Every weekend you’ll find a diverse selection of flea, antique and farmers markets dotted across Tokyo. Selling everything from secondhand furniture and clothing to rare collectibles, artisanal crafts and seasonal food, these vibrant markets open up a world of bargains and treasures.
You might come across an exquisite Japanese tea set for the mere price of a bowl of ramen or vintage European jewellery for a steal. We recommend that you visit in the early morning if you want the best pick of the day, or near closing time if you're looking for marked down deals. Here’s our guide to the most popular and unique places in Tokyo to pick up a bargain, or five.
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Every weekend
The UNU farmers’ market is one of Tokyo’s longest running and best-attended markets. Taking place every weekend in front of the university’s Aoyama headquarters, this one always attracts a knowledgeable crowd.
Organic and local fare is readily available every Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 4pm, with the farmers themselves happy to provide details about their wares. Plus, there are always a few food trucks onsite if you want a quick bite to eat.
March 24 & 31, April 7 & 14, May 5, 12 & 26
While Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine is worth a visit just for its impressive architecture, the beautiful grounds are also home to a regular antique market that usually takes place on the first, second, fourth and fifth Sunday of every month. However, to make sure the market is on schedule, you can check the website for the exact dates each month.
As this is an antique market, the items here are a bit less junky than some of the other flea markets in town, with plenty of gorgeous Japanese tableware, antique kimono and more.
March 10, 16 & 17, April 14, 28 & 29, June 9, 16 & 22
While the Setagaya neighbourhood is best known for the historical Boroichi flea market that only happens twice a year, there's another (and smaller) market that takes over Setagaya Park on a more regular basis. The Setagaya Park Flea Market is held at least once a month from 9am to 3pm (except between July and September), and features roughly 150 vendors. You can expect a mix of things here, with the majority of vendors selling clothes, accessories and jewellery. Tableware is another common find as well as the odd trinkets and toys.
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