30 Flea Market Events Around Japan for Flea Market and Vintage Clothing Lovers | Find Bargains for Free! A Complete Guide to Weekend Outings for Stylish Women
~~~
Unique secondhand clothing flea market events are on the rise across the country, and are becoming popular weekend destinations .
However, many people may be wondering, " Which flea market is right for me? "
In this article, we have put together a clear list of 30 notable flea markets across the country that will excite vintage clothing lovers.
By the time you finish reading, you'll have found an event you want to attend and will be looking forward to your next holiday.
~~~
What you need to know first: the appeal of flea markets and secondhand clothing events and the basics of how to choose them
Flea markets and vintage clothing events are becoming increasingly popular as a place to find unique, one-of-a-kind and fascinating items.
Recently, there has been an increase in events with free admission, making it easier to drop in casually.
However, there is a lot of information that some people need to know, such as the venue, dates, and whether the event will be cancelled in the event of rain, which can make some people confused.
Here we will briefly summarize the basic points to make flea markets more enjoyable and provide content that will increase your hopes of finding a bargain.
The reason why secondhand clothing flea markets are becoming increasingly popular and the characteristics of bargains
- Secondhand clothing flea markets are gaining attention as a place where you can find unique items that are not found in mass-produced goods.
・There are many one-of-a-kind secondhand clothes and miscellaneous goods , so it's easy to find unique items that no one else has.
・The price is reasonable and easy to try, making it easy for even beginners to vintage clothing to try.
・Events are increasing all over the country, and there are plenty of tasteful items on offer, including remade goods and vintage goods.
・The assortment of goods varies at each venue, so you can enjoy it like a treasure hunt every time
・Good finds tend to be made of sturdy materials and sewn well, and in good condition.
・You can often find designs that are not influenced by trends and can be used for a long time.
・The moment you find it, you feel like it's the only one you'll ever own , and it gives you a sense of special satisfaction.
Check the event rules, such as free admission and cancellations in case of rain
・Events with free admission are easier to participate in and tend to have more exhibitors and visitors.
・Many flea markets are held outdoors, so be sure to check in advance whether they will be cancelled in the event of rain or not.
・Events are often decided based on weather conditions and are updated on the morning of the event, so it's best to check the official social media and website.
・Right after the start, there will be a lot of good second-hand clothes on display , and popular items will sell faster.
・It is often easier to negotiate the price right before the closing time , increasing the chances of getting a good deal
・Knowing the busy times and flow of people will help you get around the venue efficiently.
・Prohibited items and photography rules may differ depending on the venue, so please check in advance.
Safe walking methods that even beginners can enjoy and tips for buying at a bargain price
・We recommend taking a look around the entire venue first to get a feel for the overall atmosphere and price range.
・It's easier to find the item you want if you have an idea of its characteristics (color, size, brand, etc.) in advance.
・Since many of the products you are interested in are one-of-a-kind, it's best to check them out early to avoid regrets.
・Conversations with the store owner can give you an opportunity to learn about recommended items and products that have not yet been released.
・When negotiating prices, smile and speak politely to make it easier for the other person to agree.
・If there is a booth where you can try on clothes, you can check the size and silhouette and avoid making a mistake in your purchase.
・Bring an eco-bag and some coins to make shopping go more smoothly
How to distinguish "tasteful items" that fashionable women should aim for
・Items with careful stitching and sturdy fabric are easy to use for a long time.
・Check the condition of the item, such as pilling, stains, and discoloration , and decide whether or not it needs repair based on the price.
・When choosing a color, it is best to choose one that matches your skin tone and your usual outfit.
・Items with beautiful silhouettes can instantly give you style, even if they are secondhand.
Leather bags, vintage t-shirts, and handmade accessories are popular and easy to incorporate.
・Intuition and the excitement you feel when wearing something are important criteria for finding a bargain.
・Remade items and one-of-a-kind designs have a special feeling that can only be found at a flea market.
Introducing 30 must-see second-hand clothing flea market events across the country
Across the country, there are many flea markets held throughout the year that will appeal to vintage clothing lovers, each with its own unique charm.
However, with the regions and dates all different, many people may be wondering, "Where should I go to find the perfect bargain?"
