Top 5 Flea Markets in Tokyo
- Published on : 10/12/2025
- by : Phoebe
- Youtube
Foule à Asakusa, Tokyo
©Unsplash
What are the best places to go antiquing in Tokyo?
Tokyo, a metropolis of luxury and fashion, also hides a treasure trove for bargain hunters: its flea markets. Whether you're looking for antiques, vintage clothes or simply curious to discover a little-known facet of the Japanese capital, these flea markets, known as furīmāketto, are a great travel experience. Discover 5 flea markets worth visiting in Tokyo with Japan Experience!
Introduction to flea markets
The flea markets of Tokyo are much more than just a place to shop. They reflect the Japanese passion for recycling and secondhand objects. This culture of reuse is perfectly illustrated by the many second-hand stores such as Book Off but takes on its full dimension at open-air markets.
These events, often held on weekends, attract both locals and tourists in search of bargains and unique objects. You'll find everything from inexpensive kimonos to authentic vintage pieces, electronics, manga and much more. It's the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in Japanese culture while unearthing original souvenirs.
Passionate about electronics and pop culture? Discover the electric district of Akihabara with our expert guide
Explore Akihabara and discover the fascinating world of Otaku, the manga and anime enthusiasts who live out their many and varied passions freely in this district dedicated to them.
Akihabara by night, famous for its anime-themed stores and attractions
@Wikimedia
Some special features of Tokyo's flea markets
Tokyo's flea markets have their own special characteristics:
- Variety of locations: Tokyo organizes its flea markets in a variety of sometimes unexpected places. You can find flea markets in centuries-old temples, under railroad tracks, or even in city parks!
- Quality and authenticity: The Japanese are renowned for their attention to detail and respect for objects. This is reflected in the quality of the items on offer, even second-hand ones. It's not uncommon to find pieces in excellent condition or authentic traditional handicrafts.
- Mixing the modern and the traditional: in the same market, you can go from a stall selling antique kimonos to one selling electronic gadgets!
Typical Tokyo flea market treasures and finds
Tokyo's flea markets are brimming with unique treasures reflecting Japanese culture and history. Here are some typical finds you might come across:
- Kimonos and yukatas : Traditional Japanese clothing, often at very affordable prices. The perfect opportunity to bring home an authentic souvenir.
- Ukiyo-e : These traditional Japanese prints can sometimes be found at good prices. Beware, however, of counterfeits.
- Tableware and ceramics: From tea bowls to decorative plates, Japanese tableware is renowned for its finesse and aesthetic appeal.
- Decorative items : Paper lanterns, fans, calligraphy... all add a Japanese touch to your home.
- Mangas and figurines : For fans of Japanese pop culture, certain markets such as Akihabara are veritable goldmines.
Traditional Japanese mask
©Unsplash
Japanese fabric for kimonos
©Unsplash
Japanese retro bowl
©Unsplash
Looking for some fresh air in Tokyo? Discover our activities to visit the Japanese capital in a different way
Our top 5 best flea markets in Tokyo
1. Oedo Antique Market (Tokyo/Yoyogi)
L'Oedo Antique Market stands out for its exceptional setting, alternating between two emblematic Tokyo locations: the esplanade near the stadiums in Yoyogi Park and the Tokyo International Forum.
Created in 2003, this market has rapidly established itself as a benchmark for antique enthusiasts. With 250 exhibitors, many of them professional brocanteurs, the Oedo Antique Market offers a vast choice of :
- Antique pieces
- Statues
- Antique tableware
- Period furniture
HOURS: 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month, 9am-4pm
OFFICIAL WEBSITE: antique-market.jp
Oedo Antique Market (Tokyo)
@DocChewbacca on Flickr, CC BY-NC-SA 2.0
2. Hanazono Shrine Flea Market (Shinjuku)
It's our favorite market! In the heart of the Hanazono Jinja Shinto Shrine in Shinjuku, this small, confidential flea market combines tourism and shopping in an inspiring atmosphere. You'll mainly find...
- Decorative objects
- Antique crockery
- Posters
- Kimonos and Yukatas
OPENING HOURS: Every Sunday of the month, from 6.30 a.m. to 3 p.m
OFFICIAL SITE: No official site
Hanazono Shrine Flea Market (Tokyo)
@IStock
3. Setagaya Boroichi (Setagaya)
Close to Setagaya Station, this is one of Japan's oldest flea markets, with over 400 years of history! The atmosphere is festive, with visitors coming from all over the world to enjoy this unique cultural experience, which only takes place twice a year. You'll find...
- Clothing
- Crafts
- Plants and flowers
- Vintage items (toys, vinyl, retro furniture, etc.)
- Decorations
- Second-hand products of all kinds
Setagaya Boroichi (Tokyo)
@wikimedia
HOURS: January 15-16 and December 15-16 each year, 9am to 8pm
OFFICIAL WEBSITE: city.setagaya.lg.jp
4. Tokyo City Flea Market (Ohi Racecourse Flea Market, Shinagawa)
Located south of the Shinagawa District, the Ohi Racecourse Flea Market is without doubt one of Tokyo's largest and most popular flea markets. With hundreds of stalls set up under an overhead parking lot, this market offers an impressive diversity of:
- Clothing and accessories
- Decorative items
- Crockery and kitchen utensils
- Toys and figurines
- Books and CDs
- Electronic products
The atmosphere is lively, with plenty of street food stalls for a gourmet break between finds.
HOURS: most weekends from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m
OFFICIAL SITE: instagram.com
Flea Market
@Zen Piet Astrud on Flickr,CC BY 2.0
5. Togo Shrine Flea Market (Harajuku)
Held every first Sunday of the month at Togo Jinja Shrine in Harajuku this flea market will delight collectors and antique lovers alike! You'll find...:
- Japanese antiques
- Vintage clothing
- Religious objects (amulets, Buddha statues, incense, etc.)
- Handicrafts
OPENING HOURS: Every first Sunday of the month, from 8 am to 3 pm
OFFICIAL WEBSITE: takahatafudoson.or.jp
Tokyo flea market
Flickr shuzo serikawa
Take advantage of our regional passes to visit Tokyo and the surrounding area!
Our practical tips for flea markets in Tokyo
To make the most of your experience at Tokyo's flea markets, here are a few practical tips:
- Check the official websites: they announce the cancellation of markets in the event of bad weather
- Arrive early : The best pieces usually go first. To maximize your chances of unearthing treasures, aim to arrive as soon as the market opens. As a general rule, it's best to get there before noon, despite opening hours often extending into mid-afternoon.
- Have some cash ready: Most vendors only accept payment in cash. Make sure you have enough yen with you.
- Learn a few words of Japanese: Even if some vendors speak a little English, knowing a few basic phrases in Japanese can greatly facilitate your negotiations.
- Don 't be afraid to bargain : Contrary to popular belief, bargaining is perfectly acceptable at Japanese flea markets. Just be respectful and reasonable in your proposals.
- Wear comfortable clothes: You'll probably spend several hours wandering the aisles. Wear comfortable shoes and clothes appropriate to the season.
Good finds!
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