Buying Vintage Designer Goods from Japan: Top Sites, Shipping, and Safety Tips

🏬 Top 8 Vintage Stores to Visit in Japan

1. KINJI 

Store Overview：

KINJI (キンジ古着屋) is one of Japan‘s most popular and largest affordable vintage clothing chains. Founded in Osaka’s Amerikamura (American Village), it also has branches in Tokyo and Kyoto.

KINJI is known for its "variety, affordability, and accessibility", offering a huge selection of secondhand and vintage fashion. Its range spans American streetwear, Y2K, girly, retro, and gothic styles — perfect for both beginners and experienced vintage shoppers.

Store Information:

☑ KINJI Harajuku (Tokyo, Shibuya-ku)
Address: 4-31-10 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo YM Square Harajuku B1F
Opening hours: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM daily
Phone: 03-6406-0505

☑ KINJI Osaka Amerikamura Main Store

☑ KINJI Kyoto Shinkyogoku Store

Addresses and hours for other branches can be found on the official website. Visit the KINJI Official Website for store details.

Shopping Tips:

• Browse online first:
  KINJI has an online shop where you can preview styles and prices before visiting in person. This helps you save time when searching in-store.

• Go early or during off-peak hours:
  Popular stores like Harajuku can get crowded; visit right after opening or on weekdays for a better browsing experience.

• Bring your size reference:
  Vintage sizing often differs from modern standards. Bring a tape measure or a reference garment to compare.

• Check item condition:
  Examine stitching, zippers, color fading, worn areas, and odor. If unsure, ask the staff whether an item has been repaired or if returns are possible.

• Watch for deals:
  Some stores offer discounts during grand openings or seasonal events — check the official website or Instagram for updates.

• Bring both cash and card:
  Most stores accept credit cards, but some smaller sections or flea market areas may prefer cash.

• Consider alteration costs:
  If you find something you love but the fit isn’t perfect, estimate potential tailoring or dyeing costs before buying.

Pros & Cons:

2. RAGTAG

Store Overview：

RAGTAG is one of Japan's most reputable secondhand designer and luxury fashion chains, founded in the Harajuku area of Tokyo. It specializes in authentic, high-quality pre-owned clothing and accessories from luxury maisons, Japanese designers, and contemporary streetwear brands.
The stores are known for their clean layouts, careful authentication, and professional product maintenance. RAGTAG's concept is "trusted, accessible designer resale," balancing quality assurance with reasonable prices.
Today, RAGTAG operates stores in major cities including Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka, and also runs an international online store, RAGTAG Global.

Store & Online Information:

• Official Website / Online Store: RAGTAG Global (includes store directory & online inventory)

• Popular Branches: Harajuku, Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Ginza (opening hours typically 11:00–20:00; check the website for holiday schedules)

• Product Range: Men's and women's clothing, shoes, bags, and accessories, including designer, streetwear, and luxury labels.

• Language & Payment: Major city stores usually have English signage or English-speaking staff. Online shopping supports international shipping. Most stores accept credit cards and mobile payment methods.

Shopping Tips:

1. Check Online First: Use RAGTAG Global to view real-time store inventory. You can plan your visit and avoid missing out on desired brands or sizes.

2. Understand Condition Tags: Every item is tagged with a condition grade (e.g., slight wear, small stain). Most items have been professionally cleaned or repaired.

3. Try Before Buying: Japanese and international brands have varying sizing — always try items on, especially jackets or shoes.

4. Pricing & Returns: Prices are fixed (no bargaining). Refund or exchange policies differ by store; ask staff for details before purchasing.

5. Timing & Restocks: High-demand items and rare finds move fast. Follow RAGTAG's newsletter or social media for sale announcements and restock alerts.

6. Authenticity: RAGTAG's authentication process is rigorous, and most luxury items are verified in-house. For rare or ultra-high-value items, it's still wise to cross-check with brand certificates or reference photos.

Pros & Cons:

3. AMORE Vintage

Store Overview：

AMORE is a renowned Tokyo-based vintage and pre-owned luxury boutique chain specializing in high-end designer pieces such as Chanel, Hermès, Louis Vuitton, Dior, Celine, and Gucci.

