The Japanese Luxury Goods Market
The first time someone sets their feet on Japanese grounds, it doesn’t take a long time to notice how big the luxury industry is in Japan. Once you walk on the streets or take the subway, you will see a considerable amount of people of different ages and styles wearing designer pieces of clothing or accessories, even if you’re not a big fan, you’ll be able to recognize them.
It’s not rare to see a person carrying a Birkin or wearing a pair of brand-new Louboutins on the subway. Louis Vuitton pieces are something you would spot multiple times a day if you’re wandering around in Tokyo or Osaka, no joking. The question is: Is everyone buying those items brand new? The answer is no.
Not only are high-end designer bags a huge market in Japan, but part of the population buys those second-hand due to the incredible prices, it’s easy to have access to those items, and also, since Japan has extremely strict laws for fake products, authenticity is guaranteed almost 100% of the time and on top of it, the amount of pre-loved goods in pristine condition is insane.
Where do you find pre-loved luxury items in Japan?
If you’re traveling around the country, you can easily find thrift stores no matter where you are, but there are so many of those in big cities it might be hard for you to check out all of them. If you don’t have much time, I would recommend you to be specific and go straight to the items you want. Sneakers, fine jewelry (Japan is well known for its pearls!), luxury bags, clothing… Yes, you might need to be selective once you’re here but once you find the right spot, make the most of it.
Luxury Stores In Osaka
After 15 years living in different parts of the country, Osaka is by far the best place to be if you’re looking for luxury bags - not only for pre-loved ones! There’s not a single day I pass in front of Osaka’s main Louis Vuitton store and my eyes don’t get delighted by its looks. Same for the Hermes and Dior stores, all on the same street as well! The plus side of Osaka is the fact that those thrift stores are so close to each other you might be able to check over 10 different shops in one go. Get your convenience store latte and comfy shoes ready, and run to all those stores!
Louis Vuitton Flagship Osaka, designed by Jun Aoki and Peter Marino - Photo: Louis Vuitton Official Website
Shop Affordable Luxury Bags From Japan Online
But if you can’t come to Japan…
ZenPlus is here to help you find those luxury treasures without having to be here!
We offer thousands of items available from verified stores all over Japan, one click and you’re ready to purchase your next favorite bag or ring. Is it great? Saving you time, energy, and money as well since pre-loved goods are most of the time - rare items are a story for a different day - below the retail prices.
Chanel bags are a good example when it comes to price increases on their vintage pieces. In 1995 you would be paying less than $1,000 for a similar bag and nowadays it will be hard for you to find one in very good condition for less than $3,000.
Chanel Matelasse Decacoco Chain 1995
For modern pieces, I will take Gucci as an example. You can buy an identical bag, with only light wear on it for more than $1,500 (!) less than you would be paying at the store. Is it insane? Think about it next time you’re purchasing something brand new.
Authentic GG Marmont Small Top Handle Bag can be found pre-loved on ZenPlus for less than half price of a brand new (see below)
GG Marmont Small Top Handle Bag on the official Gucci Online Store is currently priced at $2,980
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a new addition to your wardrobe and want to save some money, look at the second-hand market first because I’m 100% sure you will find something you love for much cheaper than retail prices.
That’s it for my first blog post here at ZenPlus. I can’t wait to share more and more about the luxury world with you!
xx
About The Writer
Amanda Ayabe is a fashion graduate based in Osaka, passionate about the luxury industry and hand crafted goods. She worked for 3 years as a live seller and buyer, sharing her knowledge and passion for designer bags to customers in various locations around the globe. Loves specialty coffee, long talks, traveling and photography.
