Tokyo is full of must-see spots—Asakusa, Shibuya, the Sky Tree, Ginza. But beyond the famous sights, there are places where you can experience something far more personal: unexpected encounters, forgotten treasures, and stories waiting to be found.
Welcome to Tokyo’s flea markets.
From retro teapots and one-of-a-kind crafts to quirky antiques and friendly vendor chats, these markets are filled with moments you won’t find in department stores. Each item, each interaction is a once-in-a-lifetime discovery—a true ichigo ichie (one time, one meeting).
Whether you're on the hunt for vintage fashion, handmade goods, or just want to wander and see what catches your eye, flea markets offer a slower, more surprising side of Tokyo. It’s not just shopping—it’s a treasure hunt, a conversation, and a chance to connect.
Here’s a guide to some of Tokyo’s best flea markets held throughout the year:
1. Ohi Racecourse Flea Market
Location: Oi Keibajo, Shinagawa
Schedule: Most Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays
Highlights: Tokyo’s largest flea market with over 600 stalls offering vintage clothes, books, electronics, and home goods.
Tip: It takes place in the vast parking lot just left of the main entrance.
2. Yoyogi Park Flea Market
Location: Inside Yoyogi Park, near Harajuku
Schedule: 1–2 times per month (usually weekends)
Highlights: Youthful vendors offering vintage fashion, crafts, and lifestyle goods.
3. UNU Farmers & Flea Market (Aoyama)
Location: United Nations University, Omotesando
Schedule: Every Saturday and Sunday
Highlights: A stylish mix of organic produce, antiques, crafts, and gourmet food trucks.
4. Setagaya Boro-ichi
Location: Setagaya-Daita area
Schedule: December 15–16 and January 15–16 annually
Highlights: Over 400 years of history with hundreds of stalls selling antiques, crafts, and traditional goods.
5. Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine Antique Market
Location: Koto City, near Monzen-Nakacho
Schedule: First and second Sundays of each month, sunrise to sunset
Highlights: Over 100 vendors offering Japanese ceramics, toys, old books, scrolls, and collectibles.
Extra: Western antiques are the focus on the first Sunday; Eastern antiques on the second.
Also: A general flea market is held here on the 15th and 28th of each month.
6. Hanazono Shrine Antique Market
Location: Shinjuku
Schedule: Almost every Sunday
Highlights: A well-known and accessible antique market with ukiyo-e, kimonos, coins, and samurai curios.
7. Shibuya Flea Market
Location: Pop-up locations like Shibuya Garden Tower, Miyashita Park
Schedule: Irregular but frequent
Highlights: Trendy fashion, zines, records, handmade goods in a hip atmosphere.
Special Pick: Don’t miss the Shibuya Nominoichi, held every 2nd and 4th Sunday at Sumitomo Realty’s Shibuya Garden Tower open-air plaza. Expect vintage accessories, crafts, flowers, and more.
8. Ajinomoto Stadium Flea Market
Location: Fuchu, near Tobitakyu Station
Schedule: Several weekends per month
Highlights: A massive event with up to 800 booths selling everything from tools to apparel.
9. Kichijoji PARCO Flea Market
Location: Rooftop or plaza of Kichijoji PARCO
Schedule: Irregular (seasonal or event-based)
Highlights: Curated selections in collaboration with vintage shops, artists, and food stalls.
10. Gotanda TOC Flea Market
Location: Inside the TOC Building, Gotanda
Schedule: Irregular (mostly weekends)
Highlights: Held indoors—perfect for rainy days.
Final Tips
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Check the weather: Many markets are outdoors and may be canceled due to rain. Check the organizer’s website beforehand.
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Bring cash: Most vendors do not accept credit cards.
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Negotiate politely: Friendly haggling is part of the fun.
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Treasure the encounter: Whether it’s a rare find or a heartfelt chat, what you take home may be more than just an object.
For more event info: Some markets are organized by the Tokyo Citizens’ Recycling Movement. Check their event listings here:
https://trx.jp
Skip the shopping malls for a day and explore Tokyo’s flea markets—you just might come home with your new favorite story.
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