Known for its curated selection of authentic, high-quality vintage and deadstock items, AMORE attracts both collectors and first-time vintage buyers. The brand operates several physical boutiques in Tokyo as well as an official online store that offers worldwide shipping.

Store & Online Information:

Main Flagship Stores (as listed on AMORE's official website and Instagram):

• Omotesando Store
  Address: 1F–2F, 5-1-15 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo
  Hours: 10:00 – 21:00 (may vary; check the official site or IG before visiting)
  This is the main location and often carries the newest arrivals and limited vintage pieces.

• Aoyama / Wardrobe / Gentleman / Archive Stores
  AMORE operates multiple themed boutiques —

• ✧  Wardrobe: focuses on women's wear and classic pieces

• ✧  Gentleman: focuses on men's luxury vintage

• ✧  ​Archive: showcases rare or collector-grade pieces

Check the Store Locations page on the website or their official Instagram for the latest address and operating hours.

• Online Store
  AMORE's official online shop lists thousands of authenticated luxury vintage items and ships internationally.

Shopping Tips:

1. Check availability or book in advance
   Some stores operate by appointment or have limited entry due to popularity—confirm hours and appointments via the website or IG before visiting.

2. Ask for item details
   For designer pieces like Chanel or Hermès, always ask for the serial number, authenticity card, care record, or detailed images before purchase.

3. Inspect craftsmanship
   Look closely at stitching, hardware engraving, lining, and leather condition. For online shopping, request additional photos if needed.

4. Clarify return & authenticity policies
   Refund, exchange, and authenticity dispute policies may differ between physical and online stores—confirm before paying, especially for high-value items.

5. Understand condition grading
   Prices vary greatly based on condition, rarity, and production year. "Deadstock" or "like-new" items are ideal for collectors.

6. Compare prices
   Vintage luxury prices vary across stores and online platforms. Always compare listing sources and proof of authenticity.

7. Language & payment
   Most Tokyo stores accept major credit cards and some staff can assist in English. If unsure, message the shop on Instagram in advance.

Pros & Cons:

4. VINTAGE QOO

Store Overview：

VINTAGE QOO is a renowned Japanese vintage and pre-owned luxury boutique chain originally established in Tokyo. The store specializes in high-end designer brands such as Chanel, Hermès, Louis Vuitton, Rolex, and Cartier, offering a wide selection of bags, jewelry, watches, and clothing.
Known for its elegant presentation and extensive inventory, Vintage Qoo blends the feel of a “vintage theme park” with a focus on sustainable luxury fashion and authentic heritage pieces.

Store & Online Information:

• Omotesando Flagship Store (Tokyo)
  Located in Jingumae, Shibuya (B1–2F, 5-2-6 Jingumae, Tokyo), this is the brand's main and largest branch. The flagship has been expanded recently with a dedicated Vintage Chanel Section and beautifully curated displays.
  Hours: 11:30 AM – 8:00 PM (open daily except during New Year holidays).

• Shinsaibashi Store (Osaka)
  A major location in the Kansai region, known for its large floor space and rich selection of designer vintage items.

• Online Store
  The official website — VINTAGE QOO offers a global shopping option, including detailed product listings, membership programs, and FAQs about international shipping.

(Note: Always confirm current addresses and business hours via the official website, as locations and hours may change.)

Shopping Tips:

1. Check Inventory Online First – Many hot items appear online before hitting the shelves. Bookmark or contact the store in advance to confirm stock.

2. Ask About Authenticity Certificates – For luxury items (especially Chanel, Hermès, Rolex), request authentication documents, serial numbers, stamps, or maintenance records. If unavailable, ask staff about their authentication process and return policy.

3. Inspect Condition Carefully – Examine leather wear, stitching, zippers, hardware engravings, and any repairs. Check for odors, discoloration, or signs of restoration.

4. Ask About Discounts or Membership Benefits – Some stores offer promotions, point systems, or limited-time discounts—especially for members or during holidays.

5. Understand Shipping & Taxes – When purchasing internationally, check shipping fees, customs duties, and return conditions in advance.

6. Walk-in vs. Appointment – Walk-ins are welcome, but for rare or high-value pieces, it's wise to inquire about VIP services or make an appointment.

