The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo: The Best Shops and

There are all kinds of thrift stores in Japan. From classic antique stores to branded second-hand stores, there’s something for everyone to suit any budget. In fact, the shopping here is so good that there’s even a place on Shibuya Center Street that sells large suitcases for a hefty price just to give tourists plenty of room to buy. The best way to be thrifty is to be cheap and there are lots of unexpected bargains out there. The places below check all those boxes, and some are donated to charity, too.

The best thrift stores in Tokyo

Mottainai (flea market)

The Mottainai organization hosts flea markets several times a month across Tokyo. This month you might see it in Nakano, Shinjuku, and Shinagawa, and next month you might see it in Shimokitazawa, Shibuya, and Futakotamagawa. These markets are worth a visit if you happen to be nearby.

Treasure Factory

The Treasure Factory (known to locals as “TreFac”) is easily identifiable because of its yellow and black colors. Walk into one of these stores and you’ll be blown away by the latest pop music and cheesy tunes as you browse the seemingly endless clothing options. TreFac seems larger compared to other thrift stores. The cheapest items are usually on the stalls outside to grab your attention. Sometimes items are priced as low as 100 yen. The stores also have a selection of designer clothing.

baz store

BazzStore is located across Tokyo, offering cheap clothing and branded merchandise. These stores are often multi-storey. Not as well-known as TreFac, but easier to find bargains.

second street

Second Street is loved across Japan for its versatility. When other places won’t accept someone’s unwanted items, the Second Street store may have a place for them. Products vary greatly depending on the region. For example, a Second Street you find in the countryside might be filled with camping gear. Meanwhile, the city’s second street may feature a range of popular and not-so-popular items.

Ecomese (charity shop)

Ecomesse is a non-profit organization advocating for a green urban future. As of 2024, the charity operates 16 different reuse stores in Tokyo, ranging from Hachioji City in Tokyo’s western suburbs to Edogawa Ward in the east. Ecomesse stores are staffed by enthusiastic volunteers and are well run. They also sell a large selection of cheap pottery and a variety of clothing and household items.

Ecomesse stores can be quite small, so it’s worth checking before heading out. Some stores, such as the one at Gakugei University in Tokyo’s affluent suburb, roll “100-300 yen” boxes outside, inviting customers to haggle. The costumes on the track vary, but prices start at 300 yen and go up to around 3,000 yen.

Purchasing products from the Ecomesse store supports the charity’s mission to protect urban green spaces and soil, recycle and promote the use of sustainable energy.

Tanpopo House (Charity Shop)

Founded in 1889 as a small goods dealer, Tanpopo House gradually transformed into one of the capital’s most popular second-hand shops. Designed to keep prices low, Tanpopo House is the go-to choice for cash-strapped students and local families who don’t care about brands, just high-quality, wearable fashion.

There are 15 stores across Tokyo, including in the capital’s most famous thrift neighborhood: Shimokitazawa. The branch here is among a host of other thrift stores, so we think this branch is perfect to visit and stock up on your boots. Tanpopo House has low prices, with shelf prices starting at 105 yen.

WeShop (Charity Shop)

We21 is a Yokohama-based nonprofit that advocates for more equitable policy changes to advance racial and gender equality. The focus is mainly on East Asia. The charity, which has more than 16 stores in the Kanto region, accepts donations for its cause, which are then sold in its stores.

Since the store receives items (including kimonos and yukata) for free, there is no limit on how much they can be sold for. I previously bought a gorgeous silk kimono and obi at the Sumida store for 1,000 yen each. Each shop has friendly volunteers who are always happy to give you advice on whether something might suit you, and each branch has a small handmade craft corner selling items made by volunteers.

Salvation Army Charity Fair

The original Salvation Army Market opened in Suginami Ward in 1969 to provide work and a sense of place for recovering alcoholics. It’s short, which means you have to be quick, but you can usually find something decent. The shop has old clothes, books and small furniture. The market opens every Thursday from 9am. Closes at 11am, opens at the same time on Saturday, closes at 12pm

Funds raised at the fair go back into charitable funds that help people in need in developing countries and away from home. The Salvation Army is a Christian organization, so you may find the odd bible lying around – each branch is located within a church.

Tokyo City Flea Market, Oi Racecourse (Flea Market)

By far one of the cheapest and most fun thrift spots in Tokyo is Oi Racecourse every Saturday and Sunday, rain or shine. It must be one of the cheapest and largest regular flea markets in Japan, attracting hundreds of vendors every week. There are also food stalls so you can grab a bite while being frugal. Locals and shops come out of their cars or vans to sell stuff every weekend.

Even if it rains, you can bet it will still go on. From antiques to new arrivals, you can find everything you want, and plenty of stuff you don’t. It’s fun to haggle with merchants and see a wide variety of items on sale. Make sure to bring cash as most places don’t accept cards.

It is also recommended to arrive early, preferably as soon as the store opens at 9 a.m., so that you have enough time to check out all the products.

Rabble (Designer Frugality)

Rag-tag is known for its high-quality designer thrift merchandise. This is a second hand store that buys direct from the masses and is very selective. Shoppers can browse by brand and find cheap, cult-favorite designer items at rock-bottom prices. Yohji Yamamoto, Issey Miyake and other brands lined the tracks surrounding the store.

The Best Thrifty Places in Tokyo

Each of Tokyo’s top thrift neighborhoods offers something unique, attracting vintage lovers and budget-conscious shoppers alike.

Shimokitazawa

Shimokitazawa is often considered the holy grail of thrift in Tokyo, with its narrow alleyways filled with quirky and classic vintage shops. Here you can find everything from vintage Americana to Japanese streetwear.

Harajuku

In Harajuku, especially around the backstreets, trendy thrift stores sit alongside designer boutiques, offering a fusion of high-end vintage and punk styles that reflect the area’s edgy aesthetic.

Koenji

For grunge and subculture, head to Koenji, known for its artsy neighborhood and affordable second-hand shops, where prices are generally lower. Here you can find local pieces as well as imported vintage clothing.

Nakameguro

Nakameguro brings a touch of thrift store sophistication with its selection of high-end vintage shops. While browsing its chain of second-hand stores, you’ll come across designer brands and rare items.

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