Shimokitazawa Vintage Street

Shimokitazawa is Tokyo's vintage capital, and the hunt is half the fun. Unlike polished boutiques, many of these shops are crammed into tiny spaces, with racks packed so close you can barely move. That's part of the charm. Start at the main shopping streets near the station, but don't stop there. The best finds are often in the back alleys and second-floor shops that are easy to miss. Look up — many vintage stores are above restaurants or cafés, marked only by small signs. You'll find everything from 90s American denim to vintage designer pieces, Hawaiian shirts, leather jackets, and one-of-a-kind band t-shirts from the 80s. Prices range from a few hundred yen for basic pieces to serious collector items. Some favorites among locals: Wego Underground for affordable finds, Flamingo for curated vintage, and Chicago for American vintage at fair prices. But honestly, the joy is in wandering and discovering your own secret spot. Come on a weekday if possible — weekends can get crowded. And wear comfortable shoes — you'll be doing a lot of walking and browsing.