Written by Alexandra Ziminski
Researched by Aarohi Narain
As the name suggests, this little market is all about reducing waste and wastefulness — the perfect antidote to Tokyo’s shop-till-you-drop culture. It’s a good place to pick up snazzy secondhand clothes for cheap-cheap, as well as DVDs, CDs (remember those?), books, and other odds and ends.
What happens?
Mostly private sellers lay out their wares on a tarp for inspection, and bargaining is definitely part of the game. Depending whether they have sold enough or have just had enough of selling, things usually wrap up earlier than the announced 4 p.m. closing time. Most of the venues have restaurants and bars around for a well-deserved break after shopping.
The market moves around Tokyo, sometimes even over the same weekend. The time is usually 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., give or take an hour or two.
Upcoming dates and locations
Markets are scheduled at Kichijoji Parco on March 1, 7, and 22; at Nakano Central Park on February 11, March 21 and 22 and April 18 and 19; and at Komazawa Olympic Park on April 12 (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.).
Organizers may cancel events, alter schedules, or change admission requirements without notice. Always check official sites before heading to an event.
