Did somebody say hypebeast?
Few places can measure up to Tokyo when it comes to streetwear labels. The city is a visual encyclopedia, littered with locals in bold fashion statements and home to hypebeast brands with the highest street credit. Aside from expensive brands such as Bape, Hi Panda, Cav Empt and more, we’ve found 10 thrift shops and affordable retail brands for that ultimate shopping spree – but at a bargain.
Secondhand Stores
1. 2nd Street
Photo credits: @2ndstreet_official on Instagram
Capitalizing on Tokyo’s rage for Japanese streetwear is 2nd Street. The retail brand now spans over 250 stores over the whole of Japan, well versed in both men and women’s streetwear.
Photo credits: @2ndstreet_official on Instagram
Boasting an impressive selection of Japanese street labels and Western brands, hypebeast brands like Supreme and Champion are MUCH cheaper than what you’ll usually find in their regular brick and mortar. By that, we mean a staggering 60% – 80% lower than retail prices, dependant on the brand and quality of the piece.
Famous 2nd Street Stores in Toyko
2. RAGTAG
Photo credits: David Ewen on Flickr
RAGTAG is Tokyo’s holy grail when it comes to second-hand designer clothing. To date, there are over 15 stores across the city, housing hypebeast brands like A Bathing Ape (Bape), Comme des Garcons and OFF-WHITE. Most outlets see a high turnover rate on a weekly basis so better get your hands on these finds fast!
Photo credits: @ragtag_official on Instagram
RAGTAG is your best bet when it comes to finding superior quality streetwear loot at an average of under 10,000 yen (~$126). You can also snag high-end luxury brands like Chanel and Givenchy all under the same roof.
Famous RAGTAG Stores in Toyko
3. Kindal
Photo credits: @kindal_aoyama on Instagram
When it comes to refreshing your wardrobe, Kindal is that hotspot where fashion-obsessed Japanese load off their fabric in search of other secondhand hauls to sate their lifestyle.
This recycling shop houses streetwear brands like NUMBER(N)INE, UNDERCOVER as well as the household brands like Supreme and more. The store also sorts their items according to prices, perfect for any budget-conscious shoppers on the lookout for hypebeast brands at a steal.
Famous Kindal Stores in Toyko
4. Mode Off
Photo credits: @black_cat2hands on Instagram
This thrift store haven is what every shopper on strict budget needs. Mode Off specializes in cheap fashion be it no-name brands or streetwear names with a 3-digit retail cost. It may be a matter of luck when it comes to finding a high-end brand of your choice but Mode Off should definitely be on every shopper’s radar.
Address: 14 26, 2-chōme, Kitazawa Setagaya-ku, Tōkyō-to, 155-0031, Japan
Opening Hours: 11 am to 9 pm
5. Bazz Store
Photo credits: @bazzstore on Instagram
Bazz Store is no stranger for shoppers who frequent RAGTAG and 2nd Street for streetwear at a bargain. It has long gained traction as a second-hand shop for housing popular brands such as UNDERCOVER, NEIGHBORHOOD and more, with prices mostly slashed by 40% or more.
Famous Bazz Stores in Toyko
6. Kinji
Photo credits: @kinji_harajuku on Instagram
What may come as a surprise, Kinji is probably one of the last few names to pop in your mind when it comes to high-end streetwear on a budget. The little Harajuku store is better known as a thrift shop for all things vintage but among the mess and clutter, you may score a piece of branded streetwear or two!
Address: Japan, 〒150-0001 Tokyo, Shibuya City, Jingumae, 4 Chome−31−10 YMスクエア原宿B1F
Opening Hours: 11 am to 8 pm
Nearby Stations: Harajuku Station or Omote-Sando Station
Affordable Hypebeast Brands
7. Casper John
Photo credits: @casperjohn_official on Instagram
Casper John is an important tribute to Tokyo’s alternative fashion scene. The hypebeast brand’s signature trait reflects a gender-neutral style, sporting oversized clothing, loose tops, and baggy bottoms. Shopping at Casper John will set you back at an average of 5,500 yen ($68), a healthy price tag in the designer market.
Address: Tokyo Shibuya-ku Jingu-mae 1-11-6 Laforet Harajuku B1F
Opening Hours: 11 am to 9 pm
Nearby Stations: Harajuku Station or Omote-Sando Station
8. FORTY PERCENT AGAINST RIGHTS (FPAR)
Photo credits: @forty_percent_against_rights on Instagram
FORTY PERCENT AGAINST RIGHTS (FPAR) is the brainchild of Tetsu Nishiyama, a designer from Bape. Featuring outstanding graphics and bold fonts, the Japanese brand takes pride in conveying provocative messages. Their concept stands by that so long an original artwork is modified or altered by at least 40%, the rights to a particular artwork are invalid.
Photo credits: fparmg.com
Unlike most traditional streetwear brands, FPAR caters to both men and women in the market. A tee-shirt may cost you approximately 6,500 yen ($80) and a hoodie about 11,000 yen ($136).
Address: 1f Bansho Bldg, 1-9-10 Jinnan Shibuya-ku Tokyo 150-0041 Japan
Opening Hours: 12 pm to 8 pm
Nearby Stations: Harajuku Station or Omote-Sando Station
9. RAGEBLUE
Photo credits: @rageblue_official on Instagram
Photo credits: @rageblue_official on Instagram
An affordable option in the fashion scene, the brick and mortar showcases edgy streetwear styles like puffer jackets, puffers, and the classic overalls. Tilted more towards an urban Japanese direction, this “Uniqlo 2.0” is much trendier, hipper and certainly price friendly for all ages.
Famous RAGEBLUE in Toyko
10. HARE
Photo credits: @hare_official on Instagram
HARE retains much of the silhouettes of Japanese traditional wear- mellow tones, wide pants, and exaggerated loose sleeves. Paired with affordable pricing and a selection of casual yet sharp streetwear styles, HARE has been a clear winner among young Japanese.
Photo credits: @hare_official on Instagram
Fittingly so, the retail store sets the bar low for its young customers – except for pieces borne out of a collaboration, potentially racking up the budget from 11,000 yen ($136) onwards. Shoppers new to Tokyo’s hypebeast scene will find HARE a great place to start with – wallet-friendly prices and quality assured.
Getting Around In Tokyo
Streetwear shopping isn’t cheap, but with the Tokyo Subway Ticket, you’ll score major savings with the added perks of unlimited travel on all Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway lines! The subway ticket is available for 24, 48 or 72 hours from just $10 ONLY.
The redemption process is fuss-free; simply flash your e-voucher in exchange for your subway tickets in an instant. Traveling for your retail therapy is now made easier!
Other Essentials in Tokyo
Aside from the Tokyo Subway Ticket, equip yourself with these necessities on your trip to Tokyo.
4G SIM Card: Stay connected with your family and friends when you pick up
your SIM Card at over 8 pick-up points!
4G Portable Wifi (Delivery): If you only require data, get non-stop wifi access with a
portable wifi delivered right to your doorsteps.
Airport Limousine Bus Transfer: Get to downtown Tokyo in a flash without the troubles of hailing unanswered cabs or worrying over lack of luggage space.