The 5 Best Vintage Shop Treasures of Shimokitazawa

When it comes to vintage stores, Tokyo has certainly some of the best I have personally come across. The area that always comes to mind for me is a place called Shimokitazawa. I first visited the area by chance, just one express stop away from Shibuya by the Inokashira line. Upon arriving to the area you are greeted by the many stylish and young people also exploring the area for the best hidden treasures that Shimokitazawa holds.  In recent years the area has become increasingly more popular amongst younger crowds as vintage fashion became more and more popular again. Beyond the touristy area of Shibuya, Shimokitazawa offers both fashion finds and a fantastic cafe culture.

Location: ShimoKitazawa Station

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BazzStore

The first stop on my favourite finds is a shop called ‘BazzStore’ found by going left from the Inokashira central exit, up the stairs and straight (going past a popular international foods store called Kaldi) It’s a well-known franchise store, however the Shimokitazawa holds the crown for the best there is to offer. This store holds a number of different types of pre-loved luxury goods. If you are on the hunt for a variety of colours and patterned clothing, this is the best of the best. I have previously found a number of named luxury brands here as well for a decent price. Usually between the prices of ￥2000-￥12000, however the upstairs is usually priced between ￥850-950! You can also sell your secondhand clothing here, as I have once before with a good return on profit.

TIP: Plan to spend time browsing, there is a large variety to look through so make sure you schedule time to look through!

Location: Japan, 〒155-0031 Tokyo, Setagaya City, Kitazawa, 2 Chome−31−3 1F

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Website: http://bazzstore.com

Grizzly

The next stop on your fashion adventure is a shop called Grizzly. This can be can be found near Bazzstore, on the main vintage street. I believe this was the first store I entered when I first visited Shimokitazawa 8 months ago. Grizzly has one of the larger varieties of options and styles available in the area. Not only do they have vintage t-shirts, but also shoes and accessories too. Also, if you are looking for some outdoors and rugged items, this is the place to go.

TIP: The staff here are super helpful so if you have any specific items you are looking for, don’t be afraid to ask for help!

Location: 2 Chome-31-10 Kitazawa, Setagaya City, Tokyo 155-0031, Japan

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Website:https://www.instagram.com/grizzly_shimokita?igsh=dW02N2k4ODc4bTZo

Monk

This is mainly a menswear store, however they have a fantastic range of interesting pieces and styles not often seen in western mens fashion. There are many options available for denim and leather items. The store is certainly not large, however it makes up for it in the quality and pricing for the vintage goods they have. The prices range from between ￥8000-￥12000.

TIP: This store often sells goods made by up and comingdesigners in Japan, so if you don’t mind paying more for craftsmanship and one of a kind designs then this is the store for you.

Location: Japan, 〒155-0031 Tokyo, Setagaya City, Kitazawa, 2 Chome−26−25 エクセレントビル B102

https://maps.app.goo.gl/7BUvzcCqPsGt2ThJA?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy

Website: https://monk-sphere.com/

Flamingo

A wonderful surprise for anyone who enters, and with it’s bright pink neon flamingo outside it’s hard to miss. This store has a large variety of retro and contemporary clothing, with a extra bit of flair and uniqueness. It specializes in Americana, particularly with a large variety of Levi’s branded goods. There is also an abundance of high quality leather items available, all carefully curated for it’s customers.

TIP: They usually have seasonal sales at the start of each month so look out for those!

Location: Japan, 〒155-0031 Tokyo, Setagaya City, Kitazawa, 2 Chome−25−12 リサビル 1Ｆ

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Website: https://www.flamingo-online.jp/

New York Joe Exchange

An iconic thrift store in Shimokitazawa, which is housed in a converted public bathhouse. The store’s unique industrial interior sets the vibe for an unforgettable shopping experience. This store is known for its curated collection of vintage and second-hand clothing, it offers a mix of casual streetwear and classic styles.

TIP: If you are wanting to try and avoid the busy crowds and grab the newly put out stock, try going on the weekdays.

Location: 3 Chome-26-4 Kitazawa, Setagaya City, Tokyo 155-0031, Japan

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Website: http://newyorkjoeexchange.com/

The charm of Shimokitazawa is it’s ability to cater to all kinds of shoppers, from the luxury hunters to the more rugged vintage lovers; all in search of trendsetting pieces to set them apart from the rest. Whether you are building a new wardrobe from scratch or on the hunt for some statements pieces, I believe Shimokitazawa is the area to visit. There’s also a number of fantastic cafes to take a rest at in between all of your shopping. I recommend trying:

Sunday Brunch

For the best french toast in Tokyo, try this beautiful cafe. I stumbled across this cafe one day and it quickly became a staple for me whenever I’m looking for a good brunch.

Location: 〒155-0031 Tokyo, Setagaya City, Kitazawa, 2 Chome−29−2 フェニキアビル ２F

https://maps.app.goo.gl/Zz8As2Una7XqPk5T8

Bagelcafe88

On a quiet street away from the busy vintage shopping area, you can find this delicious bagel cafe. Accompanied by fantastic a coffee I recommend trying the Maple Cheese Bagel for a delicious sweet and savoury experience.

Location: 〒155-0031 Tokyo, Setagaya City, Kitazawa, 2 Chome−27−12 林ビル

https://maps.app.goo.gl/xwkwnK61pkJW8DSR8

Written by Emily from New Zealand