Here we introduce 30 carefully selected flea market events that are worth visiting right now for those who want to enjoy great deals on second-hand clothes !
You'll be able to compare the locations and times that interest you and choose one that suits your schedule, making you look forward to your next holiday .
👔Flea Market Event Information👔
1. Oi Racecourse Flea Market (Tokyo)
With over 700 stores, this is one of the largest second-hand clothing monster markets in the country.
We have everything from street style vintage clothing, 90s, American casual, and Y2K.
2. Expo Festival Square Garage Sale (Osaka)
With over 400 stores, it is one of the largest in the Kansai region.
This is the main event, with a large number of second-hand clothing stores and general dealers participating.
3. Yoyogi Park Raspberry Flea Market (Tokyo)
Close to Harajuku × Lots of young people = High proportion of second-hand clothing.
Lots of Y2K, Korean, and snap-worthy outfits.
4. Kawagoe Water Park Flea Market (Saitama)
A famous flea market with 150 to 200 stores and a high proportion of second-hand clothing.
There are many casual clothing sales and second-hand clothing stores, so the turnover is fast.
5. Tokorozawa Aviation Memorial Park Flea Market (Saitama)
A large park with around 200 stores, with a good balance of second-hand clothes and miscellaneous goods.
6. Gotanda TOC Flea Market (Tokyo)
There are 200 indoor stores with a lot of second-hand brand clothing. It's a strong place in the winter.
7. Asakusa Hanakawado Park Flea Market (Tokyo)
Tourist destinations and 40-50 individual stores.
This type has a lot of Showa retro and Japanese-style vintage clothing and antiques.
8. Grandy 21 Flea Market (Miyagi)
A large flea market in Tohoku. A famous event that also attracts secondhand clothing dealers.
9. Apita Terrace Tsunashima Rooftop Flea Market (Kanagawa)
There are many young people and families, and second-hand clothes are sold quickly.
10. Mojiko Car Boots (Fukuoka)
A great atmosphere event in a port town with 60 stores, specializing in European and American vintage clothing and retro goods.
11. Sugamo Jizo-dori Shopping Street Flea Market (Tokyo)
A treasure trove of retro vintage clothing, Japanese clothing, and Showa-era goods.
12. Adachi Ward Yume Road Chiyoda Flea Market (Tokyo)
The arcade has 100 stores, making it rain-resistant and with a high percentage of second-hand clothing.
13. Saitama New City Keyaki Square Flea Market (Saitama)
There are about 50 stores catering to young people in the city, and they also have a fair amount of second-hand clothing.
14. Tokushima Surprise Sunday Market (Tokushima)
A huge market with 300 stores. There are many second-hand clothes, antiques, and Showa-era items.
15. Heian Shrine (Okazaki Park) Flea Market (Kyoto)
The ratio of second-hand clothes to market items is about 6:4. The atmosphere is great.
16. Okayama Inariyama Sakuichi Market
There are more local goods than second-hand clothes, but it's easy to find second-hand Japanese clothing.
17. Kazo Hanasaki Park Flea Market (Saitama)
Small to medium size. Fair selection of second-hand clothing.
18. Agri Park Yumesugito (Saitama)
There are around 40 shops in the agricultural park, with a wide variety of genres.
19. The City in the Heart of the Tokaido (Shizuoka)
There aren't many second-hand clothes, but there is a mix of local and retro clothing.
20. Yoshida Oyama Castle Market (Shizuoka)
A relaxed type for strolling around. A few second-hand clothes.
21. Kisarazu Morning Market (Chiba)
Mainly food and miscellaneous goods rather than clothes.
22. Izukogen Bazaar (Shizuoka)
Sightseeing and general merchandise market. A few second-hand clothes.
23. Tokushima Surprise Sunday Market (another day)
It's a large store, but the proportion of used clothing varies depending on the day.
24. Kamikawa Town Community Sports Ground (Saitama)
There are a lot of household goods. There are some second-hand clothes, but not many.
25. Gahaha Honpo Treasure Warehouse Market (Hiroshima)
Warehouse market x junk. A few second-hand clothes.
26. Antique Art Collection: Winter Campaign (Hiroshima)
Mostly antiques. Almost no second-hand clothing.
