Harajuku is famous for its street fashion. Pop stars Lady Gaga, Gwen Stefani and Kimbra all state the influence of Japanese fashion and visit the area when they are in town. A recent trip to the famous Takeshita Dori by Lady Gaga sent the punters mental. With lots of small shops and the expensive La Foret in the area it can all be a bit overwhelming if you’re actually looking to buy something – especially something that fits!
Located down some steps on the right about 50 meters from the Meiji Dori-Omotesando intersection as you head towards Takeshita Dori, Kinji Used Clothing is great simply because it has all the cast-offs from the Harajuku kids all in one place – and it’s huge. I’ve never been described as a fashionista so I’m not particularly worried if I’m wearing last season’s clothes. With the massive size of the place, I’ve also got the luxury of looking at a whole range of options in my size – which is a rarity in Japan. Don’t let the ‘used’ thing put you off either – all of the clothes look like they’ve barely been worn.
Kinji has both sexes covered with about one third given over to mens clothing and two thirds dedicated to the women.
Most items in the men’s section were under 1,000yen (I’m guessing roughly the same in the women’s section). If you go in Autumn or Winter you might find the prices slightly higher as there will be more trousers and jackets on sale. If your purchases total over 3,000yen, you also have the option of paying by credit card.
Below is my swag – the shorts were 1,260yen and 945yen, while the shirt was 945yen.
If you need somewhere to relax after you’ve bought lots of clothes for not much, Cafe Kinji across the hallway has a good selection of cheap drinks and meals.
Kinji has branches throughout Tokyo including a large branch in Shimokitazawa.
