Monday, 19 September 2022

Treasure Troves- Discover Tokyo's Antique & Flea Markets

Tokyo is a bargain hunter's dream and who doesn't love a bargain? There are dozens of regular antique and flea markets held all over Tokyo. Many of these markets take place in the grounds of temples or shrines and have been nicknamed “shrine sales” by expats. Other regular markets are held in parks, open public spaces and convention halls all over the city. Sometimes like stepping into a social history museum, you can spend hours browsing beautiful pottery, kimono fabrics, antique dolls, books, artworks, furniture, knick-knacks, and all manner of imaginable items. Each market has its own special vibe and what better place to hunt for some unique souvenirs or keepsakes of your Japanese journey?

Here are some of our picks to add into your next Tokyo trip itinerary planning.

Oedo Antique Market: LINK

Japan's largest outdoor antique market with about 250 stores.
Where: Tokyo International Forum (1 min walk from JR Yurakucho Station or 5 min walk from JR Tokyo Station)
When: 1st and 3rd Sunday of each month

Antique Market at Tomioka Hachiman Shrine

Almost every Sunday a large market focused on antiques, arts and crafts takes place in the grounds of the shrine said to be the birthplace of sumo wrestling.
When: 1st, 2nd, 4th, and 5th Sunday of each month
Where: Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine (3 min walk from Monzen Nakachō Station)

Tokyo City Flea Market:

One of the biggest and most popular flea markets in Tokyo with 300–600 sellers. Even open on rainy days as it's held in a covered carpark. Known for a wide variety of items from clothing to antiques.
Where: Ohi Racecourse (In front of Oi Keibajo-mae station on Tokyo Monorail)
When: On most weekends, consulate website for details LINK

Yoyogi Park Flea Market

Tokyo's oldest and most hip flea markets with about 300 stores takes place on odd weekends. This market attracts a strong youth contingent.
Where: Yoyogi Park (5 min walk from JR Harajuku Station)
When: Irregular dates, usually odd weekends on a Sunday

Yasukuni Shrine Antique Flea Market

Held at Yasukuni Shrine near the Imperial Palace, this flea market is a much-loved treasure trove of antiques, pottery, ceramics, and items. Known for its old-world retro atmosphere.
Where: Yasukuni Shrine (5 min walk from Kudanshita Station)
When: Irregular dates

Please Note:
-Make sure you rain check! Many of Tokyo's antique and flea markets are held outside and are cancelled when it rains so double check before travelling to a venue.
-Many sellers will accept cash only.

More about Tokyo's markets: GOTOKYO

Website: https://tokyotokyo.jp

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