I’ll be back in Tokyo in the first week of October – and of course, I’m very excited! My boyfriend and I will stay for two weeks, with plenty of things already planned. Naturally, one of the highlights for me will be hunting for books, magazines, and zines (hopefully there will be a zine fest again, just like the one we stumbled upon last time!).

There are a number of books that are nearly impossible to find in Europe, and if you do manage to track them down, they usually come with a hefty price tag. So it only makes sense to go straight to the source while in Japan.

First, let’s take a look at the titles on my list – and afterwards, the places where I’ll try my luck.

My Book Wish List

• Brutus Interior Style Book
• Tokyo Street Rockets 1978–1981
• Idol Style – Kyoichi Tsuzuki [Photo]
• Any Style Sample Magazines
• Shoot Shoot Shoot – Yoranhan2people
• Daraku Room

Of course, my luggage has its limits, so I’ll have to keep an eye on volume and weight. I probably won’t find everything on my list, but part of the fun is discovering unexpected treasures I didn’t even know I wanted.

Where I Plan to Go

Taco Ché

Taco Ché is a small but densely packed shop inside Nakano Broadway. It’s paradise for lovers of zines, indie publishing, discontinued art books, and photography. Even if you can’t read Japanese, the visuals are reason enough to browse. I’ll be especially looking for the USB version of Tokyo Style by Kyoichi Tsuzuki, which I sadly missed out on last time.

Tsutaya Books

The Daikanyama T-Site Tsutaya is one of the most beautiful bookstores in Tokyo, designed with stylish architecture and a cozy lounge-like atmosphere. Their selection is especially strong in art and design books, but you’ll also find magazines, stationery, and lifestyle goods. Perfect for a slow afternoon of browsing.

BOOK OFF

A second-hand giant with branches all over Tokyo. Bright, clean, and well-organized, but the sheer volume can be overwhelming. With several shops spread across the city, I’ll give it another chance this time – maybe I’ll stumble upon some hidden fashion treasures.

Komiyama Bookstore

Located in Jimbocho, Tokyo’s legendary book district, Komiyama is spread across four floors and offers rare art and fashion books, collectible magazines, manga, and even artworks. A must-visit for serious collectors.

Magnif

A true hidden gem in Shibuya. Magnif specializes in vintage and out-of-print fashion magazines, subculture books, and rare photo publications. If you’re hunting for FRUiTS, Popeye, or Olive, this is the place to go. The shop is small but extremely well curated – every shelf feels like a discovery.