
Book Off Shinjuku
A treasure trove of secondhand books, manga, anime goods, and retro games in Shinjuku, offering great finds at bargain prices.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better finds

Book Off Shinjuku
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better finds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A treasure trove of secondhand books, manga, anime goods, and retro games in Shinjuku, offering great finds at bargain prices.
"Discover hidden gems and bring home a piece of Japan at Book Off Shinjuku!"

Bring Cash! 💰
Some European visas may not work for card payments. Carry cash for larger purchases, especially for tax-free shopping.
Check the Top Floor First! ⬆️
This is where the most sought-after anime goods and collectibles are usually located.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Anime & Manga Haven
Top Floor
Discover a vast collection of anime figures, trading cards, and exclusive merchandise. A must-visit for collectors seeking hidden gems.

Retro Gaming Goldmine
Various Floors
Hunt for classic game consoles and cartridges. Find everything from vintage to modern gaming treasures at competitive prices.

Used Books & Vinyl
Lower Floors
Browse through a wide array of used books, including manga, and discover vintage vinyl records from the 60s and 70s.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Score Secondhand Treasures
Navigating the Floors
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Cash! 💰
Some European visas may not work for card payments. Carry cash for larger purchases, especially for tax-free shopping.
Check the Top Floor First! ⬆️
This is where the most sought-after anime goods and collectibles are usually located.
Inspect Items Carefully 👀
While items are generally in great condition, always check for any minor defects before purchasing.
Tax-Free Shopping Available! ✈️
International visitors can get tax refunds with their passport. Ask staff for details.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Cash! 💰
Some European visas may not work for card payments. Carry cash for larger purchases, especially for tax-free shopping.
Check the Top Floor First! ⬆️
This is where the most sought-after anime goods and collectibles are usually located.
Inspect Items Carefully 👀
While items are generally in great condition, always check for any minor defects before purchasing.
Tax-Free Shopping Available! ✈️
International visitors can get tax refunds with their passport. Ask staff for details.
Compare Prices Online 💻
Rare items might be pricier here than online. A quick check can save you money.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Book Off Shinjuku's incredible selection of used books, manga, anime goods, and retro games, often finding items in excellent condition at great prices. The tax-free shopping option is a significant plus for international tourists. Some note that prices for rare items can be higher than online, and payment methods might be limited for certain international cards.
"Really amazing selection of used books and games at a great quality! I bought a Nintendo Switch game here (13 Sentinels) in Japanese. I also found a bundle of Jujutsu Kaisen manga (0-25) at both amazing quality and great price. Japanese people really keep things in great condition, so you get some amazing finds in this store!! You can also get tax off as a visitor with your passport here."
Dominik Richter
"Great staff and big selection with lots of fun goods neatly organised! Very top floor is the one people usually look for with the anime goods. Reasonable price and they have some exclusives locked away in glass closest. My visa from Europe didn't work here that's one thing to take into consideration bring a lot of cash if you'll be spending a lot just in case"
teddymecheto
"On Oct 1, 2024, my wife and I bumped into here after having lunch in a high-end restaurant upstairs. Then we saw some used vinyl LPs of our idols in the 1960s-1970s. We bought them and got tax refunds as international visitors."
Peter Kam Fai Cheung
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Book Off Shinjuku is conveniently located near Shinjuku Station, a major transportation hub. You can reach it via the JR Yamanote Line, Chuo Line, or various subway lines. It's a short walk from the station exits.
Book Off Shinjuku West is a specific branch, often highlighted for its anime goods. There might be other Book Off locations in Shinjuku, so confirm the exact address if you're looking for a particular item.
Use your phone's map app! Search for 'Book Off Shinjuku' and follow the directions. It's usually a straightforward walk from the station's west exit.
Yes, Shinjuku is a hub for secondhand shopping. You'll find other stores like Surugaya and Mandarake nearby, offering a wide range of collectibles and media.
Absolutely! Shinjuku Station is served by numerous train and subway lines, making it easily accessible from all parts of Tokyo.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Book Off Shinjuku is free. You can browse to your heart's content without any admission fee.
