If so, Brand Collect should be on your list of thrift stores to check out in Tokyo. Tokyo is home to a lot of streetwear fans, and the city’s hypebeast culture is one of the most developed ones. Brand Collect carries a huge collection of high-end streetwear brands such as ACW, Fear Of God, and of course the staples: Bathing Ape, Supreme, and Off-White.
As much as these brands are considered to be high-end, Brand Collect pieces are priced at a premium range. So, if you are shopping on a budget, just having a browse for the latest collections is an option too. Many streetwear brands supply their limited editions in Tokyo, so you are guaranteed to spot any new pieces to save to your wishlist. If you are looking for hard-to-find hypebeast pieces, Brand Collect will definitely be worth your time.
Address: 1-6-2- Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Open From: Mon-Sun: 11am – 8pm
Nude Trump
At first glance, you might not get the impression that Nude Trump is one of the best thrift stores in Tokyo. Founded and run by absurdist fashionista Hayao Matsumura, Nude Trump has been open for a long time, offering the most fashionable and unique vintage garments and accessories. Nude Trump is the perfect place if you’re looking to spice up your wardrobe with head-turning outfits for a party or dance. It is a cacophony of studded, fur-print, and gem-encrusted rarities. You will have an extensive array to choose from, so take your time to find the one-of-a-kind dress you always needed.
Address: 3F, 1-12-14 Jinnan, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Open From: Mon-Sat: 1pm – 9pm
Blueworkerz
Located on a backstreet alley around the corner, Blueworkerz might be a little challenging to find, so keep an eye out for it. As hidden as it is, it is a lowkey store not many people know about, but is a favorite for true thrift shoppers, known for its quirky yet chic print design T-shirts. Dig through the mountains of old-school skate streetwear T-shirts, and you might even find a rare ‘90s Snoop Dogg shirt, or a vintage FUBU hoodie. Blueworkerz holds a rugged skater appeal, offering the options for a casual yet stylish look. Blueworkerz is recommended for those looking for broken-in hipster street style, but anyone can visit to experience Tokyo’s street-fashion scene.
Address: 25-6 Maruyamacho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Open From: Mon-Sun: 2pm – 10pm; Closed on Wednesdays
Kinji Used Clothing
Just a two-minute walk from Harajuku station, Kinji Used Clothing is situated in the heart of the Tokyo fashion scene. With a warehouse structure, the store is packed to the brim with eye-catching vintage clothing. To make your experience easier while digging through the heaps of options, Kinji is organised by design and brand, making your shopping experience a breeze. The name of the store may be misleading however, as not all pieces offered are second-hand. You could even find a pair of rare Christian Dior jeans with the tags still intact. Not only do they carry garments, but they also have a huge selection of men’s and women’s sneakers. Since a lot of thrift stores in Tokyo lack an abundance of sneakers, Kinji Used Clothing is a go-to attraction for many sneakerheads.
Address: B1F, YM Square Harajuku, 4-31-10 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Open From: Mon- Sun: 12pm – 8pm
One W Oh
If budget is not a problem for you, make sure to check out One W Oh. They specialise in vintage cartoon-themed gear, with everything from Spongebob Squarepants, Pokémon, Marvel, Disney, and even Garfield. While its pieces are comparatively pricier, you will definitely spot some never before seen pieces that separate you from the common cartoon shirts your friends have. One W Oh is also known for stocking one of the largest inventories of cartoon-print retro style jackets such as bomber or varsity. If you want special Tokyo-style vintage garments, One W Oh has got it all for you. Check out their instagram to reserve your favourites.
Address: 4 Chome-29-1 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Open From: Mon-Fri: 12pm – 7pm; Sat & Sun: 12pm – 8pm
2nd Street
With several stores located across Japan, 2nd Street is a highly anticipated vintage chain experiencing rapid growth. Being a large scale chain store, 2nd Street has everything you could possibly want. Ranging from high-end brands to casual wear, the stores are categorised by style and brands, and you might end up spending hours going through every section. The vintage collection pieces might be second hand, but 2nd Street ensures every garment is of high quality and presentable to their customers. Even the broken-in pieces appear close to brand-new, and are sold at an affordable price compared to their original rates. 2nd Street also hosts a lot of sales and discount promotions, so be sure to check their website before you plan to visit.
Address: 4-26-4 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Open From: Mon-Sun: 11am – 9pm; Temporary hours change to: 3pm-9pm
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