If you love a good op-shop browse (or you’re just curious about the treasure-hunting life), let me introduce you to the kingdom of second-hand magic: Japan.
I’ve been op-shopping for about three years now (yes, I was late to the party!), but after discovering the magic of thrifting in Japan, I’m well and truly hooked—and my kids love it too.
There’s something thrilling about hunting through racks of pre-loved fashion and accessories—especially when everything is clean, curated, and so fairly priced. Japan does op-shopping really, really well.
Here’s what I’ve learned—and why you need to add Japanese op-shops to your itinerary.
1. They curate like pros
Japanese op-shops are not your average dig-through-bins-and-hope-for-the-best experience. Everything is beautifully displayed and easy to find—whether you’re after denim, dresses, bags, or vintage Disney sweatshirts. It’s like walking into someone’s (very stylish) wardrobe, and everything’s for sale.
2. Everything is super clean
As someone who gets excited by a bargain and likes things sparkly clean—I was in heaven. Most items look brand new. Especially shoes. I found a pair of YSL heels for my sister for just $13 and they looked like they’d never seen a foot. Magic.
3. The prices are chef’s kiss
We’re talking true bargains here:
- Jeans for around $5
- A jumper for $2.50 that Lacey still loves
- Converse sneakers for around $15
- Designer bags from around $300 (yes, authenticated and all)
If you love a deal, book a flight and bring a tote bag.
4. It’s not just about clothes
If you’re plus size like me, or wear a shoe larger than a 28cm (size 9-ish AU), the clothing options can be limited. But don’t despair. There are bags, hats, vintage Disney jackets, shoes in smaller sizes, and accessories galore.
Plus: games, cameras, collectibles, and even guitars. Shane found a brand-new Oakley backpack and now loves it more than he loves cereal.
5. Where to shop (and how to find them)
Here’s the inside scoop:
🔍 Google “2nd Street near me”
This is our favourite chain store—it’s clean, modern, and full of gorgeous finds.
🔍 Look for “Hard Off” or “Book Off”
Great for second-hand electronics, books, toys, and sometimes clothes.
📍 And if you love Disney or streetwear?
Kinji in Harajuku. Prepare to lose hours there. The range of vintage pieces is unreal. I grabbed a buttery soft leather handbag for $16 and tried not to cry happy tears.
📍 Best store we’ve found (so far!)?
2nd Street at Olina’s Mall in Kinshicho. We went back multiple times. No regrets. All bargains.
6. Love designer? You’re in luck
Japan is heaven for designer treasure hunters. Handbags start around $300 for real, authenticated pieces—Louis Vuitton, Gucci, the works. Not dirt cheap, but absolutely fair.
7. Don’t forget your passport
If you spend over ¥5,000 (around $50 AUD), you can shop tax-free! Just bring your passport and look for the Tax-Free sign at the register. It’s worth it.
Lastly, Go with an open mind
Whether you score shoes, bags, or something you never knew you needed… thrifting in Japan is a full-on experience – and way more fun than buying brand new.
Pack lightly on the way over. You’ll thank me later.
Have you ever gone op-shopping overseas? Would you try it in Japan?I
