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Book Off Shinjuku

3.6
·1k reviews·Shinjuku City, Japan

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 content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, better finds

CrowdLow
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Book-OFF Shinjuku - Image 1

Book Off Shinjuku

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, better finds

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A treasure trove of secondhand books, manga, anime goods, and retro games in Shinjuku, offering great finds at bargain prices.

3.6
(1k reviews)

"Discover hidden gems and bring home a piece of Japan at Book Off Shinjuku!"

Vertical photo
TIP

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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Anime & Manga Haven

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.

TikTok
Retro Gaming Goldmine

Retro Gaming Goldmine

Various Floors

Hunt for classic game consoles and cartridges. Find everything from vintage to modern gaming treasures at competitive prices.

TikTok
Used Books & Vinyl

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.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Score Secondhand Treasures

Book Off Shinjuku is a paradise for bargain hunters, especially for anime goods, manga, and retro games. Expect to find items in excellent condition, as Japanese collectors are meticulous. Keep an eye out for tax-free shopping for visitors with your passport! Reddit

Navigating the Floors

This Book Off branch is known for its extensive selection spread across multiple floors. The top floor is particularly popular for anime merchandise, figures, and trading cards. Be prepared for potentially higher prices on rare items compared to online listings. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better finds
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings
Why
Local shoppers thin out
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

You can’t blame me!!! 😭 #Bookoff #Japan #AnimeMerch #Shinjuku
@animemuscat
252 likes • 6.4K views

Bring Cash! 💰

Some European visas may not work for card payments. Carry cash for larger purchases, especially for tax-free shopping. Reddit

Check the Top Floor First! ⬆️

This is where the most sought-after anime goods and collectibles are usually located. TikTokReddit

Took a trip to Tokyo for a week to relax and do some guitar and guitar book shopping!! This is day one: Book Off in Shinjuku! #fender #gibson #guitar #guitarshopping #bookoff #tokyo #shinjuku
@eatsleepbreatheguitar
41 likes • 2.3K views
📍 Book Off Shinjuku West Discover a treasure trove of anime goods at Book Off Shinjuku West! From rare trading cards to figures and exclusive merch, this spot is a must-visit for collectors. Find hidden gems at great prices and bring home a piece of Japan! If you want to discover Tsukiji’s hidden gems and truly delicious food, join the tour! DM me! 🍣✨ Let’s experience Japan together! Click the lin...
@japanelocalexperience
17 likes • 1.6K views

Inspect Items Carefully 👀

While items are generally in great condition, always check for any minor defects before purchasing. Reddit

Tax-Free Shopping Available! ✈️

International visitors can get tax refunds with their passport. Ask staff for details. Reddit

Another of the billion reasons why I love Japan! Can't go wrong woth Bookoff, Hardoff, OffHouse, Hobbyoff, etc! I love secondhand shopping. 😂 #Japan #Shinjuku #bookoff #Pokémon #thriftshopping
@livinlavida_lucky
2.9K likes • 20.3K views

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. Reddit

Check the Top Floor First! ⬆️

This is where the most sought-after anime goods and collectibles are usually located. TikTokReddit

Inspect Items Carefully 👀

While items are generally in great condition, always check for any minor defects before purchasing. Reddit

Tax-Free Shopping Available! ✈️

International visitors can get tax refunds with their passport. Ask staff for details. Reddit

Compare Prices Online 💻

Rare items might be pricier here than online. A quick check can save you money. Reddit

What Travellers Say

3.6
(1k reviews)

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

Amazing selection of used goods
Great quality items
Tax-free shopping for visitors

What People Dislike

Higher prices for rare items
Card payment issues

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

Absolutely! Shinjuku Station is served by numerous train and subway lines, making it easily accessible from all parts of Tokyo. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Book Off Shinjuku is free. You can browse to your heart's content without any admission fee. TikTok

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. TikTok

There is no entrance fee. You can freely explore the store and its vast selection of used goods. TikTok

Generally, Book Off operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations are typically not offered for items. TikTok

No special entry requirements for tourists, but remember to bring your passport for potential tax-free shopping benefits. Reddit

