Living in Japan can get expensive, especially when you’re setting up your life from scratch or trying to manage daily costs.
But there’s one place many locals and foreign residents rely on to keep spending under control:
BOOKOFF.
Known across Japan for its wide selection of secondhand goods, BOOKOFF offers a practical way to buy what you need, at a fraction of the original price.
To get a real insider perspective, we spoke with T, a foreign staff member working at a BOOKOFF SUPER BAZAAR store in Nagoya, Aichi. Based on T’s experiences as both a staff member and customer, we’ll introduce three smart ways to shop at BOOKOFF.
Please note: The items featured in this interview are secondhand and one-of-a-kind, so they may be sold out by the time you visit.
Please understand the product availability varies by store, so some items featured here may not be available at your nearest BOOKOFF.
Stores named “BOOKOFF SUPER BAZAAR” are large, comprehensive reuse shops offering a wide range of products.
Tip #1
If You’ve Just Moved to Japan, Buy Everyday Essentials at BOOKOFF
※All products are used items. Credits: BOOKOFF.
One of the best things newcomers can find at BOOKOFF is affordable everyday essentials. If you’ve just arrived in Japan, buying everything new adds up quickly.
At BOOKOFF, you can find everyday essentials such as clothing, furniture, home appliances, bicycles, and more at very reasonable prices, making it easy to get what you need right away.
In fact, some travelers who visit Japan love BOOKOFF so much that they come straight from the airport! It’s also fun because shopping here feels like a treasure hunt.
※All products are used items. Credits: BOOKOFF.
Another item Staff Member T would especially like to recommend is Japanese-quality tableware.
For people who want to upgrade their daily life a little without spending too much money, the tableware section is highly recommended. You can find beautifully designed items such as mugs and plates, including brand-name items and pieces originally made as gifts.
Many of these items are unused and made in Japan, making them especially popular among people who value Japanese craftsmanship and quality. Since tableware is something you use every day, being able to get high-quality items at affordable prices is a major advantage.
“A lot of people around me use BOOKOFF as part of their everyday life,” says T.
Tip #2
A Must-See for Moms Raising Kids: Affordable Children’s Items
※All products are used items. Credits: BOOKOFF.
BOOKOFF is also a great place for families looking for affordable children’s items and family essentials. For parents, especially those adjusting to life in Japan, everyday costs can rise fast. BOOKOFF helps reduce that burden with great options like children’s clothing, strollers, toys, plushies, and educational items.
One category that stands out is books. You’ll find materials for learning Japanese and English, as well as picture books, parenting guides, and even recipe books for expecting mothers and families with young children. The selection is extensive, and the prices are much lower than at regular bookstores.
Tip #3
If You’re Looking for Pre-Owned Luxury Items, Check Out BOOKOFF’s High-End Brand Section
※All products are used items. Credits: BOOKOFF.
One of the best value finds at BOOKOFF is its branded selection. Its main appeal is quality. Customers don’t have to worry about counterfeit products, and every item goes through a basic cleaning process before being placed on the shelves.
When purchasing items at BOOKOFF, expert staff carefully appraise each item one by one using a dedicated appraisal system for branded goods, so customers can shop with confidence.
※All products are used items. Credits: BOOKOFF.
The cleaning process is also worth noting. Watches are first dusted with a blower and then cleaned using an ultrasonic cleaner, which helps restore their shine and overall appearance. Bags go through a similar process, dust is removed with a blower, followed by careful polishing with a cloth.
Because of this careful attention to detail, even pre-owned luxury items are presented in clean, well-maintained condition, making them ready to use from the moment you buy them. This allows customers to shop with confidence, even when choosing higher-value pieces.
It’s also fun to look for trendy vintage luxury items that have recently become more popular.
※All products are used items. Credits: BOOKOFF.
A unique find at BOOKOFF is its impressive range of pre-owned luxury goods. In particular, the premium section features rare finds, especially vintage watches and designer bags you won’t easily come across in regular retail stores.
Watches from brands like SEIKO, ROLEX, RADO, and LONGINES are particularly popular, valued not just for their craftsmanship but also for the sense of history and character they carry. Each piece reflects the era it was made in, giving it a story that brand-new items simply don’t have.
When it comes to bags, timeless designs from brands such as VERSACE and COACH continue to attract strong interest. These classic pieces never go out of style and often add a unique touch to any outfit.
Another major advantage is reliability. Luxury items are originally built to last, which means many pre-owned pieces remain in excellent condition even after years of use. This makes them a smart choice for anyone looking to own high-quality products at a more accessible price point compared to buying new.
So, Is Bookoff Actually Worth Visiting?
If you’re wondering whether it really lives up to the hype, the answer is yes.
It’s not just about saving money. BOOKOFF is a place where everyday shopping comes with a sense of discovery. One visit might be all about essentials, while the next could lead you to a rare or high-quality find you didn’t expect.
With rising prices across Japan, shopping smarter has become a priority for many. BOOKOFF offers a practical solution, providing quality items at affordable prices and making it a reliable option for both short-term visitors and long-term residents.
After hearing from T, it’s easy to see why BOOKOFF continues to be loved by so many.
Whether you’ve never been to BOOKOFF or are already a fan, why not discover a new way to enjoy shopping there?
Please note:
- The products handled vary by store, so please check each store’s page before visiting.
- For detailed information for international visitors, please visit the official BOOKOFF website for overseas customers.
- For stores in Aichi Prefecture, please refer to the Aichi store list.
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