🛍️ Introduction: Kyoto’s Secondhand Shopping Wonderland
Kyoto is best known for its temples, shrines, and traditional arts—but it’s also a hidden paradise for secondhand shopping. From curated vintage fashion and rare designer bags to anime collectibles and retro electronics, Kyoto’s secondhand stores offer something for every kind of treasure hunter. Whether you’re a thrifter on a budget, a collector looking for rare finds, or a fashion lover with an eye for unique pieces, you’ll find plenty to explore beyond the usual sightseeing spots.
This guide is based on my in-person visits to dozens of stores across Kyoto. Each shop listed here has been selected for its variety, value, or sheer charm—and I’ve included business hours to help you plan your visit efficiently. Some shops are right in the heart of Kawaramachi or Teramachi, while others require a bit of a detour, but each one is worth the trip if you’re serious about secondhand.
Check out the Google Maps List HERE.
Fashion Treasures
👗 BIG TIME Kyoto – True Vintage Lovers, This One’s For You
BIG TIME is like walking into a fashion time machine. Spread across four full floors in central Kyoto, this vintage shop is a haven for anyone obsessed with old-school style. You’ll find everything from 1960s hippie coats and retro leather jackets to frilly European blouses and reworked one-off pieces. The first two floors are dedicated to women’s fashion, while the upper levels cater to men’s styles—with entire racks of denim, military wear, band tees, and more.
The pricing leans toward the higher end, but that’s because many of the items are true vintage and carefully curated. This is not your average thrift store; it’s where collectors and fashionistas come to find statement pieces with history. Even if you’re just browsing, the store’s atmosphere is worth the visit—it feels more like a museum of fashion than a simple clothing store.
📍 Location: Central Kyoto, near Teramachi Shopping Street
🕒 Hours: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
💡 Tip: Visit early in the day if you want to browse thoroughly—it can get crowded in the afternoon.
👕 JAM Kyoto – American Vintage with a Japanese Twist
JAM Kyoto is a favorite among vintage lovers, especially those drawn to classic American styles. Think varsity jackets, flannel shirts, Levi’s denim, and workwear-inspired outfits—all carefully arranged by color and style. While the store mainly targets men’s fashion, there’s plenty here for anyone looking for rugged, timeless pieces.
The layout is clean and easy to navigate, and you can tell the staff have a sharp eye for styling. Everything feels intentional, from the way the jeans are folded to the accessories displayed next to boots and bags. While prices here aren’t exactly cheap, many of the items are in excellent condition, and the store occasionally has discount racks and seasonal sales.
If you’re into clean lines, durable fabrics, and a bit of retro Americana, this place is worth a visit. It’s a great stop if you want wearable vintage that still feels current.
📍 Location: Just a short walk from Shijo-Kawaramachi
🕒 Hours: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
💡 Tip: Ask the staff for recommendations—they’re friendly and happy to help you style an outfit.
👘 Chicago Kyoto – Affordable Kimono Meets Everyday Vintage
Chicago is one of the most well-known secondhand chains in Japan, and its Kyoto branch offers a delightful mix of Japanese tradition and Western vintage. Located right near the bustling Teramachi and Shinkyogoku shopping arcades, this store is especially popular with tourists looking to take home something truly Japanese—without the hefty price tag.
Head upstairs to the second floor, and you’ll find an impressive selection of affordable kimonos, yukatas, and traditional accessories. Whether you’re looking for something wearable, decorative, or photo-worthy, there’s a wide range of colors, patterns, and sizes to choose from. Prices start low, especially for yukatas, and many pieces are under ¥5,000.
The first floor focuses more on casual secondhand clothing—jeans, jackets, printed shirts, and accessories. Compared to other vintage shops, Chicago leans toward more wearable, everyday fashion at a decent price point. It also seems to focus on casual men’s fashion.
📍 Location: Along Shinkyogoku Street near Nishiki Market
🕒 Hours: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
💡 Tip: The kimono section often gets restocked, so it’s worth stopping by even if you’ve visited before.