27. Kisarazu Morning Market (Chiba)
Mainly miscellaneous goods and food. A small selection of second-hand clothing.
28. Izukogen Bazaar (another day)
There are also fewer second-hand clothes.
29. Izumisano Icora Mall Flea Market (Osaka)
The attached mall attracts a lot of customers, and second-hand clothing stores occasionally set up stalls.It is a medium-sized flea market with around 75 stores that is also weather-resistant.
30. Sakaihama Seaside Stage Flea Market (Osaka)
This seaside flea market has 100 stores with a high proportion of second-hand clothing, and offers a good balance of second-hand clothing and miscellaneous goods, making it easy to browse.
Event area guide for those who want to plan their events by region
Flea markets are held all over the country, and the atmosphere and stalls vary greatly from region to region, so the types of second-hand clothing and miscellaneous goods you can find will also change depending on which area you choose.
Some areas have many markets that you can visit while traveling, while other areas are home to large-scale events that are easy for beginners to get around.
Here we have summarized the characteristics of each area in an easy-to-understand manner and organized them to serve as a reference for planning your trip.
This makes it easier to choose a flea market that suits your tastes and schedule, making it much easier to plan your next holiday.
Characteristics of the Hokkaido and Tohoku Areas and Recommended Visits
・There are many spacious venues, so you can leisurely browse vintage clothing and miscellaneous goods.
・There are many opportunities to find crafts made by local creators
・High-quality outerwear unique to cold regions can sometimes be found as a bargain .
・Many venues are located near tourist spots, making them easy to incorporate into travel plans
・If you visit with ample time in your schedule, you can enjoy the food and culture at the same time.
The Kanto area has many large flea markets that are beginner-friendly
・There are many large flea markets, making it easy to get around even for first-time visitors
・They are often held in urban areas with good access, such as Tokyo, Kanagawa, and Saitama.
・A wide range of vintage clothing genres, from street style to retro style
・There are many stores, making it easy to compare and choose
・The appeal is the ease of being able to go whenever you feel like it.
The Chubu area is centered around unique craft and vintage clothing events
・There are many unique events that combine secondhand clothing and craft markets.
・Enjoy it together with handmade goods and art
・Many venues are located in good locations near the mountains and sea
・You can choose items calmly in a relaxed atmosphere
・Especially popular among those who like unique fashion
The Kinki area is packed with flea markets for those with a high level of fashion sense.
- Areas with many stylish second-hand clothing stores, such as Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe
・A wide variety of highly specialized second-hand clothing, including vintage, military, and girly styles
・High chance of finding a bargain
・Many are held in urban areas, making it easy to "hop" between flea markets
・Perfect for those looking for a stylish event
The Chugoku and Shikoku area is attractive because of its market with a strong local flavor
・There are many locally run flea markets with a warm atmosphere
・You can find vintage clothing and miscellaneous goods unique to the region
・Attractive locations such as the seaside and castle towns
・There are many events that can be enjoyed in combination with sightseeing
・It's relatively uncrowded, so it's perfect for people who want to explore at a leisurely pace.
Kyushu and Okinawa area offers a wide range of travel and flea market experiences
・Many markets are held in resort areas or open spaces.
・You can find tropical goods and vintage fashion
・There are plenty of events in urban areas such as Naha, Fukuoka, and Kumamoto
・Enjoy vintage clothing shopping while traveling
・For people who want to enjoy sightseeing and shopping at the same time
Flea market tips and a list of things to bring to enjoy for free
Admission to flea markets is free, so you can enjoy them casually , and if you know the tricks, you can increase your chances of finding a bargain .
Here we will introduce a carefully selected list of techniques that are easy for even beginners to put into practice, such as creating traffic flow , tips for negotiating prices , and the basics of checking used clothing .
With a little preparation, your next flea market will be a more comfortable and exciting experience.
Creating flow lines for efficient movement at free admission events
・If the venue is large, you won't get lost if you decide to go clockwise or counterclockwise from the entrance.
・Take a walk around the venue first to get an overview so you don't miss anything
・Take photos of booths that interest you and return to them later for a smoother experience.
・Popular stores will be crowded right after the event starts, so we recommend taking a quick look around the whole area at first.
