Thrift Japan › Kyoto
Kyoto is better known for antiques and flea markets than for big second-hand chains, but you'll still find chain stores around the city. The monthly markets at Tō-ji and Kitano Tenman-gū shrines are also worth a visit for second-hand ceramics, textiles and kimono.
We found 18 chain stores within 8 km of central Kyoto. They're listed below by chain, nearest to the centre first. You can also see them on the map.
| Chain | What it sells | Stores |
|---|---|---|
| BOOKOFF | Books, manga, CDs, DVDs and video games | 7 |
| HARD OFF | Used electronics: audio equipment, cameras and lenses, musical instruments, computers and game consoles | 2 |
| 2nd STREET | Clothing, shoes, bags and designer brands, with homeware and furniture at larger stores | 7 |
| Surugaya | Video games, anime goods, figures, manga, CDs and DVDs | 1 |
| Mandarake | Collectable manga, anime goods, figures, vintage toys, cel art and cosplay | 1 |
Store details come from OpenStreetMap and may be out of date. Check the store's own website or Google Maps before making a special trip.
Books, manga, CDs, DVDs and video games. The larger BOOKOFF SUPER BAZAAR stores also sell clothing, toys, homeware and electronics. The cheapest shelves, often priced at a few hundred yen, are worth a look for manga and CDs.
Used electronics: audio equipment, cameras and lenses, musical instruments, computers and game consoles. The ジャンク (junk) section is sold as-is and untested, with no returns. Bargains are possible, but expect some items not to work.
Clothing, shoes, bags and designer brands, with homeware and furniture at larger stores. Branches in big cities often have a good choice of Japanese streetwear and designer labels.
Video games, anime goods, figures, manga, CDs and DVDs. Popular with retro game collectors. Prices for rare games can be high, but common titles are cheap.
Collectable manga, anime goods, figures, vintage toys, cel art and cosplay. More of a collector's shop than a bargain shop. Each branch has its own specialities.