🧵 Wargo Used Kimonos – Budget-Friendly and Beginner-Friendly
Wargo Used Kimonos is the perfect spot if you’re looking for a kimono on a budget—and without the pressure of being a kimono expert. Unlike most stores where prices are set by rarity or age, here, the price is determined by weight, making it one of the most accessible places to buy authentic traditional wear in Kyoto.
The shop itself is modest in size but neatly arranged, with racks of kimonos organized by type and color. You’ll find casual komon, more formal pieces, and plenty of obi (sashes) and accessories. It’s especially great for travelers who want to try wearing a kimono back home or for those who are into textile crafts and want to reuse beautiful vintage fabrics.
Since pricing is based on kilograms, you can walk out with a full set for less than the cost of a meal at a nice restaurant—making this shop ideal for anyone curious about kimono culture but unsure where to start.
📍 Location: Near Gion or Kyoto Station (depending on the branch)
🕒 Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
💡 Tip: Go early for the best selection—lighter and more colorful pieces tend to sell out quickly.
👟 2nd Street – Modern Brands, Great Value
2nd Street is a well-known nationwide chain in Japan, and their Kyoto branches are a goldmine for fans of modern secondhand fashion. If you’re looking for familiar brands like Uniqlo, Beams, Zara, Nike, or even designer names like Comme des Garçons or Yohji Yamamoto—this is where you’ll find them, often at a fraction of the original price.
The Kyoto Kawaramachi branch is especially convenient for tourists, with a large, easy-to-browse layout and separate sections for men’s and women’s wear. Expect to find everything from gently used sneakers and down jackets to stylish everyday outfits and streetwear essentials. If you’re looking for even better deals or a wider selection, check out the other Kyoto locations in Hakubaicho, Kitayama, or Katsura.
Unlike curated vintage shops, 2nd Street focuses more on current trends and practicality—making it a great stop if you want to add a few Japanese fashion items to your suitcase without splurging.
📍 Location: Multiple locations – Kawaramachi is the most central
🕒 Hours: Varies by location (generally 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM)
💡 Tip: Use Google Maps to check inventory and store hours—some branches focus more on menswear or outdoor gear.
🧥 Three Star Kyoto – Artistic Vintage With a Twist
Three Star Kyoto is where fashion meets art. If you’re someone who loves bold statements, unique textures, and pieces that look like they belong in a gallery as much as your wardrobe, this store should be high on your list. Unlike typical vintage shops, Three Star specializes in reworked and artistically customized clothing—meaning many of the items here are truly one-of-a-kind.
You’ll find vintage denim jackets turned into canvas-like pieces, customized hoodies, upcycled skirts, and accessories that blur the line between street fashion and wearable art. There’s also a rotating selection of goods by local and international artists, giving the store a boutique-like vibe with creative energy in the air.
The atmosphere is cool and relaxed, and the staff are approachable and knowledgeable. Even if you’re not buying anything, it’s a fun place to browse and get inspired.
📍 Location: In Kyoto’s central shopping area
🕒 Hours: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
💡 Tip: If you’re shopping for gifts or unique fashion souvenirs, this is a fantastic place to find something no one else will have.
Luxury Finds
👜 Brand Off – Trusted Name for Pre-Owned Designer Goods
If you’re on the hunt for a luxury souvenir or just love high-end fashion, Brand Off is a must-visit. This store specializes in authentic secondhand designer items, including handbags, wallets, watches, and accessories from brands like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Gucci, and Rolex.
Brand Off is well-known across Japan for strict quality control and authentication, so you can shop with confidence. Many items come with their original boxes or dust bags, and condition grades are clearly marked—from “like new” to gently used. While prices are still high compared to fast fashion, they’re far more affordable than retail, and some deals can be surprisingly reasonable—especially for older or less trendy models.
It’s a great place to score that dream bag or luxury watch while in Kyoto, and even window-shopping here is fun if you’re a fan of fashion.