Tips and timing for successful price negotiations
・The time from early afternoon to one hour before the closing time is when it is easier to get a price reduction
・The key to success is not to ask for a large discount from the start
・It's easier to get your point across if you say something soft like, "If possible, just a little..."
・If you ask to buy multiple items , you will often be given a discount.
The minimum items you need to check the condition of your used clothing
・The light on your smartphone or a small mirror is useful for checking for damage or dirt on the fabric.
・Wet wipes are useful for checking for color transfer and light stains.
・Knitwear and sweatshirts tend to pill easily, so a small brush makes it easier to determine the size.
・Having a minimum of items to check makes it easier to make purchases without regrets
A comfortable way to enjoy with your family or as a couple
・For large venues, it's a good idea to set rules such as " meeting every 30 minutes "
- Sharing photos of booths that interest you makes it easier to keep pace
・If you are traveling with children, it is a good idea to check out rest areas and shady places in advance.
・Enjoying food stalls and workshops in addition to shopping will increase your satisfaction.
A list of things to bring based on flea market techniques
|
What to bring |
degree of necessity |
Usage scenarios and benefits |
|
Eco bags (large and medium sizes) |
★★★★★ |
It's easy to carry around used clothing and miscellaneous goods all in one place, and can also be used for sudden purchases. |
|
Coins and small bills |
★★★★★ |
Payment can be made smoothly after negotiating the price/Many stores only accept cash |
|
Smartphone light function |
★★★★★ |
Essential for checking the texture and stains of used clothing. Useful in dark indoor venues. |
|
Wet wipes |
★★★★☆ |
Convenient for checking for dirt and removing light stains |
|
Mobile battery |
★★★★☆ |
Battery consumption is high when taking photos, checking venue maps, and making electronic payments |
|
Small mirror |
★★★★☆ |
Check color and damage in detail |
|
Folding umbrella or raincoat |
★★★☆☆ |
Essential items for rainy day events |
|
Drinks and snacks |
★★★☆☆ |
You can spend a long time visiting venues in comfort. |
|
Sunscreen and hat |
★★★☆☆ |
Ideal for UV protection at outdoor flea markets |
|
Small brush (for knits) |
★★★☆☆ |
Useful for determining the condition of hairballs |
|
Handheld fan or hand warmer |
★★★☆☆ |
Can be adjusted to suit seasonal temperature changes |
|
Family and couples group LINE |
★★★☆☆ |
Useful for sharing locations and products you're interested in |
How to determine in advance whether an event will be cancelled or carried out due to rain
Weather has a big impact on whether or not the flea market will be held, so it is very important to know in advance whether the event will be cancelled due to rain or go ahead when making plans.
Outdoor flea markets in particular are prone to change depending on the weather, and it's not uncommon for people to head there without noticing sudden changes on the day .
Here we have compiled a list of checkpoints to check for event information , the characteristics of both indoor and outdoor events , and alternative spots that can be enjoyed even on rainy days .
By preparing in advance, you can enjoy the flea market without worrying about the weather.
Checklist for determining whether an event will be canceled due to rain
・Please be sure to check the "Event Information" section on the official website
In most cases, the schedule is updated on the morning of the event, and the most reliable indications are "Cancelled in case of rain" or "Will proceed in light rain."
・Check stories on social media (Instagram, X)
Exhibitors often post information about whether or not they are able to exhibit, so you can get the latest information quickly.
・Check whether the venue is indoors or outdoors
Parks, squares, and outdoor parking lots are likely to be cancelled in the event of rain.
・Check the organizer's past events
By looking at how things worked out on days when rain was forecast, you can determine the criteria for judging the event.
・Check the weather app for "precipitation of 0.5mm or more."
Flea market operators tend to cancel operations if the snow exceeds 0.5 to 1 mm.
・Check the wind speed (winds over 7m/s tend to be canceled)
In some cases, wind is more important than rain, as there is a risk of the tent being blown away.
・Large events with many exhibitors have a high success rate
On the other hand, local craft markets tend to be cancelled due to rain.
・Events with free admission are more likely to be canceled early
If large-scale festivals require a paid event, there are more cases where they will go ahead even in light rain.
The pros and cons of holding an event indoors or outdoors
・Indoor flea markets are often held rain or shine, so the appeal is that they are not affected by the weather.