🎫 🛍️ 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. TikTokReddit+6

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. TikTokReddit

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. TikTokReddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 💳 Payment & Discounts

While they do accept credit cards, it's advisable to have cash on hand, as some international cards may not work. Reddit

Yes, international visitors can get a tax refund on eligible purchases by presenting their passport at the time of purchase. Reddit

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. Reddit

While not always advertised, purchasing manga sets or multiple items can sometimes offer better value. Look out for bundled deals. Reddit

Student discounts are not typically offered. The main discount available is the tax refund for international visitors. Reddit

📸 📸 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. TikTok

Yes, taking photos of your purchases (hauls) is common and encouraged for sharing on social media. TikTok+2

There are no explicitly stated restrictions on photography for personal use, but be mindful of store policies and other shoppers. TikTok

Focus on unique finds, rare collectibles, impressive manga stacks, or your exciting hauls. The anime merchandise on the top floor is particularly photogenic. TikTok+1

It's best to avoid using flash, especially in crowded areas or if photographing delicate items, to be considerate of others and the merchandise. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Book Off Shinjuku can be a fun outing for families, especially if your children are interested in anime, manga, or video games. The sheer variety of items means there's likely something to catch their eye. Look for manga bundles which can be a cost-effective way to get multiple volumes of a popular series. Reddit The anime merchandise section is particularly engaging for younger visitors. TikTok

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. TikTok Consider setting a budget beforehand to manage spending.

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Book Off Shinjuku is a goldmine. The secondhand nature of the goods means you can find items at significantly lower prices than buying new. TikTok Manga bundles are a fantastic way to get a complete series for a fraction of the original cost. Reddit Don't forget to inquire about tax-free shopping if you're an international visitor, as this can offer further savings. Reddit

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. Reddit Carrying cash is also recommended, as it can sometimes streamline transactions and avoid potential card issues. Reddit

🎮 Gamers & Collectors

Book Off Shinjuku is a must-visit for serious gamers and collectors. You'll find a wide selection of retro and modern video games, consoles, and accessories. TikTok The anime merchandise and trading card sections are also prime hunting grounds for rare collectibles. TikTok+1 Many Redditors note that while prices can sometimes be higher than online for rare items, the ability to inspect the condition firsthand is invaluable. Reddit

Insider Tip: Be prepared to spend time browsing; the best finds are often discovered through patient exploration. TikTok Consider visiting on weekdays to avoid the largest crowds and have a more relaxed shopping experience. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Thrill of the Hunt: Finding Anime Treasures

Book Off Shinjuku, particularly its top floor, is a magnet for anime enthusiasts. Here, you can unearth a treasure trove of figures, trading cards, manga, and other exclusive merchandise. Many visitors share their excitement about finding rare or out-of-print items that are hard to come by elsewhere. TikTok+1 The sheer volume and variety mean that every visit can yield a unique discovery, making the 'hunt' part of the appeal. TikTok It's a place where collectors can spend hours sifting through shelves, hoping to snag that perfect piece for their collection. Reddit

Pro-Tip: Keep an eye on items displayed in glass cases, as these often contain the most valuable or sought-after collectibles. Reddit 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. TikTok

Retro Gaming and Media Galore

Beyond anime, Book Off Shinjuku is a significant destination for retro gaming and media collectors. You can find a vast selection of used video games, consoles, CDs, DVDs, and Blu-rays. TikTok+1 This includes everything from classic Nintendo cartridges to PlayStation discs and even older formats. For music lovers, the used vinyl LP section offers a nostalgic journey through decades of music. Reddit

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. Reddit 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. Reddit It's a fantastic place to revisit gaming memories or discover forgotten media. TikTok

Navigating Shinjuku's Secondhand Scene

Shinjuku is a bustling district with a vibrant secondhand shopping scene, and Book Off is a key player. Understanding its place within this ecosystem can enhance your shopping experience. Book Off is known for its broad range of categories, from books and music to games and collectibles. TikTok+1 It often complements other specialized stores in the area, such as Surugaya or Mandarake, which might focus more intensely on specific niches like anime figures or rare manga. TikTok

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. TikTok+1 Remember that Shinjuku Station itself is massive, so allow ample time to navigate between different shopping areas. TikTok