📍 Location: Near Shijo-Kawaramachi
🕒 Hours: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
💡 Tip: Prices can vary between locations, so if you’re also visiting Osaka or Tokyo, it might be worth comparing.
⌚ Komehyo Kyoto – Reliable Selection at Fair Prices
Komehyo is one of Japan’s most established names in the secondhand luxury market, known for its wide range of authenticated pre-owned goods and transparent pricing. The Kyoto branch offers a solid selection of designer handbags, jewelry, watches, and high-end fashion. Brands like Hermès, Cartier, Omega, and Balenciaga are commonly found here.
Compared to more boutique-style shops, Komehyo feels professional and polished, almost like a department store. Items are well-organized by category and condition, and each piece comes with a clear breakdown of details like material, original price, and wear level. It’s a no-pressure shopping experience that’s ideal for people who are curious but cautious about buying secondhand luxury.
While the inventory might not feel as trendy or edgy as some other stores, Komehyo is great for dependable finds at reasonable prices—and their return and exchange policies are tourist-friendly too.
📍 Location: Near Shijo Street, walkable from Karasuma or Kawaramachi
🕒 Hours: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM, Closed Wednesdays
💡 Tip: Bring your passport for duty-free shopping if you’re visiting from abroad.
👞 Kindal – Designer Fashion with a Street Style Edge
Kindal is a go-to for fashion-savvy shoppers looking for secondhand designer brands with a more casual, street-style vibe. With several locations around Kyoto, Kindal caters to those who love labels like Supreme, Off-White, Yohji Yamamoto, and Maison Margiela, often mixing luxury with edgy and modern aesthetics.
What sets Kindal apart is its focus on trend-forward pieces—from logo-heavy hoodies and sneakers to minimalistic Japanese designer garments. It’s also a great spot for scoring rare collabs and limited-edition drops, especially if you’re into fashion culture. Compared to more luxury-focused stores, the atmosphere here is laid-back and cool, and the prices range from mid-level to high depending on the brand and item condition.
Each location has a slightly different selection, but all are organized and clean, making browsing stress-free. Whether you’re hunting for one standout item or just looking to explore current trends, Kindal offers a nice balance of hype and heritage.
📍 Location: Multiple branches across Kyoto; the Shijo branch is the easiest to access
🕒 Hours: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
💡 Tip: The website shows store-specific stock, so it’s worth checking before you go.
🧣 Ragtag – Playful Luxury for the Fashion Curious
Ragtag brings a fun and colorful twist to the world of secondhand designer fashion. This Kyoto boutique curates a mix of both iconic and avant-garde pieces from labels like Issey Miyake, Vivienne Westwood, Miu Miu, and Acne Studios. If you’re looking for something stylish but not too serious—this is your spot.
Compared to more conservative luxury resellers, Ragtag embraces bold colors, creative cuts, and experimental silhouettes. It’s the perfect place for those who love fashion as a form of self-expression. The store is bright and organized, with clearly labeled prices and condition tags. Expect to find everything from unique dresses and graphic tees to eye-catching bags and shoes.
What’s especially nice about Ragtag is that it’s welcoming to shoppers who aren’t necessarily hardcore fashion heads—you can enjoy browsing even if you’re not familiar with every designer name. It’s a great entry point into Japan’s luxury resale culture.
📍 Location: In central Kyoto, just off Shijo Street
🕒 Hours: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
💡 Tip: If you’re visiting Tokyo or Osaka too, Ragtag has branches there with different styles and selections—each shop has its own vibe!
Electronics, Games, and Anime Heaven
🎮 Hard Off Kyoto Katsura – A Treasure Trove for Tech Enthusiasts
Nestled in the western part of Kyoto, Hard Off Kyoto Katsura is a haven for collectors, hobbyists, and anyone with a passion for electronics and retro gaming. This spacious store boasts an impressive array of secondhand items, including audio equipment, musical instruments, cameras, and vintage gaming consoles. Whether you’re searching for a classic Nintendo console, a high-quality amplifier, or a unique gadget from the past, this store offers a diverse selection that caters to various interests.