・You can enjoy shopping comfortably regardless of the season, but please check in advance as there may be an entrance fee.
・Outdoor events tend to be more open and have more stalls, making it easier to find bargains.
・Events are likely to be canceled due to rain, and the scale may be reduced depending on the weather, so it is important to check the weather forecast.
Indoor flea market spots across the country that you can enjoy even on rainy days
If you want to enjoy a secondhand clothing flea market even on a rainy day, you can rely on indoor flea markets located all over the country.
Events held in shopping malls, gymnasiums, or halls are great because you don't have to worry about the weather and they are family-friendly.
The Kanto and Kansai areas in particular are packed with indoor events, with a wide range of things to enjoy, from vintage specialty booths and handmade goods to large markets with a strong market feel.
On rainy days , when plans tend to get disrupted, indoor flea markets can be a great way to change your mood.
Ideas for enjoying flea markets and secondhand clothing that will make you look forward to your next holiday
Your favorite secondhand clothes and miscellaneous goods found at a flea market can make your holidays more fun and stylish, depending on how you use them.
Here we will introduce ideas that will have you looking forward to the next weekend, such as how to coordinate your outfits using your spoils, cafes to stop by on your way home from an event, and how to plan a flea market trip that you can enjoy with family and friends.
How to create a "secondhand mix outfit" using loot
- Second-hand clothes purchased at a flea market can be combined with clothes you already own to make your outfit look more stylish.
-Retro patterned shirts and vintage denim are items that are easy for even beginners to incorporate.
・The key to coordinating your outfit is to create one focal point .
- Combining unique vintage clothing with plain items creates a balanced look that gives a sophisticated feel.
- Spending time thinking about how to coordinate your outfits based on your loot will make your flea market experience even more enjoyable.
Choosing a cafe or spot to stop by on your way home from the flea market
-After the flea market, we recommend taking a break at a cafe where you can relax and look at your purchases .
- There are many attractive spots around the venue, such as traditional Japanese cafes and shops that use local ingredients .
・Key points to consider when choosing a restaurant are "within walking distance," "seats where you can easily put your luggage," and "a space that looks good in photos . "
- Taking a photo of your loot lined up is a great way to capture memories and post them on social media.
How to plan a flea market trip with friends and family
- Your flea market trip will go more smoothly if you decide on the date, location, and meeting time in advance.
・To avoid the crowds, we recommend arriving in the morning .
- Making a list of nearby tourist attractions and lunch spots in advance will make travelling easier.
-If multiple flea markets are being held nearby, you can have more fun by organizing a "hop-hopping route" to visit them all.
- You can share your bargain hunt and create deeper memories with friends and family.
How to become a flea market vendor?
The appeal of flea market events is that they are not just about buying things; the fun can be greatly increased if you participate as a vendor .
It is also recommended for people who want to sell second-hand clothes and miscellaneous goods, people who want to try it as a side job, and people who want to earn money while decluttering.
In this chapter, we will provide easy-to-understand explanations from preparation to the flow on the day so that even beginners can set up a stall without any hesitation.
Starting a flea market stall from scratch | A comprehensive guide to the process from preparation to the day
① Choose a flea market event to set up a stall at
Anyone can apply to attend the flea market, but the atmosphere varies from event to event.
Points to consider when choosing
・Stall fee (1,000-5,000 yen)
・Venue size, customer demographics, and access
・Is this an event where secondhand clothes are likely to sell?
・Indoor/outdoor, rain or no rain
For beginners , indoor or large flea markets are safer.
② Application to open a store
Most of the applications can be made through their official website or Instagram.
Required Information
・Name and contact details
・Store genre
- Presence or absence of a vehicle
Popular events fill up quickly, so it's best to register early.
③ Preparing used clothing and miscellaneous goods for sale
Sales can vary greatly depending on how the product is presented.
Preparation points
・Keep it clean by washing and ironing
・Genre classification
- Display on hangers for a high-end look
・Attach a price tag
Market price guide : Obi are easy to sell for 300 to 1,500 yen.
④ Gather the necessary tools
At a minimum, you'll want the following:
・Table or seat
・Hanger racks ・Hangers
・Change (lots of coins)
・Smartphone payment
・Mirror ・Garbage bag ・Price tag
A popular combination among beginners is a rack + table .
