Tokyo Thrifting And Vintage Expert Nicole Wong Shares Where She Shops In The City
In addition to her interior and decor content on her TikTok account @ncwong_, this style maven is also an expert at navigating Tokyo's vibrant thrift scene. We got her to share her secrets for scoring the best finds in the Japanese capital.
By Jamie Lee,
As Japan emerges as a premier destination for secondhand fashion enthusiasts, delving into its bustling markets can initially seem overwhelming. One expert who knows the scene well is entrepreneur, creative, and devoted vintage fashion and thrifting fiend Nicole Wong.
She has explored Japan's thrift scene extensively, particularly in cities like Tokyo. "Having a general idea of what you're seeking, whether it's specific colours or garment types, is crucial. Take the time to thoroughly examine each item; you never know what hidden gems you might unearth. Thrifting is essentially a balance of luck and patience," she advises.
She adds: "Don't overlook more mainstream stores like Ragtag and 2nd Street. I always make a point to visit as many stores as possible, as it increases your chances of finding something special. Thrifting is often a matter of luck." Below, Wong shares her preferred thrift destinations in Tokyo, along with insightful tips for navigating them effectively.
PAT MARKET
Reasons to visit: "I appreciate its willingness to embrace uncommon and daring pieces. The curation encompasses a more distinctive selection from designers such as Raf Simons, Rei Kawakubo of Comme des Garcons, John Galliano, and more. It's noteworthy that even celebrities like Raf Simons himself and A$AP Rocky have frequented the store. The individuals managing the establishment possess discerning taste, so while it may not offer the most budget-friendly options, if you're seeking unique pieces, this is the place to go. Additionally, its relative obscurity means you can browse without crowds."
Find it here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Ngq3mJQAPaByukY16
Instagram: @pat_market_tokyo
TREFACSTYLE KOENJI
Reasons to visit: "This place has everything you could possibly want. The pieces start as low as $2. Despite the wide selection, everything is well-organised. It's a must-visit whenever I'm in Japan because you can always find great deals here. Additionally, it's located away from the main tourist areas, so it tends to be less crowded. Honestly, though, don't overlook any of the other Trefac outlets (such as Treface Style Mejiro) because you never know what treasures you might find."
Find it here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/gyJz3XM4QTCSmCUp6
Instagram: @trefacstyle.official
10TOW
Reasons to visit: "For those who adore Comme des Garcons, Yohji Yamamoto, and Japanese designers in general, I highly, highly recommend this spot. It's my top pick from everything on this list because I'm confident that whatever items are inside, they'll be from designers I love, ranging from basic pieces to more archival and collector-worthy items."
Find it here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Db9BcxpsrftmLC7h8
Instagram: @10tow_
SINOT
Reasons to visit: "It offers Japanese workwear, which I appreciate for its craftsmanship and quality. From pre-war items to artisanal denim, as well as vintage French and Russian military pieces, each item is crafted with care and attention to detail."
Find it here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ME1tnbBZ8zwcFnHh9
Instagram: @sinot.clothing
KINDAL HARAJUKU
Reasons to visit: "This store boasts the widest selection and collection of Issey Miyake items I've ever seen in Japan."
Find it here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/yAWi8HQKNej48c9Z9
Instagram: @kindal.harajuku
CORRIDA TOKYO
Reasons to visit: "This is fantastic for streetwear lovers. It stocks plenty of rare finds from brands like Diesel, Undercover, Stussy, and Givenchy, as well as collaborations like A Bathing Ape x Kaws and Asics x Kiko Kostadinov. It's a lesser-known store, so it's not as crowded."
Find it here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/BpiFUQHgnq8P7dQf7
Instagram: @corrida_tokyo
PAT MARKET IKEBUKURO
Reasons to visit: It has a more gothic-like aesthetic with plenty of styling options for outfits and a much younger vibe. It offers brands like Vivienne Westwood, Jeremy Scott, Diesel, Anna Sui, and Hysteric Glamour. Some of its items were recently worn by the K-pop girl group XG."
Find it here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/vxVLNzV1GL6TFTmv7
Instagram: @pat_market_ikebukuro
ATLANTIS VINTAGE TOKYO
Reasons to visit: "You can reach out to it before your trip to request specific vintage luxury items, and it can help you find them. In the store, there are items from Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Loewe, which are also available on its online store. The owner also speaks English."
Find it here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/444vvzhwfu9vToB78
Instagram: @atlantisvintagetokyo
ARCHIVE STORE
Reasons to visit: "This store is more like a museum for archival pieces from great designers such as Raf Simons, Martin Margiela, Helmut Lang, Yohji Yamamoto, and more. The prices are steep, but it's worth a visit for the experience."
Find it here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/GPfPD6XNaBCGHgmH6
Instagram: @archivestore_official
CASANOVA VINTAGE
Reasons to visit: “It offers unique and special bags that are harder to find elsewhere like the rare Chanel butt bag and a collection of Louis Vuitton’s Keepall bags.”
Find it here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/G77hZSLxTrZcp78e6
Instagram: @casanova_vintage3