A notable feature of Hard Off stores is the “Junk” section, where items are sold at significantly reduced prices due to potential issues or lack of testing. While the term “junk” might suggest unusable goods, many of these items are still functional or require minimal repairs. For those willing to tinker or take a chance, the Junk section can yield remarkable finds at bargain prices. However, it’s essential to inspect these items carefully, as they are sold as-is without guarantees.
The store is well-organized, with clear signage and helpful staff ready to assist. Its location near Katsura Station makes it accessible for both locals and tourists. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious traveler, Hard Off Kyoto Katsura offers an engaging shopping experience that combines nostalgia with the thrill of discovery.
📍 Location: Approximately a 15-minute walk from Katsura Station
🕒 Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
💡 Tip: Bring a portable charger if you plan to test handheld devices, and consider using a translation app to understand product labels and conditions.
📚 Book Off Kyoto Kawaramachi – More Than Just Books
Book Off might be best known for secondhand novels and manga, but the Kyoto Kawaramachi branch offers much more than that. Spread out across multiple floors, this large and well-stocked location includes a variety of anime merchandise, video games, CDs, DVDs, and even electronics, making it a solid stop for collectors and casual shoppers alike.
The anime section has a strong selection of popular titles, character goods, and seasonal figures, while the game floor carries consoles from every era—modern Switch games sit beside retro PlayStation titles. Pricing is generally fair, though slightly higher than more out-of-the-way branches, reflecting its central location and well-maintained stock.
What makes this branch stand out is its balance: it’s clean, well-organized, and easy to browse—even if you don’t read Japanese. And while it’s a secondhand shop, the condition of most items is excellent, often looking nearly new.
📍 Location: Just off Shijo Street in the heart of Kawaramachi
🕒 Hours: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
💡 Tip: Look out for “Outlet” bins for even better deals on books, CDs, and smaller items.
🧸 Lashinbang Kyoto – For the Serious Anime Collector
Lashinbang is one of Japan’s top destinations for secondhand anime goods, and its Kyoto locations are a must-visit for fans of otaku culture. Whether you’re into classic series like Sailor Moon and Dragon Ball or newer hits like Demon Slayer and Jujutsu Kaisen, you’ll find everything from figurines, acrylic stands, keychains, and posters to doujinshi and cosplay accessories.
What sets Lashinbang apart is its depth and specialization—many of the items here are character-specific and franchise-specific, making it ideal for collectors looking for that one perfect item to complete a set. You’ll also find lots of seasonal goods and collaboration merchandise that’s hard to get outside of Japan.
The prices are slightly higher than smaller secondhand anime stores, but you’re paying for a curated, well-organized shopping experience. It’s easy to lose track of time browsing the tightly packed but tidy displays.
📍 Location: Two Kyoto branches—one in Teramachi, another closer to Shijo
🕒 Hours: Varies by location (typically around 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM)
💡 Tip: Check both locations if you’re hunting for something specific—stock can differ!
📷 Camera no Naniwa Kyoto – A Hidden Gem for Photography Lovers
Camera no Naniwa is a dream destination for photography enthusiasts visiting Kyoto. Specializing in secondhand cameras and lenses, this shop carries everything from digital mirrorless and DSLRs to classic 35mm film cameras and vintage manual lenses. You’ll find major brands like Canon, Nikon, Sony, Fujifilm, Leica, and more, often in excellent condition.
What makes this shop stand out is its well-curated inventory and knowledgeable staff. Unlike large electronics chains, Camera no Naniwa offers a more boutique feel, and the staff are happy to answer questions or let you test gear. They also sell camera bags, filters, tripods, and accessories—perfect if you forgot something on your trip or want to upgrade your setup before a Kyoto photoshoot.
This shop is particularly popular with travelers who are into manual photography or film, as Japan’s secondhand camera market is one of the best in the world for condition and pricing.
Just check prices of items here carefully, as though you can find some good deals, occasionally the prices for items are more expensive than just buying them new.
