If you’re planning a trip to Tokyo, whether it’s a spontaneous getaway or a long-cherished dream, get ready for an unforgettable experience. The vibrant city offers amazing culinary delights, incredible food, unique attractions, and outstanding accommodation. For those with a passion for fashion, Tokyo serves as a shopping paradise, particularly for vintage enthusiasts. Explore chic neighborhoods like Harajuku, Shibuya, and Shimokitazawa, where you’ll discover stores specializing in rare second-hand designer treasures.
However, traversing the bustling streets of this metropole can be quite daunting, especially for first-time visitors. Fortunately, Vogue is here to share essential tips that will elevate your vintage shopping experience. While Tokyo boasts an extensive selection of archival clothing, bags, and shoes, landing that coveted Chanel or Dior piece can be a breeze if you know where to look and what to keep in mind.
Here’s your ultimate vintage shopping guide to Tokyo — packed with indispensable dos and don’ts.
Do Familiarize Yourself with Key Chain Stores
To navigate vintage shopping in Tokyo effectively, get acquainted with popular chain stores. Notable shops like Ragtag, 2nd Street, Kindal, and Bookoff have multiple outlets across the city and a diverse mix of designer apparel, accessories, and even home goods.
Don’t Skip Shimokitazawa
Known for its hip ambiance, the Shimokitazawa neighborhood is a must-visit for vintage aficionados. The streets teem with vintage clothing shops, record stores, trendy cafés, and lively bars. A highlight in this area is Chicago, which offers a vibrant array of ‘90s streetwear, vintage Levi’s, Wrangler jeans, and leather jackets (it’s even a spot where Kim Kardashian herself has shopped here). Also check out Flamingo for American vintage clothing, as well as Pigsty and New York Joe Exchange which both offer an eclectic selection of casual vintage pieces at attractive prices.
Photo: Courtesy of Casanova Vintage
Do Focus on Vintage Bags
If you’re on the hunt for a vintage luxury bag, Tokyo is home to several shops that specialize in coveted designer accessories. In Harajuku, Amore Vintage is a go-to spot for archival Chanel bags, featuring everything from classic quilted flaps to rare Karl Lagerfeld runway pieces. Over in Shibuya, Casanova Vintage offers an impressive collection of Chanel bags alongside Dior saddle bags, Hermès Birkins, and various monogrammed Louis Vuitton designs. Make sure to also check out Vintage Qoo in Shibuya for bags from Bottega Veneta, Fendi, Prada, Celine, and more.
Don’t Hesitate to Explore Beyond the City Center
Some of the finest vintage fashion treasures in Tokyo are hidden away in the suburbs, and they are worth the trip. Bookoff Super Bazaar in Kawasaki is among the largest Bookoff stores in Japan and has gone viral on TikTok for its extensive selection of vintage items. It’s like a megastore filled with discounted vintage Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and more. Closer to the city, check out Atlantis Vintage in the Koenji or Hiroo districts, known for attracting fashion-savvy TikTokers who consult the knowledgeable owner Yuji to help them hunt down their designer wishes.
Do Take Advantage of Tax-Free Shopping
If you’re not a resident of Japan, the great news is that many of your vintage purchases can qualify for tax exemption. Simply present your passport at checkout, and the tax will be waived on your shopping spree. For high-value items such as designer handbags, this can lead to significant savings. Noteworthy stores like Amore, Qoo, and Casanova offer tax-free options for shoppers.