Opening hours can vary slightly, but Book Off stores typically open around 10 AM and close between 8 PM and 10 PM. It's always best to check their official website or a quick online search for the most up-to-date hours.
There is no entrance fee. You can freely explore the store and its vast selection of used goods.
Generally, Book Off operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations are typically not offered for items.
No special entry requirements for tourists, but remember to bring your passport for potential tax-free shopping benefits.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Goods
You can find a huge variety of secondhand items including manga, anime merchandise, figures, trading cards, used books, CDs, DVDs, Blu-rays, video games (retro and modern), and even used vinyl records.
Yes, the top floor of Book Off Shinjuku is renowned for its extensive collection of anime goods, figures, and exclusive merchandise, making it a prime spot for collectors.
Book Off Shinjuku has a large selection of both modern and retro game consoles and games. While you might find rare gems, prices for unusual items can sometimes be higher than online.
Prices are generally fixed, but the value comes from the secondhand nature of the items. You can often find great deals, especially on bundles like manga sets.
Japanese people tend to keep their belongings in excellent condition, so you can expect most items, from manga to games, to be of high quality.
🎫 💳 Payment & Discounts
While they do accept credit cards, it's advisable to have cash on hand, as some international cards may not work.
Yes, international visitors can get a tax refund on eligible purchases by presenting their passport at the time of purchase.
They accept cash and major credit cards. However, it's wise to confirm card acceptance for your specific card type, especially if it's from outside Japan.
While not always advertised, purchasing manga sets or multiple items can sometimes offer better value. Look out for bundled deals.
Student discounts are not typically offered. The main discount available is the tax refund for international visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed, but it's always a good idea to be discreet and avoid photographing staff or other customers without permission.
Yes, taking photos of your purchases (hauls) is common and encouraged for sharing on social media.
There are no explicitly stated restrictions on photography for personal use, but be mindful of store policies and other shoppers.
Focus on unique finds, rare collectibles, impressive manga stacks, or your exciting hauls. The anime merchandise on the top floor is particularly photogenic.
It's best to avoid using flash, especially in crowded areas or if photographing delicate items, to be considerate of others and the merchandise.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Practical Tip: While browsing, keep an eye on the condition of items, especially for younger children who might be rougher with their toys. Also, be prepared for the possibility of impulse buys, as there are many tempting items. Consider setting a budget beforehand to manage spending.
💰 Budget Travelers
Key Strategy: Focus on items that are in good condition but might have minor cosmetic flaws, as these are often priced lower. Compare prices for specific items online before purchasing if you're unsure about the value. Carrying cash is also recommended, as it can sometimes streamline transactions and avoid potential card issues.
🎮 Gamers & Collectors
Insider Tip: Be prepared to spend time browsing; the best finds are often discovered through patient exploration. Consider visiting on weekdays to avoid the largest crowds and have a more relaxed shopping experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill of the Hunt: Finding Anime Treasures
Pro-Tip: Keep an eye on items displayed in glass cases, as these often contain the most valuable or sought-after collectibles. Don't be discouraged if you don't find what you're looking for immediately; the joy is in the exploration and the possibility of stumbling upon an unexpected gem.
Retro Gaming and Media Galore
While the prices are generally competitive for secondhand goods, some reviews suggest that rare or highly sought-after items might be priced higher than online marketplaces. However, the advantage of visiting in person is the ability to inspect the condition of the items directly, ensuring you get good quality for your money. It's a fantastic place to revisit gaming memories or discover forgotten media.
Navigating Shinjuku's Secondhand Scene
When exploring Shinjuku for secondhand finds, it's beneficial to have a general idea of what you're looking for. Are you hunting for a specific anime figure, a retro game, or a particular manga series? Knowing this can help you prioritize which stores to visit and how much time to allocate. Remember that Shinjuku Station itself is massive, so allow ample time to navigate between different shopping areas.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit