5 Of Tokyo’s Best Vintage And Used Clothing Stores

Whether you're looking for American vintage, a deal on a used kimono or discounted Chanel, we've got you covered!

Spring is fully kicking in and here you are thinking that it’s about time to start upgrading your closet with something new, colorful and stylish. But while Tokyo is the ultimate shopping heaven, renewing your wardrobe here is oftentimes equivalent to emptying your wallet. Luckily, Tokyo is also home to a number of high-quality vintage clothing stores offering great finds at bargain prices. Here’s a quick guide to some of the capital’s best secondhand clothing chain stores where you can find everything — from antique corsets, high brand purses, jewelry and vintage fashion to new Chanel bags, pumps and spring coats — you’re looking for to feel stylish and cool this spring. 

1. Harajuku Chicago

A post shared by Harajuku Chicago Official (@harajukuchicago_official) on Feb 3, 2018 at 2:53am PST

Harajuku Chicago offers vintage Japanese, American and European fashion and has about 100,000 items in stock making it one of the most popular destinations for smart shoppers. The majority of their locations are focused in the Harajuku/Shibuya area, but each offers a full range of men’s and women’s clothing, including vintage kimono. The chain tends to focus on clothing from the 80s to 90s, although you might find some 60s and 70s items if you dig through their racks. A well-known spot among many fashionistas, Harajuku Chicago is even visited by Kim Kardashian every time she’s in town, though we’re not sure what exactly she buys there.

Best find: Full kimono outfit, including purse and geta sandals, ¥15,000
Shops: Harajuku, Shimokitazawa, Kichijoji. See details here.

2. Flamingo

A post shared by フラミンゴ原宿店 (@flamingo_harajuku) on Apr 6, 2018 at 8:32pm PDT

Flamingo is the parent company behind several second-hand shops that sell American vintage fashion, especially focusing on casual and comfortable items, fully arranged outfits, and new-and-used jewelry. They carry a full range of men’s and women’s clothing and accessories, and are a hit with younger fashionistas in the city in particular.

Best find: Leather rider jacket, ¥4,500
Shops: Omotesando, Shimokitazawa, Harajuku, Kichijoji and more. See details here.

3. Grapefruit Moon

A post shared by GRAPEFRUIT MOON 横浜店 (@grapefruitmoon_yokohama) on Mar 31, 2018 at 5:08pm PDT

Grapefruit Moon is my regular shop. I visit there whenever I want to find something unique for a party, or when I need inspiration for a new outfit. They have a wide range of items for men and women, and their selections date from the 40s to about the early 90s. The shop staff are all friendly, helpful and dressed in original outfits compiled from items in the shop, so if you need a quick recommendation, don’t hesitate to chat with them.

Best find: Two vintage ‘70s summer dresses for ¥6,000
Shops: Ikebukuro, Shimokitazawa, Hachioji, Yokohama and more. See details here.

4. RagTag

A post shared by RAGTAG (@ragtag_official) on Jul 5, 2017 at 6:36pm PDT

RagTag is the perfect place to find high-quality designer labels and goods from all over the world at down 50 to 80 percent of the original price. From Fendi to Chanel, to United Arrows to Beams to Alexander Wang to Givenchy and more, RagTag offers rare finds stretching from casual and street fashion to formal attire (yes, even suits!) for both women and men. Despite the discounts, you may find that prices here are higher than most average used clothing stores, but attribute this to the quality of the line-up! The chain has stores across Tokyo, Osaka and other cities, and an online store with quick delivery.

Best find: Chanel silver pumps for ¥14,600
Shops: Shibuya, Harajuku, Shinjuku, Shimokitazawa, Kichijoji. See details here.

5. Kilo Shop

A post shared by KILOSHOP TOKYO GOHONGI (@kiloshop_tokyo) on Apr 7, 2018 at 8:12pm PDT

Kilo Shop is a second-hand treasure hunt place where the clothes are, for the most part, sold by weight. There are two locations in Japan, one in Harajuku at the famous shopping complex LaForet, and the other in Gakugeidaigaku on the Toyoko Line. This shop only sells women’s clothing and accessories and doesn’t have as wide a selection as some others on the list. However, what they lack in stock they more-than make up for in terms of organization and sales. Items tend to be grouped by type and color, so you can easily find a hot pink top or denim bottoms just by glancing around the shop.

Best find: Vintage faux cheetah fur jacket, ¥2,000
Shops: Meguro and Harajuku. See details here.

Bonus…

For other recommended stores, see also:

• Komehyo, Rinkan, Modescape – High-brand clothes, watches, bags and accessories.
• Kindal –  Casual and luxury brands, outdoor clothes.
• 2nd Street – Casual clothing, accessories, kids’ wear, musical instruments, etc.
• Treasure Factory – Popular recycle store that sells everything from clothes to furniture, accessories and home decor.

Got a second-hand clothing store you’d like to recommend? Leave us a comment!