Pros & Cons:

3. KOMEHYO

 

Image from komehyo.jp, Copyright by original author

Platform Overview:

KOMEHYO is one of Japan's largest and most reputable second-hand luxury goods retailers. Founded in Nagoya, it has grown to operate multiple large-scale physical stores across Japan, including Tokyo and Osaka. The brand is known for its strict authentication process and extensive inventory of high-quality second-hand items, ranging from designer bags and watches to vintage clothing and accessories.

The official online store provides a multilingual interface, including Chinese and English, although payment and shipping options are primarily geared toward Japanese domestic customers.

Main Categories:

• Designer Bags & Wallets

• Watches & Jewelry

• Clothing & Accessories

• Vintage Items

• Sale & Clearance Items

Buyer Flow:

• Browse Products: Navigate categories or use the search bar to find specific brands or items.

• Check Product Details: Each item includes photos, condition ratings, size/specifications, and sometimes authentication details.

• Add to Cart: Select quantity and add to your cart.

• Register / Login: Create an account to proceed with checkout.

• Checkout: Payment options include credit card, convenience store payment, and other Japan-focused methods.

• Shipping: Orders are shipped domestically within Japan. International shipping may require third-party forwarding services.

Shopping Tips:

• Authentication Assurance: KOMEHYO performs professional authentication for all luxury items, making it a safer choice compared to individual sellers.

• Check Item Condition: Condition ratings are detailed, but inspect product photos carefully for scratches, wear, or defects.

• Language Tools: Use the website's English or Chinese interface, or a browser translator, to navigate categories more easily.

• Shipping Outside Japan: Consider using a reliable package forwarding service if you are shopping from outside Japan.

• Sales & Promotions: Keep an eye on clearance sections and seasonal sales for discounted items.

Pros & Cons:

✅ Authentication & Condition Checklist

When buying pre-owned items, especially high-end luxury goods, authentication and condition inspection are crucial.

1. Key Points for Luxury Bag Authentication

• Hardware Engravings: Check the brand logo, font, depth, and spacing to ensure consistency with genuine items. Note that older models may have variations due to production year differences.

• Stitching Quality: Inspect whether the stitching is neat and uniform, and whether stitch angles match brand-specific standards (e.g., Chanel's quilted stitch pattern).

• Leather Material: Assess the feel, smell, and sheen of the leather. For example, pre-owned LV monogram leather may differ in stiffness and color from modern versions.

• Serial Numbers / Chips: Verify that serial number cards or interior tags match the bag's internal code (for older models), or check for anti-counterfeit chips in newer pre-owned items.

2. Condition Checklist for Clothing

• Stains & Damage: Carefully examine collars, cuffs, and underarms for visible stains, yellowing, or holes.

• Fabric Wear: Look at high-friction areas (elbows, seat area) for pilling, fading, or thinning of the material.

• Zippers & Buttons: Ensure zippers operate smoothly and buttons are all present and secure.

• Pre-Owned Odor: Many pre-owned garments have a storage or vintage smell, usually not a quality issue, but consider whether it's acceptable to you.

🔔 Safety Tips

To minimize risk when buying pre-owned, follow these guidelines:

• Photo Quality: Always request clear, multi-angle photos with good lighting. Focus on flaws, logos, linings, and serial numbers. If the seller refuses to provide detailed images, be cautious.

• Price Reasonableness: If the price is far below the market average, the item may be fake, severely damaged, or have hidden defects.

• Online Platform Communication:

 ✧  Polite Inquiry: Ask about usage history, maintenance, and size details (note: Japanese sizing tends to run small).

 ✧  Seller Ratings: On platforms like Mercari or Rakuma, choose sellers with a large number of positive reviews. Avoid new or poorly rated sellers.

• Return & Exchange Policies:

 ✧  Physical Stores: Confirm whether returns or exchanges are allowed; most pre-owned stores do not accept returns.

 ✧  Online Platforms: Many individual sellers do not offer returns, so confirm all details before purchase.

• Professional Authentication: For high-value items, it's recommended to have a third-party authentication service (Japan-based or international) check the item after purchase for peace of mind.