📍 Location: Central Kyoto, near Karasuma Oike or downtown shopping streets
🕒 Hours: 10:30 AM – 7:30 PM; closes early at 6:00 PM on Mondays
💡 Tip: Be sure to ask if they offer tax-free pricing for tourists—most secondhand shops in Japan do!
💻 Dospara & Janpara – Electronics and PC Parts for the Tech-Inclined
If you’re a tech enthusiast visiting Kyoto, Dospara and Janpara are two shops you don’t want to miss. While they may not be as flashy as anime stores or fashion boutiques, they’re essential stops for those interested in computers, used laptops, gaming gear, smartphones, and PC components.
Dospara focuses more on new and custom-built PCs, gaming desktops, high-spec laptops, and parts like graphics cards, motherboards, and SSDs. It’s ideal for those looking to build or upgrade a system—or just browse the latest in Japanese gaming gear.
Janpara, on the other hand, is all about secondhand electronics, especially laptops, tablets, phones, and even older consoles. Prices are clearly marked, and each item includes a brief condition report (most are in great shape). While not all items are export-friendly, many come unlocked or in global models, and you can sometimes find real bargains on recent devices.
Both stores are compact but well-organized, with staff ready to assist, though some basic Japanese (or a translation app) can help with technical questions.
📍 Location: Within walking distance of Shijo-Karasuma area
🕒 Dospara: 10:30 AM – 7:30 PM
🕒 Janpara: 11:00 AM – 7:30 PM
💡 Tip: Ask if the item is compatible with overseas networks or voltage standards if you plan to use it outside Japan.
🎲 Surugaya Kyoto – Overflowing With Otaku Treasures
Surugaya is a paradise for fans of all things geek culture—anime, manga, trading cards, figures, retro games, and even CDs and doujinshi. It’s one of the most dense and exciting secondhand stores in Kyoto, especially for collectors and pop culture lovers. You’ll find rows and rows of glass cases stuffed with limited-edition merchandise, hard-to-find Blu-rays, and box sets of classic anime series.
The inventory spans generations: want a sealed copy of an old Final Fantasy game? A rare Pokémon plushie? A complete One Piece figure collection? This is the place. Prices tend to be slightly higher than at Book Off or Lashinbang, but that’s because the stock here leans more toward collectible or premium-quality items.
Surugaya also has a strong reputation among locals for fair pricing and regular stock updates. It can feel overwhelming at first—but if you’re willing to dig, it’s easy to lose an hour (or three) browsing.
📍 Location: Often near other secondhand stores in central Kyoto
🕒 Hours: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Weekdays); 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Weekends)
💡 Tip: Don’t miss the back rooms—they often hide the rarest items or large boxed sets!
🛒 Book Off Super Bazaar Kyoto Fushimi – The Ultimate One-Stop Secondhand Shop
If you only have time to visit one secondhand store in Kyoto, Book Off Super Bazaar in Fushimi-ku is the one. This massive store combines everything great about Japan’s secondhand culture into one sprawling location—fashion, luxury goods, electronics, anime merchandise, games, books, DVDs, toys, and even household items.
The store is organized by category, making it easy to navigate despite its size. There’s a dedicated luxury corner with pre-owned brand-name bags and watches, a huge clothing section with everything from fast fashion to designer labels, and a large media area where you can browse video games, manga, and rare anime collectibles.
What sets the Super Bazaar apart is the sheer scale and variety—you can walk in looking for a used camera and walk out with a kimono, an Xbox controller, and a vintage Ghibli plush. Prices range from ultra-budget to mid-tier, and the stock turns over quickly, so each visit feels like a new experience.
📍 Location: In southern Kyoto, about 15–20 minutes by train from Kyoto Station (accessible via Kintetsu Line or subway to Takeda Station, then a short bus or walk)
🕒 Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
💡 Tip: Plan to spend at least an hour here—this store is massive, and you’ll want time to explore every section. Great for rainy days, too!
I hope this guide helps you discover the best secondhand and vintage stores Kyoto has to offer! Let me know in the comments if you’ve visited any of these spots or have other recommendations.
