Where to find English books in Tokyo

We are all guilty of ordering books online. Easier to browse, faster, and usually cheaper. But nothing is more like browsing the stack in person at a bookstore. Whether you are looking for a specific volume or wandering around, bookstores are one of the few remaining places where you can get rid of your fast pace of life.

However, as a Japanese English-speaking or expat, it is difficult to find good English books. Even in international cities like Tokyo, Japanese bookstores are usually exclusively used in English novels.

For your next reading, in Tokyo, there are some bookstores, including some used bookstores that can carry many English books.

Provided by kinokuniya Tokyo books

Book Kinokuniya Tokyo (Xinjuku)

Founded in 1927 in the New Moon, Kinokuniya is one of the largest and most famous bookstore chains in Tokyo. The huge Kinokuniya Shinjuku main store comes with some English books, but in fact, a 10-minute drive away is dedicated to foreign books: Books Kinokuniya Tokyo In Takashimaya Times Square. This is probably the best English book in Tokyo. You can find everything from literary novels, young novels, art books, magazines, and more. The store also offers a range of books in German, French, Chinese, Korean and more. Check the store’s stock here.

Provided by Unlimited Books

Unlimited Books (asakusa)

Infinity Books is a great bookstore, a few minutes from Asakusa Station. Founded in 2001, the store has an amazing collection of used, rare, first editions and even printed books available at a reasonable price. The comfortable space holds monthly events including live music, readings, workshops and more.

If you are far from Asakusa, please check it out Online Store. You can also sell books that no longer require in person or transportation. Read more about this here.

Provided by the bookstore

tokawawakwa Bookstore (right)

Located in Jimbocho, Tokyo’s beloved book community, Kitazawa Bookstore has been specializing in retro English books since 1902. In particular, you can find a large number of academic texts and classical literature. Thinking about theory, philosophy and Shirley. This store is perfect for those who prefer older paperbacks. You can also find some German and French books here.

Marunouchi Oazo’s plea, the Maruzen Maruzen Marunouchi

Maruzen (Marunouchi)

The main store of Maruzen Marunouchi is located near Tokyo Station and covers four stories. In addition to books, it also houses stationery, gifts and other goods. Go to the fourth floor to browse various English books. Compared to Tokyo’s Kinokuniya’s book, the choice is a bit lacking, but still impressive.

Junkudo (Ikebukuro)

With nine floors, Junkudo Ikebukuro is one of the largest bookstores in Tokyo, along with Kinokuniya and Maruzen. All foreign books are on the sixth floor, including novels, non-fictions, magazines, etc. The fourth floor has the MJ Book Cafe house where you can relax with new books and coffee.

tsutaya daikanyama t site

The Tsutaya daikanyama t site is known for its reputation as the most beautiful bookstore in Tokyo, spinning around the concept of “library in the woods”. If you are looking for art books, coffee table books and magazines, or if you just love browsing beautiful rolls, this store is a great choice. The store has some of the best-selling English novels, but not as much as Kinokuniya and Maruzen.

If you happen to shop in Ginza, so is Ginza Six Tsutaya. It has a large number of art books.

Book a store (in various locations)

Book is one of Japan’s largest bookstore chains specializing in second-hand books and other physical media such as CDs and DVDs. It does depend on the branch office, but many books come with many choices in English paperback and nonfiction categories, so it is always worth pop-up checking. Also, while there, you can take a look at other outfits and accessories.

Related Articles