Bookstore hopping in Tokyo: treasure hunting for used books in Iidabashi and Jimbocho

If sightseeing, gourmet dining, and shopping are must-do activities on a Tokyo trip, then “visiting bookstores” is also a recommended soul-enriching experience. Tokyo boasts a wide variety of bookstores. Large chain stores like “Maruzen” and “Kinokuniya” carry the latest globally published books, offering a dazzling array of diverse publications. For those wishing to immerse themselves in the charm of literature and the architecture of old bookstores, a stroll along the book streets of Iidabashi and Jimbocho is a must, allowing you to feel Tokyo’s deep affection for used books.

Iidabashi and Jimbocho are Tokyo’s most famous antique book districts, where numerous secondhand, used, and specialty bookstores gather, alongside many that sell new books. Beyond the shops on the streets, there are also many small bookstores hidden within building floors. Coming here feels like stepping into a time tunnel, especially with the scenic slopes—views created by the ups and downs of the streets always invite you to slow your pace and take a second look. If you want to enjoy many leisurely slope views at once, the Kagurazaka area offers such slopes as Wadakusabashi, Asakusabashi, and Korinbashi. Choose a sunny afternoon to admire these charming slope scenes.

Established in 1978, “Yamamoto Shoten” is a specialty store for classical Chinese literature, housing books from the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods to the present. It features works mainly on Chinese history, literature, and philosophy, including East Asian history, calligraphy, and classic poetry collections—all can be found here. In addition to authentic antique books, reprints are also available, and the space is filled with a retro atmosphere. Meanwhile, “Yaguchi Shoten,” which has been in business for nearly 90 years, reveals its history just from its appearance. It mainly stocks books on film, theater, and traditional drama, attracting many movie enthusiasts. It also boasts an extensive collection of Japanese animated film books, which hold a significant place worldwide. The entrance features a distinctive book wall display for sale as well.

For readers who enjoy reading and collecting Japanese magazines, “Vintage” is a specialty store that sells back issues of Japanese magazines, posters, and vinyl records. Here, you can find many past issues of fashion, design, sports, and art magazines, including Studio Voice, Brutus, and ELLE. Vinyl records are arranged in Japanese alphabetical order, making them easy to find. The second floor also features posters of idol and celebrity magazines. Fans of Japanese period dramas will not want to miss “Jidai-ya,” a bookstore specializing in historical books. Everything in the store—from books and manga to figurines and sundries—is related to Japanese history. There’s even a special corner where you can sit down with a cup of Japanese tea and enjoy traditional sweets, making you feel as though you’ve traveled back in time and are fully immersed in Japanese history.

Kanda Jimbocho Antique Book Street
Area: Chiyoda, Tokyo
Hours: Vary by shop, mostly open from 11:00 to 18:00
Holidays: Vary by shop, but most shorten hours on Sundays and public holidays.
Transportation: Take the JR Chuo Line to “Suidobashi” Station, exit from the east exit, and walk about 200 meters to enter the Jimbocho book street area. The stretch along Yasukuni Dori, intersecting with Hakusan Dori, is the most concentrated bookstore district.

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Read more: Enjoy the afternoon sun in the antique book street (Provided by Tripass Attractions)