⑤ Layout and display on the day
The key to a successful booth is "easy entry."
・ Widen the flow of traffic
・Featured products should be placed near the entrance
・The display is strong
- Arrange by color for a unified look
It's a good idea to be mindful of how you present yourself so that you can easily take photos of yourself on social media.
⑥ Dealing with price negotiations
Discounts are commonplace at flea markets.
- Set it a little high at first
・Propose a set discount
・When refusing, be gentle
A smiling face sells the most.
7. Tips for increasing sales
・Focus on the "selling side" immediately after starting
・One or two featured items are discounted
・Announcement of store opening on social media
- Price tags are easy to see
Small improvements can increase sales.
The idea of "purchasing" to stabilize flea market sales
Many people who continue to set up stalls at flea markets worry about the fluctuations in sales, saying, "I didn't sell anything this time."
The reason is that if you only organize your closet, you will quickly run out of products and your lineup will not be stable.
A popular method is to purchase in bulk from a secondhand clothing wholesaler . You can secure popular items at low prices, which increases the quantity of products and makes them easier to sell.
What is secondhand clothing wholesale? Why it actually works well with flea market vendors
Used clothing wholesale is a service that allows you to purchase used clothing selected by dealers in bulk at low prices.
Recently, it has become popular not only among second-hand clothing stores but also among flea market vendors and Mercari sellers .
Reasons why it is a good fit for opening a flea market stall
・You can purchase genres that sell well in bulk
- The purchase price per item is low, making it easy to make a profit
-Increased product volume improves the appearance of the sales floor
・Stabilize purchasing and reduce fluctuations in sales
Used clothing wholesalers are a great help, especially for beginners who are worried about not having enough products.
How assorted used clothing works (large quantities x cheap x winnings)
"Assorted vintage clothing" refers to a mixed set of different genres.
This is a particularly popular purchasing method among flea market vendors.
・The unit price is very low (200 to 800 yen per item)
・You can choose by genre, such as sweatshirts, knitwear, denim, etc.
・Sometimes there are "winners" such as brand-name items.
・You can display the quantity, making the sales floor more colorful.
This is a purchasing method that even beginners can use to ensure stable sales, as it allows you to produce large quantities of items in the 1,000 to 1,500 yen range that are easy to sell at flea markets .
Where should I get my supplies? Introducing recommended routes
① Domestic online wholesale (for beginners)
・Purchase from 10 to 50 items
・Safe payment (credit card/bank transfer)
・If there is a return policy
→ This is the best place for beginners. This is the category to put your wholesale services.
② Face-to-face purchasing at domestic warehouses (for experienced people)
・You can see the actual items and choose one by one
・You can consult with staff about best-selling items
The larger the quantity, the lower the price
→ Recommended for those who want to purchase in bulk.
③ Imported from overseas (for advanced users)
・Lots of cheap American casual and European second-hand clothing
・Shipping costs and customs duties are high, so there is a high risk
→ It is safer for beginners not to try it right away.
"Domestic Online Used Clothing Wholesale" that's Easy for Beginners to Get Started | Assorted Items are Ideal for Stable Purchasing
Domestic online secondhand clothing wholesalers that purchase in small lots are popular among people who want to stabilize the amount of merchandise they sell at flea markets.
Among these, "Assorted Used Clothing" allows you to purchase genres in bulk, making it ideal for beginners who want to create a lineup centered around best-selling items.
OLD FLIP assorted used clothes offers classic items such as sweatshirts, knitwear, and denim at low prices, and its appeal is its ability to steadily source used clothing from anywhere in the country.
summary
Flea markets held all over the country are an attractive place to find bargains on second-hand clothes and miscellaneous goods , and many of the events are free to enjoy.
In this article, we've introduced in detail the characteristics of each region, tips for getting around efficiently, how to determine if the event will be cancelled due to rain, and how to enjoy the flea market after it has finished .
Choose an event that suits your interests and schedule to make your day even more fulfilling.
If you find a secondhand clothing flea market that interests you, be sure to include it in your plans for your next holiday.
You're sure to find a favorite item that suits you .