Discovering Shimokitazawa: A Thrift Shopper’s Paradise

By William McLaughlin, former SJA Youth Committee member

I had the chance to visit the Tokyo area in March during my college spring break. My father wanted me to go with him to Setagaya-ku to visit Temple University Japan and do some other sightseeing (e.g., visit Gotokuji, the maneki-neko tera). One of the best pieces of advice I received before heading to Japan came from a fellow committee board member of the Japanese Student Association at the University of Virginia. Having a penchant for vintage fashion, my friend suggested I spend an afternoon in Shimokitazawa, a trendy neighborhood in Tokyo renowned for its cheap and stylish vintage clothing.

Shimokitazawa, often simply referred to as "Shimokita," is a haven for thrift shoppers. As I wandered through its narrow streets, I was immediately struck by the sheer number of stores packed closely together, each brimming with unique finds. Dozens of shops lined the streets, offering clothes at astonishingly low prices. I found many items for as little as 800 yen, roughly $5-6 USD—quite a bargain for the quality and uniqueness of the items.

One thing that caught my eye was the overwhelming presence of American college and sports team apparel. It was surreal to see shirts even from local virginia universities such as James Madison University (JMU), Virginia Tech (VT), and Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) hanging alongside those emblazoned with logos from the Redskins, Lakers, Patriots, and nearly every other major American sports team and college. This eclectic mix of American culture in the heart of Tokyo was both unexpected and fascinating, and at considerably cheaper prices than your typical merch store. If you go there, you might even bring a suitcase of gently used items to sell.

Beyond the American influence, Shimokitazawa's shops also boasted a variety of trendy designs, ranging from the classic to the provocative. Each store had its own distinct vibe, contributing to the area's diverse and vibrant atmosphere. The array of styles available made it easy to find something for everyone, whether you're into vintage Americana or the latest street fashion.

Initially, I planned to spend just an hour in Shimokitazawa, but the neighborhood’s charm quickly drew me in. I ended up spending 2.5 hours exploring over 40 stores, each with thousands of items to peruse. The thrill of exploration, combined with the incredible deals, made it hard to leave.

Despite its allure, Shimokitazawa remains surprisingly under the radar for many tourists. This works in favor of those who do visit, offering a more authentic experience of Tokyo's hip culture without the overwhelming crowds found in other popular areas. It's a place where you can immerse yourself in the local scene and discover the trends that captivate Japanese youth.

For anyone visiting Tokyo, I highly recommend carving out some time to explore Shimokitazawa. Whether you’re a vintage fashion enthusiast or just looking for affordable and unique clothing, Shimokita is sure to impress. It’s not just about shopping—it’s about experiencing a vibrant slice of Tokyo culture that blends the old with the new in the most delightful way. You might go in looking for a quick bargain, but don’t be surprised if you end up spending hours lost in its charming, labyrinthine streets.