Relocating to Japan often means starting fresh – and that includes furnishing your home. However, many Japanese apartments come completely unfurnished, leaving new residents to buy everything from scratch. Buying new furniture can quickly become expensive, especially if you’re only planning to stay for a few years. Why not choose the eco-friendly and cost-effective solution? Buy used furniture in Japan.
With a thriving second-hand culture and an abundance of trustworthy stores and apps, Japan is one of the easiest places in the world to find high-quality pre-owned furniture that still looks new.
Overview: How to Start Your Used Furniture Hunt in Japan
Before heading out or browsing online, it helps to understand the basics of buying used furniture in Japan. Most apartments come unfurnished, so purchasing second-hand items is a cost-effective and sustainable way to set up your home. Whether you’re looking for sofas, tables, appliances, or décor, Japan offers a wide range of options — from national chain stores to local thrift shops and online marketplaces. Knowing where to look and what to expect will make your shopping experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Search for Local Stores – “中古家具 near me”
Your first step is simple: search online using Japanese keywords. Try typing “中古家具” (chuuko kagu – used furniture) or “リサイクルショップ near me” in Google Maps. You’ll instantly see nearby shops specializing in second-hand items.
These stores often include:
- Off House (オフハウス) – Furniture, home appliances, and interior goods.
- Treasure Factory (トレジャーファクトリー) – A mix of used furniture, fashion, and electronics.
- Hard Off (ハードオフ) – Focused on electronics, but many branches include furniture sections.
- 2nd STREET (セカンドストリート) – Stylish, nationwide chain offering modern and vintage furniture.
Most stores display furniture like new: polished, cleaned, and quality-checked. You can inspect the condition in person before buying — something online shopping can’t offer.
Pro tip: If you live in Tokyo, check out Meguro-dori (Tokyo’s “Furniture Street”) or Kichijoji for trendy, well-curated second-hand furniture boutiques.
Buy Online Through Japanese Marketplaces
If you prefer to shop from home, Japan offers a variety of online platforms where you can find affordable used furniture.
Mercari (メルカリ)
Japan’s biggest second-hand marketplace app. Items are posted by individuals, and you can often negotiate prices through the comment section.
Check product conditions carefully (新品 for “new,” やや傷あり for “minor damage”) and verify shipping details — 送料込み means shipping included, 着払い means you’ll pay for shipping on delivery.
Jimoty (ジモティー)
Jimoty is a local classifieds site — similar to Craigslist — where people give away or sell used furniture within their neighborhood. Many listings offer free pickup if you can collect the items yourself. Just search “家具” (furniture) or “家電” (appliances) and select your prefecture.
Yahoo! Auctions Japan (ヤフオク)
A great option for finding branded or vintage furniture. You have the option to bid or purchase items outright. Delivery options vary, so always check the seller’s details and shipping method.
Visit Famous Second-Hand Furniture Chains
Japan’s big-brand second-hand chains are reliable and easy to navigate. You’ll find branches across the country, especially in major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Yokohama.
- 2nd STREET: Modern, trendy furniture and home goods — perfect for expats who prefer a clean, minimalist look.
- Off House: Focuses on home appliances, furniture, and interior decorations.
- Treasure Factory: Known for its well-organized stores and fair prices.
- Hard-Off & Book-Off Group: Ideal for electronics and small furniture items like chairs or lamps.
Most stores offer delivery services (starting around ¥2,000–¥5,000 depending on distance and size).
Join Facebook and Expat Sharing Groups
If you want the best bargains – or even free furniture – join expat community groups on Facebook.
Popular ones include:
These groups are full of people moving abroad who need to sell their furniture quickly. Prices are negotiable, and some items are even free if you can pick them up. Transactions usually happen in English, making it ideal for non-Japanese speakers.
Safety tip: Always meet in public places or confirm the seller’s location and availability before going for pickup.
Understand the Price Range of Common Furniture
Buying used furniture in Japan is not just sustainable — it’s surprisingly affordable. Below is a general estimate of what you might expect to pay for popular household items (based on 2025 prices):
Item | Average Used Price (¥) | Notes |
Sofa | ¥5,000 – ¥20,000 | Depends on size and brand |
Dining Table & Chairs | ¥3,000 – ¥15,000 | Wood sets cost more |
Bed Frame | ¥4,000 – ¥12,000 | Often sold without mattress |
Washing Machine | ¥6,000 – ¥20,000 | Delivery may cost extra |
Refrigerator | ¥5,000 – ¥18,000 | Check energy efficiency |
Rice Cooker | ¥1,000 – ¥3,000 | Abundant in Off House |
Microwave | ¥2,000 – ¥6,000 | Good quality, tested before sale |
Air Conditioner | ¥10,000 – ¥25,000 | Installation fee not included |
Tip: Always check if the appliance includes warranty or cleaning service. Some stores offer short-term return options for defective items.
Transportation Tips: Getting Your Furniture Home
One challenge of buying used furniture is delivery — especially if you don’t have a car. Fortunately, Japan offers multiple convenient solutions:
- Store Delivery: Most major recycle shops (Off House, Treasure Factory) offer in-house delivery for an additional fee.
- Courier Services: Use Yamato Transport or Sagawa Express for large items; they handle pickup and delivery directly to your home.
- Rental Vans: Services like Times Car Share or Nippon Rent-A-Car allow you to rent a small truck for a few hours.
- Community Help: Some Facebook groups offer moving assistance – locals or expats with vans who help for a small tip.
Extra Tip: Recycle Centers and Giveaways
Many Japanese city wards operate recycling centers (リサイクルセンター) where residents donate unwanted furniture. These centers resell items at incredibly low prices – sometimes under ¥1,000.
If you live in Tokyo, check wards like Setagaya, Minato, or Shinjuku. Their websites list available items and opening times.
Conclusion
Buying used furniture in Japan is one of the smartest ways to save money, reduce waste, and furnish your home beautifully. Whether you prefer browsing vintage shops, scrolling through Jimoty listings, or discovering free finds on Facebook, Japan’s second-hand culture offers endless opportunities to build a cozy, sustainable home.
And when you’re ready to move into your next place, you can pass on your furniture to someone else — continuing Japan’s cycle of mindful reuse.
If you’re still looking for a place to call home, explore Arealty Japan for comfortable and foreigner-friendly apartments across Tokyo. Combine your new home with second-hand furniture finds – and live smart, sustainably, and affordably in Japan.
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