Vintage Shopping in Tokyo – Top 10 Antique Stores Guide.

Tokyo, known for its vibrant fashion scene and rich cultural heritage, is a paradise for vintage shoppers. From rare luxury items to unique antique finds, the city offers a diverse array of vintage shopping experiences that cater to various tastes and budgets.

Top Neighborhoods for Vintage Shopping

Shimokitazawa

Shimokitazawa is one of Tokyo's trendiest neighborhoods and a must-visit for vintage enthusiasts. This area is lined with vintage clothing stores, record shops, cafes, and bars, making it a perfect spot for a day of browsing and discovery. Key stores include:

• Chicago: Known for its eclectic mix of '90s streetwear, vintage Levi's and Wrangler jeans, and leather jackets.
• Flamingo: Specializes in American vintage wear.
• Pigsty and New York Joe Exchange: Offer a mix of casual vintage pieces at reasonable prices.

Harajuku

Harajuku is another iconic neighborhood for vintage shopping, particularly for luxury and designer items. Here, you can find:

• Amore Vintage: Renowned for its assortment of archival Chanel bags and other luxury designer items.
• RAGTAG Harajuku: A popular spot for rare and premium vintage items from various luxury brands.

Koenji

Koenji is a hidden gem for vintage shopping, offering a variety of quirky accessories and designer items. The area is known for its bohemian vibe and is a great place to find unique, budget-friendly Japanese goods.

Top 10 Antique and Vintage Stores

1. Amore Vintage Omotesando

Located in the heart of Omotesando, Amore Vintage is one of the best places to find top-notch fashion items. This store showcases rare vintage items from luxury brands and offers tax-free shopping for tourists. English-speaking staff are available to assist.

2. DECOUVERTE Aoyama Store

Part of Baycrew’s Group, DECOUVERTE Aoyama Store features items from Ferragamo, Tiffany & Co., Chanel, Celine, and more. The store offers tax-free shopping and accepts major credit cards.

3. Eva Fashion Art

Located in Daikanyama, Eva Fashion Art specializes in women’s vintage wear and designer products from Celine, Chanel, YSL, and Hermes. The boutique’s interior features modern Parisian charm, and the theme changes every month.

4. Ragtag

With multiple locations across Tokyo, Ragtag is a staple for vintage shopping. It offers a multi-brand mixture of designer clothing and accessories, as well as home goods.

5. Vintage Qoo Tokyo

Located in Shibuya, Vintage Qoo Tokyo is known for its extensive collection of vintage luxury bags from brands like Bottega Veneta, Fendi, Prada, and Celine.

6. Casanova Vintage

Also in Shibuya, Casanova Vintage is a go-to for retro Chanel bags, Dior saddle bags, Hermès Birkins, and monogrammed Louis Vuitton bags.

7. Antique Yamamoto Shoten

In Shimokitazawa, Antique Yamamoto Shoten has been in business for over 70 years, offering a vast selection of Japanese furniture and sundries from the Meiji, Taisho, and Showa periods. The store also includes a repair workshop and a published book on Japanese vintage fixtures.

8. Tokyo Retro a.m.a.store

Another Shimokitazawa gem, Tokyo Retro a.m.a.store specializes in items from the Taisho and Showa periods, including antique furniture, home decorative items, and retro toys.

9. Wasendo

Located in Asakusa, Wasendo is a nearly 60-year-old antique shop that offers small items like coins, medals, stamps, and netsuke. It is a great place to find unique Japanese antiques.

10. Film Camera Tokyo

For photography enthusiasts, Film Camera Tokyo in Shibuya and Harajuku is a unique store that carries various camera brands like Contax, Nikon, Fujifilm, Leica, and Zeiss. The store also offers buy-and-sell services.

Tips for Vintage Shopping in Tokyo

Know the Staple Chain Stores

Familiarize yourself with staple chain stores like Ragtag, 2nd Street, Kindal, and Bookoff, which have multiple locations across Tokyo and offer a wide range of designer clothing and accessories.

Take Advantage of Tax-Free Shopping

Many vintage stores in Tokyo offer tax-free shopping for non-residents. Simply show your passport at checkout to deduct the tax from your purchases.

Venture Out of the City Center

Some of the best vintage shopping spots are located on the outskirts of Tokyo. Places like Bookoff Super Bazaar in Kawasaki and Atlantis Vintage in Suginami are worth the trip.

Explore Flea Markets

Tokyo's flea markets, such as the Oedo Antique Market and Yoyogi Park Flea Market, are great places to find bargains on vintage items. Arrive early for the best selection, and be prepared to haggle.

Look for Both Japanese and American Designers

Tokyo offers a mix of Japanese and American vintage items. Look out for unique pieces from both cultures to enhance your shopping experience.